Five players worth watching during Ohio State football’s 2025 spring ‘showcase’

As the Ohio State Buckeyes gear up for the 2025 season, their spring football showcase presents an exciting opportunity for fans, coaches, and analysts alike to get a glimpse of the future. With a deep roster filled with both returning players and new recruits, Ohio State’s spring practices will serve as a crucial indicator of who will make an impact in the upcoming season. While many players on the team have already established themselves as household names, there are several up-and-coming players that fans should keep an eye on as they look to make their mark.

Here are five players worth watching during Ohio State football’s 2025 spring showcase:

1. Kyle McCord – Quarterback

As the Buckeyes search for consistency and leadership at the quarterback position, Kyle McCord enters the 2025 spring showcase with a unique opportunity to solidify himself as the starting quarterback. McCord has already gained valuable experience as a backup and in spot starts, but 2025 marks his first real chance to take the reins of Ohio State’s high-powered offense. With the departure of C.J. Stroud, one of the best quarterbacks in the nation, the starting role is up for grabs, and McCord is in prime position to claim it.

McCord’s spring showcase will be critical for multiple reasons. Not only does he need to prove that he has the ability to lead the offense, but he must also develop chemistry with his wide receivers, some of whom are still fairly young and unproven. McCord’s arm strength, decision-making, and poise in the pocket will be on full display as he tries to show that he’s ready to lead the Buckeyes to another Big Ten title and a possible College Football Playoff berth. If McCord can command the offense during the spring showcase, it would provide him with the confidence needed heading into the fall.

Fans should pay close attention to McCord’s ability to read defenses and make quick, accurate throws, especially in pressure situations. He’ll also be working with new offensive coordinator Brian Hartline, so the development of their relationship and how well McCord adapts to Hartline’s system will be a storyline to follow throughout the spring.

2. Marvin Harrison Jr. – Wide Receiver

One of the most anticipated players in college football, Marvin Harrison Jr. is poised to become the next star at Ohio State after an outstanding 2024 season. As the son of NFL Hall of Famer Marvin Harrison, the younger Harrison has shown incredible skill and potential during his time with the Buckeyes. He is widely considered one of the top wide receiver prospects in the nation and has the ability to dominate in the college game, making him a player to watch during the spring showcase.

Harrison’s spring showcase will be crucial in showcasing his development as a true number-one receiver. With a new quarterback under center, Harrison’s ability to adjust to different passing styles and establish chemistry with his new signal-caller will be a focal point. Look for Harrison to not only make big plays but also to take on a leadership role within the wide receiver room. His route-running, ability to create separation, and strong hands will be put to the test as the Buckeyes prepare for a highly competitive season.

Additionally, fans will want to see how Harrison handles being the focal point of opposing defenses. In 2025, he will likely draw more attention from opposing defensive coordinators who will try to limit his production. Harrison’s ability to continue dominating despite double teams and physical coverage will show how ready he is for the next level.

3. J.T. Tuimoloau – Defensive End

Defensive linemen often go under the radar in the spring showcase, but J.T. Tuimoloau is an exception. After an impressive 2024 campaign, Tuimoloau enters the spring with expectations of becoming one of the top defensive players in college football. As a versatile edge rusher, Tuimoloau has the ability to disrupt opposing offenses by pressuring the quarterback and stopping the run. He is already considered one of the most dangerous pass rushers in the nation, and if he can take another step forward in 2025, he has the potential to be a game-changer for the Buckeyes.

During the spring showcase, Tuimoloau’s quickness off the edge, his ability to shed blockers, and his relentless motor will be on full display. The Buckeyes need Tuimoloau to be a disruptive force on defense, and with an emphasis on creating pressure in the pass rush, his performance during spring practices will be a good indicator of how Ohio State’s defense is shaping up for the upcoming season.

Additionally, Tuimoloau’s leadership on the defensive line will be crucial as the Buckeyes look to replace some key pieces in the front seven. His maturity and ability to mentor younger players will be just as important as his on-field production. Ohio State will need him to be a leader in both the locker room and on the field as they look to challenge for the Big Ten Championship and beyond.

4. TreVeyon Henderson – Running Back

Ohio State has long been known for producing elite running backs, and TreVeyon Henderson is looking to continue that tradition. After an injury-plagued 2024 season, Henderson is hungry to get back to full health and show that he is one of the top running backs in college football. With a new quarterback under center, the Buckeyes will likely rely on Henderson to carry a significant portion of the offensive load, especially early in the season as McCord adjusts to his new role.

Henderson’s spring showcase will be essential in showing that he is fully recovered and ready to handle the workload. His ability to read holes, make defenders miss in the open field, and break tackles will be something to watch closely. Additionally, Henderson has the ability to contribute as a receiving threat out of the backfield, which will only make him more dangerous in Ohio State’s offense. If he can demonstrate that he is back to his old self during spring ball, it will give the Buckeyes a huge boost heading into the 2025 season.

Moreover, Henderson’s performance in spring practices will also be key in solidifying his role as the team’s bell-cow back. The Buckeyes have several talented running backs on the roster, but Henderson’s explosiveness and playmaking ability give him the edge as a potential game-changer in 2025.

5. Sonny Styles – Safety

The Buckeyes’ defense has been a focal point of their success in recent seasons, and safety Sonny Styles is poised to be one of the stars of the unit in 2025. Known for his versatility and athleticism, Styles has the potential to be one of the top defensive players in college football, and his ability to play multiple roles in Ohio State’s secondary will be invaluable to the team. After a strong showing in 2024, Styles enters the spring showcase with high expectations for his future impact on the Buckeyes’ defense.

During the spring showcase, Styles will be tasked with showcasing his ability to cover receivers, play in the box against the run, and create turnovers in the secondary. His speed and playmaking ability make him a matchup nightmare for opposing offenses, and his football IQ allows him to excel in multiple defensive schemes. As Ohio State looks to replace some key players in the secondary, Styles will be counted on to step up and lead the way.

The spring showcase will give fans a chance to see how well Styles has developed as a leader on the defensive side of the ball and how he can command the safety position. His ability to make key plays in critical moments, such as interceptions or forcing fumbles, will be something to watch closely as the Buckeyes prepare for another championship push.