Jackson Gula, a standout defensive back from Streetsboro, Ohio, has taken the next step in his football career as he was added to the Ohio State Buckeyes roster ahead of the 2026 season. His ascent follows a freshman year with the Ohio State club team that culminated in a national championship and earned him Second Team All‑American honors from the National Club Football Association.
During that championship season Gula recorded 29 tackles, eight pass breakups and three interceptions, the latter coming in the fourth quarter of the title game against Coppin State and sealing the victory. His performance highlighted a blend of size, instincts and playmaking ability that caught the attention of Buckeyes coaches.
A Pipeline From Club to College
He joins three former club teammates already on the Buckeyes roster — offensive lineman Ian Gecse, linebacker Zach Hayes and cornerback Glorien Gough — making him the sixth player since 2018 to transition from the club program to the Division I team.
The Ohio State club team has been a powerhouse, securing four national titles since its inception in 2009 and losing only a single game over the past two seasons. That consistency has turned the club circuit into a proven feeder system for top talent.
Coaches say Gula’s rapid ascent illustrates the growing appeal of the club pathway as a launchpad for elite players, and they expect his addition to bolster the secondary as the Buckeyes prepare for the upcoming season.