As the 2025 college football season approaches, ESPN’s Adam Rittenberg has released his list of the top 25 non-quarterback playmakers, and Ohio State is prominently featured with three stars: Jeremiah Smith, Caleb Downs, and Max Klare.
Rittenberg notes, “A good chunk of college football's offseason is devoted to the ever-changing quarterback landscape, but QBs aren't the only players primed to impact games this fall.” He identifies key players from last year, like Travis Hunter and Ashton Jeanty, who were non-QB Heisman finalists. The Buckeyes’ trio earned their spots through exceptional 2024 performances, giving Buckeye fans a promising outlook for next season.
Jeremiah Smith: A Record-Breaking Phenom
Sophomore wide receiver Jeremiah Smith, standing at 6-3 and 215 pounds, dominated as a true freshman in 2024, amassing 76 receptions, 1,315 yards, and 15 touchdowns. Rittenberg says, “Any list of non-quarterback standouts has to begin with Smith, who occupies a unique position. He's the nation's best player at his position, a bona fide Heisman Trophy contender.”
Smith shattered Cris Carter’s Ohio State freshman receiving records, led the nation with six 50-plus-yard catches, and earned Big Ten Wide Receiver and Freshman of the Year honors. His consistency—three or more receptions in every regular-season game—and five touchdowns during Ohio State’s national championship run cemented his elite status. Smith’s potential is limitless. As he adds physicality, he could become the best receiver in college football history.
Caleb Downs: Defensive Dynamo
Junior safety Caleb Downs, a 6-0, 205-pound transfer from Alabama, continued his ascent with 81 tackles, 7.5 tackles for loss, two interceptions, and a 79-yard punt return touchdown in 2024. Rittenberg writes, “Downs came to Ohio State as one of the nation's top non-quarterback transfers… earning first-team All-America honors, winning Big Ten Defensive Back of the Year.”
Downs delivered in big games, including interceptions against Texas and Michigan and three pass breakups in the Rose Bowl rout of Oregon. As a finalist for the Thorpe, Nagurski, and Lott IMPACT Trophies, he’s a 2025 Heisman candidate. Adapting to his third defensive scheme in college, Downs’ versatility and playmaking ability make him a cornerstone of Ohio State’s defense, and I expect him to make an even greater impact than he already has the past two seasons.
Max Klare: The New QB's Next Best Friend
Junior tight end Max Klare, a 6-4, 236-pound transfer from Purdue, was a surprising but exciting addition to the list. In 2024, he recorded 51 receptions for 685 yards and four touchdowns, ranking second among Big Ten tight ends. Rittenberg notes, “Klare led Purdue in receptions last fall… the former Boilermaker generating the most buzz turned out to be Klare, whose move to Ohio State could be a coup for coach Ryan Day.”
Rittenberg also notes that a Power 4 offensive coordinator suggested Klare could have been the top tight end in the 2024 NFL draft. Some might be surprised by Klare’s inclusion over players like linebacker Sonny Styles or cornerback Davison Igbinosun, but his potential under Ryan Day and Brian Hartline is undeniable, and with he context of a new starting QB in Columbus, this selection makes perfect sense.
Analysis and Outlook
The selection of Smith, Downs, and Klare underscores Ohio State’s talent depth. Smith and Downs are arguably the best at their positions, with Heisman potential, while Klare’s inclusion signals his breakout potential in Columbus. Still, Styles and Igbinosun, both dynamic defenders, deserved consideration for their versatility and impact.
With eight Big Ten players on the list, including Penn State’s Dani Dennis-Sutton, Nicholas Singleton, and Kaytron Allen, and Illinois’ Gabe Jacas and Oregon’s Matayo Uiagalelei, the conference is loaded with playmakers. Ohio State’s trio will lead the Buckeyes’ charge in 2025, aiming for a national title repeat.