Ohio State is likely to add a running back in the transfer portal

Ohio State’s offense has found a foundation in true freshman Bo Jackson, whose breakout season has validated the Buckeyes’ long term belief in his talent. Jackson’s vision, burst, and ability to shoulder volume, even as a true freshman, have made him one of the most promising young backs in the country, and he will enter 2026 as a centerpiece of the offense.

Still, history suggests that Ohio State is rarely at its best with a one back solution. The Buckeyes’ most explosive versions under Ryan Day have featured complementary backfields, where two high level runners stress defenses in different ways and protect against the wear and tear of a full season.

From recent examples like TreVeyon Henderson paired with Quinshon Judkins, to earlier two back rotations, balance has consistently elevated Ohio State’s ceiling.

That context explains why Ohio State is expected to be active in the upcoming transfer portal despite Jackson’s emergence. The goal is not to replace him, but to insulate and enhance the offense by adding a second proven option who can share early down work, handle physical carries, and keep the offense from becoming predictable.

With the expanded College Football Playoff and longer seasons now the norm, depth at running back is no longer a luxury. It is a necessity for teams with national title aspirations.

Portal interest signals a clear plan

Early reporting suggests Ohio State is already doing its homework. According to Gators Online reporter Zach Abolverdi, the Buckeyes have expressed interest in Florida running back Jadan Baugh, who rushed for 1,170 yards and eight touchdowns during his true sophomore season.

Baugh fits the profile Ohio State typically targets in the portal. Productive at the Power Five level, physically ready for Big Ten play, and capable of contributing immediately without stunting the development of younger players.

The interest in Baugh is notable not just because of his production, but because it confirms Ohio State’s broader approach. The Buckeyes are not waiting to see if depth becomes an issue, they are proactively looking to build a two back structure that complements Jackson’s skill set.

A back like Baugh would allow Ohio State to vary run concepts, manage workloads more effectively, and maintain offensive efficiency deep into the season. It also provides insurance in case of injury, something that has shaped postseason outcomes across college football in recent years.

Waiting to see how the board develops

Baugh may be an early name to watch, but he will not be the last. The portal cycle is still unfolding, and Ohio State is expected to evaluate multiple options before making a final move. Fit, timing, and role clarity will matter just as much as raw production, especially with Jackson entrenched as the lead back.

The Buckeyes have been deliberate in recent portal cycles, prioritizing players who understand their role and buy into the rotation rather than chasing splashy additions that disrupt chemistry.

For now, the takeaway is clear. Ohio State views the running back position as a place to strengthen, not stand pat. Bo Jackson remains the future, but history shows that the Buckeyes are at their most dangerous when that future is paired with a trusted complement.

As the portal process plays out, Ohio State’s pursuit of another back signals a program continuing to build with championship margins and aspirations in mind.