Ohio State football’s 5 under-the-radar players to watch this offseason

As Ohio State football enters another season with high expectations, the focus often gravitates toward the team’s established stars. However, the Buckeyes are a program that has always relied on developing hidden gems—under-the-radar players who step up and make significant contributions. These players may not always be the headliners or the household names, but they are crucial to the team’s success. With a strong recruiting class, a stable coaching staff, and a consistently competitive roster, Ohio State’s offseason offers plenty of opportunities for lesser-known players to emerge and make their mark.

Let’s take a closer look at five under-the-radar players to watch this offseason for Ohio State football. These individuals have the potential to make a big impact, whether it’s through their skills, development, or their ability to seize an opportunity during the upcoming season. From newcomers to returning players with untapped potential, these athletes are primed for breakout seasons in the near future.

1. Emeka Egbuka – Wide Receiver (Sophomore)

While Emeka Egbuka’s name may not be as well-known as some of his teammates like Marvin Harrison Jr. or Jaxon Smith-Njigba, he has the potential to make a massive impact in the upcoming season. Egbuka, a 5-star recruit from Washington state, was highly touted coming out of high school, and after spending his freshman season learning behind Ohio State’s experienced wide receiver corps, he’s poised to take on a larger role in the offense.

During his first year, Egbuka saw limited playing time behind future NFL talents, but his flashes of brilliance in the opportunities he did get were hard to ignore. He displayed exceptional route-running skills, high football IQ, and ability to make plays after the catch. His 2021 campaign included impressive performances during the early parts of the season, as well as a standout showing in the Rose Bowl, where he grabbed several key receptions and showed his versatility.

Egbuka’s ability to stretch the field vertically and make tough catches in traffic could prove to be a game-changer for Ohio State’s high-powered offense. With Harrison and Smith-Njigba drawing significant defensive attention, Egbuka will have the opportunity to make an immediate impact as a second or third option in the passing game. His understanding of the game, strong work ethic, and natural talent make him an under-the-radar player to keep an eye on this offseason, as he could be poised for a breakout season as one of the Big Ten’s top playmakers.

2. Caden Curry – Defensive End (Freshman)

The defensive line has long been a position of strength for Ohio State, and with the Buckeyes continuing to reload with talent, Caden Curry is a name that will start to garner attention this offseason. Curry, a 5-star recruit from the state of Indiana, was one of the top-rated defensive line prospects in the nation during the 2022 recruiting cycle. While the defensive end position is already stacked with talent, including names like J.T. Tuimoloau and Jack Sawyer, Curry has the raw potential to be a force on the edge.

Curry has the physical tools necessary to be a game-changer, with explosive first-step quickness, a relentless motor, and an ability to rush the passer effectively. He may not have the same immediate visibility as other defensive players on the roster, but his natural skill set and relentless work ethic could earn him meaningful playing time. His impressive high school tape showcased his ability to dominate offensive linemen and get to the quarterback with ease.

Defensive line coach Larry Johnson has a history of developing top-tier pass rushers, and Curry’s combination of talent and a strong work ethic could make him the next standout edge rusher for the Buckeyes. With the departure of some key defensive line players, Curry has the opportunity to make a significant contribution in his first season, and he could emerge as one of the stars of the defensive front. His development over the offseason will be crucial to Ohio State’s defensive success in 2023.

3. Miyan Williams – Running Back (Junior)

Miyan Williams has quietly flown under the radar for much of his career at Ohio State, largely due to the presence of other talented running backs like TreVeyon Henderson. However, Williams is a player who has shown flashes of brilliance and could be primed for a breakout season as the Buckeyes look to balance their offense. A power runner with a unique blend of strength and agility, Williams is a hard-nosed, physical player who thrives in short-yardage situations but also has the ability to break off big runs.

In 2021, Williams had a strong season, finishing with over 500 rushing yards and averaging nearly six yards per carry. His ability to pick up tough yards between the tackles and his ability to break tackles made him a reliable contributor in Ohio State’s backfield. While Henderson has garnered most of the attention at the running back position, Williams has been a consistent presence and has earned the trust of the coaching staff.

In 2023, Williams could play a crucial role in Ohio State’s offensive balance. He is a dependable option in the ground game and provides an effective counterpoint to Henderson’s speed and explosiveness. Additionally, with the rise of Ohio State’s passing attack, Williams could find himself in situations where he can take advantage of lighter boxes and make big plays. His value as a strong, experienced running back will be pivotal to Ohio State’s success, and as a key rotational player, Williams could have a breakout year this offseason.

4. Tanner McCalister – Safety (Graduate Transfer)

One of the most intriguing players to watch this offseason is Tanner McCalister, a graduate transfer from Oklahoma State. McCalister joins Ohio State’s defense after a solid career with the Cowboys, where he was a key contributor in the secondary. With the departure of some key players in Ohio State’s defensive backfield, McCalister has the chance to come in and immediately make an impact.

McCalister is a versatile defensive back who can play both safety positions and contribute in coverage and run support. He brings with him significant experience at the collegiate level, and his ability to read the quarterback, communicate in the secondary, and deliver hard hits makes him a valuable asset. Ohio State has had some growing pains in the secondary in recent seasons, and McCalister could be the player who helps stabilize that unit.

In addition to his physical tools, McCalister is known for his leadership and football IQ. His experience in big games in the Big 12, combined with his ability to understand opposing offenses, gives him the potential to become one of Ohio State’s most important defensive players. This offseason, McCalister will likely earn a starting role and could become a key player in the Buckeyes’ secondary, helping to lock down opposing passing attacks.

5. Paris Johnson Jr. – Offensive Tackle (Junior)

Paris Johnson Jr. is a name that has been quietly rising in prominence within the Ohio State program, and with good reason. After spending his first couple of seasons as a rotational player and gaining valuable experience, Johnson is set to step into a starting role this season. He has been touted as one of the top offensive linemen in the country, and he could be poised for a breakout year as the anchor of the Buckeyes’ offensive line.

Johnson possesses ideal size and athleticism for an offensive tackle, standing at 6 feet 6 inches tall and weighing over 310 pounds. His quick feet and ability to protect the quarterback’s blindside make him an invaluable asset for Ohio State’s offense. As one of the most important players on the line, Johnson’s development this offseason will be crucial to the team’s success, particularly as Ohio State looks to protect its quarterback and open running lanes for the backfield.

Ohio State’s offensive line has been a consistent strength in recent seasons, and Johnson has the chance to become a leader in that unit. As a player who could eventually hear his name called in the NFL Draft, his development this offseason will be worth watching. If he can continue to grow and refine his skills, Johnson could be one of the top offensive linemen in the Big Ten and one of the players to watch for Ohio State this season.