Ohio State has found its next quarterback in Eli Brickhandler, a graduate transfer from Houston Christian University (HCU). With Will Howard heading to the NFL Draft, the Buckeyes needed a veteran presence to stabilize their quarterback room, and Brickhandler fit the bill.
But before he puts on a Buckeyes uniform, it’s worth knowing more about the man behind the helmet. And you’ll be surprised to learn that he has already made himself a dedicated family man. Let us introduce him to you briefly.
QB Eli Brickhandler Is a Proud Husband Who Found His Perfect Match
Brickhandler’s journey to Ohio State has been anything but conventional. Now, he’s stepping into one of the most significant roles in college football, ready to prove himself on the national stage.
Eli married Sean Kelly Brickhandler in Dec. 2024, and the happy couple shared their wholesome wedding moment on Instagram. In their post, Kelly joyfully wrote, “If you don’t want to be bombarded with married content, sorry about it! I couldn’t wait any longer 😭.”
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However, their love story began long before their marriage. The couple was already in a relationship, which became even more meaningful when they welcomed their daughter, Kaelani Lynne Brickhandler, on Aug. 20, 2024, just months before their wedding.
Kelly is his perfect wife, as she has been one of the biggest supporters of the new Ohio State quarterback. It is easy to see this because just after Eli committed to the Buckeyes, she shared the news on Instagram and captioned it with a red heart emoji, writing, “Congrats, baby, Ohio is home.”
Brickhandler’s Time at HCU: A Rising Star in the Southland Conference
Eli Brickhandler, 6’2″ and 195 pounds, has always had the tools of a true playmaker. He started his career at North Carolina A&T, later transferring to HCU in Dec. 2023. Before moving, he bid farewell to the Aggies in Nov. 2023, expressing gratitude for his time there.
At North Carolina A&T, he gained early experience as a redshirt freshman. After two solid seasons, he transferred to Houston Christian University, looking for a fresh start and a chance to grow.
That move turned out to be a game-changer. At HCU, Brickhandler quickly proved himself to be a leader on and off the field. His athletic ability and sharp instincts helped him shine in the Southland Conference.
In 2024, he threw for 557 yards and four touchdowns, completing 38 of 77 passes. But he didn’t just make plays through the air—he rushed for 264 yards and scored four more times on the ground.
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One of his standout moments came in a game against McNeese, where he ran for 138 yards. That performance showed how dangerous he can be when the play breaks down. He knows how to turn pressure into opportunity.
Now, heading into the 2025 season, Brickhandler joins Ohio State’s roster as a veteran presence. Currently, Julian Sayin and Lincoln Kienholz are competing for the starting QB role, with Sayin—a former five-star recruit—being a strong contender. The California native is not expected to be the QB1 unless unforeseen circumstances alter the competition.
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