Position changes in football are nothing new. Many players have made the switch to unlock their full potential. Ohio State’s CJ Hicks is the latest player to make this bold career move with Coach Ryan Day guiding him.
For the 2025 season, Hicks will transition from linebacker to defensive end. This new role will allow him to have a bigger impact as a pass-rusher. You might wonder how he will handle a position he’s not used to. But Coach Day looks pretty impressed with Hicks’ progress so far.
Ohio State’s CJ Hicks Makes Position Switch to EDGE, Earns Praise From Ryan Day
After three seasons as a linebacker, former five-star recruit C.J. Hicks is now making the switch to a full-time pass rusher for Ohio State. The move was announced earlier this month and confirmed by Ohio State’s defensive line coach. Now, head coach Ryan Day is sharing updates on Hicks’ progress in his new role.
Hicks has shown flashes of talent but has struggled with consistency, preventing him from securing a starting spot. However, with this new role as a pass-rusher, it looks like Hicks is starting to find his rhythm, and Coach Day is excited by what he sees.
Day pointed to Sonny Styles as an example of a successful role change. Styles moved from a third-level position to a second-level role quickly. Day believes that Hicks can adapt similarly, but he acknowledges that the transition to the EDGE position will require time due to its steeper learning curve.
Coach Day praised Hicks’ improvement in the pass game, mentioning that he’s still working on his run defense, like setting the edge and shedding blocks. Ryan added, “We’re encouraged with what we see, but again, it’s gonna have to be a big summer for him.”
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He added that Hicks is working closely with strength coach Mick Marotti and defensive line coach Larry Johnson to find the ideal playing weight for his new role.
However, the road ahead won’t be easy, but the Buckeyes believe Hicks has what it takes to thrive as an EDGE. And if his hard work this offseason is any sign, Hicks might just be ready to break out.
Hicks, along with the rest of the Buckeyes’ defense will begin their national title defense when they kick off the 2025 season on August 30 in a College Football Playoff Semifinal rematch against Texas in Columbus, Ohio.
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