Ohio State's 2026 NFL draft class was an impressive one, with four players selected in the top 11 picks, a rare feat for any college program. However, this success has left the Buckeyes with a challenging task: rebuilding their roster to fill the void left by these talented players. In this article, we'll explore the potential replacements for each of Ohio State's draft picks and discuss the implications for the upcoming season.
Replacing the Stars
The loss of Carnell Tate, Arvell Reese, Sonny Styles, and Caleb Downs, all top-11 picks, is a significant blow to Ohio State's lineup. These players were not only starters but also key contributors to the team's success. To replace them, the Buckeyes are looking at a combination of returning players, transfers, and even true freshmen.
Wide Receiver: Chris Henry Jr. and the Shiftiness Factor
Chris Henry Jr., a five-star prospect, is the obvious choice to fill Tate's role as a deep threat. His size and playmaking ability make him a perfect fit. However, Ohio State is also bringing in transfers Devin McCuin and Kyle Parker to add a different dimension to their receiving corps. The focus is on shiftiness and playmaking after the catch, which could create an exciting dynamic with Jeremiah Smith. This strategy of diversifying their weapons will keep defenses guessing.
Linebacker: Christian Alliegro Steps into a Familiar Role
Christian Alliegro, a transfer from Wisconsin, is expected to take on a similar role to Arvell Reese. While he may not reach Reese's All-American status, Alliegro's experience in the Big Ten and solid performance last season make him a reliable option. Ohio State will also rely on sophomores like Riley Pettijohn and TJ Alford to contribute at the linebacker position.
Middle Linebacker: Payton Pierce Steps Up
Payton Pierce is poised to step into Sonny Styles' role as the starting middle linebacker and a leader on defense. Coach James Laurinaitis has praised Pierce's growth, and his performance last season suggests he's ready for the challenge. Pierce's versatility and leadership skills will be crucial in filling Styles' big shoes.
Safety: A Collective Effort to Replace Caleb Downs
Ohio State's approach to replacing Caleb Downs is unique. Instead of relying on one player, they're counting on a trio of safeties: Jaylen McClain, Earl Little Jr., and Terry Moore. Each brings a different skill set, and together, they aim to replicate Downs' impact. McClain will anchor the deep middle, while Little's versatility and Moore's experience at Duke will be utilized to fill various roles.
Defensive Line: Jamir Perez and the Nose Tackle Rotation
With Kayden McDonald's departure, Ohio State has a few options for the nose tackle position. John Walker and Will Smith Jr. are the most likely candidates, but the 360-pound freshman Jamir Perez could also develop into a key contributor. The Buckeyes may rotate these players to find the right combination for their defensive line.
Tight End: Nate Roberts and Hunter Welcing Step Up
Max Klare's replacement will likely be a combination of Nate Roberts and Hunter Welcing. Roberts, with his impressive skill set, is expected to be Ohio State's top receiving tight end. Welcing, a transfer from Northwestern, brings experience and could be a valuable asset in the passing game.
Cornerback: Devin Sanchez Shines Bright
Davison Igbinosun's replacement, Devin Sanchez, is an exciting prospect. Sanchez, a top-ranked cornerback in his recruiting class, has shown superstar potential this spring. His ability to lock down receivers could make Ohio State's secondary even better than last season.
Tight End and Nickelback: Mason Williams and Earl Little Jr.
Will Kacmarek's role will be filled by Mason Williams, another transfer from Ohio University. Williams is a strong blocker and could be a reliable option for the Buckeyes. As for Lorenzo Styles Jr.'s position, Earl Little Jr. is expected to take over, but there's a possibility that Jermaine Mathews Jr. could see some snaps in the slot, especially with Dominick Kelly's standout performance this spring.
Defensive End: A Competitive Battle
Replacing Caden Curry at defensive end is a competitive battle between Beau Atkinson, Qua Russaw, and Zion Grady. Ohio State's approach to this position will depend on whether they want to rely on one starter or rotate multiple players. Each of these players brings a unique skill set, and their performance in preseason camp will be crucial.
Offensive Line: Ian Moore's Opportunity
Ethan Onianwa's departure doesn't leave a huge gap, as he saw limited playing time. However, Ohio State's plan was for him to start at left tackle. Now, Ian Moore has the opportunity to step up and fill that role. If Moore performs well, it could lead to a significant upgrade over previous starter Tegra Tshabola.
Deeper Analysis
Ohio State's approach to rebuilding their roster showcases a strategic and thoughtful process. By utilizing a combination of returning players, transfers, and freshmen, they're creating a competitive environment that should drive performance. The focus on diversity in their receiving corps and the collective effort to replace Caleb Downs at safety are particularly intriguing strategies.
Conclusion
The Buckeyes face a challenging task in replacing their 2026 NFL draft picks, but with a mix of talent and strategic planning, they have the potential to remain competitive. The upcoming season will be an exciting test of their ability to adapt and rebuild, and it will be fascinating to see how these replacements perform on the field.
