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Three Ohio State freshmen who could start in 2025: Will they be ready?

Ohio State is losing several key players, opening up starting spots for talented newcomers. Three incoming freshmen from the 2025 class could emerge as starters on day one. Find out who they are and why they could make an impact right away.

By Jon Rhoades

North Shore defensive back Devin Sanchez (6) runs off the field in the third quarter of the 6A UIL high school football semifinal game at the Pfield in Pflugerville, Saturday, December 9, 2023. North Shore defeated Westlake 23-14, knocking them out of the playoffs.
North Shore defensive back Devin Sanchez (6) runs off the field in the third quarter of the 6A UIL high school football semifinal game at the Pfield in Pflugerville, Saturday, December 9, 2023. North Shore defeated Westlake 23-14, knocking them out of the playoffs. / Sara Diggins/American-Statesman / USA TODAY NETWORK
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With Ohio State losing at least 15 starters on offense and defense in 2025, there’s a chance for several highly-touted incoming freshmen to step in and make an immediate impact. While many fans will look to the transfer portal for quick solutions, the Buckeyes’ 2025 recruiting class, ranked in the top 5 nationally, boasts elite talent that could contribute right away.

Among those freshmen, three players stand out as legitimate contenders to secure starting roles for Ohio State next season.

1. Devin Sanchez, CB

  • Height: 6'2", Weight: 170 lbs
  • High School: North Shore (Houston, TX)

Devin Sanchez enters Columbus with a strong pedigree, having been compared to this year's freshman sensation Jeremiah Smith. Sanchez brings a rare combination of length, speed, and instincts that make him an ideal cornerback in today’s game.

At 6'2", he has the size and wingspan that allows him to contest passes and disrupt wide receivers in man-to-man coverage. Sanchez has shown his quick-trigger athleticism and fluidity, with impressive track times like a 10.81-second 100-meter dash during his sophomore year.

Ohio State’s cornerback room will have vacancies, particularly with the potential departure of Davison Igbinosun, who could declare for the NFL draft. Even if Igbinosun returns, his position may be in jeopardy due to his penalty issues—13 in 2024, the most by any defensive player in college football. With Sanchez’s size and instincts, combined with his ability to adjust quickly to the college game, he has a clear path to start as early as Week 1​.

2. Nate Roberts, TE

  • Height: 6'4", Weight: 235 lbs
  • High School: Washington (Washington, OK)

Nate Roberts is a well-rounded tight-end prospect who could make an immediate impact for Ohio State. He is a physically gifted athlete, with strong comparisons to veteran Buckeye Cade Stover in terms of playing style. Roberts has the size and athleticism to thrive in Ohio State’s offensive system, especially considering the lack of a clear starter at the position to replace Gee Scott Jr. since this year he exhausted his eligibility.

Ohio State’s tight end room in 2024 lacked a true standout, with a rotation of players filling the position. While fans are eager to see more from Jelani Thurman, the lack of significant production or role for Thurman in 2024 opens the door for Roberts to step in. His ability to contribute both as a blocker and a pass-catcher makes him a prime candidate to take over the starting role in 2025.

3. Riley Pettijohn, LB

  • Height: 6'1.5", Weight: 215 lbs
  • High School: McKinney (McKinney, TX)

Riley Pettijohn, a converted safety, brings impressive speed and coverage skills to Ohio State’s linebacker corps. Pettijohn’s versatility and athleticism are particularly noteworthy, as he could fill multiple roles depending on how Ohio State adjusts its defensive schemes in 2025.

Cody Simon will be gone next year and with the potential departure of Sonny Styles, and the likelihood of C.J. Hicks transitioning to more of an EDGE role, the Buckeyes will be in need of young talent at linebacker.

In Ryan Day's most recent press conference, he made a note to say that the Ohio State defensive line scheme could be different next year. Ohio State’s potential switch to a three-man front or the incorporation of the JACK position could provide more opportunities for a player like Pettijohn to see the field.

Additionally, with Gabe Powers entering the transfer portal, there’s a void at linebacker that Pettijohn could fill. His combination of speed, instincts, and ability to add muscle during the offseason could allow him to start at linebacker in 2025​.

While the Buckeyes will explore the transfer portal for immediate contributors, these three incoming freshmen—Devin Sanchez, Nate Roberts, and Riley Pettijohn—are positioned to compete for starting roles right away.

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Their talent, combined with the gaps on the roster, makes them likely candidates to push for significant playing time as true freshmen in 2025.

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