Last season, Ohio State’s football team showed toughness and imaginative play, bouncing back from early losses to win the national championship. They became the first team to win the title in the new 12-team playoff format, using potent offense and tough defense to beat their opponents.
The team looks a bit different heading into the 2025 season. Some key players have left for the NFL, but they’ve added new talent through the transfer portal. The Buckeyes will need to blend these new players in quickly, especially at running back and tight end spots. Their success this year will depend on how well the young team can come together and keep up the winning tradition.
Breaking Down Ohio State’s Key Transfer Portal Moves for the 2025 Season
After Ohio State’s spring game, head coach Ryan Day acknowledged concerns about the team’s offensive performance, especially regarding physicality. “I think we’ve got to take a hard look at it,” Day said, noting the noticeable knockback during plays but holding off on firm conclusions until reviewing the film.
Watch Whiparound: Transfer Portal intel, Ohio State closing in on more top targets, recapping big weekends at Michigan and Oregon. Show here: https://t.co/upWszzp3Qq pic.twitter.com/dsle58j5ju
— Steve Wiltfong (@SWiltfong_) April 22, 2025
The defensive line may need extra attention, particularly after the loss of defensive tackle Hero Kanu to the transfer portal. Kanu’s move to Texas leaves a gap in the interior, and finding a strong replacement could be key as the Buckeyes prepare for the upcoming season.
Ohio State has expressed interest in BYU wide receiver Keelan Marion as they look to add more explosiveness to their roster, particularly in the return game. While Marion’s receiving numbers were solid, his real value came on special teams, where he returned 18 kicks for 472 yards and two touchdowns. With 19 schools showing interest, the Buckeyes face tough competition, and Marion may be more of a luxury addition than a necessity.
On April 22, 2025, On3 reporter Steve Wiltfong posted on X that Ohio State is in a strong position to land top pass rusher Beau Atkinson from the transfer portal. On3 predicts that Atkinson, who played at North Carolina, will likely join the Buckeyes.
This would boost Ohio State’s defense, especially after losing key players following their championship win. Atkinson had a strong season last year with 36 tackles and 7.5 sacks. He’s known for putting pressure on quarterbacks, and adding him could help Ohio State keep its defense strong heading into the 2025 season.
Elbert Hill, a five-star cornerback from Akron, Ohio, has scheduled an official visit to Ohio State, keeping the Buckeyes in a strong position for his 2026 commitment. Ranked No. 1 at his position and No. 17 overall by On3, Hill has visited OSU multiple times and likes the family atmosphere and coaches like Tim Walton.
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Despite interest from top schools like USC, Alabama, and LSU, Ohio State’s in-state edge and strong relationships keep it as a top contender. Hill, who stands 5’10” and 175 pounds, is known for his speed and had a 92-yard kickoff return touchdown in 2023.
As the Buckeyes gear up for another run at a national title, their aggressive moves in the transfer portal and continued success on the recruiting trail show they’re not slowing down anytime soon. With new talent on the way and key positions reloaded, Ohio State looks ready to stay at the top of college football in 2025.
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