Ohio State’s transfer portal overhaul didn’t stop with the offense. After adding firepower on that side of the ball, the Buckeyes turned their attention to the defense-and they didn’t hold back. With eight defensive additions, Ohio State didn’t just fill holes; they brought in players who could reshape the identity of the unit under new defensive coordinator Matt Patricia.
Let’s break down the new faces on defense, what they bring to the table, and how they might fit into the Buckeyes’ 2026 plans.
Dominick Kelly - Cornerback
6-1, 190 lbs | Sophomore | Georgia | IMG Academy (FL)
Kelly arrives from Georgia, and let’s just say the buzz around his potential is real. He’s long, athletic, and plays with the kind of confidence you want in a boundary corner.
While still developing, he’s got the tools to become a foundational piece in Ohio State’s secondary. Think of him as a high-upside investment-one that could pay off sooner than later.
Cam Calhoun - Cornerback
6-0, 180 lbs | Redshirt Junior | Michigan → Utah → Alabama | Winton Woods (OH)
Calhoun’s journey through multiple Power Five programs has given him a wealth of experience, and now he lands in Columbus with a chance to carve out a rotational role. He’s a savvy, instinctual player who won’t be asked to lock down WR1s, but in sub-packages or spot starts, he brings value.
Depth at corner is never a luxury-it’s a necessity. Calhoun gives the Buckeyes exactly that.
Earl Little Jr. - Defensive Back (Nickel)
6-1, 199 lbs | Redshirt Senior | Florida State → Alabama | American Heritage (FL)
Don’t let the 65 snaps fool you-Little is expected to be the starting nickel for Ohio State. He’s got the frame, the pedigree, and the versatility to thrive in the slot.
With offenses constantly looking to exploit mismatches in the middle of the field, having a nickel who can cover, tackle, and read the quarterback is critical. Little checks those boxes.
John Walker - Defensive Tackle
6-4, 324 lbs | Redshirt Sophomore | UCF | Osceola (FL)
Walker is a true space-eater inside. At 324 pounds, he’s built to clog running lanes and command double teams.
His skill set fits perfectly at the one-tech spot, where his job is to anchor the line and let the linebackers roam free. If Ohio State wants to be more physical up front-and they do-Walker’s presence will help set that tone.
Christian Alliegro - Linebacker/Edge Hybrid
6-4, 245 lbs | Senior | Wisconsin | Avon Old Farms (CT)
Alliegro is a Swiss Army knife on defense. He’s got the size to play as a traditional linebacker and the burst to get after quarterbacks off the edge.
That kind of versatility is invaluable in today’s game, where hybrid roles are becoming the norm. Expect Ohio State to move him around to maximize his impact, especially in pressure packages.
Qua Russaw - Edge/Outside Linebacker
6-2, 242 lbs | Redshirt Sophomore | Alabama | Carver (AL)
Russaw might be one of the more intriguing additions. He’s explosive off the edge, plays with a low center of gravity, and brings a relentless motor.
His build and style make him a natural fit for Matt Patricia’s scheme, whether as a stand-up outside linebacker or a hand-in-the-dirt edge rusher. The ceiling here is sky-high.
Terry Moore - Safety
6-1, 196 lbs | Redshirt Senior | Duke | Washington (NC)
Moore missed the entire 2025 season with an injury, but don’t sleep on him. In 2024, he was the highest-graded Power Four safety according to PFF.
He’s smart, rangy, and has a nose for the ball. Perhaps most importantly, he reunites with Matt Guerrieri, who originally recruited him to Duke.
That familiarity could fast-track his transition into the Buckeyes’ system.
James Smith - Defensive Tackle
6-3, 297 lbs | Junior | Alabama | Carver (AL)
If you’re looking for the highest-upside addition on this list, Smith might be your guy. He’s got the size, strength, and athleticism to be a difference-maker on the interior.
The former Alabama lineman brings SEC-level trench experience and could be a disruptive force from Day 1. He’s not just a plug-and-play guy-he’s someone who could anchor the defensive front for years to come.
Final Thoughts
Ohio State didn’t just dip into the portal-they dove in headfirst, especially on defense. What stands out isn’t just the volume of talent, but the fit.
These aren’t random additions. They’re players who fill specific roles, bring positional flexibility, and raise the floor (and ceiling) of the Buckeyes’ defense.
With Patricia at the helm and a deep, versatile group of newcomers, Ohio State’s defense is poised to take a leap in 2026. The pieces are there. Now it’s about putting them in the right places-and letting the talent speak for itself.