Ohio State football fans are counting down the days to the 2026 season. Last year’s ending stung, but there’s a real sense of hope in Columbus right now.
The Buckeyes are grinding through the offseason, trying to fill some big shoes after a 12-0 regular season. With the opener against Ball State just three months out, let’s look at the projected defensive starters as Ohio State tries to get back on top.
Defensive End: Kenyatta Jackson Jr.
Kenyatta Jackson Jr. is set to anchor Ohio State’s defensive line this fall. After three years as a backup, he finally broke out last season with 28 total tackles, 11 tackles for loss, and 6.5 sacks.
With Caden Curry in the NFL, Jackson’s the clear top pass rusher now. He’s got a knack for containing dual-threat quarterbacks, and honestly, the defense will lean on his edge-setting ability.
Supporting Cast at Defensive End
Beau Atkinson transfers in from North Carolina to join Jackson. Atkinson’s first year was quiet, but he’s flashed upside in spring ball.
Sophomore Zion Grady and Alabama transfer Qua Russaw are also in the mix. They add depth and, who knows, maybe some surprise plays to the rotation.
Interior Defensive Line: Eddrick Houston and John Walker
Eddrick Houston will be the heart of the interior. His numbers dipped last season, but you still see that five-star spark in him.
Houston ended 2025 with 21 total tackles, four tackles for loss, and three sacks. Next to him, John Walker, who came over from UCF, will hold down the nose tackle spot. Walker’s got experience and turned heads this spring.
Depth in the Defensive Tackle Rotation
Defensive line coach Larry Johnson wants a four-man rotation inside. James Smith and Will Smith Jr. will get plenty of snaps, which should help keep everyone fresh.
Linebackers: Payton Pierce and Christian Alliegro
Payton Pierce is ready to take over at middle linebacker after backing up last year. He put up 43 total tackles, 1.5 tackles for loss, and snagged an interception in 2025.
Pierce brings some needed leadership to the group. Alongside him is Wisconsin transfer Christian Alliegro, who’s shown he can play pretty much anywhere and isn’t afraid to get physical.
Additional Linebacker Options
The rotation will also feature Riley Pettijohn and TJ Alford. Pettijohn missed spring with an injury, but both should see the field a fair amount.
Cornerbacks: Jermaine Mathews Jr. and Devin Sanchez
Jermaine Mathews Jr. is back for his senior year as the Buckeyes’ top corner. Last year wasn’t easy for him, but he’s put in the work and seems ready to lead.
Devin Sanchez, a former five-star, lines up at the other corner spot. Sanchez got some valuable reps last year and has looked better this spring—always a good sign.
Depth and Versatility in the Secondary
Ohio State’s secondary has some real depth and flexibility. With Mathews and Sanchez as the main guys, cornerbacks coach Tim Walton has a steady duo to rely on.
Safeties: Terry Moore and Jaylen McClain
There’ll be new faces at safety this season. Terry Moore, a Duke transfer, slides in at free safety after racking up 71 total tackles and four interceptions last year.
At strong safety, Jaylen McClain steps up after a solid 2025 where he posted 53 tackles. He’s got a bigger role this time, and honestly, there’s some buzz about what he could do.
Nickel Position: Earl Little Jr.
Earl Little Jr., who transferred in from Florida State, is set to take over at nickel. His background and flexibility could end up being a huge asset for Ohio State’s defense.
Defensive coordinator Matt Patricia seems ready to tweak things, matching the defense to whatever offenses throw at them. That adaptability might be what sets this group apart.
For more details on the projected defensive starters for Ohio State, visit 247Sports.
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