The Ohio State football depth chart is always one of the most talked-about topics in college football. Each year, fans wait eagerly to see who will step up, who will start, and which young stars are rising fast. For the 2025 season, the Buckeyes have released their latest depth chart, and it’s filled with surprises, returning talent, and future NFL prospects.
If you’re an Ohio State fan or just love college football, this breakdown of the full depth chart for the Buckeyes will give you everything you need to know heading into the new season.
Why the Ohio State Football Depth Chart Matters
Ohio State is one of the most successful programs in college football history. With national titles, countless NFL alumni, and high expectations every year, the Buckeyes are under the spotlight more than most teams. The depth chart doesn’t just show who starts—it tells a story of development, competition, and strategy.
This season, head coach Ryan Day and his staff have some tough decisions to make. With a mix of veterans and explosive young talent, the 2025 roster is both deep and dangerous.
Quarterback Battle: Who’s Leading the Charge?
Ohio State football depth chart at quarterback has been the hottest topic all offseason. After last year’s performance, the position was wide open—and the Buckeyes have finally named a starter.
Starter: Devin Brown (Redshirt Junior)
- After battling injuries in 2024, Brown looks poised to lead the offense.
- Strong arm, mobile, and has a deep understanding of the playbook.
Backup: Lincoln Kienholz (Sophomore)
- Gained valuable reps last year and has shown major growth in spring practices.
- Could be the future, but Brown’s experience gives him the edge for now.
Third String: Julian Sayin (Freshman)
- A highly-touted recruit who enrolled early.
- Likely to redshirt but could see mop-up duty in blowouts.
Running Backs: A Two-Headed Monster
The Buckeyes have a solid backfield loaded with speed and power.
Starter: TreVeyon Henderson (Senior)
- NFL-caliber back who returned for one last shot at a national title.
- Elite speed and vision.
Backup: Quinshon Judkins (Transfer, Junior)
- Came over from Ole Miss and brings SEC toughness.
- Likely to split carries in a two-back system.
Other names to watch:
- Dallan Hayden (Junior): Steady and reliable.
- James Peoples (Freshman): Could be a future star.
Wide Receiver Room: The Nation’s Best?
Ohio State continues to produce elite wide receivers, and 2025 is no different.
Starters:
- Emeka Egbuka (Senior): The leader of the group, returning for his final season.
- Carnell Tate (Sophomore): Breakout candidate with serious playmaking ability.
- Brandon Inniss (Sophomore): Great hands and smooth route runner.
Second Team:
- Jeremiah Smith (Freshman): The top WR recruit in the country.
- Kojo Antwi (Junior): Solid depth and special teams contributor.
The Ohio State football depth chart at wide receiver is stacked, with NFL-level talent across the board.
Tight Ends: Reliable and Physical
Starter: Gee Scott Jr. (Senior)
- Former wideout turned tight end.
- Strong blocker and an underrated receiver.
Backup: Jelani Thurman (Sophomore)
- Massive frame and soft hands.
- Could be used more in red zone packages.
Offensive Line: Big and Experienced
The offensive line is a mix of returning veterans and rising stars.
Starters:
- LT: Josh Simmons (Junior) – Transferred from San Diego State and locked down the left side.
- LG: Donovan Jackson (Senior) – Team captain and All-Big Ten candidate.
- C: Carson Hinzman (Junior) – Smart and dependable in the middle.
- RG: Luke Montgomery (Sophomore) – One of the highest-graded run blockers.
- RT: Tegra Tshabola (Junior) – Massive body, quick feet.
Depth:
- Enokk Vimahi, George Fitzpatrick, Austin Siereveld – All capable backups who will see time.
Defensive Line: Dominant Up Front
Ohio State’s defensive line is the heart of the defense.
Starters:
- DE: Jack Sawyer (Senior) – Leader and pass-rushing force.
- DT: Tyleik Williams (Senior) – Explosive off the snap.
- DT: Hero Kanu (Junior) – Great size and strength.
- DE: JT Tuimoloau (Senior) – One of the best edge rushers in the country.
Rotational Players:
- Caden Curry, Kenyatta Jackson Jr., Ty Hamilton – Give the Buckeyes a deep and disruptive front.
Linebackers: Smart and Fast
The Ohio State football depth chart at linebacker features returning leaders and new stars.
Starters:
- MLB: Cody Simon (Senior) – Veteran with great instincts.
- WLB: CJ Hicks (Sophomore) – Athletic freak and breakout candidate.
Second Team:
- Arvell Reese (Redshirt Freshman)
- Reid Carrico (Junior)
Expect Hicks to be the most exciting player in this group.
Secondary: Talented and Tough
Ohio State’s defensive backs will be tested often, but this group is up for the challenge.
Cornerbacks:
- Denzel Burke (Senior): Lockdown potential.
- Davison Igbinosun (Junior): Physical and fearless.
Safeties:
- Lathan Ransom (Senior): Smart leader and heavy hitter.
- Caleb Downs (Transfer from Alabama): Huge addition to the Buckeyes’ secondary.
Nickel:
- Jordan Hancock (Senior): Versatile and experienced.
Special Teams: Quiet But Important
Kicker: Jayden Fielding (Junior)
- Reliable and accurate.
Punter: Jesse Mirco (Senior)
- Aussie-style punter who flips the field consistently.
Returners:
- Punt: Emeka Egbuka
- Kick: Carnell Tate or Jeremiah Smith
Top Position Battles Still Ongoing
Even with a depth chart set, some positions remain fluid. Here’s where competition is still fierce:
- QB2: Kienholz vs. Sayin could change midseason.
- WR3/4/5: Too much talent to list, but rotation will be deep.
- Cornerback depth: Watch out for true freshman Miles Lockhart.
Final Thoughts: Can This Roster Win It All?
With the talent outlined in the Ohio State football depth chart, there’s no reason the Buckeyes shouldn’t be in the College Football Playoff conversation. The offense has firepower, the defense is loaded with veterans, and the depth is unmatched across the Big Ten.
The key will be quarterback play. If Devin Brown steps up, this could be the year Ohio State wins it all.
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