The Ohio State Buckeyes don’t have many pressing needs heading into the transfer portal this season. After making several additions in the winter, they have a solid foundation in place as they aim to contend for a repeat in 2025.
However, one position where the Buckeyes could benefit from added depth is the defensive line. Head coach Ryan Day acknowledged after the spring game that this is an area worth examining.
“I think we need to take a serious look at it,” Day remarked. “I don’t have an answer at this moment, but it’s something we need to evaluate. It felt like there was a lot of push back from the offensive side of the ball. Still, I don’t want to jump to conclusions until I review the film.”
Furthermore, the Buckeyes have missed out on some of their key targets in the transfer portal, and losing one to Texas is particularly disappointing.
Freshman All-American Syracuse defensive tackle Maraad Watson has committed to the Texas Longhorns. As reported by On3’s Hayes Fawcett, Watson was considered a strong target for Ohio State, where he could have made a significant impact on the defensive line. Now, Ohio State will face Watson in Week 1 of the 2025 season.
BREAKING: Syracuse standout transfer DL Maraad Watson has Committed to Texas, @on3sports has learned
Totaled 31 Tackles and 1 Sack last season
Was one of the Top Available DL in the Portalhttps://t.co/RlUbB6EMhS pic.twitter.com/aOXqEWe0V6
— Hayes Fawcett (@Hayesfawcett3) April 22, 2025
During the winter transfer portal period, Ohio State lost defensive tackle Hero Kanu, who also transferred to the Longhorns. This departure is a primary reason the Buckeyes are looking for additional depth in their interior line.
Maraad Watson, a Freshman All-American at Syracuse, recorded 31 tackles and a sack during his first year. Ohio State is replacing both Tyliek Williams and Ty Hamilton from last season’s National Championship roster. Kayden McDonald and Eddrick Houston are set to take on starting roles at defensive tackle for the Buckeyes.
It’s a tough situation for Ohio State, as they have yet to make their first addition from the transfer portal this spring.
No Comment! Be the first one.