Legend Bey Brings Speed, Versatility-and Opportunity-to Ohio State Backfield
Ohio State head coach Ryan Day isn’t exactly known for hyperbole, so when he compares a freshman to Tyreek Hill, ears perk up. That’s the kind of praise he’s throwing at Legend Bey-a dynamic, multi-sport athlete out of North Forney High School in Texas-who flipped his commitment from Tennessee to join the Buckeyes’ 2026 class. And based on the current state of Ohio State’s running back room, the timing couldn’t be better.
“He’s dynamite,” Day said. “I’ve called him a poor man’s Tyreek Hill. He’s lightning in a bottle, and he can do a lot of things for us.”
That’s not just coach-speak. Bey’s resume backs it up.
He’s played quarterback, wide receiver, and running back-and he’s done it all while being a standout on the track in Texas’ ultra-competitive District 10-6A. The speed is real.
The versatility is real. And now, the opportunity is very real.
A New Offensive Era in Columbus
With Arthur Smith taking over as offensive coordinator, the Buckeyes are expected to place a renewed emphasis on the run game. Under former OC Brian Hartline, the ground attack often played second fiddle to the deep passing game. But Smith brings a more balanced-and often run-heavy-approach, which could open the door for a player like Bey to carve out a role early.
And with both Bo Jackson and Isaiah West recovering from offseason shoulder surgeries, the reps are there for the taking. That spring window could be crucial for Bey as he tries to climb a depth chart that includes transfer Ja’Kobi Jackson, sophomore Turbo Rogers, and fellow freshman Favour Akih.
This is the kind of scenario where early impressions matter. With two key returners sidelined, spring ball becomes a proving ground-not just for Bey’s raw talent, but for how quickly he can adapt to the speed and physicality of the college game.
Why Bey Chose the Buckeyes
Bey’s flip from Tennessee wasn’t a spur-of-the-moment decision. He’s been in contact with the Ohio State staff since early in his high school career, and the relationships he built-particularly with strength and conditioning coach Mickey Marotti-played a major role in his decision.
“Just the fact it’s a winning school,” Bey said. “I want to win and be in the best position to be around guys of my caliber. Ohio State has incredible development and a winning culture.”
That development piece is key. Marotti has been turning college prospects into NFL-caliber athletes in Columbus for nearly a decade and a half. For a player like Bey-who already has the raw athleticism-being in that system could be the difference between being a gadget player and becoming a true offensive weapon.
The Path Forward
Make no mistake: Ja’Kobi Jackson is still RB1 heading into 2026. He earned that role with a strong 2025 season, and Ryan Day has shown he’s willing to ride his lead back when the production is there.
But Bey’s path to the field doesn’t necessarily require a starting job. His versatility could allow the Buckeyes to get creative-lining him up in the slot, motioning him out of the backfield, or even using him in Wildcat packages. And if he flashes in spring and fall camp, don’t be surprised if he forces his way into the rotation.
Ohio State has made it clear: they’re not just bringing Bey in to redshirt and wait his turn. They see a playmaker.
They see a mismatch. And they see a guy who could turn a short gain into six points in the blink of an eye.
The Buckeyes are retooling their offense, and Legend Bey might be one of the most intriguing pieces of that puzzle. If his development keeps pace with the hype, we could be looking at the next big name in Columbus-and maybe even beyond.