Ohio State releases updated roster ahead of spring practice

It’s a new season for the Ohio State Buckeyes after falling short of expectations during 2021. Head coach Ryan Day made some changes to his staff, hoping to improve on the defensive side of the ball with defensive coordinator Jim Knowles taking over.

Changes have come to the 2022 roster as well. The full, brand new roster was released by Ohio State on Sunday before the start of spring practice. A lot of fresh faces will be suiting up for the Buckeyes next season, coming from both the 2022 recruiting class and the transfer portal.

One of the biggest incoming names is true freshman quarterback Devin Brown. He was rated the No. 1 overall prospect in the 2022 class by On3. Brown was originally a USC commit but flipped to Ohio State with the coaching change taking place in Los Angeles. Now, he will learn under starting quarterback CJ Stroud and compete for a backup spot.

If there is a top quarterback joining the roster, there is a likely one leaving as well. Two left the Buckeyes’ program this offseason in Quinn Ewers and Jack Miller. Ewers is heading back home to play for the Texas Longhorns, while Miller will be at the Swamp, working with new head coach Billy Napier.

Following his defensive coordinator from the Oklahoma State Cowboys to Colombus will be cornerback Tanner McCalister. He played in 13 games this season in Stillwater, recording 39 tackles and one tackle for a loss. In pass coverage, McCalister had an interception the Texas Longhorns, while also breaking up six passes.

Besides Brown, there are 12 other freshmen on the roster. Cornerback Jyaire Brown, wide receiver Caleb Burton, tight end Bennett Christian, defensive end Caden Curry, offensive lineman George Fitzpatrick, wide receiver Kyion Grayes, linebacker CJ Hicks, linebacker Gabe Powers, defensive lineman Bryce Prater, and defensive lineman Zach Prater, defensive back Kyle Stokes, and cornerback Ryan Turner.

Wide receiver is going to be a huge question for Ohio State heading into the season. Stroud will be losing two of his top targets in Chris Olave and Garrett Wilson, although Jaxon Smith-Njigba will be returning for the Buckeyes. He will need some help in the room, with there being plenty of talent having the opportunity to step up. Emeka Egbuka and Marvin Harrison Jr. are the most likely candidates, with Julian Fleming there as well. Even with the turnover, Ohio State does not expect to slow down on offense any time soon.