Two reasons why the Ohio State football team has not added a transfer player

As spring practice progressed, most felt Ohio State would be active in the transfer portal once it opened on April 16th. It became apparent help was needed at right guard (or tackle) and they seemed rather thin at running back. But since the portal has opened there’s been…nothing. Here are two reasons why the Buckeyes have not added anyone new.

Numbers

With safety Ja’Had Carter’s announcement he is entering the portal, most estimates put the Buckeyes at 83 scholarship players, just two under the NCAA limit. One of those two openings will be filled by Australian punter Nick McLarty (who might be the biggest punter I’ve ever seen).

There is also the possibility of a walk-on, who is currently on the roster, being put on scholarship. After he drew rave reviews during spring practice, I can see this happening with running back T.C. Caffey. This is pure speculation on my part, but walk-ons earning scholarships is not unusual. While there are expectations more will leave the Ohio State program, that still does not leave much room for adding transfers.

The Right Fit

When you don’t have a lot of scholarship numbers room, you’re not going to add just anyone. There aren’t going to be any Victor Cutlers being added for depth. You want someone who can make an immediate impact. That means a player who has starting experience at a Power 4 program or was dominant at the Group of 5 level.

Taking a look at 247 Sports’ top 200 players in the transfer portal, there aren’t many of those types available. Only 12 are currently uncommitted and the Buckeyes will have interest in probably only one (defensive tackle Derrick Harmon of Michigan State).

Considering the deadline for entering the portal is upon us, I don’t see Ryan Day and his staff adding anyone right now, unless it’s Harmon. Players can still sign with a school after the portal closes.