Projecting Who's Staying and Who's Leaving from Ohio State After Bowl Game
Ohio State has walked off the gridiron for the final time in 2023, ending the campaign with a 14-3 loss to Missouri in the Cotton Bowl.
In reality, the Buckeyes had a successful year. They ripped off an 11-0 start before a loss to rival Michigan sent Ohio State to its 10th consecutive New Year's Six bowl—which is a truly preposterous achievement.
Because of annual national championship expectations, though, OSU enters the offseason aiming to shed avoid this feeling in 2024.
As always, that remedy is picking up top transfers and continuing to recruit at an elite level. The tried-and-true combination will give the Buckeyes a great chance to remain a premier contender in a new-look Big Ten next season with a fresh-faced roster.
The following sections—who's staying, leaving and on the way—are a mix of projections and reported/confirmed plans.
Who's Staying
Head Coach Ryan Day
Since the program has dropped three straight games to Michigan, it's understandable that a section of OSU supporters have taken aim at Ryan Day. They are frustrated and want the Bucks to win a national title. Nevertheless, he's posted a 53-7 record in five seasons as the permanent boss. Day will be back in 2024—with a warmer, not yet hot, seat.
Most of the Offensive Line
Considering all the skill-position changes, Ohio State will be glad to have an experienced offensive line. Starting left tackle Josh Simmons, left guard Donovan Jackson, center Carson Hinzman and right tackle Josh Fryar should each return next season.
Most of the Secondary
Ohio State may need to replace as many as 10 impactful defenders. The bright side is the Buckeyes should have cornerbacks Davison Igbinosun and Jordan Hancock with safety Sonny Styles. The secondary won't be dealing with as much transition as the defensive line or linebacking corps, although Hancock could declare for the draft.
Who's Leaving
Kyle McCord
Sure, the Buckeyes fell short of their championship dreams. Kyle McCord, who tossed two interceptions in the loss to Michigan, merits a portion of the blame. Still, he threw for 3,170 yards at 9.1 per attempt with 24 scores to six interceptions. McCord is transferring to Syracuse and leaves a substantial—even if not superstar-sized void—in Columbus.
More Outgoing Transfers
To this point, OSU's departures (beyond McCord) are relatively low-impact transfers. Wide receiver Julian Fleming was a prized prospect but peaked at 533 yards in 2022. Chip Trayanum scored an epic touchdown at Notre Dame this season but totaled 373 scrimmage yards.
Potential NFL Draft Picks
Ohio State is headed for another excellent NFL draft cycle. The top prospect is wideout Marvin Harrison Jr., a likely top-five selection. Fellow receiver Emeka Egbuka may return after a disappointing year but could be an early pick anyway. Running back TreVeyon Henderson, edge-rushers JT Tuimoloau and Jack Sawyer, defensive tackles Mike Hall and Tyliek Williams and cornerback Denzel Burke will definitely be drafted if they turn pro, and that's simply the beginning of a lengthy list.
Who's on the Way
The Latest Wave of 5-Stars
Led by overall top-ranked prospect Jeremiah Smith, the Buckeyes added a quintet of 5-star talents. The offense may soon feature quarterback Air Noland throwing to Smith and Mylan Graham, while OSU hopes edge-rusher Eddrick Houston and cornerback Aaron Scott will be defensive fixtures in the near future.
The Rest of the No. 5 Recruiting Class
But wait, there's more! Ohio State inked 12 more 4-star prospects, including in-state cornerback Bryce West (58th nationally) and safety/linebacker Garrett Stover (105th). Running back James Peoples (95th) is the Bucks' highest-rated non-5-star on offense.
Incoming Transfers
As of today, well, there's no one to feature. But there's no way Ohio State ends up taking zero transfers. McCord's unexpected departure likely means the Buckeyes will add a quarterback from the portal.