As the 2025 college football season approaches, Ohio State is actively utilizing the transfer portal to address roster changes and bolster its lineup. The Buckeyes have secured key additions while also experiencing notable departures, reflecting the dynamic nature of modern college football.
Key Additions Strengthening the Roster
Ethan Onianwa Offensive Tackle, Rice: Standing at 66 and weighing 345 pounds, Onianwa is considered one of the top offensive linemen in the transfer portal. He allowed just one sack over 294 passblocking snaps in 2024, bringing immediate strength to Ohio States offensive line. citeturn0search0
Max Klare Tight End, Purdue: Klare, the No. 1 tight end in the 2025 transfer portal, recorded 51 receptions for 685 yards and four touchdowns in his sophomore season, adding a reliable target for the Buckeyes offense. citeturn0search8
C.J. Donaldson Running Back, West Virginia: With 2,058 rushing yards and 30 touchdowns over three seasons, Donaldson brings veteran experience to a backfield anticipating the departure of key players to the NFL Draft. citeturn0search8
Logan George Defensive End, Idaho State: George led the Big Sky Conference in tackles for loss in 2024, enhancing Ohio States defensive line depth. citeturn0search10
Phillip Daniels Offensive Tackle, Minnesota: As a freshman, Daniels played 300 snaps and allowed only one sack, providing additional depth to the offensive line. citeturn0search8
Notable Departures Impacting Depth
Zen Michalski Offensive Lineman: Michalski, who appeared in 19 games for Ohio State, entered the transfer portal just before the College Football Playoff and has since committed to Indiana. citeturn0search1turn0search8
Jayden Bonsu Safety: A former fourstar recruit, Bonsu did not see game action in 2024 and has transferred to Pittsburgh, seeking more playing opportunities. citeturn0search3turn0search8
Devin Brown Quarterback: After serving as a backup quarterback, Brown has transferred to California, aiming for a starting role. citeturn0search8
Gabe Powers Linebacker: Powers, a highlytouted linebacker recruit, has committed to Kansas State after limited playing time with the Buckeyes. citeturn0search8
Ongoing Recruitment and Future Prospects
Ohio State continues to pursue additional talent to address remaining roster needs:
Quinten Joyner Running Back, USC: Joyner, who rushed for 478 yards and three touchdowns in 2024, recently visited Columbus and is a top target to reinforce the running back position. citeturn0search8
Justice Haynes Running Back, Alabama: Haynes, with 500 rushing yards and seven touchdowns in 2024, is another key prospect the Buckeyes are actively recruiting. citeturn0search9
Jaylin Davies Cornerback, UCLA: With the departure of key defensive backs, Ohio State is eyeing Davies to strengthen its secondary. citeturn0search8
Strategic Outlook for the 2025 Season
Head Coach Ryan Day and his staff are strategically leveraging the transfer portal to rebuild and enhance the teams competitiveness for the upcoming season. With significant changes in player compensation rules and playoff structures, Ohio State aims to adapt swiftly to maintain its status as a national contender. citeturn0news18
The Buckeyes proactive approach in the transfer market reflects a commitment to addressing immediate needs while planning for sustained success in the evolving landscape of college football.