Cody Croy
Writer
Former University Of Central Florida defensive tackle John Walker has committed to Ohio State, per Hayes Fawcett. The former 4-star recruit will have 2 seasons of eligibility remaining. The Florida native spent 3 seasons with the Golden Knights.
Walker becomes the third transfer portal addition for the Buckeyes during the two-week period which ends on January 16th. He joins tight end Mason Williams and long snapper Dalton Riggs. Walker will look to fill the void following the departure of Tywone Malone, who declared for the NFL Draft. Defensive tackle Kayden McDonald has yet to reach a decision on his future.
The Buckeyes recruited Walker heavily coming out of high school. A member of the 2023 class, Walker ranked inside the top 15 for defensive tackles nationally. The Florida product ultimately decided to sign with UCF, becoming the highest rated signee in program history.
Walker has shown ability in stopping the run at a high level and will look to be a key contributor for the Buckeyes defense. While his impact doesn’t show up on the stat sheet, his presence alone will pay dividends. Walker posted a Pro Football Focus grade of 82.9 in stopping the run. The 6-foot-4 324-pound defensive tackle converted 59 tackles, 1.5 sacks, 1 forced fumble, and 2 passes deflected in 3 seasons with UCF. He missed the entire 2024 season with a leg injury.
Walker joins a defensive tackle unit that is expected to be thin in 2026. With Kayden McDonald expected to leave, Jason Moore, Eddrick Houston, and John Walker will need to step up in big moments. Defensive line coach Larry Johnson has his work cut out for him. Johnson has been able to achieve the best out of his players for many years now and 2026 will look to be no different.
Cody Croy
Writer
The Seattle Seahawks emerged victorious in Sunday night’s 59th edition of the Super Bowl by a score of 29-13. Many former Buckeyes were featured in this game including Mike Vrabel, TreVeyon Henderson, and Jaxon Smith-Njigba. Patriots offensive lineman Thayer Munford played just one snap. Smith-Njigba became the 39th former Buckeye to win a Super Bowl. […]
Cody Croy
Writer
The 15th annual NFL honors ceremony was held on Thursday night and a couple former Buckeyes brought home some hardware. Seattle Seahawks star wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba took home the Offensive Player Of The Year award, given to the best offensive player in the NFL. Smith-Njigba had a sensational season, converting 119 catches, 1,793 yards, […]
Cody Croy
Writer
Ryan Day added another key piece to his staff: former Illinois special teams coordinator Robby Discher, who will serve in the same role. Discher also served as the tight ends coach at Illinois. The Buckeyes have a committee of assistants and advisors that help out with special teams, but Rob Keys has held the title […]
