The Ohio State Buckeyes have been busy this offseason, adding 17 players from the transfer portal to bolster their roster for the upcoming 2026 college football season. With 12 starters lost to graduation and 36 players departing via the portal, the team needed to fill significant voids. The final 247Sports transfer portal rankings for the offseason reveal some intriguing insights into these new additions.
One standout player is SAF Terry Moore, who received a 4-star rating and ranked 22nd overall. Despite missing the 2025 season due to an ACL injury, Moore made a strong return to spring practice, starting at safety and competing for a starting spot. His rise in the rankings showcases his potential impact for the team.
Another notable addition is LB Christian Alliegro, who also received a 4-star rating and ranked 36th overall. With experience at Wisconsin and a strong showing in spring practice, Alliegro is expected to be a starter in 2026, filling the void left by the loss of top-10 NFL draft picks.
The defensive line welcomes Qua Russaw, a 4-star rated player ranked 55th overall. Russaw transferred from Alabama and is now in the mix to start at defensive end, replacing the departed Caden Curry. His talent and experience will be crucial for the team's defensive success.
SAF Earl Little Jr. also joins the team with a 4-star rating and a 70th overall ranking. After a breakout season at Florida State, Little aims to build on his success at Ohio State, filling the void left by Caleb Downs.
TE Hunter Welcing, a 4-star rated player ranked 168th overall, brings Big Ten experience from his time at Northwestern. He will compete for a starting spot at tight end, joining a talented group that includes returners Bennett Christian and Nate Roberts, as well as fellow transfer Mason Williams.
CB Dominick Kelly, a 4-star rated player ranked 191st overall, impressed the coaching staff despite playing only one season at Georgia. Kelly's potential as the team's third cornerback is evident, especially with Jermaine Mathews Jr.'s versatility as a nickel corner.
CB Cam Calhoun, a 3-star rated player ranked 315th overall, brings experience from multiple programs, including Michigan, Utah, and Alabama. He will compete in a talented cornerback room, seeking stability after a series of transfers.
DL John Walker, a 3-star rated player ranked 293rd overall, finally made it to Ohio State after three years at UCF. With the loss of talent from last year's defensive line, Walker is expected to step up and contribute.
WR Devin McCuin, a 3-star rated player ranked 276th overall, impressed in spring practice despite coming from UTSA. With an opening at wide receiver after Carnell Tate's early NFL draft declaration, McCuin is in the running for a prominent role this fall.
These rankings highlight the Buckeyes' strategic approach to the transfer portal, adding experienced and talented players to fill key positions. As the team prepares for the 2026 season, these additions will play a significant role in shaping the program's future success.
