Eric Boggs
Ohio State officially revealed its captains for the 2025 season, and the selections perfectly reflect the leadership and character this team has embraced heading into a championship run. Linebacker Sonny Styles, safety Caleb Downs, offensive tackle Austin Siereveld, and wide receiver Brandon Inniss were chosen by their teammates and coaches to lead the Buckeyes, balancing two offensive and two defensive leaders for the second straight season. Each brings a unique story to the role, but together they represent the toughness, talent, and determination that define Ohio State football.
For Styles, the honor carries extra weight. Not only will he captain the Buckeyes, but he will also don the Block O jersey, one of the most respected traditions in the program. He becomes the sixth player in school history to wear the number, following in the footsteps of leaders like Jonathan Cooper, Kamryn Babb, and Cody Simon. Styles earned the recognition through his relentless work ethic, being named a two-time Iron Buckeye this offseason, and by producing on the field in 2024 with 100 tackles, 10.5 tackles for loss, and six sacks. As linebackers coach James Laurinaitis put it this spring, “He’s the leader of the front seven and the leader of the entire team.”
The tradition of the Block O jersey emphasizes character as much as performance, and Styles has embodied both since arriving in Columbus. Former captain Cody Simon even endorsed him as his successor at the NFL Combine, saying, “He’s putting the work in. He’s done everything you need to do. And he’s gonna be a leader for that team next year.” Styles himself admitted at Big Ten Media Days that it would be an honor to wear the number, citing the legacy of the men who came before him. That dream became reality Saturday, and now he will carry the responsibility of being Ohio State’s top leader into one of the most anticipated seasons in recent memory.
While Styles is at the forefront, the other captains provide just as much excitement. Downs, who transferred to Ohio State last season, wasted no time in earning the respect of his coaches and teammates. Widely regarded as the best defensive back in college football, his leadership is as evident as his playmaking ability. On the offensive side, Siereveld has emerged as the anchor of the line, earning Iron Buckeye honors twice this offseason for his commitment in the weight room and on the field. He appears ready to cement himself as the Buckeyes’ starting left tackle. And in the wide receiver room, Inniss brings the fire. With Emeka Egbuka gone, Inniss has become the most vocal presence among the pass catchers, stepping into the starting slot role alongside Jeremiah Smith and Carnell Tate.
This group of captains brings balance, leadership, and toughness to a Buckeye team with national championship aspirations. With Styles wearing the Block O and leading a defense already expected to be among the best in the country, and with strong personalities like Downs, Siereveld, and Inniss guiding the roster, Ohio State fans have every reason to believe this group can help deliver another special season in Columbus.
