The Ohio State Buckeyes, fresh off their national title victory in the expanded College Football Playoff format earlier this year, continue to dominate in roster building under head coach Ryan Day.
Day has established himself as one of the premier recruiters in college football, excelling at attracting top high school prospects and key additions from the transfer portal to maintain the program’s elite status.
This recruiting prowess played a pivotal role in the Buckeyes capturing the championship last season, and it positions them well for a potential repeat in the upcoming campaign.
In recent cycles, Ohio State has strategically utilized the portal to secure impactful players, such as contributions from transfers in previous years that helped shape a championship-caliber squad.
Now, as the offseason progresses, the program is once again active in exploring portal opportunities to enhance their lineup.
According to a report from Zach Abolverdi of Gator Online, as shared by The Scarlet and Gray Podcast, the Buckeyes are showing interest in Florida transfer portal running back Jadan Baugh.
Landing Baugh could prove to be a significant move for the Buckeyes’ offense, providing additional options in the backfield.
While standout freshman Bo Jackson has already emerged as a key contributor this season, incorporating Baugh would add crucial layers of depth and versatility.
In his 2025 campaign with the Gators, Baugh delivered an impressive performance, rushing 220 times for 1,170 yards and eight touchdowns while averaging 5.3 yards per carry. He also demonstrated receiving skills with 33 catches for 210 yards and two scores.
As a member of the 2024 recruiting class, per 247Sports, Baugh entered college as a three-star athlete, rated as the No. 19 player at his position and the No. 381 prospect nationally.
Over his initial two years at the collegiate level, Baugh has proven his capability as a dynamic contributor capable of making big plays.
Bringing in a runner of his caliber would strengthen Ohio State’s ground attack considerably.
Such an addition could ease the burden on quarterback Julian Sayin, star receiver Jeremiah Smith, and the aerial attack overall. Pairing Baugh with Jackson might create a powerful tandem in the backfield, reminiscent of the productive duo featuring TreVeyon Henderson and Quinshon Judkins from the previous championship season.
Although multiple programs are reportedly pursuing Baugh, Ohio State’s status as a perennial powerhouse gives them a strong position in the recruitment process, especially with Day at the helm guiding the effort.
