Three Ohio State Players Poised for All-American Honors in 2026

Buckeyes look to reload with new stars after several key players depart for the NFL

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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Despite a disappointing playoff finish to the 2025 season, the Ohio State Buckeyes had four players earn All-American honors. With three of those stars - Caleb Downs, Kayden MacDonald, and Arvell Reese - now headed to the NFL, the Buckeyes will need to reload with new talent. This article highlights three players who could be in line for All-American recognition in 2026: wide receiver Jeremiah Smith, offensive tackle Austin Siereveld, and defensive end Kenyatta Jackson Jr.

Why it matters

Ohio State is always among the nation's elite programs, and maintaining that status requires consistently developing top-tier talent. After losing several key All-Americans, the Buckeyes will need new stars to emerge if they hope to compete for a national championship in 2026.

The details

Jeremiah Smith is the surest bet to earn All-American honors, coming off a 2025 season with 87 catches for 1,243 yards and 12 touchdowns. He'll look to match or exceed that production with the departure of fellow wideout Carnell Tate. Offensive tackle Austin Siereveld was one of the best in the country last season, allowing just 8 pressures all year, and he chose to return for one more season rather than enter the NFL draft. Defensive end Kenyatta Jackson Jr. flashed potential as a redshirt sophomore but dealt with an injury, and he'll be counted on to have a breakout year as the star of the Buckeyes' defensive line.

  • The 2025 season saw four Ohio State players earn All-American honors.
  • Caleb Downs, Kayden MacDonald, and Arvell Reese have declared for the 2026 NFL Draft.
  • The 2026 season will be Jeremiah Smith's second year as a starter, Austin Siereveld's final college season, and Kenyatta Jackson Jr.'s redshirt senior campaign.

The players

Jeremiah Smith

A wide receiver who earned his first All-American nod in 2025 after catching 87 passes for 1,243 yards and 12 touchdowns.

Austin Siereveld

An offensive tackle who was one of the best in the country in 2025, allowing just 8 pressures all season, and chose to return for one more year rather than enter the NFL draft.

Kenyatta Jackson Jr.

A defensive end who flashed potential as a redshirt sophomore but dealt with an injury, and will be counted on to have a breakout year as the star of the Buckeyes' defensive line.

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The takeaway

Ohio State's ability to consistently reload with elite talent is a major reason for the program's sustained success. The emergence of Jeremiah Smith, Austin Siereveld, and Kenyatta Jackson Jr. as potential All-Americans will be crucial if the Buckeyes hope to compete for a national championship in 2026.