The Ohio State Buckeyes are facing a critical challenge in the transfer portal, with several key positions still vacant 10 days after its opening. Despite adding seven potential starters, the Buckeyes' roster remains incomplete, leaving fans and experts wondering: Can they fill these gaps in time for the 2026 season?
The Kicker Conundrum: Perhaps the most glaring need is at kicker, a position that remains unfilled. The Buckeyes are seeking a proven kicker who can consistently nail 50-yard field goals and perform under pressure. After losing Jackson Courville to the portal, they are banking on an upgrade, but the search continues.
Cornerback Crisis: Jermaine Mathews Jr. and Devin Sanchez are the only cornerbacks with significant playing time from last season. Ohio State needs at least two more cornerbacks to bolster their depth. They hosted Auburn's Kayin Lee and Maryland's La'Khi Roland but missed out as both signed with Tennessee. The Buckeyes must find replacements for the departed Igbinosun, Styles Jr., Scott Jr., and West.
Defensive End Dilemma: While not as urgent as cornerback or kicker, the Buckeyes still need an experienced defensive end. With Kenyatta Jackson Jr. likely returning, Zion Grady and Beau Atkinson are the only other options. Ohio State is eyeing Alabama's Qua Russaw, a hybrid linebacker who could play on the edge, but he remains uncommitted.
Defensive Tackle and Wide Receiver: The Buckeyes addressed their starting nose tackle need with UCF's John Walker but seek a second transfer to complete the position. They also added UTSA's Devin McCuin at wide receiver, but depth remains a concern after losing three players to the portal.
Safety and Tight End: Ohio State added two potential starters at safety, but depth is still an issue. They could use one more experienced safety for depth. At tight end, the Buckeyes are set if Max Klare stays, but they want to add another if he leaves for the NFL. Northwestern's Hunter Welcing is a leading candidate.
Running Back and Quarterback: The Buckeyes retained Bo Jackson but seek a transfer running back for depth. They've hosted Michigan State's Makhi Frazier and Florida's Ja'Kobi Jackson but have no commitments yet. At quarterback, Ohio State wants an experienced player to join Tavien St. Clair and Luke Fahey, hosting former Maryland/UCLA QB Justyn Martin and Colorado's Ryan Staub.
Offensive Line and Punter: The Buckeyes seem content with their current offensive line, but fans desire an upgrade. They haven't hosted any transfer visitors, possibly due to a lack of clear upgrades. At punter, Ohio State may stick with Joe McGuire but should add competition, especially after ranking 79th nationally in punting last season.
Linebacker and Long Snapper: Ohio State is likely set at linebacker after adding Wisconsin's Christian Alliegro, forming a strong trio with Payton Pierce and Riley Pettijohn. They need a second long snapper for depth, likely a walk-on, after signing Dalton Riggs as the starter.
But here's where it gets controversial: With the transfer portal in full swing, should the Buckeyes be more aggressive in their pursuit of top talent? Or is their patient approach a strategic move, ensuring they don't overpay for players? The clock is ticking, and the Buckeyes' championship aspirations hang in the balance. What do you think? Are they doing enough to fill these holes, or is it time for a bolder strategy?
