A former Heisman Trophy candidate in Ohio State football has joined the New Orleans Saints.

In the world of college football, some players emerge as household names, not only for their extraordinary athleticism and skill but also for the legacy they build at some of the most storied programs in the sport. Ohio State University, with its rich tradition of success and dominance, has produced some of the greatest players in college football history. Among these players, there are individuals who have reached the pinnacle of individual achievement, one of whom was a Heisman Trophy candidate during his time at Ohio State: J.T. Barrett.

Barrett’s time at Ohio State is one that is remembered for its incredible highs, including his remarkable career as a leader on the field and his consistent contributions to the Buckeyes’ offense. Despite not ultimately winning the Heisman Trophy, Barrett was a finalist in 2014 and garnered national attention for his leadership and performance on one of the most successful teams in college football that season. After his career at Ohio State, Barrett’s journey to the NFL was marked by uncertainty but also promise, and now, after a series of significant moves in the league, he has joined the New Orleans Saints.

This article will examine Barrett’s path from Ohio State to the NFL, his role with the New Orleans Saints, and what fans and analysts alike can expect from him in his new home.

J.T. Barrett: A Standout at Ohio State

J.T. Barrett’s story at Ohio State began with an undeniable promise. After redshirting in 2013, Barrett burst onto the scene in 2014 when he took over as the starting quarterback after an injury to then-starter Braxton Miller. Barrett’s success was immediate and impressive, and he helped lead the Buckeyes to a national title, showcasing both his ability to make plays with his arm and his agility and vision as a runner. By the time he finished his first season as the starting quarterback, Barrett had set numerous records and had established himself as one of the top quarterbacks in college football.

In his first season in 2014, Barrett threw for 2,834 yards, 34 touchdowns, and 10 interceptions while rushing for another 938 yards and 11 touchdowns. These numbers were not only eye-popping but also placed him firmly in the Heisman Trophy conversation. Ohio State’s run to a national championship, capped off by a thrilling victory over Oregon, was in large part due to Barrett’s performance, leadership, and versatility as a dual-threat quarterback. Although he was ultimately overshadowed by the sensational performances of players like Marcus Mariota and Melvin Gordon, Barrett’s 2014 season helped cement his status as one of the top quarterbacks in Ohio State’s storied history.

Barrett’s Heisman candidacy was further solidified in 2015, when he continued to demonstrate his ability to lead the Buckeyes’ offense. Barrett’s leadership style was a defining feature of his college career. He was known for his poise under pressure, his work ethic, and his ability to keep his team focused even in the most challenging situations. Despite the presence of talented players around him, Barrett remained the heart and soul of Ohio State’s offense.

However, it was not just Barrett’s individual accolades that made him stand out—he was part of an offense that was among the most prolific in the country. His ability to read defenses, make quick decisions, and make plays with his legs was crucial to the Buckeyes’ success. Barrett also demonstrated his ability to handle adversity, overcoming injuries and challenges that would have sidelined other quarterbacks.

After three years as the starting quarterback at Ohio State, Barrett finished his college career with 9,434 passing yards, 116 touchdowns, and 30 interceptions. His rushing numbers were also impressive, as he amassed 3,263 yards and 43 touchdowns on the ground. Barrett’s combination of leadership, dual-threat ability, and performance in big games made him one of the most beloved and respected figures in Ohio State football history.

The Journey to the NFL

After declaring for the NFL Draft, Barrett’s journey to the professional ranks was not as smooth as many would have expected. While he had proven himself at Ohio State, many NFL scouts questioned his ability to translate his success in college to the professional level. Barrett’s lack of ideal size, combined with the tendency for NFL teams to favor a more traditional style of quarterback, meant that he was not regarded as a first-round prospect.

Despite the questions surrounding his game, Barrett remained confident in his abilities and committed to proving himself at the next level. Although he was not selected in the 2018 NFL Draft, he received an invitation to try out for the New Orleans Saints as an undrafted free agent. Barrett’s ability to contribute to a team as a versatile player, both as a quarterback and a potential gadget player, made him an attractive prospect for the Saints, who have long valued versatility in their players.

Barrett spent the 2018 season on the practice squad, where he continued to develop his game and learn from Saints’ head coach Sean Payton and offensive coordinator Pete Carmichael. Barrett’s time on the practice squad was invaluable, as it allowed him to adjust to the speed of the NFL game and refine his skills under the guidance of experienced coaches. Although he did not see significant playing time during this period, Barrett was honing his craft and preparing for an opportunity in the future.

In 2019, Barrett’s fortunes began to change as he earned a spot on the Saints’ active roster. He was not immediately thrust into starting duties but continued to serve as a backup quarterback, providing depth for the team behind the veteran Drew Brees. Barrett’s development continued, as he worked diligently to improve his mechanics, accuracy, and decision-making in the pocket.

The New Orleans Saints: A Perfect Fit for Barrett

The New Orleans Saints, under the leadership of Sean Payton, have been one of the most successful teams in the NFL over the past decade. Payton’s offensive system is known for being innovative and quarterback-friendly, making it an ideal environment for a quarterback like J.T. Barrett, whose strengths include his ability to make plays both through the air and on the ground.

At the heart of Payton’s offense is the ability to be dynamic and versatile—traits that Barrett can provide. While he is not considered the traditional pocket passer that many NFL teams covet, Barrett’s ability to extend plays with his legs, run the football, and create opportunities for others sets him apart. This dynamic style of play is exactly what the Saints’ offense has thrived on in recent years, especially with the addition of dual-threat quarterbacks such as Taysom Hill, who has found success in a similar role.

Barrett’s skill set makes him a perfect candidate for the Saints’ offense, and the team has already shown a willingness to experiment with different offensive schemes to maximize the talents of their quarterbacks. Barrett can bring his experience as a mobile quarterback to the table, making him a potential weapon in a variety of situations. Whether it’s in short-yardage situations, as a change-of-pace quarterback, or even in specialized packages, Barrett’s ability to create plays with both his arm and legs gives the Saints a unique weapon.

Additionally, Barrett’s background as a leader, his football IQ, and his experience in big games will be invaluable assets to the Saints, particularly as they navigate the post-Drew Brees era. The Saints are in a transitional phase, with younger quarterbacks like Jameis Winston and Taysom Hill vying for the starting role. Barrett’s leadership abilities and calm under pressure will be essential for the development of these players as they adjust to starting quarterback duties in the NFL.

What the Future Holds for J.T. Barrett in New Orleans

As J.T. Barrett settles into his role with the New Orleans Saints, the future looks bright for the former Ohio State star. While he may not immediately be thrust into a starting quarterback position, his versatility and unique skill set will make him an important part of the team’s plans moving forward.

Barrett will likely continue to provide depth at the quarterback position, but his ability to contribute in various capacities could see him carve out a significant role on special teams, as a backup quarterback, or even in a hybrid role. The Saints are known for utilizing their quarterbacks in a variety of ways, and Barrett’s mobility and dual-threat potential will make him a valuable asset as the team builds for the future.

Additionally, Barrett’s leadership qualities and work ethic will serve him well in the locker room. Whether as a mentor to younger quarterbacks or a key contributor in various offensive packages, Barrett will likely continue to play a crucial role in helping the Saints remain competitive in the NFC South.