Eric Boggs
Two former Buckeyes are heading to new programs via the transfer portal, marking the next chapters of their college football careers. Cornerback Calvin Simpson-Hunt and offensive lineman George Fitzpatrick have both announced their new destinations, and while their departures create opportunities for others in Columbus, they also bring intriguing potential to their new teams.
After two days in the transfer portal, former Ohio State cornerback Calvin Simpson-Hunt has signed with Baylor, per multiple outlets. Simpson-Hunt appeared in nine games for the Buckeyes during the 2024 season but played only six defensive snaps. While Ohio State’s secondary is set to undergo significant turnover with the departures of Denzel Burke and Jordan Hancock, Simpson-Hunt appeared to be slipping down the depth chart. Talented players like Jermaine Mathews Jr., Aaron Scott Jr., and incoming five-star recruit Devin Sanchez are poised to compete for starting roles, likely limiting Simpson-Hunt’s opportunities in the Buckeye secondary.
Baylor offers Simpson-Hunt a fresh start and a chance to play closer to home, as the former Texas Tech commit originally hails from the Lone Star State. He played in five games as a true freshman in 2023, logging 24 defensive snaps against Rutgers and Michigan State and special teams snaps against Minnesota, Michigan, and Missouri. Notably, his Cotton Bowl appearance allowed him to preserve his redshirt status, leaving him with three seasons of eligibility remaining as he joins the Bears.
For Baylor, Simpson-Hunt represents a promising addition to their defensive backfield. With his speed and athleticism, he’ll have an opportunity to compete for significant playing time next season, potentially anchoring a unit that will benefit from his experience in a program as competitive as Ohio State.
On the offensive side of the ball, former Ohio State tackle George Fitzpatrick has signed with Kansas State. Fitzpatrick, who served as a reserve at both guard and tackle for the Buckeyes during the 2024 season, announced his intention to transfer on January 4 but remained with the team through its national title run. He becomes the second Buckeye to transfer to Kansas State for 2025, joining linebacker Gabe Powers.
Fitzpatrick’s path to a starting role in Columbus became increasingly difficult with the additions of transfer tackles Ethan Onianwa and Phillip Daniels. At Kansas State, however, he’ll have a legitimate opportunity to compete for a starting position. Fitzpatrick’s versatility and experience in a championship-caliber program make him a valuable asset for the Wildcats, who will look to capitalize on his two remaining years of eligibility.
Ohio State’s offensive line room has seen significant movement this offseason, with Fitzpatrick becoming the third lineman to transfer out, following Zen Michalski (Indiana) and Miles Walker (Boise State). While these departures create challenges, they also clear the way for new talent to step into bigger roles and maintain the high standards of the Buckeyes’ offensive front.
While losing Simpson-Hunt and Fitzpatrick is not ideal, Ohio State’s deep talent pool ensures the team remains well-equipped to reload at both positions. For the departing Buckeyes, the move to Baylor and Kansas State offers opportunities to carve out significant roles and make an impact at their new programs. As fans, we wish them the best in their journeys and will continue to follow their progress with interest.
