The Ohio State Buckeyes have finally woken up in the transfer portal after having a slow start to the window. Late Monday night, Alabama Crimson Tide transfers Qua Russaw and James Smith officially committed to play for Ryan Day and the Buckeyes.

Qua Russaw

Qua Russaw before joining the Ohio State Buckeyes.
Sep 14, 2024; Madison, Wisconsin, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide linebacker Qua Russaw (4) during the game against the Wisconsin Badgers at Camp Randall Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-Imagn Images

Russaw, an edge defender, recorded 49 tackles, two sacks, one forced fumble and two interceptions over two seasons at Alabama. With defensive end Caden Curry out of eligibility, Russaw is expected to step into a starting role right away.

A former five-star recruit out of Alabama, Russaw entered the transfer portal as the nation’s second-ranked linebacker. He will be a redshirt junior this fall, adding another experienced piece to the Buckeyes’ defense.

Senior defensive end Kenyatta Jackson Jr. is expected to return to Ohio State for a fifth season, though his decision has not yet been confirmed. If he does return, Jackson Jr. and Russaw would form one of the most imposing edge tandems in the Big Ten.

James Smith

James Smith before joining the Ohio State Buckeyes.
Dec 6, 2025; Atlanta, GA, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide defensive lineman James Smith (23) celebrates a defensive stop during the first quarter against the Georgia Bulldogs during the 2025 SEC Championship game at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-Imagn Images

Smith recorded 26 tackles and 2.5 sacks at defensive tackle last season for Alabama. With elite nose tackle Kayden McDonald entering the NFL Draft, Smith is expected to play a crucial role in the middle of Ohio State’s defensive line right away.

A senior this fall, Smith brings experience to a unit that continues to rebuild through the transfer portal.

Ohio State also added defensive tackle John Walker from the UCF Knights earlier in the window, further strengthening the interior defensive line. After fielding one of the nation’s top front sevens in each of the past two seasons, 2026 is setting up to be no different.

End Of My Ohio State Buckeyes Rant

With several recent additions, Ohio State’s defense is beginning to take shape. Replacing premier starters across multiple positions is not easy, but the Buckeyes appear to have addressed their key needs through the transfer portal.

Ohio State is still in the market for one more cornerback, but otherwise, the defense is nearing completion for the 2026 season. If the Buckeyes want to sustain their success, maintaining an elite level of defensive play will be crucial.