As the sun sets on the 2025 college football season, the Ohio State Buckeyes are gearing up for a fresh start in 2026. With a 12-0 regular season record and a national championship run under their belt, the team is now focused on replacing the 12 starters who helped them achieve this success. The process of identifying and developing younger players, along with strategic recruiting and the transfer portal, is well underway. With just over 90 days until the opener against Ball State, the Buckeyes are poised to take the field once again, led by a talented group of offensive starters.
One of the key positions is quarterback, where Julian Sayin will once again be the Scarlet and Gray's QB1. Sayin, the only returning Heisman Trophy finalist, had a productive first season as a starter in 2025, completing 77% of his passes and throwing for 3,610 yards, 32 touchdowns, and eight interceptions. His focus on improving his movement in the pocket and using his legs more could make him an even more dynamic playmaker under head coach Ryan Day.
At running back, Bo Jackson, who was third on the depth chart heading into the 2025 season, has now become entrenched as the Buckeyes' starting running back. Jackson, a true freshman last year, rushed for 1,000 yards and finished the year as the fifth true freshman in program history to do so. Although he missed spring practice after a shoulder procedure, he is expected to receive the bulk of the rushing work. Jackson's ability to make defenders miss and break tackles could make him an even more impactful player in his second season.
At wide receiver, the Buckeyes have a strong group led by Jeremiah Smith, who has been the best wide receiver in college football since arriving at Ohio State in 2024. Smith, who caught 163 passes for 2,558 yards and 27 touchdowns in his first two seasons, is expected to have another stellar season in 2026. The Buckeyes also have options at the outside receiver position, with Devin McCuin and Kyle Parker providing depth and experience.
At tight end, Nate Roberts, a former four-star prospect, will play his natural position and is in line to start. Roberts, who worked with the first-team offense all spring and earned praise from the staff, is expected to be a solid blocker and have good hands. The Buckeyes will also play multiple tight ends, with Bennett Christian, Mason Williams, and Hunter Welcing providing versatility.
On the offensive line, the Buckeyes have a mix of experienced and promising young players. Ian Moore, a natural fit at tackle, is trending toward starting at left tackle in 2026. Luke Montgomery, who took over at left guard last season, is expected to be an obvious starter once again. Carson Hinzman, who started at center for the Buckeyes to open the year in 2026, has improved each season and is an ideal fit at center. Austin Siereveld, who played guard in 2024 and moved to left tackle last season, will likely return to guard in 2026.
As the Buckeyes prepare for the 2026 season, they are focused on building on their success and replacing the 12 starters who helped them achieve a 12-0 regular season record. With a mix of experienced and promising young players, the Buckeyes are poised to take the field once again, led by a talented group of offensive starters.
