Another Buckeye Bites the Dust: Ohio State's Defensive Line Takes a Hit as CJ Hicks Announces Transfer
In a move that’s sure to send ripples through the college football world, Ohio State edge rusher CJ Hicks has revealed his plan to enter the transfer portal, leaving Columbus with one year of eligibility remaining. But here’s where it gets controversial—Hicks, a former five-star recruit and once dubbed 'Captain Buckeye' for his peer recruiting prowess, wasn’t a consistent starter during his four seasons with the Buckeyes. Despite his talent, he only appeared in 44 games, tallying 42 tackles, four tackles for loss, two sacks, and a pass deflection. So, was it a lack of opportunity, or did Hicks simply not live up to the hype? That’s a question fans and analysts alike will be debating.
Hicks’ decision comes on the heels of a disappointing 2025 season for Ohio State, which saw the Buckeyes fall short of repeating as national champions, exiting in the College Football Playoff quarterfinal. His departure marks the fourth player to enter the transfer portal since the season’s end, joining Jelani Thurman, Bryce West, and Lincoln Kienholz. And this is the part most people miss—while the transfer portal opens officially on January 2, players like Hicks are already making their intentions known, signaling a potential shift in the team’s dynamics as they gear up for 2026.
For Hicks, the move is a calculated risk. After redshirting in 2025 and playing just four games, he’s seeking a starting role elsewhere. But will he find it? With defensive end Kenyatta Jackson Jr. potentially returning next season, Hicks’ path to a starting spot in Columbus was far from guaranteed. Now, he’ll hope to shine with a new team, leaving behind a legacy as a recruiter rather than a standout player.
Controversial Take Alert: Is Ohio State’s defensive line depth taking a hit, or is this just the natural ebb and flow of college football’s transfer era? Hicks’ departure raises questions about player development and roster management in the modern game. What do you think? Is this a loss for the Buckeyes, or an opportunity for Hicks to finally prove his worth? Let’s hear your thoughts in the comments!
As Ohio State looks ahead to 2026, the focus shifts to recruiting and the transfer portal, with basketball season already in full swing. It’s the busiest time of year for Buckeye fans, and staying updated is crucial. Don’t miss a beat—subscribe to our Buckeye newsletter today and stay in the loop on all things Ohio State. What’s next for the Buckeyes? Only time will tell, but one thing’s for sure: the landscape of college football is changing, and Hicks’ transfer is just the latest chapter in this evolving story.
