Spring practice is just around the corner for the Ohio State football team. They have been waiting all offseason to get back to work after ending the 2025 season in the worst way possible. Defensively, the Buckeyes lose a lot of top-shelf talent from that team.
There will likely be four first-round picks gone from last year's team. That means a lot of defenders are going to have to step up. For three defensive players, they have to play well in spring ball if they want to see consistent snaps when the Fall comes around.
1. Will Smith Jr.
The son of a former Buckeye great, Smith Jr. saw more snaps last season than he did in his freshman season. He finished last season with 20 tackles. He has a chance to see a lot more time with Kayden McDonald and Caden Curry gone. Several other defensive linemen transferred away, as well.
Smith Jr. can use a solid spring to challenge for a starting spot if he is able to do things right. If things go wrong, he could be riding the bench in his third season with the Ohio State Buckeyes. Of the players on this list, he has the easiest path to consistent playing time.
2. Jason Moore
The time for Jason Moore to make an impact with the Buckeyes is dwindling. He will be a senior this season, and he has yet to make any substantial impact as a defensive lineman. Much like Smith Jr., Moore has a chance to take advantage of a less crowded defensive line room.
However, Moore doesn't have the talent Smith Jr. Qua Russaw and Tim Smith will also be taking spots in the starting lineup after transferring in from Alabama. If Moore doesn't show out in the spring, he could be left behind when it comes to playing time.
3. Garrett Stover
Garrett Stover is a linebacker who is the brother of former tight end Cade Stover. With Sonny Styles and Arvell Reese getting set to be top-10 picks in the upcoming NFL Draft, there is an opening for some playing time. However, Stover is in danger of being passed up on the depth chart.
Payton Pierce is already locked in as a starter. Riley Petijohn is an athletic freak and a former four-star recruit. TJ Alford flashed some potential in practice, as well. Stover needs a solid spring to earn some playing time.