Eric Boggs
With the long offseason finally in the rearview, Ohio State football officially opened fall camp—and the tone was set immediately with the announcement of this year’s Iron Buckeye award winners. For a program built on toughness, discipline, and accountability, no honor better reflects the Buckeye standard than this one, and the list of recipients gives a strong early indication of who’s been leading the charge behind the scenes.
Eight players earned the Iron Buckeye title for their relentless effort and leadership during summer workouts. Among them were returning honorees Sonny Styles and Jeremiah Smith, who continue to set the bar high in both physical preparation and mental focus. Seeing Smith, a true sophomore, receive the honor again is a testament to his drive to become the next great Buckeye receiver. He’s already flashed star potential, and this only solidifies his trajectory. Meanwhile, Styles has long been known for his freakish athleticism, but his inclusion here once again speaks volumes about his off-field discipline.
Joining them are six first-time recipients: Austin Siereveld, Kenyatta Jackson Jr., Lincoln Kienholz, Payton Pierce, Carnell Tate, and Jaylen McClain. The mix of veteran presence and youthful hunger reflects the deep talent pool this Ohio State roster boasts. Tate, alongside Smith, strengthens what could be the nation’s most dangerous wide receiver group, while the recognition of quarterback Lincoln Kienholz raises eyebrows. With Alabama transfer Julian Sayin arriving as a favorite to win the starting job, Kienholz isn’t ready to hand it over without a fight. If this summer is any indication, he’s planning to push the competition well into fall.
Ryan Day put it best: “No qualms about it, our foundation is the weight room. That’s where you build your respect.” And with Texas looming in just a few short weeks, the Buckeyes are wasting no time sharpening every edge they have. The Iron Buckeye award may not show up on the stat sheet this fall—but the players who earn it often become the ones who define the season.
