As the transfer portal is set to open on Monday, Ohio State has already seen a few players move on, most notably defensive end Omari Abor.
Multiple players from teams across the country have announced their intentions to look for a new football home, so this transfer portal wish list will change as more players enter.
Either way, there are more than a few prospects Ohio State should look into, mostly ones that could make an immediate impact. Here is who I believe the Buckeyes should recruit, and background info as to why they could be a good fit in Columbus.
UCLA quarterback Dante Moore
UCLA QB and former five-star Dante Moore has entered the transfer portal.
Moore was high on Ohio State while being recruited, and insiders reported that he almost boarded a flight to Columbus instead of Los Angeles after the All-American Bowl.
The Buckeyes will be involved. pic.twitter.com/npY4ES0zOW
— The Silver Bulletin (@tSilverBulletin) November 30, 2023
Why
The former five-star prospect played his first season at UCLA, played a good amount, but it wasn’t all pretty. Moore went 114 of 213 for 1,610 yards with 11 touchdowns and 9 interceptions. His stated goal in moving on was to be developed, and he doesn’t mind waiting for an opportunity. Apparently Moore almost enrolled in Columbus last year, so the relationship is there.
Indiana offensive tackle Carter Smith
Romans 12:2❤️ pic.twitter.com/m9Xwnvl1FX
— Carter Smith (@thecartersmith0) November 27, 2023
Why
An Ohio native, Smith played at an elite level this past season, allowing two sacks in 797 snaps. With the Buckeye tackles struggling this past year, bringing in quality players at this position should be a priority. Smith wasn’t offered a scholarship as a recruit, but Ohio State was well aware of him. He’s good enough to slide inside if needed, and he would be an immediate starter.
Clemson cornerback Toriano Pride
College coaches contact my high school coach @CoachReedLive pic.twitter.com/yXFfYDKUIh
— Toriano Pride Jr. (@toriano2x) December 1, 2023
Why
Pride considered the Buckeyes as a recruit, but ultimately chose Clemson. He has played a good amount over the last two seasons. With Denzel Burke most likely leaving, Cam Martinez entering the transfer portal and Jordan Hancock potentially moving on, the Buckeyes’ depth at the position will take a hit. Pride would help right away.
Notre Dame wide receiver Rico Flores
BREAKING: Notre Dame WR Rico Flores Jr. plans to enter the NCAA Transfer Portal.
The true freshman receiver had 27 receptions for 392 yards this season👀https://t.co/4Zi0lCMmVV pic.twitter.com/YkXmKLpGcT
— On3 (@On3sports) December 1, 2023
Why
There’s a theme here, Flores was also strongly considering Ohio State out of high school, but clearly didn’t pick the Buckeyes. It was most likely due to the numbers game in that class, but multiple receivers will be leaving and the backups are fairly green. Grabbing a player who performed well as a true freshman could help this room out.
Harvard defensive tackle Thor Griffin
I have officially entered the transfer portal with 1 year of eligibility.
6’2 320lbs
30 Career Games
20 consecutive starts
132 Tackles
33.5 TFLs
13.5 Sacks
1st Team All Ivy
All New England
FCS All American
Film up soon@TransferPortal_ @RivalsPortal @CollegeFBPortal pic.twitter.com/WBkEtYCbVC— Thor Griffith (@thorgriff) November 24, 2023
Why
The only player on this list without previous Buckeye ties, Griffin is an athletic interior lineman who could contribute right away. Ohio State could very well lose its two starters, Mike Hall Jr. and Tyleik Williams, and having depth at this position is always key. These big guy in the middle get banged up, Hall Jr. has missed time the last two seasons.
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