In a significant move to strengthen their defense, the Ohio State Buckeyes have secured a commitment from Beau Atkinson, a standout defensive end transferring from the University of North Carolina. Atkinson, who led the Tar Heels with 7.5 sacks last season, brings a formidable presence to the Buckeyes defensive lineup.
Standing at 6foot6 and weighing 265 pounds, Atkinson emerged as one of the top pass rushers in the Atlantic Coast Conference ACC during the 2024 season. His performance included 35 tackles, 12 tackles for loss, and 25 quarterback pressures, showcasing his ability to disrupt opposing offenses effectively. Over his two active seasons at UNC, Atkinson accumulated 54 tackles, 16.5 tackles for loss, and 11 sacks. citeturn0search2
Atkinsons decision to join Ohio State comes at a crucial time, as the Buckeyes aim to fill the void left by the departure of their entire starting defensive line from the previous season, including notable players like J.T. Tuimoloau and Jack Sawyer. With two years of eligibility remaining, Atkinson is expected to compete for a starting role and contribute significantly to Ohio States defensive efforts.
The addition of Atkinson also aligns with the Buckeyes strategy to reinforce their defensive end rotation, which includes players like Caden Curry, Kenyatta Jackson Jr., and Idaho State transfer Logan George. citeturn0search0 Atkinsons experience and proven track record make him a valuable asset as Ohio State prepares to defend its national championship title under the leadership of new defensive coordinator Matt Patricia.
Atkinsons commitment to Ohio State over other interested programs, such as Georgia and South Carolina, underscores the Buckeyes appeal to toptier talent seeking to compete at the highest level of college football. citeturn0search2
As the Buckeyes gear up for the upcoming season, the integration of Atkinson into their defensive scheme is anticipated to enhance their passrushing capabilities and overall defensive performance.