Ohio State Reloads Defense After Key Departures

Matt Patricia's system remains intact as Buckeyes replace eight starters on the nation's top defense.

Mar. 13, 2026 at 8:55am

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Ohio State is losing eight defensive starters, including the core of the unit that made Matt Patricia's first season as defensive coordinator so dominant. However, Patricia's system is already installed, the coaching staff is returning intact, and several players who have been developing in the system for a year are now ready to step into larger roles. The Buckeyes are reloading rather than rebuilding their defense, with Patricia's adaptable approach and the program's track record of developing talent expected to ease the transition.

Why it matters

Ohio State's defense was the backbone of the team's championship run in 2025, and maintaining that level of performance is crucial to the Buckeyes' hopes of contending for another title. Patricia's ability to quickly install his system and get the most out of his players was a big part of the defense's success, and continuing that momentum will be key as the team replaces several key starters.

The details

Ohio State is losing eight defensive starters, including standouts like Caleb Downs, Sonny Styles, and Kayden McDonald. However, Patricia's system is already in place, with the coaching staff and terminology all established. Several players who have been developing in the system, like Kenyatta Jackson, Payton Pierce, and C.J. Hicks, are now ready to step into larger roles. The defensive line, which lost its entire starting unit, is also expected to reload thanks to Patricia's adaptable approach and Ohio State's history of developing talent up front.

  • Ohio State won the national championship in 2025 with Patricia's defense leading the way.
  • Patricia is entering his second season as Ohio State's defensive coordinator in 2026.

The players

Matt Patricia

Ohio State's defensive coordinator, who is entering his second season in that role after installing a new defensive scheme in 2025 that led the Buckeyes to a national championship.

Kenyatta Jackson

A defensive lineman who returns as a proven starter after playing a key role in Ohio State's dominant 2025 defense.

Payton Pierce

A linebacker who has been developing in Patricia's system for a year and is expected to step into a larger role in 2026.

C.J. Hicks

A linebacker who moved to defensive end under Patricia's guidance in 2025 and showed promise as a pass rusher.

Larry Johnson

Ohio State's defensive line coach, who has a track record of developing talented defensive linemen.

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What they’re saying

“Do we just have 11 starters? No, we have starters in a multitude of packaging. It's our job to be able to get them out there.”

— Matt Guerrieri, Safeties coach

“Those guys are gonna be ready. Really having a chance to go win a national championship.”

— Kayden McDonald, Former Ohio State defensive lineman

“The change to edge allows me to be more aggressive. A lot of people think because of the fact I am 240 I don't have any power. But I'll definitely run through somebody's face if I need to.”

— C.J. Hicks, Ohio State linebacker/defensive end

The takeaway

Ohio State's defense is reloading rather than rebuilding, with Matt Patricia's adaptable system and the program's track record of developing talent expected to ease the transition as the Buckeyes replace several key starters. The foundation is in place, and the next wave of players are already familiar with the scheme, putting Ohio State in a strong position to maintain its defensive dominance in 2026.