Ohio State Football: Former three-star recruits will soon earn paychecks

Jonah Jackson:  No. 170 OT

When coach Greg Studrawa was rebuilding his offensive line last year he found a great piece of the puzzle. The graduate transfer certainly helped the less experienced interior linemen center Josh Myers and right guard Wyatt Davis with his leadership and his play.

It’s likely he will be chosen in the second or third round and whichever team lands him may have an anchor in the interiior of the line for years to come.

Branden Bowen:  No. 61 OT

Bowen was off to a nice season at right guard in 2017 before an injury ended his season and kept him out in 2018. Last season he moved over one spot and performed well at right tackle.

With his injury situation it’s hard to tell what round he will be drafted but it’s certain his name will be called. A player who can play on the edge or in the interior has to be an intriguing prospect to a GM.

Now for an Ohio State football player who wasn’t a starter who could play on Sundays.

Joshua Alabi:  No. 30 SDE

Alabi was probably the best backup left tackle in college football the last two seasons. When he filled in for Thayer Munford the Ohio State offense didn’t miss a beat.

I doubt he will be drafted but will be invited to a camp. I have a feeling he will impress and at least make a practice squad. With normal attrition on offensive lines he may be added to a roster by the end of the season.

Now for a guy who could be picked up to play on either side of the ball.

Rashod Berry:  No. 35 WDE

After beginning his career on defense Berry was the starting TE for most of the past two seasons. He filled in at defensive end last season proving he can play anywhere he is needed.

I see a team inviting the versatile player to training camp, especially if they need a blocking tight end. He certainly excelled blocking for J.K. Dobbins and is a pretty good receiver too.

Now for a two-star recruit.

Liam McCullough:  No. 1 LS

Long snappers, kickers and punters are never rated high but are important to a team’s success. Look at how well the punters and kickers have performed during the four years McCullough has been snapping the ball.

He will be drafted late or picked up as an undrafted free agent. I’m betting he will be earning a paycheck snapping the football for years to come.

There you have it. Undervalued recruits who made good, and now getting ready to get paid for their hard work.