Cam Calhoun Finally Comes Home: Committing to Ohio State for 2026

 In the end, the long and winding road leads to Cam Calhoun wearing scarlet and gray. The Cincinnati local broke the news of his commitment to Ohio State today, January 15, 2026, just after touring Columbus. It is one of those tales that can be regarded as the exact right moment of the universe, very close to perfect. This young man from Winton Woods High School was a four-star recruit (ranked No. 397 overall, No. 41 cornerback in the 2023 class) at one point in his career, and now he is returning to his native state after a round trip in college football.

The Long Road to Columbus

Calhoun's college career has been highly unpredictable. He was visiting Ohio State unofficially during late 2022 for The Game against Michigan. Right after the Wolverines had won, he very suddenly committed to them—quite the wound for the Buckeye fans to have salt added. He hardly played during the 2023 season at Michigan (only two games with that national title team), and then he went to Utah for 2024 after which he truly got the reps: 21 tackles, an interception, and nine pass breakups in 11 games. He was able to participate in 14 games (mainly special teams and limited defense) at Alabama last season where, in addition to seven tackles, he recorded a pass deflection.

Now, with two years of eligibility left, he's on his fourth school in four years. But this time, it's different—he's coming home. Reports say Bucknuts broke the interest early in the week, and things moved fast once he stepped on campus. It's cool to see someone with Ohio roots choose the Buckeyes after everything.

Why the Buckeyes Needed This Move

Ohio State's secondary took some hits after the 2025 season wrapped up. The portal's been brutal—guys like Bryce West (who went to Wisconsin) and Aaron Scott Jr. (still unsigned, but in the portal) left, plus Davison Igbinosun headed to the pros. That left the cornerback room feeling pretty thin. Head coach Ryan Day and the staff have been aggressive, pulling in transfers like edge rusher Qua Russaw and DL James Smith from Alabama already. Calhoun makes three from the Tide this cycle, which is wild.

He's not walking in as a guaranteed starter, but with his experience against Big Ten, Pac-12, and SEC competition, he should slide right into a rotational role. Maybe nickel in some packages or spot duty outside. Depth is what the Buckeyes were desperate for, and this guy brings it.

2026 Cornerback Room: Who’s Still There and Who’s Rising

Next fall, the cornerback situation is as follows: Senior Jermaine Mathews Jr. is the anchor of the veteran—the veteran who is indeed expected back and is likely to be the one who starts after being the high-confidence player for the team for the last two years. Then there's the five-star recruit in his sophomore year, Devin Sanchez, who's been the one showing the most but is ready now to take the spot of a full-time starter. The two are very well the outside starters.

Beyond them, it's slim pickings right now. Returning scholarship players Miles Lockhart and Jordyn Woods are the only ones with some experience but they hardly played in 2025. The next freshmen in 2026 class might later on become a factor—four-stars such as Jay Timmons (who switched from Florida State) and Jordan Thomas appear to be good bets, but they are real freshmen, thus it would be too much to expect them to take all the responsibility right from the outset.

Calhoun fits perfectly here as that experienced veteran who can compete right away, spell the starters, and help if injuries hit (which they always do). It's a smart, practical addition.

Under Ryan Day and Tim Walton's Watch

Ryan Day keeps proving why he's one of the best in the business—reloading fast after tough losses. Defensive coordinator Matt Patricia and especially cornerbacks coach Tim Walton have done wonders with the secondary. Walton's NFL background and recruiting chops are huge; he's been key in landing guys like this and developing young talent.

The staff has stability where it matters, even with some coaching carousel moves elsewhere (like Brian Hartline leaving for USF). This transfer haul shows they're not messing around for another title push.

Looking Ahead: A Feel-Good Boost for the Buckeyes

To tell the truth, this looks like something deeper than just another portal pickup. It's a Cincinnati boy who has come full circle, getting together with his former high-school teammate Mathews, and imparting the defense with some essential depth. The Big Ten remains tough, and with the roster changes, every player is important. Calhoun may not be the most spectacular name, but he possesses the kind of toughness and experience that help one win tight games.

Buckeye fans, enjoy this one. It's nice when things come back around like this. Here's to Cam thriving in Columbus and helping bring another championship run. Go Bucks!

Buckeyes Land a Big One in the Portal: Terry Moore Coming Over from Duke

 The transfer portal has been giving Ohio State fans some huge presents lately. Just today—January 12, 2026—former Duke safety Terry Moore declared his move to Columbus. This guy's a true game-changer and after the departure of some important defenders the Buckeyes required the very same addition. It has been a matter of discussion among people, and to tell the truth, it gives the impression that Ryan Day is already set for another championship run without having to wait.

Moore's Path: From Duke Star to Buckeye Hopeful

When you contemplate Terry Moore's tale, it appears to be quite an exciting one. The massive guy of 6-foot height and 200-pound weight began his college journey at Duke as a running back in 2022 – indeed, you heard it correctly. But then he chose to make a shift to the secondary and this was the spot where he truly shone in 2023. The year 2024 was the turning point in his career: huge heap of tackles (71), 7 tackled for loss, 4 interceptions, forced fumbles, you name it. He received second-team All-ACC recognition and his name was even mentioned in All-America debates. His PFF grade was ridiculous—90.1, best among Power Four safeties that year.

Then came the tough part: he tore his ACL in Duke's bowl game after the 2024 season (the Gator Bowl against Ole Miss, where he actually had a huge pick-six return before going down). He sat out all of 2025 recovering, but now he's got that final year of eligibility and he's ready to go. Reports say he's on track health-wise, and with Ohio State's training staff, I'd bet on him being back to full speed.

This move comes right on the heels of another big safety pickup—Earl Little Jr. from Florida State committed just yesterday. Two former All-ACC guys in back-to-back days? That's not an accident. The staff is clearly targeting veteran talent to steady the secondary.

What He Actually Brings to Columbus

Look, Moore isn't some project or depth guy—he's proven. Versatile as heck: he can cover, tackle in the box, blitz, you name it. Those 2024 numbers don't lie—he was disruptive and smart. For a defense that was elite in 2025 under Matt Patricia (No. 1 in the country in a bunch of categories), but now has to replace stars like Caleb Downs (who just declared for the 2026 NFL Draft and is projected as a top-10 pick), Moore fills a real need.

The ACL thing is the only real question mark, but come on—he's young, motivated, and landing in a program like this with top-tier resources. If he gets back to even close to his 2024 form, he's going to be a difference-maker. Imagine him flying around with the rest of that unit? Scary for the Big Ten.

The Safety Room Right Now: Who's Left and Who's Coming

The secondary took some hits this offseason. Caleb Downs is gone to the pros after two unreal years (two-time unanimous All-American—insane). Then you had guys like Malik Hartford and Faheem Delane hitting the portal themselves, so depth got thin quick.

But the good news? Jaylen McClain is back and ready to anchor things. The guy's been a starter, played big snaps alongside Downs last year, and he's got that experience now. He's probably the strong safety leader moving forward.

You've also got younger pieces like redshirt sophomore Leroy Roker III, who saw some action and has upside, plus a few freshmen/redshirts waiting in the wings (Deshawn Stewart, Cody Haddad, etc.).

Now throw in Moore and Earl Little Jr.—both battle-tested All-ACC transfers—and suddenly the room looks a lot deeper and more veteran. Not many players might challenge Little for the free safety or nickel spots, but Moore might be able to claim a starting role right away with his production. There is a good combination of both rookies and experienced players; however, this is precisely what you need if you want to retain your elite status.

Why This Feels Like a Game-Changer for 2026

Ohio State wrapped up 2025 at 12-2, with that Cotton Bowl loss to Miami stinging a bit after such a dominant defense all year. But losing guys to the draft and portal happens—it's the new normal. The key is responding, and Day's staff has been aggressive. Seven portal additions already, and Moore is one of the best ones.

This feels like the piece that keeps the defense humming under Patricia (who, by the way, is reportedly in talks for a big extension—smart move after what he did in year one). If Moore stays healthy and buys in, the Buckeyes could have one of the scariest secondaries in the country again.

Portal season is wild, but moves like this are why Ohio State stays in the title conversation every year. What do you guys think—is Moore going to start right away, or is he more of a rotation beast? Either way, Go Bucks. This offseason is heating up fast!

Dalton Riggs Snaps Up a Spot at Ohio State: A Transfer Portal Win for the Buckeyes

 

The transfer portal season is never-ending but is always a roller coaster ride, and again, Ohio State has made a smart move by bringing in a new player for their special teams. On the 4th of January, 2026, long snapper Dalton Riggs declared that he would be a Buckeye after previously being in the transfer portal of UCF. If you are like me, you might not consider long snappers as part of the game, but they are indeed the silent protectors of the game who ensure that no mishaps occur while executing the field goals and Punts. Let’s see how this situation shakes out for Ohio State as they venture into the 2026 season.

 

Riggs' Journey: From BYU to UCF and Now Columbus

Dalton Riggs is not a stranger to the college scene—a real expert who has been perfecting his skill in different programs. Initially, he was at BYU, and there he was in charge of long-snapping in 2024, then he moved to UCF for the 2025 season. While at UCF, Riggs was a dependable starter, participating in all 12 games and also taking on the role of a team captain and a leader. His background is bright; he has the accuracy and reliability that the special teams trainers would wish for. Before some fans roll their eyes at a long snapper pickup, remember: these guys are crucial, especially when you're replacing someone solid.

The Commitment: A Quick Portal Flip to Fill a Gap

Riggs' entry into the transfer portal was pretty under the radar—he didn't make a big splash when he left UCF. But Ohio State moved fast. Just hours after former Ohio tight end Mason Williams committed as the Buckeyes' first transfer addition of 2026, Riggs followed suit on January 4. His announcement came via social media, and it was confirmed by outlets like Eleven Warriors and The Columbus Dispatch. Why Ohio State? Well, the Buckeyes needed a replacement for John Ferlmann, their starting long snapper since 2023, who's now out of eligibility. Riggs fits the bill perfectly as a senior with redshirt eligibility, bringing immediate stability.

Fans on Reddit and X were buzzing about it, with some noting his BYU connections and others just glad to see Ohio State addressing depth. One commenter even mentioned taking a class with him at BYU—small world, right?

Impact on the Buckeyes: Bolstering Special Teams for 2026

Check it out, Ohio State has been affected by a lot of player exits through the transferring portal recently, the names of Tegra Tshabola and Mylan Graham are among those leaving and some fans are already vocal about their concerns regarding depth issues in the team. Nonetheless, recruiting Riggs is a wise, not so obvious action that fills a certain gap. It’s widely accepted that special teams can either win or lose closely contested matches, and having a reliable long-snapper translates to less missed kicks and greater assurance for the unit.

Ryan Day and the coaching staff are clearly focused on rebuilding with targeted additions rather than splashy names. Riggs might not be a household name, but he's exactly the kind of experienced player who can contribute right away. As one Facebook post put it, "Before some of y'all start... we know there are multiple positions of need, but this is a solid get." With the portal still churning, expect more moves, but this one feels like a quiet win for the Scarlet and Gray.

Looking Ahead: What This Means for Ohio State's Season

We're now entering 2026, and Ohio State is getting ready for another shot at the Big Ten Championship and perhaps even the playoffs. The hire of Riggs is not going to take the spotlight like the transfer of a star quarterback would, but it's the subtlety in recruiting that winning teams do. Watch how he blends during the spring practice— he might be the deciding factor in an intense rivalry game.

What do you think, Buckeyes faithful? Is this the start of a portal turnaround, or just a small step? Drop your takes below—football season might be over, but the off-season drama is just heating up!

Buckeyes Raid the Bobcats Again: Mason Williams Heads to Ohio State

Ohio State fans are finally getting over the hard ending of the 2025 season when a piece of good news comes up to start 2026 in a nice way. On the 4th of January, the former Ohio University tight end Mason Williams stated he is going to the Buckeyes. He used social media to post a basic graphic of those scarlet and gray bucknuts, and you could already sense the thrill of Buckeye Nation.

Getting to Know Mason Williams

This person is enormous—his height is 6 feet and 5 inches and his weight is about 258 pounds. He comes from Mogadore, Ohio, a little town near Akron which is famous for its tough football players. He was one of the talented youngsters in high school at Mogadore who played all the sports—football, basketball, and even baseball. He competed for varsity letters in everything and drew enough attention to receive some college offers.

 

In the end, he committed to Ohio University, as a three-star recruit in the 2023 class. He was amazing over the three years he spent with the Bobcats and developed into a strong starter. His career statistics tell that he made a total of 48 catches for 565 yards and six TDs. In the last season of 2025, he recorded 26 receptions for 276 yards and three scores—not great numbers, but consistent for a commander in MAC who is often assigned to do the roughest jobs.

However, the best thing about him is his blocking. Scouts and statisticians alike appreciate how he deals with run-blocking responsibilities. He spent a lot of time on the field moving defenders and making holes, which is reflected in the All-MAC honors he earned (some places gave him first-team while others gave him third-team). He's the type of tight end who is perfectly fine with getting dirty in the trenches.

This Feels Like We've Seen It Before

The last couple of years have not gone unnoticed by Ohio State supporters, and this move undoubtedly has you grinning. It is quite similar to the case of Will Kacmarek. Do you recall him? In 2024, Kacmarek moved to the Buckeyes after being at Ohio University, and he had an instant effect, being acknowledged as one of the greatest blocking tight ends in the country during his stay at Columbus for two years. He has just completed his eligibility, having been a very reliable and effective player throughout the offense.

Turns out, Williams actually took over as the starter at Ohio after Kacmarek left. The two overlapped a bit in Athens and got pretty close—Kacmarek even chatted with Williams about what it's like in the Ohio State program during this portal process. It's almost like they're handing off the role directly. Funny how that works out.

Why He Fits Perfectly in the Tight End Group

The Buckeyes' tight end situation is shifting a good bit heading into 2026. Kacmarek's done after using up his years, Jelani Thurman jumped into the portal, and Max Klare (the transfer from Purdue) is still weighing whether to head to the NFL or come back for another season.

Thus, it still has some youngsters like Bennett Christian, Max LeBlanc, Nate Roberts, Brody Lennon, and the new student Nick Lautar as a freshman. At the same time, it is a promising collection, but the addition of a player with experience like Williams-whom has two years of eligibility left-automatically gives them a boost. He has shown that he can be a starter at the college level and is excellent at blocking, which may help the run game become more efficient.

From what I've heard, he visited Columbus on Saturday, and coaches Ryan Day and Keenan Bailey really rolled out the red carpet. Williams called the trip "awesome" and said Bailey's an incredible guy to play for. Clearly, it sealed the deal quick.

Looking Ahead to 2026

Honestly, this seems like a no-brainer pickup. Low drama, high upside—especially for an in-state kid who's probably been dreaming about playing at Ohio Stadium his whole life. Williams isn't going to wow you with highlight-reel catches every week, but in an offense under Chip Kelly (if things stay the same), a physical, dependable tight end who can seal blocks and snag tough balls in traffic is exactly what you want.

The Ohio-to-Ohio State tight end pipeline is real now, and it's paying off again. Welcome to the family, Mason. Can't wait to see you out there making plays in the Shoe.

Who’s Next? Ohio State’s Wide Receivers Coach Opening for 2026

Brian Hartline is officially gone. On December 3, 2025, the guy who turned Ohio State’s wide receiver room into “Wide Receiver U” took the head coaching job at South Florida. He’ll coach the Buckeyes through the playoff, then head to Tampa. That leaves Ryan Day with one of the most important hires he’ll make this cycle: who coaches the best wide receiver room in college football starting in 2026?

The Clear Front-Runner: Devin Jordan

If you’ve paid any attention to Ohio State recruiting the last three years, you already know Devin Jordan’s name. The former Buckeye wideout (2008–11) came back to Columbus in 2022 as director of player development and recruiting, basically Hartline’s right-hand man in the WR room every single day.

Before that, Jordan spent four years (2018–21) as the actual wide receivers coach at Bowling Green and did a really solid job — guys like Davon Spencer and Quintin Morris put up big numbers under him. At 34 years old, he’s young, energetic, relates to players ridiculously well, and — maybe most importantly — he’s already one of the best recruiters in the Midwest. Current commits and targets call him “big bro.”

Everything Ryan Day has done the last two off-seasons screams internal promotion. He moved Hartline up to OC, kept Keenan Bailey in-house, promoted from within on defense multiple times. Promoting Jordan would be the easiest, smoothest transition imaginable. Most people around the program expect it to happen within the next week or two.

The Other Realistic Names

Keenan Bailey

Current co-OC and tight ends coach. Bailey is super well-liked and has been at Ohio State forever (analyst → TE coach → co-OC). A promotion to WR coach would let Day keep his offensive structure intact, but it would mean moving him off tight ends, which feels awkward. Possible, but not the favorite.

Santonio Holmes

The 2006 Buckeye legend is currently the wide receivers coach at South Carolina State. He’s expressed interest in coming home, and the players would lose their minds. Cool story, huge name, but Day almost never goes the “splashy external alum” route for assistant jobs. Feels more like a feel-good long shot.

The Chip Kelly Wild Card

Chip got fired by the Raiders in November and still has a house in Columbus. There’s real chatter he could come back in some kind of senior offensive assistant/WR coach hybrid role, especially if Day wants an experienced voice while a younger guy (Jordan) learns on the job. It’s not the most likely outcome, but it’s absolutely on the table.

Bottom Line

Unless something dramatic changes in the next few days, bet on Devin Jordan. He’s been training for this exact moment for four years, the players already trust him, and the 2026 recruiting class (Landon Dowden, Quincy Porter, etc.) is comfortable with him running the room.

Ryan Day loves continuity, and promoting Jordan is the definition of continuity. Expect the announcement sometime between the playoff rounds — probably with the simple title “wide receivers coach” and a quiet two-year deal to keep him from getting poached.

Ohio State’s wide receiver factory isn’t slowing down. It’s just getting a new foreman who already knows where all the tools are.

Nick Lautar Switches Gears: Heading to Ohio State for the 2026 Football Class

Man, if you're a Buckeyes fan like me, this one's got to feel pretty sweet. Just when things were heating up in recruiting season, Ohio kid Nick Lautar pulls a classic flip—from Louisville to Ohio State. He dropped the news on a Sunday evening, and honestly, it feels like a perfect fit for Ryan Day's crew. Keeping talent in-state? That's the kind of move that builds dynasties.

Getting to Know Nick Lautar

To begin with, who is this character? Nick is a prominent tight end from Lebanon High School, located in Ohio. He has an imposing physique at 6-foot-5 and 230 pounds, making one think of a 'future pro' physique. Thespians have labeled him as the 20th-best talent in the state and also the same ranking nationwide for tight ends—an impressive three-star recruit. What is the exceptional thing about him? His blocking is very strong, as if he has a personal feud with the opposing defense lines, though he also has the ability to catch balls given by the quarterbacks. Living in Buckeye territory, it is easy to assume that he is very much influenced by the Midwest toughness.

I've watched some highlights, and the kid just glides—blocks like an extra lineman one play, then hauls in a seam route the next. It's versatile stuff that modern offenses crave.

The Big Flip: Ditching the Cardinals for Scarlet and Gray

Lautar had been locked in with Louisville for a bit, but then Ohio State comes calling right before their UCLA matchup. Boom—offer on the table, and he jumps ship. This fills the gap left by Corbyn Fordham, who backed out recently, so Nick's probably the main tight end they're banking on for '26.

He made it official on social media, and let me tell you, the comments section exploded. Fans were hyped, tossing out memes and "welcome home" vibes. It's that feel-good recruiting story: local boy stays put to chase rings with one of college football's powerhouses.

 

How This Boosts Ohio State's 2026 Haul

This is a game-changer for the Buckeyes. Nick's the 26th commit in the class, and get this—sixth one just this November. He's linking up with guys like offensive lineman Mason Wilhelm (another three-star beast) and some four-star studs, including that athlete with the epic name, Legend. Seriously, who names their kid Legend? Awesome.

On the field, Lautar slots right into OSU's scheme. Their offense loves tight ends who can pave roads in the run game and threaten vertically. Think of the NFL pipeline they've got—guys like him keep it flowing. Ryan Day's got to be grinning ear to ear, snagging an Ohio talent and beefing up that position group for the long haul.

What's on the Horizon for Lautar and the Buckeyes?

Signing day's still a ways off, so nothing's etched in stone, but this seems locked in. Nick'll get top-notch coaching, maybe pack on some more muscle, and who knows—could see the field sooner than later if he adapts quick.

For Ohio State as a whole, flips like this scream recruiting dominance, especially poaching from their backyard. If the '26 class keeps stacking up, we're talking another shot at playoffs and titles. Buckeye faithful, hit me with your takes—is Lautar gonna be a star, or what? Drop your thoughts below!

Mason Wilhelm's Big Switch: Buckeyes Land a Local Star

Dude, college football recruiting period is always dramatic, and this one has the local taste which is everyone's favorite. Mason Wilhelm, the strong offensive tackle from St. Edward High School in Lakewood, Ohio, has just changed his pledge from North Carolina to Ohio State for the class of 2026. It's one of those stories that feels right – a kid with Buckeye blood deciding to stay close to home. Who wouldn't want to suit up in scarlet and gray, especially with family history tied to the program?

The Flip: From Chapel Hill to Columbus

Wilhelm had been locked in with the Tar Heels since early June, but after a killer visit to Ohio State recently, he made the call to switch sides on Friday. Standing at 6-foot-4 and tipping the scales at 290 pounds, this three-star interior lineman is no slouch. And get this – his dad, Matt Wilhelm, was a beast for the Buckeyes back in the day, snagging All-Big Ten nods and even a national title in 2002. It's like destiny calling, right?

He shared that the visit was straight-up a dream, with the vibe in Columbus and the coaches making it impossible to say no. This isn't just any recruit jumping ship; it's part of a bigger trend where Ohio State's keeping the best Ohio talent in-state, which has gotta have fans buzzing.

Getting to Know Mason: The Kid Behind the Helmet

So, what's the deal with Wilhelm? He's been tearing it up at St. Edward, a school that's basically a factory for college prospects. With his size, quickness off the snap, and that football smarts, he's ranked as Ohio's No. 48 prospect by ESPN for 2026. Scouts love how he holds his ground against rushes and uses his feet like a pro.

Oh, and he's not just brawn – the guy's rocking a 4.2 GPA, so he's got the brains to back it up. Leading his team through tough seasons, his blocking has been key to their success. Picture this: a lineman who can pancake defenders and still ace his classes. That's the kind of all-around player Ohio State's snagging.

Why Buckeyes? It's All About Roots and the Right Fit

You gotta wonder, what tipped the scales? Family legacy plays a huge part – growing up in a house full of Buckeye stories probably made this feel inevitable. But credit where it's due: Coach Justin Frye and the staff didn't let up, showing Wilhelm exactly how he'd slot into their O-line plans.

Sure, UNC had a massive class with like 37 commits at one point, but the pull of home won out. Wilhelm's talked about the insane energy on game days in The Shoe and the shot at titles from day one. Smart choice for a guy who wants to make his mark without straying too far.

How This Boosts Ohio State's 2026 Squad

Adding Wilhelm bumps the Buckeyes' O-line commits to five for 2026, joining guys like Sam Greer, Landry Brede, Max Riley, and Tucker Smith. That's some serious beef up front, perfect for grinding out wins in the Big Ten. It's not just about numbers; it's a statement that Ohio State's the spot for top in-state linemen.

The whole class is looking stacked, with quarterback Luke Fahey, running back Favour Akih, and wideouts like Chris Henry Jr. leading the charge. If the rumors are true and more big names drop soon, Ryan Day might have his best haul yet.

Looking Ahead: Wilhelm's Path and Buckeye Hopes

As he wraps up his junior year, everyone's watching to see how Wilhelm bulks up and refines his game – could push his rankings even higher. For Ohio State, nabbing him from UNC is a recruiting coup, especially in this cutthroat world.

Buckeye fans, rejoice: Mason Wilhelm's coming home with that classic Ohio toughness. Whether he's opening holes for runners or stonewalling pass rushers, this legacy kid's set to shine in Columbus. College football's always got more surprises, so keep your eyes peeled!