Ohio State needs several offensive linemen out of the transfer portal because of the graduation of several players and a lack of development of many offensive lineman prospects. They finally picked one up in one in Philip Daniels who played at Minnesota last year and probably will start at right tackle next year.
Background on Philip Daniels
Philip Daniels was a three-star prospect in the 2023 class and signed with Minnesota out of High School. He is from Cincinnati and played at Princeton High School. He is the cousin of former Ohio State left tackle and first-round Pick Paris Johnson. Daniels redshirted his first season and then last year started the last four games as a right tackle. He played well in those four games and entered the portal. He will have three years of eligibility left.
Film Review
Looking at Philip Daniels's film from last year at Minnesota, the first thing that stands out is his size. He is 6'5 inches tall, and he looks like the part of an offensive tackle. The other part of his film I like is his ability to move. I saw him block down on the defensive lineman well.
He also showed a good ability to chase linebackers at the next level. He also showed a good ability to move his feet and stay in front of defenders well. Daniels, at times, is raw, and he is not even close to a finished product, but he has a chance to be a good player next year and to develop into an elite offensive tackle down the road.
Why did Ohio State want Daniels?
Ohio State will lose offensive tackles Josh Fryar, Josh Simons, and Donovan Jackson after this season. They have zero players on the roster ready to step in and play as an offensive tackle, so Daniels was a must-get for Ohio State. Getting him for three years is a huge opportunity for Ohio State and Daniels. He can develop and play as a multiple-year starter.
Whats next for Ohio State?
I expect Ohio State to sign at least two more and possibly three more offensive linemen. They need at least one more offensive tackle who can start next year. In addition, they need one or two interior offensive linemen as well. Daniels was an important start, but the work continues in the transfer portal at signing offensive linemen for the Buckeyes.