Columbus, OH – As the Ohio State Buckeyes prepare for their 2026 spring practice, a significant shift is underway in the secondary. With the departure of key players to the NFL and transfers reshaping the roster, opportunities are emerging for younger players to take on larger roles. All eyes are on sophomore cornerback Devin Sanchez, who is positioned to compete for a starting spot and become a crucial component of the Buckeyes’ defense.
The Buckeyes face considerable rebuilding in their defensive backfield, needing to replace two-time unanimous All-American safety Caleb Downs, cornerback Davison Igbinosun, and nickelback Lorenzo Styles Jr. The team is looking to fill these gaps with a combination of returning players and incoming transfers, but it’s Sanchez who appears to have a clear path to increased playing time. The situation presents a pivotal moment for the former five-star recruit to solidify his place within the program.
Opportunity Knocks for Sanchez
Sanchez saw his role expand late in the 2025 season after an injury to Lorenzo Styles, gaining valuable experience in live game situations. While he experienced some initial growing pains, he reportedly demonstrated significant improvement as the season progressed. Now, with the cornerback position significantly thinned by departures, Sanchez has a prime opportunity to earn a starting role alongside Jermaine Mathews Jr. Mathews Jr., a solid player in his own right, will benefit from having a capable counterpart on the opposite side of the field, and Sanchez possesses the talent to become that player.
According to reports, Ohio State’s coaching staff, including Matt Patricia, recognizes Sanchez’s potential. Patricia is said to be impressed by Sanchez’s size and speed, but emphasizes the need for continued development. A successful spring practice will be critical for Sanchez to refine his technique and demonstrate his readiness for a more prominent role. Specifically, improving his ability to avoid being beaten off the line of scrimmage – an area where he struggled at times last season – will be key to breaking up passes and forcing incompletions.
Secondary Overhaul and Key Returners
The changes in the secondary aren’t limited to the cornerback position. Ohio State has brought in transfer safeties Terry Moore and Earl Little Jr. To compete for starting roles alongside returning starter Jaylen McClain. McClain excelled as a strong safety in 2025, recording 53 tackles and allowing just 15 catches for 84 yards in 27 targets, according to Pro Football Focus. He is now expected to take on a leadership role within the safety corps.
The Buckeyes also have depth returning in the secondary with players like Leroy Roker III, Miles Lockhart, Brenten “Inky” Jones, Jordyn Woods, and DeShawn Stewart. Although, it is Sanchez who is generating the most buzz as a potential breakout player this spring.
The team’s spring practice will be a crucial testing ground for these players as they vie for starting positions and establish the pecking order for the 2026 season. The coaching staff will be evaluating not only individual performance but also how the fresh pieces fit together within the defensive scheme.
As Ohio State navigates this period of transition, the development of players like Devin Sanchez will be paramount to maintaining a high level of play in the secondary. The upcoming spring practices will provide a first glimpse into how the Buckeyes plan to address these challenges and build a competitive defensive backfield.
The focus now shifts to the spring practice sessions, where Sanchez will have the opportunity to showcase his growth and compete for a starting role. The outcome of these practices will undoubtedly shape the Buckeyes’ defensive strategy heading into the 2026 season.
What will be the impact of the new transfer safeties on the overall defensive scheme? Share your thoughts in the comments below and be sure to share this article with fellow Ohio State fans.
