Assessing the 2026 transfer portal impact on Ohio State

Ohio State has seen over 15 players enter the transfer portal this off-season after their Cotton Bowl loss to Miami, amount is more than the 13 players from last year. This wave of transfer includes high profile recruits from recent classes seeking more playing time. 

Among the key losses are wide receiver Bryson Rodgers, who totaled 11 catches for 125 yards and a touchdown, and tight end Jelani Thurman, who posted 144 yards and two scores over three seasons. Quarterback Lincoln Kienholz also entered the portal after completing 21 passes for 250 yards and a touchdown as a backup. Running back James Peoples, who rushed for 344 yards and three touchdowns, as well as other highly recruited wide receivers like Quincy Porter and Mylan Graham have entered. On defense, C.J. Hicks, a former five-star edge rusher who recorded 42 career tackles, also entered the portal. 

Together, these exits thin out Ohio State’s depth at skill positions and impact both the offensive rhythm and defensive rotation heading into next season.

Although the Buckeyes have had many transfer out, they pulled in three players from the transfer portal so far: TE Mason Williams (Ohio U), DT John Walker (UCF) and LS Dalton Riggs (UCF).

Williams has complied 48 catches for 565 yards and six touchdowns across three seasons at Ohio. Walker had 64 tackles, eight tackles for loss, 1.5 sacks, one forced fumble and one pass defensed in two seasons with UCF. They will look to offset some of the losses from the departures of Rodgers, Thurman and Hicks.

Although the Buckeyes have taken some hits, some players could still withdraw from the portal, and Ohio State’s staff is expected to stay aggressive in adding more transfers. With smart portal additions and continued recruiting, the Buckeyes aim to be ready to bounce back next season.