As the Ohio State Buckeyes look toward the 2025 season, there’s a buzz surrounding the offensive depth chart. The team has seen a mix of departures and incoming talent, making spring ball a critical time for evaluating positions and setting the tone for the upcoming season. The offensive unit, which boasts a blend of returning veterans, promising underclassmen, and exciting transfers, will be a focal point of spring practice. Below, we dive deeper into Ohio State’s projected offensive depth chart heading into spring ball, further breaking down the key players at each position and their potential impact on the team’s success in 2025.
Quarterback
The quarterback position at Ohio State has been a marquee position for several years, with standout players like Justin Fields and C.J. Stroud showcasing elite talent under center. In 2025, the Buckeyes are looking to continue that legacy with a new crop of quarterbacks ready to lead the offense.
- Julian Sayin (Redshirt Freshman)
Sayin, a transfer from Alabama, enters the 2025 season as the projected starting quarterback. Despite his limited appearances in 2024, Sayin’s pedigree as a highly-touted recruit and his experience in a competitive Alabama program make him the favorite to take the reins. The redshirt freshman brings a strong arm, poise in the pocket, and the ability to make quick decisions—traits that will be essential for Ohio State’s offensive success. With several talented skill players at his disposal, Sayin will need to adjust to the speed of the Big Ten but is expected to thrive under head coach Ryan Day’s offensive system. - Lincoln Kienholz (Sophomore)
Kienholz enters the spring as one of the top competitors for the starting job. While his freshman year was more about development, Kienholz showed promise in limited reps and could see a more prominent role in 2025. His mobility and ability to make plays with his legs add a dynamic element to the offense, something that has been part of Ohio State’s quarterback play for several years. If he doesn’t win the starting job, Kienholz will likely be the backup, providing the team with a capable second option who could step in if Sayin struggles or gets injured. - Tavien St. Clair (Freshman)
St. Clair, an incoming freshman, is a highly rated prospect who will have a chance to learn from the veterans and adjust to the speed of college football. While it is unlikely that he will win the starting job in 2025, St. Clair could see significant development during his first year and potentially take over as a key player in the coming seasons.
Running Back
Running back has been a critical part of Ohio State’s offense over the years, and in 2025, the Buckeyes have a talented group of players who are ready to carry the load.
- James Peoples (Sophomore)
Peoples is poised for a breakout year in 2025. After showing flashes of brilliance in his freshman campaign, he enters spring ball as the team’s starting running back. Peoples is known for his quickness, vision, and ability to make defenders miss in the open field. With a solid offensive line in front of him, he is expected to be a key part of Ohio State’s ground attack. His ability to be both a traditional running back and a pass-catching threat out of the backfield will make him a dynamic weapon for Sayin and the offense. - CJ Donaldson Jr. (Senior)
Donaldson, a veteran presence in the backfield, will likely share carries with Peoples in a dual-back system. He brings physicality to the running game and excels in short-yardage situations. Donaldson’s leadership will be invaluable in the locker room, and his experience will give the Buckeyes a steady option when they need to grind out tough yards in critical situations. - Bo Jackson (Freshman)
Jackson is a highly-touted incoming freshman who adds depth and competition to the running back room. He brings a blend of size and speed, which could make him an ideal candidate for a rotational role in his first season. While he may not start immediately, Jackson’s development will be worth watching, as he could emerge as a key contributor down the line.
Wide Receiver
Ohio State’s wide receiver corps is one of the most talented in the country. With a mix of elite talent and promising young players, the Buckeyes’ passing game should continue to thrive in 2025.
X Receiver
- Jeremiah Smith (Sophomore)
Smith is expected to be one of Ohio State’s top receivers in 2025. With exceptional speed and route-running ability, he can stretch the field vertically and create mismatches against opposing defenses. His playmaking ability will be crucial for Sayin as he settles into his new role as starting quarterback. Smith has the potential to be one of the top wide receivers in the Big Ten and nationally. - Quincy Porter (Freshman)
Porter is another promising freshman who could make an immediate impact. Known for his physicality and ability to go up and get the ball, Porter brings a different dimension to the offense compared to the more agile and speed-based receivers. As a result, he could become a red-zone threat and a player to watch in the passing game.
Z Receiver
- Carnell Tate (Junior)
Tate enters the season as the projected starting Z receiver, a position where he can utilize his combination of size, speed, and agility. His experience and rapport with Ohio State’s quarterbacks will be key in 2025, and he will likely be one of the go-to targets for Sayin. Tate has the potential to be one of the top wideouts in the conference, and his deep-threat capability will keep defenses on their heels. - Bryson Rodgers (Redshirt Sophomore)
Rodgers is an experienced option who can fill in at the Z receiver spot if needed. With a strong work ethic and good hands, he could see an expanded role in 2025, especially in four-receiver sets. His ability to make plays after the catch will give him a chance to earn more snaps throughout the season.
Y Receiver
- Brandon Inniss (Junior)
Inniss, a reliable target, figures to be one of Ohio State’s top wide receivers in 2025. He brings excellent hands, crisp route running, and a strong understanding of the game. Inniss’s ability to operate in the slot and stretch the field will be critical in Ohio State’s offensive attack, and his consistency will be vital for keeping the offense balanced. - Mylan Graham (Redshirt Freshman)
Graham is a player to keep an eye on in 2025. With a year of development under his belt, Graham has the potential to emerge as a significant contributor. His size and speed will make him an intriguing option as he competes for more snaps and possibly a starting role in future seasons.
Tight End
Tight ends are often overlooked in Ohio State’s high-powered offense, but they can be critical pieces in the passing game. The 2025 tight end room has a mix of experience and raw talent.
- Max Klare (Redshirt Junior)
Klare is the team’s most experienced tight end, and he will likely be the starter in 2025. A well-rounded player, Klare is a strong blocker and capable receiver. His presence on the field will provide a safety valve for Sayin and allow the offense to be more diverse in its formations and play calls. - Will Kacmarek (Redshirt Senior)
Kacmarek is another veteran who provides depth at the tight end position. While he may not be as dynamic as Klare in the passing game, his blocking ability will be invaluable, particularly in run-heavy situations. Kacmarek’s leadership and experience will also be crucial for mentoring younger players in the tight end room. - Jelani Thurman (Sophomore)
Thurman is a young player with great upside. While he may not be a starter in 2025, his development will be closely watched, as he has the physical tools to become a top tight end in the near future. Thurman’s size and athleticism make him an intriguing target in the passing game, and he could see an increased role as the season progresses.
Offensive Line
Ohio State’s offensive line has been a staple of its success for many years, and 2025 will be no different. With a mix of experienced players and emerging talent, the Buckeyes will look to dominate in the trenches.
Left Tackle
- Ethan Onianwa (Redshirt Senior/Transfer)
Onianwa, a transfer from another program, is expected to start at left tackle. His experience and physicality will be crucial in protecting Sayin’s blindside. A steady and reliable presence on the line, Onianwa will play a pivotal role in ensuring the offense runs smoothly.
Left Guard
- Luke Montgomery (Junior)
Montgomery is expected to be the starter at left guard in 2025. Known for his ability to anchor the line, Montgomery will be a key player in both the run and pass games. His leadership and experience will help solidify the left side of the offensive line.
Center
- Carson Hinzman (Redshirt Junior)
Hinzman is the anchor of Ohio State’s offensive line. As the center, he will be tasked with making the line calls and ensuring that communication is on point. His experience and leadership will be crucial in providing stability to the unit.
Right Guard
- Tegra Tshabola (Redshirt Junior)
Tshabola’s strength and versatility make him a key player at right guard. His ability to dominate in the run game will be vital for Ohio State’s offensive success, and he will help protect Sayin in passing situations.
Right Tackle
- Phillip Daniels (Redshirt Sophomore/Transfer)
Daniels, a transfer who is expected to start at right tackle, will provide stability on the right side of the line. His physicality and ability to protect the edge will be essential as the Buckeyes look to maintain a strong offensive attack in 2025.
As spring ball approaches, Ohio State’s offensive depth chart will begin to take shape, and the players competing for spots will look to make an impact. With a combination of experienced leaders and promising young talent, the 2025 Buckeyes offense has the potential to be explosive and dynamic across all positions. The next few months will be crucial in determining who steps up and earns the opportunity to shine on the field come fall.
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