College football’s transfer portal drama is heating up, and Ohio State is right in the thick of it. With several key players announcing their departures, the Buckeyes are facing a wave of changes that could reshape their future. But here’s where it gets controversial: Are these moves a sign of deeper issues within the program, or simply players chasing better opportunities? Let’s dive into the latest updates from the Eleven Warriors Transfer Portal Tracker, where we’re keeping you informed on every twist and turn.
January 1, 2026: A Day of Departures
Defensive End C.J. Hicks Joins the Transfer Portal
Former five-star recruit C.J. Hicks is the latest to enter the transfer portal, marking the end of his four-year stint at Ohio State. Hicks strategically preserved his final year of eligibility by playing in just four games this season, leaving fans and analysts alike wondering what’s next for this talented player. Will he find a program where he can make an immediate impact? Only time will tell.
Cornerback Bryce West Seeks New Horizons
After two years with the Buckeyes, Bryce West, a standout from Glenville High School, is entering the portal with three years of eligibility remaining. His departure raises questions about the depth of Ohio State’s defensive backfield. Is this a missed opportunity, or a necessary step for West’s growth?
Quarterback Lincoln Kienholz Makes His Move
Lincoln Kienholz, a three-year Buckeye, confirmed his decision to enter the portal after discussions with head coach Ryan Day and quarterbacks coach Billy Fessler. Kienholz’s move highlights the competitive nature of college football’s quarterback rooms. Will he find a starting role elsewhere, or is this a gamble that could backfire?
December 31, 2025: Emotional Farewells
Walk-On Quarterback Mason Maggs Enters the Portal
In a move that tugs at the heartstrings, walk-on quarterback Mason Maggs is leaving Ohio State after four years. Maggs, the son of former Buckeye center Bob Maggs—a two-time All-Big Ten honoree who passed away in October—leaves a legacy of perseverance. His departure prompts reflection: What does it mean to carry on a family’s football legacy?
Tight End Jelani Thurman Announces His Exit
Jelani Thurman’s decision to enter the portal came just minutes after Ohio State’s Cotton Bowl loss to Miami. After three years with the Buckeyes, Thurman’s timing raises eyebrows. Was this a reaction to the team’s performance, or a long-planned move? The debate is sure to spark conversations among fans.
December 18, 2025: The First Domino Falls
Wide Receiver Bryson Rodgers Kicks Off the Exodus
Bryson Rodgers was the first to announce his intention to enter the transfer portal, setting off a chain reaction of departures. After three seasons at Ohio State, Rodgers is seeking a fresh start. But what does this say about the program’s ability to retain talent? And this is the part most people miss: Could these departures signal a shift in the team’s culture or strategy?
As the transfer portal continues to evolve, one thing is clear: Ohio State’s roster is in flux. But here’s the real question: Are these moves a setback, or an opportunity for growth? We want to hear from you—do these departures concern you, or do you see them as a natural part of college football’s evolving landscape? Let us know in the comments below!
