Get ready for an exciting season as we dive into the world of Ohio State football and explore the eight freshmen who could make an immediate impact on the field in 2026!
Ohio State's 2026 freshman class is stacked with talent, and the team is eager to showcase these young stars. While the Buckeyes have been active in the transfer portal, adding players across the board, they also recognize the importance of developing their own talent from within. With some high-profile departures from the 2025 class, Ohio State is now focused on getting its top freshmen some playing time, which will not only keep them motivated but also provide the experience needed to become future starters.
This year, Ohio State has one of its largest freshman classes ever, with 27 prospects already on campus as midyear enrollees. That means a highly competitive environment as these freshmen battle it out to climb the depth chart and fill the gaps left by last season's departures.
So, without further ado, let's meet the eight freshmen who are poised to make a splash and potentially earn immediate playing time in 2026:
WR Chris Henry Jr.
Henry is the star of the show and a clear frontrunner for immediate playing time. As the No. 14 overall prospect in the 2026 class, he brings elite physical attributes, including a towering 6'5" frame and exceptional hands. With his ability to make contested catches and his natural athleticism, Henry has the potential to become Ohio State's next superstar receiver. The Buckeyes fought hard to secure his commitment, fending off late pushes from powerhouses like Oregon and Texas, which speaks volumes about their belief in his immediate impact.
Ohio State's wide receiver corps is currently led by Jeremiah Smith, a generational talent. While Henry may not match Smith's freshman season, he could still emerge as the Buckeyes' No. 2 wide receiver, especially with only one established star at the position.
WR Jerquaden Guilford
While Henry has been in the spotlight, Guilford's late rise in national rankings shouldn't be overlooked. He was ranked above Henry in Rivals' final five-star rankings, showcasing his potential as a future star for the Buckeyes. With his speed, fluidity, and shifty moves in the open field, Guilford could be a perfect fit to play opposite Jeremiah Smith this season.
Guilford projects to play the Z position, which was vacated by Carnell Tate's departure for the NFL. He'll face competition from transfer additions Devin McCuin and Kyle Parker, but his natural fit and strong candidacy make him a prime contender for a spot on the two-deep in his first year.
CB Jay Timmons
Timmons, a five-star recruit and the No. 24 overall prospect in the 2026 class, has an excellent chance to earn a spot on the two-deep at either cornerback or nickelback. With the transfer departures of Aaron Scott Jr. and Bryce West, the depth chart is wide open behind starting cornerbacks Jermaine Mathews Jr. and Devin Sanchez.
Timmons, a 5'11", 185-pound defensive back, played in the slot and at safety in high school. His coverage skills and versatility make him a natural fit for the nickel spot, which could also lead to opportunities in dime packages. With Earl Little Jr. expected to be the starting nickel, Timmons has the potential to establish himself as the first DB off the bench, much like Devin Sanchez did as a true freshman last season.
CB Jordan Thomas
Thomas, who profiles as an outside cornerback for the Buckeyes, is another strong candidate to be one of Ohio State's top backups in the secondary right away. With his technical prowess and college-ready size (6'1", 190 pounds), Thomas has the skills to contribute quickly in both coverage and run defense.
While transfer addition Cam Calhoun is likely the frontrunner to be the No. 3 outside cornerback for 2026, Thomas could be the favorite to round out the two-deep at the position. He'll likely contribute on special teams in his first year and has the potential to become a reliable backup behind Mathews and Sanchez.
DE Khary Wilder
Defensive line is a position where freshmen often get a chance to shine at Ohio State, and Khary Wilder is projected to be the most college-ready defensive lineman among the freshmen. Already built like a college defensive end at 6'4", 265 pounds, Wilder excels at using his hands to shed blocks and comes from the highly competitive Southern California region, where he recorded an impressive 20 tackles for loss as a senior.
With only one established star at defensive end in Kenyatta Jackson Jr., Wilder has a clear path to earn his way into the rotation in 2026. He'll face competition from rising sophomore Zion Grady, Alabama transfer Qua Russaw, and fifth-year senior Beau Atkinson, but his talent and ability make him a strong contender to emerge as one of OSU's top defensive ends as a freshman.
LB Cincere Johnson
While the top three linebackers typically see regular playing time for Ohio State's defense, Cincere Johnson could be too talented to keep off the field. Ranked as the No. 1 linebacker and No. 16 overall prospect in the 2026 class, Johnson is a tackling machine and has already drawn comparisons to fellow Ohio State legend Arvell Reese.
Johnson will likely start his career competing for the No. 4 linebacker spot with players like TJ Alford and Garrett Stover. If he emerges as the favorite in this battle, he'll be just one injury away from playing a much bigger role on the Buckeyes' defense. His talent and potential make him a player to watch.
S Blaine Bradford
Bradford plays a position where Ohio State hasn't typically utilized much depth, but the lack of veteran safeties creates an opportunity for him to earn a spot on the two-deep as a freshman. With Faheem Delane and Malik Hartford entering the transfer portal, Leroy Roker III is the only returning safety other than Jaylen McClain who played defensive snaps last season.
Bradford projects as the frontrunner to replace Delane as Ohio State's second-string strong safety behind McClain. While this may not lead to consistent playing time with the first-team defense, it positions him to be one of the first safeties off the bench and the eventual successor to McClain at SS. Bradford is also a strong candidate to play a significant role on special teams as a freshman.
RB/ATH Legend Bey
Legend Bey is a wildcard on this list, but his recent comments from head coach Ryan Day have put him on everyone's radar. With Bo Jackson and Isaiah West returning to lead the running back depth chart, Bey will have to beat out Florida transfer Ja'Kobi Jackson, redshirt freshman Anthony "Turbo" Rogers, and fellow true freshman Favour Akih to earn a spot on the three-deep.
However, Day's comparison of Bey to Tyreek Hill during his radio show suggests that Ohio State sees his potential and wants to get him involved early. Bey's ability to provide explosive plays and his versatility as a high school quarterback transitioning to running back make him an intriguing prospect. With Ohio State seeking more dynamic plays from its running backs, Bey could find himself in the rotation if he proves his trustworthiness in ball security and pass protection.
Additionally, Bey's potential as a kick returner under new special teams coordinator Robby Discher could be another avenue for his involvement.
These eight freshmen are poised to make their mark on Ohio State football in 2026. With their talent, versatility, and the Buckeyes' commitment to developing their own stars, we can expect to see some exciting performances from this talented group. Who will rise to the top and become household names? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: these freshmen are ready to make their presence felt on the field.
