BREAKING: Buckeyes Land Former Alabama Defensive Linemen Qua Russaw and James Smith

Former Alabama Crimson Tide defensive linemen Qua Russaw and James Smith have announced their commitment to Ohio State, per Hayes Fawcett. The pair visited Ohio State together last week. The Buckeyes now have 11 transfer portal additions and 30 departures during this cycle.

Qua Russaw, a redshirt junior, will have two seasons of eligibility remaining. A former 4-star recruit in the class of 2023, Russaw ranks as the No. 48 player in the transfer portal. Russaw will give the Buckeyes a much needed boost following the departures of Caden Curry, CJ Hicks, and Logan George. With Kenyatta Jackson expected to return, the Buckeyes will have a nice cushion of depth to give the defense the spark it needs to be dominant again in 2026.

James Smith, a senior, will have one season of eligibility remaining. Defensive tackle was a crucial need for the Buckeyes following the departure of Kayden McDonald. Smith fills the void left by the projected first-round pick. He joins a defensive tackle group including John Walker, Eddrick Houston, Jason Moore, and more. Smith’s impact doesn’t show up on the stat sheet, but his ability to take up space and stuff holes will be paramount for Matt Patricia and the Buckeyes defense.

BREAKING: Alabama transfer DL James Smith and EDGE Qua Russaw have Committed to Ohio State, they tell @On3sports

Both were ranked as five-star recruits coming out of high school and are among the top players in the portal https://t.co/RlUbB6Fk7q pic.twitter.com/643ol8vgYd

— Hayes Fawcett (@Hayesfawcett3) January 12, 2026

The Buckeyes’ talent at skill positions has never been a question. The trenches however, have been a key point of discussion the past couple of years. The loss to the Miami Hurricanes sparked even more conversations about the state of the offensive and defensive line, and rightfully so. Now, with talent being added and the focus shifting, Ryan Day and his staff will look to approach these positions differently. With a brutal schedule in to be played 2026, having the right guys upfront is a necessity. If not, the Buckeyes may find themselves in unfamiliar territory.