Ohio State Adds Ex-Michigan LB Transfer
Michigan might be on top of the college football ranks, but one Wolverine is crossing enemy lines this offseason. Linebacker Joey Velazquez has transferred to Ohio State as a graduate transfer, according to Eleven Warriors. The former 2019 three-star recruit will join the Buckeyes as a walk-on this spring. A native of Columbus, Velazquez appeared in 16 games across five seasons with the Wolverines. His best season came in 2021 when he played in 10 games and recorded a career-high six tackles. The 6-2, 222-pound defender finished his Wolverine career with eight tackles and one fumble recovery.
At Ohio State, Velazquez will look to crack the two-man depth chart with the help of James Laurinaitis. The former All-American Buckeyes star recently posted a photo of all the linebackers, including Velazquez, watching the Super Bowl LVIII at his home in Columbus. With the addition of Velazquez, the Buckeyes have brought seven transfers via the portal since their 14-3 loss against Missouri in the Cotton Bowl. Top names like quarterback Will Howard (Kansas State), running back Quinshon Judkins (Ole Miss), center Chase McLaughlin (Alabama), and safety Caleb Downs (Alabama) should be plug-and-play starters come Week 1. Tight end Will Kacmarek (Ohio) could win the starting job in spring practice following the departure of John Mackey finalist Cade Stover. Last season with the Bobcats, the 6-6 St. Louis native totaled 22 catches for 243 yards and two TDs.
Ohio State also added five-star recruit and former Alabama signee Julian Sayin following the retirement of Nick Saban. Sayin, On3’s No. 2 2024 quarterback recruit, will compete for the starting job alongside Devin Brown, Lincoln Kienholtz and four-star recruit Air Noland, but could redshirt to save a season of eligibility. The Buckeyes open the 2024 season at Ohio Stadium against Akron on Aug. 31.
