Ohio State football: Watch out for Caden Curry

As each new season approaches, one question always on the mind of Ohio State football fans is which true freshman can earn regular playing time. So far this month, there is one surprising name I keep hearing again and again. Considering the rave reviews he is getting, take my advice and watch out for defensive end Caden Curry.

From an ability standpoint, I’m not surprised Curry is making a major push for playing time. He was the number thirteen edge rusher in the 2021 recruiting cycle (according to 247Sports’ rankings), but he probably should have been ranked higher-the Buckeyes REALLY wanted him.

The Indiana native had a very good spring practice and it was obvious the Ohio State football program had gotten themselves a good one. While most defensive end recruits come in a little light at between 230-240 pounds, he carries a college-ready 250 pounds on his 6’3” frame. Taking all of this into consideration, you’re probably wondering why I’m surprised Curry seems to be carving out playing time. It is because the Buckeyes are absolutely loaded at defensive end.

How loaded is OSU at this position? They have a wealth of riches with no less than five quality players. Zach Harrison, Javonte Jean-Baptiste, Jack Sawyer, J.T. Tuimoloau, and Tyler Friday form what might be the deepest group in the country. If Curry is making a serious run at cracking that rotation, it tells you a lot about his ability. This is what Ryan Day said about him back in the spring,

"“He’s a really good football player. Plays a lot bigger than he is. Really intelligent. Quick twitch. I think he’s gonna be a heck of a football player.”"

Day also said he’s a high-motor player. When I read 247Sports’ scouting report on Curry, there is one thing in particular I really liked: he has a quick first step. Elite pass rushers all have that quick first step coming off the ball. Defensive coordinator Jim Knowles likes that about him and something else as well,

"“He’s got a quick first step and he’s a little surly. That equals potential greatness.”"

A little surly. You want defensive players to be a little surly. The thinking is you put your best athletes on defense. That’s partly true. You put your best athletes on defense who are crazy people and let them fly around causing havoc for the offense.

Curry fits that mold very well. He also fits the mold of the new Jack position in Knowles’ defense. It is a hybrid defensive end/linebacker that someone with the athleticism and versatility like Curry possesses is perfectly suited for.

Ryan Day will not come out and say which true freshmen are going to play, but take my advice and watch out for Caden Curry.