We all know Will Howard led the Buckeyes to a national championship last year, but it is worth taking a deeper look at the quarterback room that made it possible. There were six quarterbacks. Howard has now graduated and, if the stars align, could get an opportunity to start for the Steelers at some point next year. That may be optimistic, but not impossible.
What is remarkable is that there is a very real chance the other five quarterbacks could all be starters next season at their respective schools, assuming they make the right decisions.
Julian Sayin is the established starter at Ohio State. After being invited to New York on Heisman night as a redshirt freshman, there is no expectation of change here. The job is his, and the future of the position in Columbus is secure.
The remaining four quarterbacks have entered the transfer portal (at least once).
Devin Brown left Ohio State after last season for California. Things initially appeared promising, but he was ultimately beaten out by a true freshman, Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele. Brown is now searching for his third team in three years. The talent is there; the challenge is finding the right environment and situation. Choose wisely, Devin.
Next is Lincoln Kienholz. After three years at Ohio State, Lincoln is taking his talents elsewhere. In the right system, he can be a dynamic quarterback. A program like Cincinnati comes to mind as a strong fit. Here’s hoping 2026 is a highly productive season for him.
Air Noland departed almost as soon as Sayin arrived. It was clear that he was not in the same league as Sayin and, as a classmate, would likely never see the field at Ohio State. What was surprising was his portal destination of South Carolina. With LaNorris Sellers already established, Noland appeared willing to learn the system and wait his turn. When Sellers struggled his NFL timeline was pushed back, changing the schedule. Noland is now also looking for his third team in three years. A reunion with Brian Hartline at USF would make sense.
Finally, there is Mason Maggs. A legacy Buckeye and an excellent local high school quarterback, Maggs always understood he was unlikely to play Division I football. He embraced the scout team and quarterback confidant role, knowing he would not see the field. After four years of tutelage in one of the best quarterback rooms in the country, Maggs is now looking for an opportunity to play, likely at a smaller school. He is a class act and a natural leader, and he will do well wherever he lands.
You never know what life has in store. Next season, Ohio State quarterbacks could be leading five different college teams. Best wishes to all of them as they take the next step in their journeys.
