Ohio State Opens Up Fall Training Camp

1 hour ago

Keivon Belcher,

COLUMBUS, OH – The Ohio State Buckeyes are less than a month away from kicking off the 2026 season against Ball State. With 51 new players on the roster, head coach Ryan Day is tasked with molding a revamped team into another national championship contender. Based on the first day of preseason practice, the Buckeyes appear to have the talent to make another title run.

It all starts with arguably the best player in college football, Jeremiah Smith, and Heisman Trophy finalist Julian Sayin. After ending last season with two consecutive losses, both enter the new campaign with plenty of motivation.

Ohio State will also lean on veteran Brandon Innis, while newcomer Devin McCuin worked with the first-team offense at the “Z” receiver position opposite Smith during the opening practice. Freshman Chris Henry Jr. also rotated in for multiple reps, giving Buckeye fans an early glimpse of the future at wide receiver.

Along the offensive line, the battle to determine the starting five remains ongoing. However, Luke Montgomery, Carson Hinzman, and Austin Siereveld appear to have secured three of those spots as preseason camp begins.

The Buckeye backfield is another position group drawing plenty of attention. The biggest question is who will complement running back Bo Jackson as he continues working his way back into form following offseason surgery. One highly anticipated freshman, Legend Bey, did not participate in the opening practice after violating team rules. Ryan Day said Bey is expected to return after missing a few practices.

Defensively, Ohio State must replace eight starters from last season’s number one unit. While there are plenty of new faces, linebacker Payton Pierce said the Buckeyes expect to remain “fast, aggressive, and physical” while maintaining the versatility that has become a hallmark of the defense.

There is still plenty of work to do before the season opener, but Ohio State’s first practice offered an encouraging look at a roster filled with talent and competition.