Ohio State Defensive End Joshua Mickens Entering Transfer Portal

Ohio State is losing another defensive lineman to the transfer portal, with edge rusher Joshua Mickens deciding to enter the portal on Tuesday.

Mickens came to Ohio State in the 2023 recruiting class as a four-star prospect out of Lawrence Central High School in Indianapolis, but he received limited playing time in his three seasons in Columbus. He recorded just six tackles, one tackle for loss and a sack.

The Buckeyes have now lost Caden Curry, C.J. Hicks and Logan George this offseason, the latter two to the portal. Kenyatta Jackson Jr. still has not announced whether he intends to return for one more season at Ohio State, but that decision will likely be coming soon since the deadline for underclassmen to declare is Jan. 14.

As of now, Beau Atkinson and Zion Grady are set to return from last season, both of whom played a small part in the success of the defensive line during the 2025 season.

The Buckeyes have also added former Alabama edge rusher Qua Russaw in the transfer portal, so there will be competition for playing time on the edges next season.