Ohio State didn’t just bolster its secondary on Tuesday - it reloaded with SEC-caliber talent. In the span of a few hours, the Buckeyes landed not one, but two transfer cornerbacks, and both come from powerhouse programs. After securing a commitment from former Alabama corner Cam Calhoun, Ohio State followed it up by adding former Georgia defensive back Dominick Kelly to the mix.
Kelly heads to Columbus after spending his freshman season in Athens, where he showed flashes of his upside in limited action. The former four-star recruit from the 2025 class saw 61 defensive snaps in his lone year with the Bulldogs.
According to Pro Football Focus, he allowed just three catches on seven targets - albeit for 73 yards and a touchdown - while also recording three tackles and three pass breakups. That’s a small sample size, but it’s enough to hint at the kind of coverage instincts and physical tools that made him a top prospect coming out of IMG Academy.
“Everything really happens for a reason and I’m so glad to be here at Ohio State,” Kelly said after announcing his decision.
This move gives the Buckeyes another young, talented corner with three years of eligibility remaining - a key factor as they look to reshape their defensive backfield following the departures of Aaron Scott Jr. and Bryce West to the transfer portal. With Kelly and Calhoun now in the fold, Ohio State has replenished a position group that was suddenly thin on experience and depth.
The competition in the cornerback room is about to heat up. Kelly will join a group that includes Calhoun, incoming freshmen Jordan Thomas and Jay Timmons, redshirt sophomore Miles Lockhart, and redshirt freshman Jordyn Woods. That’s a blend of youth, potential, and now, some valuable SEC seasoning.
This also marks Ohio State’s 15th transfer commitment of the 2026 cycle - a clear sign that the Buckeyes aren’t just relying on high school recruiting to build their roster. They’re being aggressive in the portal, targeting players who can contribute right away and raise the floor of the roster.
Kelly’s story is one of growth and opportunity. Originally part of the 2026 recruiting class, he reclassified to 2025 and signed with Georgia.
Ohio State didn’t offer him out of high school, but after a year of development in the SEC, he’s earned his shot in Columbus. Now, with a fresh start and a clearer path to playing time, Kelly has a chance to make his mark in scarlet and gray.