Ohio State's 2026 cornerback group is shaping up to be one of the most intriguing units on the roster, blending proven talent with NFL potential and just a dash of unpredictability to keep things interesting.
At the forefront, the Buckeyes have the makings of an elite squad.
Jermaine Mathews Jr. returns as the reliable veteran, coming off a stellar 2025 season with 26 tackles, 2 interceptions, and 3 pass breakups. His stats speak volumes about his knack for being around the ball and his consistent performance on the field.
Then there's Devin Sanchez, who navigated the typical freshman challenges but still managed to showcase his immense talent. With 15 tackles and 2 pass breakups, he's laid a solid foundation, fueling high expectations for his future.
The dynamic between these two is crucial. Mathews brings experience and grit, understanding the demands of high-stakes games.
His consistency is a rare commodity in college football. On the flip side, Sanchez represents the high ceiling, having already displayed glimpses of brilliance.
If he can turn those flashes into consistent play, Ohio State's defense could become a nightmare for opposing offenses.
This is where the potential really takes off. Should Mathews continue his veteran trajectory and Sanchez make the anticipated leap in his second year, Ohio State could field a cornerback duo capable of locking down receivers, allowing the defense to play more aggressively.
Adding another layer to this potential is Earl Little Jr., who is expected to contribute significantly in a nickel role. With 11 starts at Florida State in 2025, leading the team with 76 tackles and 4 interceptions, Little brings a wealth of experience. His presence adds maturity and stability to the secondary.
In today’s game, having three starting-caliber corners is essential. If Little adapts well to the nickel position, Ohio State won’t just be filling gaps; they’ll be crafting a robust coverage strategy around Mathews and Sanchez. This setup allows for greater flexibility in both man and zone coverages.
Beyond the top trio, there's an intriguing mix of talent waiting in the wings. Cameron Calhoun arrives with transfer experience and is expected to be part of the early rotation.
Dominick Kelly, a young SEC transfer, offers long-term potential if he can be developed effectively. Jay Timmons, along with Jordan Thomas and Miles Lockhart, represents the next wave of talent that Ohio State hopes to cultivate.
The potential of this group is vast. Ohio State doesn't need all these younger players to hit immediately; they just need a couple to step up as reliable rotation pieces. If that happens, this cornerback room could transform from good to exceptional.
The one caveat is depth. While the top looks solid and the next layer promising, the true test will be how these rotational players perform under the Saturday lights. This doesn't diminish the potential; it just highlights the path to unlocking it.
Ohio State has the ingredients for one of the nation's top cornerback units. For this to materialize, Mathews must continue setting the tone, Sanchez needs to make his expected leap, and the rotation must yield a couple of dependable contributors.
If these elements come together, this cornerback group won't just be solid; it will be a cornerstone of Ohio State's championship aspirations.