With several key Ohio State Buckeyes defensive stars heading to the NFL Draft, the 2025 season opens the door for new faces to step up. One of those players is **C.J. Hicks**, a former highly touted recruit who has spent the past two years buried on the depth chart at linebacker.
After recording 22 tackles and two sacks in limited action last season, Hicks is set for a bigger role—and a new position. The 21-year-old is transitioning from linebacker to edge rusher, a move that defensive line coach **Larry Johnson** believes could pay off.
*“C.J.’s with me right now trying to learn how to play the position as a defensive end standup and not as a linebacker,”* Johnson said, per *Eleven Warriors*. *“He’s bought into what we’re doing, and I think that’s the key. He’s done an outstanding job thus far.”*
The Buckeyes are losing star edge rushers **Jack Sawyer** and **JT Tuimoloau** to the NFL, leaving big shoes to fill. Johnson is confident Hicks can make the transition, emphasizing the need for him to adapt to playing on the line of scrimmage rather than in space.
*“Once we accomplish that, I think he’ll have a chance to give us some great depth and really do some good things for us,”* Johnson added. *“I’m excited about him because he’s really excited about the position change.”*
Ohio State’s pass rush was dominant in 2024, ranking second nationally with 53 sacks. Hicks’ development will be crucial in maintaining that elite level of play in 2025. If he can thrive in his new role, the Buckeyes’ defense could remain one of the nation’s most fearsome units.
Leave a Reply