Examining a potential depth chart for Ohio State's running backs as we head into the 2026 season.
Ohio State Buckeyes running back Bo Jackson runs during the Cotton Bowl at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas for the College Football Playoff quarterfinal game against the Miami Hurricanes on Dec. 31, 2025.
Ohio State lost 24-14. | Adam Cairns/Columbus Dispatch / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images Ohio State's running back room is shaping up to resemble last season's, with many key contributors from 2025 set to return in 2026.
Although the Buckeyes have lost running back CJ Donaldson Jr. to the NFL and James Peoples to the transfer portal — whereJackson joined Ohio State as a true freshman last season, and by the time the second game rolled around, he began to demonstrate that he could be the top running back moving forward. Over the course of 13 games, Jackson recorded 1,090 rushing yards and six touchdowns, gradually developing into one of the best running backs One of the main reasons Peoples transferred out of Ohio State this offseason is that Jackson has developed into the number one running back.
If nothing unfortunate happens to Jackson during training camp, he should be the starter when the season kicks off. West is very similar to Jackson as he heads into his sophomore season at Ohio State, and he shouldn’t be overlooked as the No. 2 running back heading into the season. Last year, he appeared in 10 games, recording 310 rushing yards and two touchdowns.
Jackson and West should handle the majority of the carries this season, as Ohio State will rely on these two running backs to establish the ground game and open up opportunities in the passing game.this season after his time at Florida, where he will likely serve as the No. 3 running back on the depth chart. During his 17 games with the Gators, Jackson recorded 607 rushing yards but was unable to find the end zone.
Jackson should still see the field a handful of times a game as the No. 3 running back, but it will be interesting to see what kind of role Ohio State has for him. Bey is set to be an exciting player for all Ohio State fans to watch this season, as he stands out more as a special athlete than just a running back.
There's a strong chance that Ohio State will utilize Bey in various positions across the field, but he is expected to be the No. 4 running back on the depth chart as he steps into his role as a true freshman this season. Daniel is a sports writer from Northeast Ohio. He has followed the Browns, Cavs, Guardians, and Buckeyes for years and loves sharing his thoughts on the team.
Ryan Day Delivers Stern Message Regarding Ohio State-Michigan Rivalry ImportanceWay-Too-Early 2026 Heisman Trophy Rankings: Arch Manning Leads Loaded List of Hopefuls
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
2026 Würth 400 presented by LIQUI MOLY - Final Leaderboard - May 03, 2026View 2026 Würth 400 presented by LIQUI MOLY race, qualifier and practice leaderboards, live streams, bonus cameras, videos and odds information.
Read more »
Ashley Graham Was Hand-Sewn Into Her 2026 Met Gala LookAshley Graham’s 2026 Met Gala look was inspired by the fall 2026 runways.
Read more »
2026 WNBA franchise valuations: Golden State Valkyries are first $1 billion teamCNBC has released its list of the most valuable WNBA franchises in 2026, with one team hitting the $1 billion mark. Here's the full list.
Read more »
Lisa Channels Her Inner Goddess With Custom Robert Wun at the 2026 Met Gala 2026'The White Lotus' alum turned to Robert Wun for her attire.
Read more »
Ryan Day Must Trust These 3 Ohio State Buckeyes More in 2026Here are three Ohio State players that head coach Ryan Day must have greater confidence in this season.
Read more »
Vance votes in person in 2026 Ohio primary after Trump’s mail-in blowbackVice President JD Vance said he cast his vote for Vivek Ramaswamy for Ohio governor.
Read more »