Ohio State transfer addition gets real about big change that may allow him to breakout for Buckeyes as soon as Week 1 against Texas

The Ohio State Buckeyes didn’t hit the transfer portal as hard this past offseason as they did a year ago. They added a few players who filled clear needs, plus one true luxury addition — tight end Max Klare.

Ohio State needed depth on both the defensive and offensive lines, and they addressed those areas. Adding a running back with experience also made sense, and they checked that box as well.

CJ Donaldson arrived from West Virginia knowing he would need to make a change before the season. The good news for the Buckeyes is that he has made that change — and stayed consistent with it.

“It definitely helps a lot,” Donaldson said of the weight he has lost since arriving in Columbus. “I can accelerate a lot faster right now. I think I weighed in today at like 227. It feels great not having all that body fat on me. It allows me to play more downs and be more explosive.”

Donaldson played last season at West Virginia at around 237 pounds. Dropping 10 pounds has added speed to his game as he’s slimmed down. Part of the plan upon his arrival at Ohio State was to work closely with strength coach Mick Marotti, and that work already appears to be paying off. It could set him up for his best college season yet.

With the Mountaineers, Donaldson began his career as a tight end before switching to running back as a freshman, rushing for 526 yards. In 2023, he posted 798 rushing yards and 11 touchdowns. Last season, he matched the touchdown total with 734 yards on the ground.

Ohio State is replacing the dynamic duo of TreVeyon Henderson and Quinshon Judkins with Donaldson and James Peoples. While this new pairing isn’t as well-known, they have the potential to make a big impact together.

The Buckeyes will need Donaldson ready from the start, with Texas coming to Columbus to open the season on Aug. 30.