OSU Adds Nine Transfer Portal Players, Including QB Devin Brown & RB CJ Donaldson
The Ohio State Buckeyes have made a resounding statement this offseason, diving deep into the transfer portal to secure nine key additions ahead of the 2025 season. The headline arrivals include quarterback Devin Brown, who reclaims his spot in Columbus after a brief transfer stint, and running back CJ Donaldson, a bruising back from West Virginia who adds much-needed power to the Buckeyes’ offensive backfield.
Brown, once the projected successor to C.J. Stroud, had entered the portal after falling behind in the 2024 quarterback competition. But with Will Howard’s graduation and Lincoln Kienholz’s transfer, the path is now wide open for Brown’s return to the Horseshoe. His familiarity with the Buckeyes’ system and leadership in the locker room give him a legitimate shot at reclaiming the QB1 role. Head coach Ryan Day emphasized that the door was always open for Brown: “We believed in Devin when we recruited him, and we still do.”
The addition of CJ Donaldson from West Virginia is equally massive. The 240-pound power back rushed for over 1,100 yards and 12 touchdowns last season in the Big 12, and now arrives in Columbus with two years of eligibility. His physical running style perfectly complements the Buckeyes’ evolving offensive identity, and he’s expected to take early reps as the featured back.
But the Buckeyes didn’t stop there. They also added depth and experience across the board with notable names from Miami (FL), Minnesota, Arizona State, and Georgia Tech. Among the standout newcomers is cornerback Avantae Williams, a former blue-chip prospect from Miami who brings speed and aggression to a secondary that struggled late in the 2024 season. He’s expected to push for a starting role in a remade defensive backfield.
Another big pickup was linebacker Cody Lindenberg from Minnesota, whose Big Ten experience and strong tackling presence should boost OSU’s run defense. At 6-foot-2, 235 pounds, Lindenberg is known for his high football IQ and ability to diagnose plays quickly, traits that will fit well in Jim Knowles’ system.
On the offensive line, left tackle Trey Zimmer (Georgia Tech) brings 30 career starts with him and should provide veteran leadership and immediate impact, particularly after OSU lost two linemen to the NFL Draft. Zimmer’s ability to protect the blindside is critical for whoever wins the quarterback job.
Meanwhile, wide receiver Elijhah Badger (Arizona State) adds speed and explosiveness to a Buckeyes receiver room already stacked with talent. He finished last season with 900+ yards and seven touchdowns, and his presence allows OSU to stretch the field even further and rotate weapons seamlessly.
These nine additions reflect Ohio State’s new urgency to compete at the highest level amid rising SEC dominance and Michigan’s continued threat in the Big Ten. With a blend of proven veterans and former elite recruits, the Buckeyes are not just plugging holes—they’re building a deeper, tougher, more complete team.
As summer workouts heat up, all eyes will be on how this reloaded roster gels under Ryan Day’s leadership. But one thing is certain: Ohio State didn’t just enter the transfer portal—they mastered it.
