Eric Boggs
Ohio State’s football program bolstered its roster significantly with three transfer commitments in a single day. Former West Virginia running back CJ Donaldson Jr., Idaho State defensive end Logan George, and Purdue tight end Max Klare each announced their decisions to join the Buckeyes, enhancing the team’s depth and experience in key areas. These additions come at a crucial time as Ohio State prepares for the 2025 season with several key players graduating or potentially entering the NFL draft.
RB – CJ DONALDSON JR. from West Virginia
CJ Donaldson Jr., a powerful 6-foot-2, 238-pound running back, brings experience and production to Ohio State’s backfield. Over two seasons as the starter at West Virginia, Donaldson amassed 2,058 rushing yards and 30 touchdowns on 421 carries, averaging 4.9 yards per attempt. In 2023, he delivered 798 yards and 11 touchdowns on 171 carries, followed by 734 yards and another 11 touchdowns in 2024. Originally recruited as a tight end, Donaldson has transitioned into a reliable running back with both power and versatility. He joins a Buckeyes backfield that may see significant turnover, with senior TreVeyon Henderson and standout Quinshon Judkins potentially leaving for the NFL after this season.
If Judkins opts to go pro, Donaldson will compete for a starting role alongside freshman standout James Peoples, who has shown promise with 197 yards and two touchdowns on 49 carries in 2024. The Buckeyes’ 2025 running back room will also feature incoming freshmen Bo Jackson, Anthony “Turbo” Rogers, and Isaiah West. Donaldson’s veteran presence and physicality will provide stability and leadership as Ohio State integrates its younger players into the rotation.
DE – LOGAN GEORGE from Idaho State
Defensive end Logan George, an FCS standout from Idaho State, brings impressive credentials and potential to the Buckeyes’ defensive line. The 6-foot-5, 259-pound pass rusher recorded 57 tackles, 19.5 tackles for loss, and 6.5 sacks in 2024. Pro Football Focus graded his performance highly, with an overall grade of 73 and strong marks in both run defense and pass rush. With two years of eligibility remaining, George has the opportunity to make an immediate impact for Ohio State.
George’s addition addresses a critical need, as the Buckeyes are set to lose defensive ends Jack Sawyer and JT Tuimoloau to graduation. He will compete for a starting role alongside returning players Caden Curry and Kenyatta Jackson Jr. George’s combination of size, athleticism, and production makes him a valuable asset as Ohio State looks to maintain its defensive prowess against elite competition.
TE – MAX KLARE from Purdue
Tight end Max Klare, a Cincinnati native, rounds out the trio of transfer commitments. After two seasons at Purdue, Klare emerged as one of the Big Ten’s top tight ends in 2024, tallying 51 catches for 685 yards and four touchdowns. Klare cited Ohio State head coach Ryan Day’s reputation for player development and the program’s championship aspirations as key factors in his decision. Offensive coordinator Chip Kelly and tight ends coach Keenan Bailey also played pivotal roles in shaping his vision for success as a Buckeye.
Klare’s pass-catching ability will complement the blocking skills of returning tight end Will Kacmarek, creating a dynamic duo for Ohio State’s offense. The Buckeyes will also look to develop young talent, including Bennett Christian, Jelani Thurman, and Max Leblanc, while integrating four-star recruits Nate Roberts and Brody Lennon from the 2025 class. Klare’s arrival ensures Ohio State remains competitive at the position as it aims for a national title.
With the additions of Donaldson, George, and Klare, Ohio State has addressed key areas of need while enhancing its depth and experience. These transfers, along with earlier commitments like offensive lineman Phillip Daniels, position the Buckeyes as strong contenders for the 2025 season. As the program continues to build for the future, these new arrivals bring both proven production and untapped potential to Columbus.
