Will a football player for Ohio State change his number in 2025? Buckeye Breakfast

As college football fans eagerly anticipate the 2025 season, one question that has caught the attention of Ohio State fans and football enthusiasts alike is whether any of the Buckeyes players will change their jersey numbers. The tradition of jersey numbers holds special significance within the sport, and Ohio State’s rich football history, marked by legendary players, iconic teams, and a passionate fanbase, means that any potential number change can spark a wave of conversation and speculation. Whether it’s a new player taking over the mantle of an iconic number, a returning player seeking to make a fresh statement, or a subtle shift to bring a personal connection to the field, jersey numbers are more than just digits on a shirt. They represent legacies, aspirations, and stories.

In this article, we’ll explore the factors that could influence a player’s decision to change their number, what such a change would mean for the Ohio State program, and examine the possible candidates for a number change. We’ll also touch on the rich tradition behind Ohio State’s number selections and how fans and players alike react when a player changes the number they wear. Let’s dive into the intriguing question of whether we’ll see any changes to the Ohio State football roster in 2025, and how such a change could make waves for the team.

The Tradition of Ohio State’s Jersey Numbers

Before delving into potential changes, it’s important to understand the significance of jersey numbers at Ohio State. The Buckeyes are one of college football’s most storied programs, and with that comes a certain weight attached to the numbers players wear. Over the years, Ohio State has built a tradition where certain numbers have come to represent greatness, leadership, and elite talent.

For instance, Number 7 has been worn by some of Ohio State’s best quarterbacks, including Troy Smith, the 2006 Heisman Trophy winner. Similarly, Number 10 has been worn by the likes of John Cooper, one of the most successful coaches in program history, and Jalin Marshall, a standout wide receiver. Many of Ohio State’s numbers are etched into the memories of fans and alumni, and there’s a sense of pride in seeing a new player take over the number that once belonged to a legend.

The numbers players wear, whether they belong to iconic positions such as quarterback or defensive back, or to less flashy roles like linebacker or offensive lineman, become part of the story of each new team. For example, Number 5 has become synonymous with Chris Olave, who was a dynamic wide receiver for the Buckeyes and went on to be selected in the NFL Draft. Number changes, whether due to personal preference or the program’s culture, can therefore signify a new chapter in Ohio State football history.

Why Do Players Change Their Jersey Numbers?

Jersey numbers aren’t just random or arbitrary; they carry personal meaning for players, fans, and coaches. There are several reasons why a player may decide to change their jersey number, and understanding these motivations can offer insight into why we might see such a change in 2025.

1. Personalization and Legacy

One of the most significant reasons a player might change their jersey number is a desire to make the number their own. A player may feel that their original number doesn’t reflect their identity on the field, or they may want to wear a number that has special meaning to them. For instance, a player might choose a number that honors a family member or someone who inspired them to pursue football in the first place. In other cases, a player may change their number as they enter a new phase of their career at Ohio State, signifying a fresh start and the opportunity to carve out their own legacy.

Consider a player like Marvin Harrison Jr., who enters 2025 with high expectations and the potential to be one of the top wide receivers in college football. If Harrison, who currently wears Number 18, decided to change his number to something that symbolizes a deeper connection to his family legacy—perhaps a nod to his father, Hall of Fame wide receiver Marvin Harrison Sr.—it could create a buzz among fans and media alike. Such a number change would not only honor his father’s influence but would also further elevate the player’s standing within the Ohio State program.

2. Symbol of Transition or Fresh Start

Players who are undergoing a transition—whether from high school to college or from a backup role to a starting spot—might change their jersey number as a symbolic gesture of starting anew. A new number can be a visual representation of a fresh chapter, a physical manifestation of the changes a player is undergoing both on and off the field. In 2025, there could be a few Ohio State players who may see themselves in a new role or with heightened expectations after a year of development, and a number change could reflect that.

For example, if a young quarterback like Devin Brown wins the starting job in 2025, he may decide to change his number to a higher-profile one, signifying the significant step up in responsibility. Similarly, a player who transitions from a role player to a starter could use a number change to signal the newfound expectations placed upon them.

3. Influence of New Coaches and Recruiting

Ohio State’s coaching staff plays a role in determining jersey numbers for incoming recruits. In some cases, new coaches might request that certain recruits change their number for uniformity, to reflect the team’s vision, or simply because of the way numbers are distributed within a given year. Coaches also understand the importance of branding and marketing, and a new player might be given a number that positions them to be seen as a standout in the program, especially if they are viewed as the future of the team.

As for the 2025 recruiting class, it’s likely that some of the incoming freshmen might select numbers that will allow them to stand out, particularly in positions where Ohio State’s number tradition has an established legacy. Whether it’s a defensive back like Jeremiah Alexander, who could inherit a number worn by past defensive playmakers, or a running back like Jordon Davison, who could wear a number traditionally associated with standout Buckeyes at his position, number changes will have an impact on the identity of the team.

4. A Nod to Tradition and History

Ohio State football is deeply rooted in tradition, and some players may change their number to align themselves with the history of the program. For instance, Ohio State’s iconic Number 45 was worn by legendary players like Pepper Johnson and A.J. Hawk, who were key contributors to the Buckeyes’ success in their respective eras. Players who are aware of the program’s rich history may elect to wear such a number to honor the legacy of those who wore it before them.

This desire to continue the tradition of greatness could be a motivating factor behind a potential number change, particularly for players with a deep connection to Ohio State’s football legacy. A current player might take on a number historically tied to a position or a skill set that they want to be known for, elevating their performance and their association with the program’s storied past.

The Potential Candidates for a Number Change in 2025

Now that we’ve explored the reasons why a player might decide to change their jersey number, let’s look at potential candidates for a number change within the Ohio State football roster in 2025. These players are not only poised for major roles on the team but could also be looking to make a statement with a new number.

1. Marvin Harrison Jr.

As mentioned earlier, Marvin Harrison Jr. is one of the brightest stars on Ohio State’s roster. While there’s no official indication that Harrison is planning a number change, the possibility remains, especially as he prepares to become the focal point of Ohio State’s offense in 2025. A number change for Harrison could further elevate his legacy and help to separate himself from his father’s iconic number 88 in the NFL.

2. Devin Brown

Should Devin Brown win the starting quarterback job in 2025, he could choose to change his number to something more reflective of his new position as the leader of the team. Ohio State quarterbacks have worn numbers like 7, 10, and 12 throughout the years, so a change could be symbolic of Brown taking the reins at quarterback and representing the future of the Buckeyes’ offense.

3. J.T. Tuimoloau

J.T. Tuimoloau is a dominant force on the defensive line and will be a key contributor for Ohio State in 2025. While he currently wears Number 44, there could be a scenario in which he opts for a more historic number as he enters his final season with the program. Such a change would highlight his elevated status within the defense and his potential to make a lasting impact.

4. TreVeyon Henderson

If TreVeyon Henderson returns for the 2025 season after a successful 2024 campaign, he could become another candidate for a number change. Running backs at Ohio State have worn notable numbers like 5 and 34, and a change in number could signify a shift toward a more prominent leadership role for Henderson in the backfield.

The Significance of Number Changes in Ohio State Football

At Ohio State, a jersey number change is far from a trivial decision—it’s a chance for players to define their legacy, embrace a new role, and contribute to the rich tradition of one of college football’s most successful programs. As the 2025 season approaches, the possibility of players changing their numbers adds an extra layer of intrigue for fans and analysts alike. Whether driven by personal motivations, the desire to honor past legends, or simply as a symbolic gesture of transition, number changes will continue to be a part of the ever-evolving narrative of Ohio State football. Only time will tell which players will embrace this tradition in 2025 and what impact their decisions will have on their journey with the Buckeyes.