Ohio State post-spring depth chart projection: Which transfers, freshmen crack the two-deep?

After 15 practices, how could things look when the Buckeyes open the season in four-plus months?

Defensive end Qua Russaw rushes against offensive tackle Sam Greer in Ohio State’s spring game. (Photo courtesy of OSU football)

COLUMBUS — Projecting Ohio State’s 2026 depth chart on offense and defense after 15 spring practices. Italicized players are transfers who joined the team this offseason. Bolded players are true freshmen. Starred players are returning starters.

Quarterback

Starter: Julian Sayin*

Backup: Tavien St. Clair

Nothing changed here over the spring. Not that it was expected to. St. Clair had some splash plays in the spring game. He’s still working on his consistency. Sayin didn’t have the full complement of the first-team offense to work with in the spring, but did grow in some key areas, including improving his athleticism and having a stronger leadership presence/command of the huddle.

Running Back

Starter: Bo Jackson*

Backups: Isaiah West, Ja’Kobi Jackson, Legend Bey

There wasn’t much to glean from this position group in the spring. Bo Jackson and West missed all of practice, and Bey missed some time as well. Ja’Kobi Jackson, a transfer from Florida, seemed to make the most of extended opportunities. As did freshman Favour Akih. Through all of it, Bo Jackson and West were discussed as if they were the top two guys in the room. The long-term vision for Bey is for him to straddle the running back and receiver rooms. He should get some touches this spring.