Ohio State Signs 16 New Buckeyes Through Transfer Portal: Comprehensive Analysis

The Ohio State Buckeyes have made a notable splash in college football by signing 16 players through the transfer portal for the upcoming 2026 season. This marks a record for the program, addressing the departures of 31 scholarship athletes. With the transfer window now closed, here’s a comprehensive analysis of Ohio State’s latest roster additions.

Key Additions from the Transfer Portal

• Dominick Kelly, CB, Georgia (3 years of eligibility)
  Kelly brings potential with his size at 6-foot-1 and background as a four-star high school recruit. He recorded three deflections in 18 defensive snaps as a freshman at Georgia.
• Connor Hawkins, K, Baylor (3 years)
  After struggles with kickers, Hawkins arrives as a solution, having successfully converted 18 of 22 field goals, including three from over 50 yards.
• Hunter Welcing, TE, Northwestern (1 year)
  As a seasoned tight end, Welcing recorded 28 catches for 296 yards last season and offers strong blocking skills, crucial for Ohio State’s offense.
• Earl Little Jr., S, Florida State (1 year)
  Little had an impressive 2025 season with 76 tackles and four interceptions, highlighting his versatility on defense with experience in multiple safety positions.
• John Walker, DT, UCF (2 years)
  Walker is a formidable presence at 6-foot-4 and 324 pounds. He achieved recognition as a Freshman All-American with a productive 2025 season.
• James Smith, DT, Alabama (1 year)
  Smith brings depth to the defensive line with a strong performance last season, including 11 pressures on pass rush snaps.
• Qua Russaw, DE, Alabama (2 years)
  A critical edge rusher, Russaw displayed athleticism despite an injury-shortened season, making significant contributions when on the field.
• Cam Calhoun, CB, Alabama (2 years)
  Calhoun, having played limited snaps last season, adds depth to the cornerback position, benefiting from past experiences at three different colleges.
• Ja’kobi Jackson, RB, Florida (1 year)
  Jackson aims to solidify the backfield after a productive stint at Florida, where he averaged 5.4 yards per carry.
• Dalton Riggs, LS, UCF (1 year)
  Filling the long-snapper gap, Riggs was previously active in every game for UCF last season.
• Kyle Parker, WR, LSU (2 years)
  Parker’s speed and versatility will be key in replacing several departed receivers, as he caught 31 passes for 330 yards last season.
• Terry Moore, S, Duke (1 year)
  Moore is a sought-after addition, hoping to return to form after a solid 2024 season where he recorded 71 tackles and four interceptions.
• Devin McCuin, WR, UTSA (1 year)
  With his speed and playmaking ability, McCuin caught 65 passes for 726 yards last season, providing another receiving option.
• Mason Williams, TE, Ohio (2 years)
  Williams, another tight end with strong blocking capabilities, is expected to contribute significantly in the red zone.
• Justyn Martin, QB, Maryland (1 or 2 years)
  Martin adds experience to Ohio State’s quarterback room, providing depth rather than immediate competition for the starting role.
• Christian Alliegro, LB, Wisconsin (1 year)
  Known for his capability as a linebacker, Alliegro had 53 tackles last season and will be a valuable addition to Ohio State’s defensive group.

Overall Impact and Future Outlook

Ohio State has strategically focused on filling gaps left by high-profile athlete departures. While some might see this as a shift in recruiting philosophy, the program aims to blend experienced talent into its roster. It signals a transition to enhancing depth through the transfer portal while continuing to recruit elite high school players. The Buckeyes’ commitment to strengthening their lineup this way may reshape their competitive edge in the coming seasons.