Jermaine Mathews Jr. is running it back in Columbus.
The Ohio State junior cornerback announced Thursday that he’ll return for his senior season in 2026, giving the Buckeyes an experienced, battle-tested presence in the secondary as they gear up for another title run. For a defense that’s been the backbone of Ohio State’s recent success, Mathews’ decision is a big one - both for the Buckeyes and for his own long-term prospects.
Let’s break it down.
Mathews isn’t currently projected among the top-tier corners for the 2026 NFL Draft - he didn’t crack the top 17 at the position, per CBS Sports - but that’s exactly why this move makes sense. Another year as a full-time starter in one of college football’s most demanding defensive systems gives him a chance to elevate his draft stock and round out his game. His teammate, Davison Igbinosun, a senior this past season, was ranked No. 16 among corners - a benchmark Mathews will no doubt be aiming to surpass.
At 5-foot-11 and 190 pounds, the Cincinnati native has already logged plenty of meaningful reps. A product of Winton Woods High School, Mathews has appeared in 40 games over his three years in Columbus, starting 16 of them.
His career began with a trial by fire - as a true freshman in 2023, injuries at the position forced him into action. He responded with 13 tackles and two interceptions across 11 games, including two starts.
That early exposure to Big Ten speed and physicality laid the groundwork for what’s become a steady rise.
In 2024, Mathews carved out a key role as the Buckeyes' top reserve corner. He played in all 16 games on a loaded Ohio State squad that went 14-2 and captured the national championship.
His biggest moment came when it mattered most - the Cotton Bowl, which doubled as a national semifinal. When starter Denzel Burke went down, Mathews stepped in and held his own on the big stage.
He finished the year with 22 tackles, 2.5 tackles for loss, and a sack - production that spoke to his versatility and readiness.
This past season, with Burke off to the NFL, Mathews stepped into a full-time starting role - and he didn’t disappoint. He started all 14 games in 2025, recording 26 tackles, a sack, and two interceptions. His efforts earned him third-team All-Big Ten honors, a nod to his consistency and growth in a deep defensive backfield.
Now, with another year to sharpen his technique, improve his ball skills, and showcase his ability in man coverage, Mathews has a real shot to vault himself into the upper echelon of draft prospects. He’ll also be a key piece in a Buckeye secondary that continues to reload with young talent, including rising sophomore Devin Sanchez.
For Ohio State, getting Mathews back is a win on multiple fronts. He brings experience, leadership, and a proven track record in high-pressure moments. For Mathews, it’s a calculated move - one more season to put it all together and prove he belongs among the best corners in the country.
The Buckeyes’ defense was already shaping up to be formidable in 2026. With Mathews returning, it just got even better.