Eric Boggs
Ohio State’s football program is navigating roster changes as it looks ahead to the 2025 season, with notable developments in both the safety and wide receiver rooms.
After two seasons in Columbus, redshirt freshman safety Jayden Bonsu has decided to enter the transfer portal. Bonsu, a four-star prospect from the 2023 recruiting class, was ranked as the No. 274 overall recruit and the No. 24 safety in the 247Sports composite rankings. Despite his potential, injuries hindered his progression, and he never played a single snap for the Buckeyes on defense or special teams. Although he served as a second-string safety during spring practice, freshman Jaylen McClain surpassed him on the depth chart by the end of preseason camp.
Bonsu’s decision to transfer marks the seventh Buckeye departure since the end of the regular season. He joins a list that includes quarterbacks Devin Brown and Air Noland, wide receivers Kojo Antwi and Jayden Ballard, offensive tackle Miles Walker, and linebacker Gabe Powers. Following Bonsu’s exit, Ohio State’s safety depth remains solid, with standout Caleb Downs, Malik Hartford, McClain, South Carolina transfer Keenan Nelson Jr., and freshman Leroy Roker all expected to return. Additionally, the Buckeyes have bolstered their 2025 recruiting class with top-50 prospect Faheem Delane, four-star DeShawn Stewart, and three-star in-state recruit Cody Haddad.
In the wide receiver room, Jayden Ballard has committed to Wisconsin for his final season of eligibility. Over four years at Ohio State, the Massillon, Ohio, native appeared in 35 games, recording 11 catches for 177 yards and one touchdown. He also contributed on special teams, returning 11 punts for 63 yards and three kickoffs for 23 yards. However, Ballard struggled to climb the depth chart, competing against elite talents like Emeka Egbuka, Carnell Tate, Jeremiah Smith, and Brandon Inniss. The arrival of five-star freshman Mylan Graham and other highly rated recruits in the 2025 class, such as Quincy Porter, Bodpegn Miller, De’Zie Jones, and Phillip Bell, further limited his prospects for playing time.
At Wisconsin, Ballard will unite with head coach Luke Fickell, a former Ohio State defensive lineman and assistant coach. Fickell has made significant moves to revamp the Badgers’ offense, including hiring former Kansas offensive coordinator Jeff Grimes and bringing in former Maryland quarterback Billy Edwards Jr. Ballard will look to carve out a meaningful role in Wisconsin’s offense as he enters the final chapter of his college career.
Ohio State’s roster adjustments reflect the ongoing challenges and opportunities in college football, as players seek the best paths for their development while programs adapt to maintain competitive depth and talent.
