2025 Transfer Portal Tracker for the Ohio State Buckeyes

As college football continues to evolve with the ever-changing landscape of the Transfer Portal, the Ohio State Buckeyes have made their presence felt in this new recruiting mechanism. For the 2025 season, Ohio State fans, coaches, and players are keeping a keen eye on potential transfers in and out of the program. The Buckeyes, known for their success on the field under head coach Ryan Day, have also been active in navigating the portal as they look to maintain their status as a national championship contender.

Overview of Ohio State and the Transfer Portal

The Transfer Portal has become a key element of modern college football, allowing players to leave their current program for another without sitting out a year. It offers opportunities for players who might not see significant playing time at their current school or who wish to pursue other opportunities. For elite programs like Ohio State, the portal represents both an opportunity to bolster their roster with talented players from across the country and a challenge to manage a roster full of young talent.

In the past few years, Ohio State has been a frequent player in the transfer portal, both adding talent and, at times, seeing players leave. This dual impact is felt throughout the program as the Buckeyes aim to remain competitive in a loaded Big Ten Conference and on the national stage.

Key Positions Ohio State Is Looking to Address in 2025

As we look ahead to the 2025 season, several key positions stand out where the Buckeyes may be looking to add depth through the portal:

1. Quarterback

Ohio State has been fortunate to have elite quarterbacks in recent years, from Justin Fields to C.J. Stroud. With Stroud likely entering the NFL draft after the 2023 season, the Buckeyes will need to find their next leader at quarterback. However, if they feel they are not satisfied with the development of the current quarterbacks in the system, Ohio State may turn to the Transfer Portal to find a graduate transfer or experienced player. A seasoned quarterback could provide an immediate impact and stabilize the position until the next young star emerges.

2. Wide Receiver

Ohio State has been a wide receiver factory, with talent like Garrett Wilson, Chris Olave, and Jaxon Smith-Njigba leaving their mark on the program. The Buckeyes have consistently recruited elite wide receivers, but the portal could offer an opportunity to add another star to the mix. A top-tier receiver with a proven track record at the collegiate level could complement an already talented group of pass-catchers. In 2025, this could be a crucial area to explore.

3. Defensive Back

Ohio State’s defense, while always stout, has occasionally been vulnerable in the secondary. Adding talent in the form of experienced cornerbacks or safeties who have performed well in other Power Five programs could be key to strengthening the defense. Given the high-flying offenses that dominate college football, bolstering the secondary will be essential for Ohio State’s continued pursuit of a national championship.

4. Offensive Line

A strong offensive line is the foundation of any championship-caliber team. While Ohio State recruits heavily for this position, the portal can still be an avenue for adding experienced depth. Offensive linemen who can come in and immediately contribute provide a tremendous benefit to a team that prides itself on dominating the line of scrimmage. This is particularly important if the Buckeyes experience injuries or attrition to their current offensive line group.

Key Players Departing the Program in 2025

Along with potential transfers into the program, Ohio State will also have to manage players leaving the program via the portal. Though the exact list will not be known until closer to the season, Ohio State fans will be keeping track of any significant departures, especially in areas where depth is already thin. Historically, the Buckeyes have had a few notable players depart for other programs, seeking increased playing time or opportunities in different systems.

Players from both the offensive and defensive sides of the ball could leave, and these departures could open up scholarship spots for transfers in return. Keeping track of any significant losses in recruiting classes or impact players moving on from the program will be a key part of Ohio State’s offseason strategy.

Key Transfers In 2025 for Ohio State

As of now, Ohio State has already made some notable moves in the Transfer Portal, particularly in 2023 and 2024. Looking ahead, several players have the potential to make an immediate impact for the Buckeyes in 2025. These players could be looking for new opportunities, either from smaller schools or after not finding their footing at larger programs.

For Ohio State, the key to success in the Transfer Portal will be targeting players who can contribute right away but also keeping an eye on the long-term development of the program. Given that Ohio State has one of the strongest recruiting classes in the nation each year, the program is more likely to target seasoned players who can help provide immediate competition and depth in critical positions. However, it’s also possible that Ohio State could see some of their younger, more highly touted recruits transfer out if they feel their playing time is at risk.

High School Recruiting and the Portal Strategy

While the Transfer Portal is a powerful tool for Ohio State, the Buckeyes are also focused on high school recruiting, which continues to be the backbone of their roster construction. With the 2025 recruiting cycle underway, Ohio State is continuing to sign some of the nation’s best high school talent. However, the portal allows the Buckeyes to add immediate help in areas where they might have missed out on top recruits or where an unexpected need arises. This gives Ohio State the flexibility to complement their strong recruiting classes with proven talent from the transfer ranks.

The Role of Ryan Day and the Coaching Staff

Head coach Ryan Day and his coaching staff will play a significant role in Ohio State’s approach to the Transfer Portal. Day has a reputation for managing a roster full of high-profile talent, and his ability to navigate the portal will be vital in shaping Ohio State’s 2025 roster. Whether it’s adding immediate contributors at key positions or maintaining a healthy, competitive environment within the program, Day’s leadership will be crucial as Ohio State continues to maximize its talent base.