Prior to spring football, Ohio State football projects its offensive depth chart for 2025.

As the 2025 spring football season approaches, Ohio State football fans are eager to see how the program’s offensive depth chart will shape up. Under the direction of head coach Ryan Day, the Buckeyes have consistently fielded one of the most potent offenses in the country. With an influx of new talent, combined with the return of established stars, Ohio State’s offense is poised to continue its dominant play in the Big Ten and on the national stage. This article will delve into Ohio State’s projected offensive depth chart for 2025 and highlight key players and areas of competition as spring practices begin.

Quarterback: A New Era Under Center

The most significant change for Ohio State’s offense heading into the 2025 season is the quarterback position. After the departure of standout quarterback Kyle McCord, the Buckeyes are set to hand the reins to one of the most highly anticipated quarterback recruits in the country. The position battle will be fierce, as Ohio State has multiple options vying for the starting role.

Projected Starter: Sophomore Quarterback Sam Brown

Sam Brown, a former 5-star recruit, is widely expected to take over as Ohio State’s starting quarterback in 2025. The highly talented quarterback has drawn comparisons to former Buckeye legends, and his skill set is seen as the perfect fit for Ryan Day’s fast-paced, high-powered offense. Brown has shown flashes of brilliance during his brief appearances in his freshman season and is viewed as one of the top quarterbacks in college football. His strong arm, combined with impressive mobility, gives Ohio State a dual-threat quarterback who can make plays with his legs while also delivering deep throws down the field.

Brown’s ability to lead the offense with confidence will be crucial as the Buckeyes look to maintain their championship aspirations. His familiarity with the offense and the weapons around him should give him a strong foundation, although he will need to prove himself as a consistent leader during spring ball and throughout the 2025 season.

Backup: Freshman Quarterback Carter Johnson

Carter Johnson, another highly touted recruit, is expected to compete for the backup role in 2025. Johnson is a natural leader with an exceptional arm and impressive football IQ, making him a potential future starter for Ohio State. However, given that Brown is likely to get the first crack at the starting role, Johnson may need to continue developing during his freshman year. His time in spring practice will be crucial as he works to refine his skills and challenge for significant playing time as a backup.

Quarterback Depth

While Brown and Johnson represent the top two quarterbacks on the depth chart, Ohio State also has experienced quarterbacks like Luke Smith, a junior who has seen limited action in past seasons but will provide depth to the position. However, barring an injury or unexpected development, Brown and Johnson should form the primary quarterback duo for 2025.

Running Back: Depth and Versatility in the Backfield

Ohio State’s running back room remains one of the most talented in the country, with several players ready to step up and take on key roles. With the departure of last season’s leading rusher, the Buckeyes will rely on a combination of returning players and new talent to fill the void.

Projected Starter: Junior Running Back Brandon Williams

Brandon Williams, a former 5-star recruit, is expected to emerge as Ohio State’s starting running back in 2025. Williams has been impressive during his time with the team, showcasing his powerful running style and elite vision on the field. His ability to break tackles and gain yards after contact makes him a perfect fit for Ohio State’s physical running game. Additionally, Williams is capable of catching passes out of the backfield, which adds another dimension to the offense.

With his combination of size, speed, and versatility, Williams is poised to become the focal point of the running game in 2025. His ability to stay healthy and consistently produce will be key to Ohio State’s offensive success.

Backup: Sophomore Running Back Elijah Davis

Elijah Davis, a talented sophomore who has shown great promise in his first two seasons, is expected to be the primary backup to Williams. Davis is known for his explosive speed and ability to change direction on a dime, making him a dangerous weapon in both the running and passing game. While he may not be the every-down back that Williams is, Davis can provide a change of pace and give the Buckeyes offense added versatility.

Davis is also a capable pass catcher, which makes him a valuable asset in Ohio State’s dynamic offensive system. His contributions as a change-of-pace back will allow the coaching staff to keep Williams fresh while still maintaining a potent rushing attack.

Other Options: Freshman Running Back Trey Johnson and Redshirt Freshman Luke Harrison

Trey Johnson, a highly-rated freshman running back, will likely compete for playing time and could become a key piece of Ohio State’s rotation. Johnson is known for his vision and ability to make defenders miss, and he could play an important role in the offense during his first season.

Luke Harrison, a redshirt freshman, also figures into the running back depth chart. Though Harrison has not had significant playing time yet, his size and ability to grind out tough yards in short-yardage situations make him a valuable depth piece.

Wide Receiver: A Dynamic Group of Playmakers

Ohio State’s wide receiver room is stacked with talent heading into 2025, as the program has consistently recruited some of the nation’s top pass catchers. With a new quarterback at the helm, establishing chemistry between the signal-caller and the receivers will be crucial. Luckily for Ohio State, there are plenty of capable playmakers on the roster.

Projected Starters: Senior Wide Receiver Michael Williams and Junior Wide Receiver Josh Harrison

Michael Williams, a senior, is the clear leader of the wide receiver room in 2025. Williams has been a consistent playmaker for the Buckeyes throughout his career, and his ability to stretch the field with his elite speed and precise route running makes him a dangerous weapon. Williams has been particularly effective in the deep passing game, and he will be a primary target for Sam Brown in 2025.

Alongside Williams, Josh Harrison, a dynamic junior receiver, will likely start. Harrison’s ability to run precise routes, create separation, and make plays after the catch makes him a valuable asset for the Buckeyes. He’s one of the top wide receivers in the country, and his versatility as both an inside and outside receiver gives the offense a different look.

Backup: Sophomore Wide Receiver Elijah Carter

Elijah Carter, a talented sophomore, is expected to provide depth at wide receiver in 2025. Carter possesses a combination of size, speed, and agility, and his ability to create mismatches against smaller defenders will make him a key contributor in both the passing game and the red zone. Carter could work his way into a more prominent role, depending on his development during spring ball and the early part of the season.

Other Options: Freshman Wide Receiver Zachary Adams and Redshirt Freshman Oliver Thompson

Zachary Adams, a freshman with outstanding physical tools, will also compete for a spot in the rotation. Adams is known for his ability to go up and get the ball in jump-ball situations and could provide a red-zone threat for Ohio State’s offense. Additionally, redshirt freshman Oliver Thompson offers depth at the position and is a versatile player who could contribute in a variety of roles.

Tight End: Key Role in Ohio State’s Offensive Scheme

Tight end is a position that has seen increased importance in Ohio State’s offense under Ryan Day, and in 2025, the Buckeyes will continue to feature multiple tight ends as key components of their offensive game plan.

Projected Starter: Senior Tight End Luke Montgomery

Luke Montgomery is expected to be the starter at tight end for Ohio State in 2025. Known for his ability to block effectively in the running game and serve as a reliable target in the passing game, Montgomery is a well-rounded player who can impact the game in multiple facets. His size and athleticism make him a mismatch for opposing defenses, and he will play a pivotal role in both the running and passing attacks.

Backup: Sophomore Tight End Jayden Hill

Jayden Hill, a highly rated sophomore, will provide depth at tight end and could see significant playing time. Hill is an athletic player who excels as a pass catcher and has the potential to be a matchup nightmare in the red zone. His development during the spring will be important in determining his role in the offense for 2025.

Offensive Line: A Strong Unit with Depth

Ohio State’s offensive line is another area of strength, with several key players returning to anchor the unit. Offensive line coach Greg Studrawa has built a reputation for developing elite offensive linemen, and in 2025, the Buckeyes will have a solid foundation in the trenches.

Projected Starting Offensive Line

• Left Tackle: Senior Jalen Davis
• Left Guard: Junior Marcus Williams
• Center: Senior Jake Thompson
• Right Guard: Junior Ethan Bennett
• Right Tackle: Senior Sam Logan

Ohio State’s offensive line features a mix of experience and talent, with Davis and Logan providing leadership at tackle and Thompson anchoring the center position. The interior of the line, with Williams and Bennett, will also be strong, offering a balance of pass protection and run-blocking ability.

Offensive Line Depth

Ohio State’s depth on the offensive line is also impressive, with several talented players like redshirt freshman Luke Carter and sophomore Isaac Jones competing for backup roles. The depth on the offensive line will allow the Buckeyes to rotate players and keep the line fresh throughout the season.