CBS News: Biggest Stars Ohio State Football Will Have to Replace to Repeat as National Champions
As Ohio State football looks to defend its national championship title, the team faces a monumental challenge in replacing several key players who have helped fuel its success over the past season. With several standout stars leaving for the NFL or graduation, the Buckeyes’ coaching staff must find ways to reload and maintain their high level of performance if they are to repeat as national champions.
1. C.J. Stroud – Quarterback
Arguably the most significant loss for Ohio State comes in the form of quarterback C.J. Stroud, who declared for the NFL Draft after an outstanding college career. Stroud, a Heisman Trophy finalist, was the leader of the Buckeyes’ potent offense, passing for over 4,400 yards and 44 touchdowns in his final season. His poise in the pocket, elite arm strength, and ability to make big plays in clutch moments were key to Ohio State’s success. Replacing a quarterback of Stroud’s caliber is no easy task, and the team will need either sophomore Kyle McCord or freshman Devin Brown to step up and take control of the offense.
2. Jaxon Smith-Njigba – Wide Receiver
Another huge hole for Ohio State is at wide receiver, where Jaxon Smith-Njigba departs after a brilliant season in which he racked up over 1,600 receiving yards and 9 touchdowns. Known for his crisp route running, exceptional hands, and ability to make plays after the catch, Smith-Njigba was a favorite target of Stroud and a game-changer for the Buckeyes’ high-powered offense. With Smith-Njigba now in the NFL, Ohio State will need to rely on emerging talents such as Marvin Harrison Jr. and Emeka Egbuka to fill the void and continue the team’s tradition of producing top-tier wide receivers.
3. Paris Johnson Jr. – Offensive Tackle
Ohio State’s offensive line has been one of the best in the country, and Paris Johnson Jr. has been a standout on that unit. As a potential first-round NFL Draft pick, Johnson’s departure leaves a significant gap in Ohio State’s protection of the quarterback and the run game. A dominant presence on the left side, Johnson was a key piece in Ohio State’s ability to maintain offensive balance. The Buckeyes will now need to find a new anchor for the offensive line, which will be crucial to ensuring the success of their new quarterback and running backs.
4. Jerron Cage – Defensive Tackle
Defensively, the Buckeyes also have major holes to fill, including on the interior of the defensive line. Jerron Cage, a key contributor at defensive tackle, is leaving after a solid career that included critical stops and pressures. His ability to clog up running lanes and create havoc in the backfield was vital to Ohio State’s defense. Replacing Cage’s presence up front will fall to younger players, who will need to step up to keep the defense at an elite level.
5. Ronnie Hickman – Safety
On the defensive side of the ball, safety Ronnie Hickman also departs, leaving a leadership void in the secondary. Hickman was known for his physicality, coverage ability, and knack for making timely turnovers. His absence will be felt in Ohio State’s secondary, and the team will need to rely on younger players to ensure they remain formidable against the pass.
6. Cade Stover – Tight End
While Stover has yet to announce his plans, there is a strong possibility that Ohio State will lose one of its top offensive weapons at tight end. Stover played a crucial role in both the passing and blocking game, providing the offense with versatility. His departure would leave a gap in Ohio State’s tight end room, which has been a consistent source of production.
The Road to Rebuilding
Despite these significant losses, Ohio State has an incredibly talented roster, with several emerging players ready to take on larger roles. Head coach Ryan Day will rely on recruiting classes filled with top-tier talent and a solid core of returners to help the Buckeyes contend for another championship. The challenges are significant, but with the coaching staff’s ability to develop talent and the program’s rich tradition of excellence, Ohio State remains one of the favorites to make a deep run in next year’s college football season. The quest to repeat as national champions will be difficult, but it’s a challenge the Buckeyes are eager to face.