Ohio State is retooling its approach to the transfer portal as the 2026 season looms, a move that reflects both the program’s ambition and the shifting landscape of college football. The Buckeyes have brought in 17 incoming transfers, a group that currently ranks 48th nationally and is expected to add depth and experience across the roster.
The centerpiece of that class is Connor Hawkins, the highest‑rated transfer prospect who will step in to fill the void left by Jayden Fielding. Hawkins brings a blend of size, skill and readiness that the coaching staff believes can immediately impact the team’s competitiveness.
Star recruit Jeremiah Smith has chosen to remain in Columbus, citing the chance to contend for a second national championship and to launch a Heisman Trophy campaign as key factors in his decision. His return bolsters the offense and adds a dynamic playmaker who can influence big games.
Day’s vision for an evolving sport
Coach Ryan Day has voiced strong support for the portal, framing it as a necessary adaptation for the sport’s future. He has likened the need to evolve to the survival of dinosaurs, emphasizing that programs that fail to adjust will be left behind.
Day’s endorsement, however, has not been without friction. He has openly criticized the Big Ten’s January signing window, a stance that puts him at odds with commissioner Tony Petitti, who has defended the current timeline and the conference’s scheduling approach.
Despite the debate, Ohio State’s leadership remains focused on building a roster that can succeed now and in the years ahead, balancing short‑term competitiveness with long‑term sustainability. The program’s strategy underscores a broader trend in college football, where the transfer market is reshaping how teams construct their lineups and pursue championships.