We already broke down our expectations for how Ohio State could handle the quarterback position and then dived into the possible running backs. Now it’s time to break down what the portal has in store for the wide receivers.
Despite not publicly declaring his intention, it appears Marvin Harrison Jr. is out the door and Julian Fleming has entered the transfer portal. Emeka Egbuka has not announced his intentions yet, but we can hope, right? It wouldn’t be a surprise if he heads off to the riches of the NFL. So to summarize, there is a chance the Buckeyes lose all three of their starting receivers.
Carnell Tate and Jayden Ballard seem ready to take on larger roles, but this unit has some serious inexperience concerns. I understand Ohio State has a stable of five-star options at receiver, including the nation’s No. 1 recruit, Jeremiah Smith coming in. I’m sure it would be more comforting for the coaching staff to add experience through the portal and the following are five options that could be intriguing additions.
Where things stand
You may have noticed the photo above shows Jyaire Shorter playing for the Auburn Tigers. That is due to him not seeing much action for Auburn this season. Shorter only amassed one reception for the Tigers and is looking to make his seventh-year count. That’s right, 2024 will be Shorter’s seventh season playing college football.
Before Auburn, Shorter spent five seasons with the North Texas Mean Green. Despite dealing with injuries, he was very productive, leading the nation with 27.3 yards per catch in 2022. Shorter is a deep-threat guy who can provide a unique spark as well as needed experience to an Ohio State offense.
