Ohio State adds Alabama transfers James Smith, Qua Russaw to defensive line

What the Crimson Tide duo brings to the Buckeyes.

Alabama defensive end Qua Russaw and teammate James Smith have transferred to Ohio State. (Photo courtesy of Alabama athletics)

COLUMBUS — Nick Saban signed eight top-40 national composite high school prospects in what would be his final recruiting class at Alabama in 2023.

Three of those players have now become Ohio State Buckeyes.

Caleb Downs was the first, joining OSU ahead of the 2024 season immediately following Saban’s retirement. With Downs and a few other key defensive pieces off to the NFL, the Buckeyes had a need for reinforcements, and have brought in two more players from that vaunted Bama signing class.

Defensive linemen James Smith and Qua Russaw — not only former Alabama teammates, but also former high school teammates — will transfer to Ohio State as a package deal.