Two 2026 transfers have become “official” Buckeyes, as Ohio State defensive tackle James Smith and wide receiver Devin McCuin shed their black stripes after Saturday’s Student Appreciation Day practice.
McCuin transferred to Ohio State after three seasons at UTSA, earning third-team honors in the American conference after hauling in 65 receptions for 726 yards and eight touchdowns last season with the Roadrunners.
The 6-0, 189-pound wide receiver joined a Buckeye receiver room featuring two-time Big Ten Wide Receiver of the Year and rising junior Jeremiah Smith, rising senior Brandon Inniss, and fellow transfer wideout Kyle Parker of LSU, who shed his black stripe on March 28.
Smith transferred to Ohio State after three seasons with Alabama, along with Crimson Tide defensive end Qua Russaw, ranking as the ninth overall transfer and No. 1 defensive line prospect in the transfer portal, according to 247Sports.
The senior defensive tackle totaled 26 total tackles, 2.5 sacks and a pass breakup last season with the Crimson Tide and will fight for a starting spot among a strong Ohio State defensive tackle group.
A native of Montgomery, Ala., the 6-2, 314-pound defensive tackle will compete against returners rising junior Eddrick Houston, rising senior Will Smith Jr., and UCF transfer John Walker for time.
Smith and McCuin are now the sixth and seventh Buckeyes to shed their black stripes in 2026.
