A reshaped depth chart emerges from fall camp
Ohio State’s annual fall camp has become a crucible for roster reshuffling, especially at positions where injuries have limited participation.
Isaiah West, who missed spring drills because of shoulder surgery, was slotted into first‑team reps during the opening days of camp. Coaches cited his heightened conditioning and the work he put in during rehabilitation as decisive factors in the evaluation.
Bo Jackson, the freshman running back who burst onto the scene with 1,090 rushing yards and six touchdowns last season, has been sidelined for the same shoulder procedure. He now has roughly four weeks to regain the starting role he lost early in camp, a timeline that adds urgency to his recovery program.
The coaching staff is also weighing the potential impact of Devin McCuin, a transfer from UTSA who compiled 1,696 receiving yards and 16 touchdowns in his final college season. His size and downfield ability have positioned him as a leading candidate for the No. 2 wide‑receiver slot behind Jeremiah Smith.
Smith remains the primary target in the passing game, but the depth chart lists Brandon Inniss and Chris Henry Jr. as the next options should the primary receiver be covered. Both players are being assessed for their readiness to contribute in critical moments.
Head coach Ryan Day emphasized that the early depth chart is fluid, noting that competition will intensify as the team moves into full‑speed practice sessions. He highlighted West’s progress and the need for Jackson to accelerate his return to maintain offensive balance.
If Jackson fails to reclaim his starting position within the four‑week window, the Buckeyes may lean more heavily on West and the emerging receiving corps to sustain offensive production early in the season.