Ohio State Quarterback Devin Brown Builds Raft After Burning Boats

Devin Brown, a quarterback who has spent three seasons as a backup for the Buckeyes, has announced his decision to enter the transfer portal following Ohio State’s upcoming College Football Playoff (CFP) run. Brown, who made his plans public via social media on Sunday, leaves Columbus seeking an opportunity to earn a starting role at another program in 2025.

While his time as a Buckeye didn’t unfold as originally envisioned, Brown has shown unwavering commitment to the Scarlet and Gray. Despite facing adversity and speculation about his future, he remained steadfast, even sharing a symbolic image last offseason of burning ships to signify his dedication to Ohio State—a nod to Hernán Cortés’ “no turning back” mentality.

“I think people are cowards,” Brown said in March when addressing transfer rumors. “These people don’t know who I am or where I’ve been. I’m not a quitter, and I never have been.”

Brown stayed true to that statement by competing fiercely for the starting quarterback job the past two seasons. However, he was ultimately edged out by Kyle McCord in 2023 and Will Howard in 2024. With freshman Julian Sayin and Air Noland both on campus along with incoming freshman Tavien St. Clair, it appears Brown sees more opportunity elsewhere.

Brown’s time on the field was limited, but he left his mark during his Buckeye tenure. He made his lone start in the 2023 Cotton Bowl but exited early due to an ankle injury. In 2024, Brown appeared in eight games, completing 10 of 19 passes for 108 yards and a touchdown—a 17-yard strike to Jeremiah Smith against Michigan State that was one of several highlights for Smith on the season.

Despite limited opportunities, Brown consistently displayed flashes of the skill that made him the sixth-ranked quarterback in the 2022 recruiting class. Standing at 6-foot-3 and weighing 214 pounds, Brown remains a promising talent with two years of eligibility left.

In a move that underscores his loyalty to the program, Brown has committed to remaining with Ohio State through its CFP run. His decision reflects a team-first mentality as the Buckeyes chase their ultimate goal of a national championship.

Brown is not the only Buckeye making moves this offseason. Wide receivers Kojo Antwi and Jayden Ballard, as well as linebacker Gabe Powers, have also entered the transfer portal. Brown, however, is the first to announce plans to stay through the postseason before seeking a new destination.

The NCAA transfer portal officially opens Monday and runs through December 28, with an additional window for players on postseason teams to enter after their seasons conclude. Another transfer window is scheduled for April 16-25, allowing players to finalize decisions about their futures.

While it’s bittersweet for Ohio State fans to see Devin Brown move on, his perseverance and dedication to the team will not be forgotten. As the Buckeyes prepare for their playoff journey, Brown’s presence and contributions will undoubtedly play a role in the team’s pursuit of another championship.

Buckeye Nation wishes him nothing but success as he embarks on the next chapter of his football career.