The Ohio State Buckeyes have had a remarkable run in the transfer portal, with four of their players ranking among ESPN's top 100 transfers in 2026. However, despite these impressive additions, no Buckeyes made it onto Joel Klatt's All-21st Century College Football Team, a surprising snub that has sparked debate among fans and analysts alike.
The four standout transfers are defensive tackle James Smith, defensive end Qua Russaw, safeties Earl Little Jr., and Terry Moore. Each brings unique skills and potential to the team, and their arrival is particularly crucial as Ohio State must replace eight defensive starters, including first- and second-round NFL draft picks.
James Smith, a junior, is a strong and versatile defensive tackle who can hold his ground, stack blocks, and get into gaps. He's also a relentless pass rusher with active hands and good power. His ability to play both inside and outside positions makes him a valuable asset.
Qua Russaw, a redshirt sophomore, is a versatile defender with a natural gift for athleticism. He can play stout against the run, drop back in coverage, and chase quarterbacks as a pass rusher. Despite injury concerns, he has the potential to be one of the top portal defenders.
Earl Little Jr., a redshirt junior, is a versatile safety who can play both box run defense and deep middle coverage. He's quick to make diagnoses and take direct angles to the ball, displaying great range and physicality. His ability to line up in different levels of the defense makes him a coveted player.
Terry Moore, a senior, is a physical safety with size, range, and instincts. He can play anywhere in the defense and made plays in all three levels in 2024. His quickness, closing speed, and ability to break up passes make him a reliable tackler in space.
Despite their impressive individual skills, the absence of these players from Klatt's All-21st Century Team has raised questions about the criteria for selection. Klatt's team includes notable players like Vince Young, Adrian Peterson, and Larry Fitzgerald, but the absence of Ohio State's stars is a topic of discussion.
One possible explanation is the team's focus on offensive players, with Klatt selecting quarterbacks, running backs, wide receivers, and tight ends. However, the lack of defensive players, especially from a dominant program like Ohio State, is surprising.
The Buckeyes' success in the transfer portal and their strong defensive unit under Matt Patricia suggest that they will remain a force in college football. While the snub from Klatt's team may be disappointing, it doesn't diminish the talent and potential of the four standout transfers who have joined the program.
