The offseason is a time of transformation, and Ohio State is no stranger to this annual evolution. With a fresh look on the horizon, the Buckeyes are gearing up for the 2026 season, set to kick off in early September.
After a stellar 12-0 regular season run, they faced setbacks against Indiana in the Big Ten Championship and Miami in the College Football Playoff. Now, with four offensive starters and eight defensive starters gone, the team is poised to showcase new talent and strategy.
Despite these changes, Ohio State remains a powerhouse, thanks to head coach Ryan Day’s adept recruiting and strategic use of the transfer portal. The roster is stacked with talent, positioning the Buckeyes as strong contenders for both the Big Ten title and the national championship.
Among the standout players is offensive lineman Austin Siereveld, who ranks third on our top-20 list of Buckeye players to watch.
Austin Siereveld: Rising Star on the Offensive Line
Siereveld arrived at Ohio State with modest expectations, but he has certainly exceeded them. Originally from Middletown, he was a three-star recruit, ranked 41st among interior offensive line prospects and 16th in Ohio for the 2023 class.
Standing at 6-foot-5 and weighing 325 pounds, Siereveld was thrust into a starting role late in the 2024 season due to injuries. He started six games at left guard during the Buckeyes' national championship run and earned the title of Iron Buckeye in both winter and summer of 2025, capturing the attention of fans and coaches alike.
Initially expected to play inside, Siereveld earned the starting left tackle position and excelled. According to Pro Football Focus, he achieved an impressive overall grade of 83.5 in 2025, showcasing his prowess as a run blocker with an 83.3 grade, and a solid 73.7 as a pass blocker. Over 810 snaps, he didn’t allow a single sack and conceded just 15 pressures, including 13 hurries and two quarterback hits.
Looking Ahead: Siereveld in 2026
As Ohio State looks to rebound from a somewhat lackluster finish last season, the offensive line will be crucial. Siereveld is expected to be a cornerstone of this unit, likely starting at tackle, as suggested by Ryan Day’s spring press conference. If he can elevate his game to the level of a first or second-round NFL Draft pick, the Buckeyes’ offense will be a formidable force.
Siereveld joins center Carson Hinzman and guard Luke Montgomery as the third draft-eligible lineman returning for a final season, a decision that bodes well for Ohio State’s offensive line stability and success.
Buckeyes’ Top 20 Players Countdown
- No. 20 Zion Grady
- No. 19 Terry Moore
- No. 18 Earl Little Jr.
- No. 17 Chris Henry Jr.
- No. 16 Payton Pierce
- No. 15 John Walker
- No. 14 Connor Hawkins
- No. 13 James Smith
- No. 12 Riley Pettijohn
- No. 11 Eddrick Houston
- No. 10 Luke Montgomery
- No. 9 Jermaine Mathews Jr.
- No. 8 Devin Sanchez
- No. 7 Jaylen McClain
- No. 6 Carson Hinzman
- No. 5 Kenyatta Jackson Jr.
- No. 4 Bo Jackson
As the Buckeyes prepare for the new season, fans can look forward to a blend of seasoned veterans and emerging talents, all ready to make their mark on the college football landscape.