As we inch closer to the start of the college football season, Ohio State fans have plenty to look forward to. With spring practices now in the rearview, anticipation is building—there’s just something about this time of year, right?
Let’s talk about some of the incoming freshmen who could shake things up on the field. Here are five promising Buckeyes who might just become household names in 2026.
From wide receivers to versatile athletes, these young guys seem poised to help Ohio State chase another national title. Will they all hit the ground running? We’ll see soon enough.
Chris Henry Jr.: The Next Great Ohio State Wide Receiver
Ohio State has a knack for churning out top-notch wide receivers, and Chris Henry Jr. looks like the next big thing. He’s the son of NFL wide receiver Chris Henry, and he’s already got a reputation thanks to some eye-popping high school stats—averaging 25 yards per catch in a shortened senior season.
As the top receiver in this year’s recruiting class, Henry Jr. is expected to give defensive coordinators headaches. He just has that “it” factor, you know?
What Makes Henry Jr. Special?
Henry Jr. brings a rare mix of size and skill, making him a tough cover, especially near the end zone. With veterans like Jeremiah Smith and Brandon Inniss around, he’s got a great support system to help him figure things out.
Sure, he might face some bumps along the way. Still, his physical gifts and raw talent make him a player you can’t ignore.
Brock Boyd: The Underrated Star
Chris Henry Jr. might get most of the attention, but Brock Boyd is another freshman wide receiver who’s quietly making noise. Hailing from Texas as a three-star recruit, Boyd was the first freshman to lose his black stripe during spring practices—a clear sign the coaches are noticing him.
He set the career receiving yardage record at Southlake Carroll, which is no small feat considering how competitive Texas high school football is. That’s got to count for something.
The Potential for Immediate Impact
With Smith and Henry Jr. likely drawing most of the coverage, Boyd could find plenty of space to operate. He’s adjusted quickly to the college game, and the coaching staff seems genuinely impressed with his work ethic.
It wouldn’t be a shock if he finds his way onto the field sooner rather than later.
Legend Bey: A Versatile Weapon
Injuries to running backs Bo Jackson and Isaiah West during spring practices gave Legend Bey a chance to show what he can do. Even though an injury kept him out of the spring game, Bey made his presence felt when he was healthy.
Bey played dual-threat quarterback in high school, piling up over 4,000 rushing yards and 3,500 passing yards. That kind of versatility is rare.
How Bey Fits into Ohio State’s Plans
With Jackson and West already in the mix, Ohio State doesn’t need Bey to carry the load right away. Instead, his speed and flexibility could land him in a role similar to what Curtis Samuel had under Urban Meyer.
Bey’s knack for making big plays might give the Buckeyes some extra juice on offense. He just seems like the kind of player who finds ways to contribute.
Cincere Johnson: The Future of Ohio State’s Defense
Cincere Johnson isn’t likely to start immediately, but his upside is hard to overlook. Coming out of Glenville, he tallied at least 100 tackles each of his last three high school seasons—including 112 tackles, 21.5 tackles for loss, and 8.5 sacks as a senior.
With guys like Peyton Pierce, Christian Alliegro, and Riley Pettijohn already at linebacker, Johnson might have to wait his turn. Still, his potential is obvious.
Johnson’s Path to Playing Time
Defensive coordinator Matt Patricia and linebackers coach James Laurinaitis will probably find creative ways to use Johnson’s skills. As the top prospect in Ohio, he could be the next standout Buckeye linebacker if things break right.
Greer: The Future Anchor of the Offensive Line
It’s rare for a true freshman to start on the offensive line, but Greer just might have the tools to do it if needed. Injuries in past seasons have shown how much depth matters up front.
Greer’s background as a multi-sport athlete, including Division I basketball offers, adds another layer to his appeal. Sometimes, you just get the feeling a guy’s built for the big stage.
Why Greer Could See Early Action
Ohio State probably doesn’t want to depend on a freshman offensive lineman right away. Still, with a long season and injuries always lurking, Greer might get his shot sooner than expected.
He’s got the physical tools and the kind of upside that coaches dream about. Down the line, he could be a real anchor for the Buckeyes’ line.
Ohio State fans have plenty to look forward to this season. Young talents like Chris Henry Jr., Brock Boyd, and Legend Bey bring a fresh spark.
If you’re curious for more details, the full article’s up at Land-Grant Holy Land.
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