Senior linebacker Tommy Eichenberg accepted an invite to the 2024 Reese's Senior Bowl Monday, indicating he will not return to Ohio State for his final year of eligibility.
Eichenberg is the first Buckeye to accept an invite to the bowl but the team is likely expecting several more players to head to Mobile, Alabama on Feb. 3.
The captain led the Buckeyes in total tackles in back-to-back seasons with 80 this year — good for No. 46 nationally — and 120 last year. He's totaled 266 tackles, 3.5 sacks, two interceptions and a forced fumble in his four seasons at Ohio State.
Eichenberg helped the Buckeyes to a No. 3 overall defense in the country, limiting opponents to less than 260 total yards and 11 points per game.
The Cleveland native was known for his explosive defensive plays, particularly being a hard-hitting, strong run-stopper.
Eichenberg was also named the Butkus-Fitgerald Linebacker of the Year Nov. 28, given to the top linebacker in the Big Ten.
On the opening day of the 2023 transfer window, the Buckeyes lost 12 players to the portal, including junior quarterback Kyle McCord and senior receiver Julian Fleming. In addition, senior backup running back Miyan Williams declared for the NFL Draft. Eichenberg leaving after this season will be yet another big loss to the roster.
Head coach Ryan Day said he expects Eichenberg to still play in the Cotton Bowl Classic, a New Year's Six bowl game, where the Buckeyes will face the Missouri Tigers.
The Buckeyes can look for one last defensive show from the linebacker on Dec. 29.
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