Following an offseason that saw 17 Buckeye veterans leave for the draft, Ohio State knew it would need new leaders to emerge.
Four Buckeyes have risen to the occasion, earning the honor of leading the Buckeyes throughout this season.
On Saturday, Ohio State announced that safety Caleb Downs, linebacker Sonny Styles, offensive lineman Austin Siereveld, and wide receiver Brandon Inniss would serve as captains for the 2025 season, recognizing their leadership and dedication during the offseason.
Downs earned the honor after leading one of the nation’s top defenses at Ohio State to a national championship, standing out as both a field general and a vocal leader for the Buckeyes.
In his first season with the Buckeyes, the former Alabama transfer Downs recorded 81 total tackles, eight pass breakups, and two interceptions. He also contributed as a punt returner, returning six punts on the year, including one of a touchdown against Indiana.
Styles follows in former Buckeye linebacker Cody Simon’s footsteps, becoming the sixth Block ‘O’ recipient in Ohio State history.
The senior linebacker has played in 41 games at Ohio State over three seasons, and had a career-high 100 total tackles and six sacks with the Buckeyes last season.
Siereveld steps in as one of the key returners along Ohio State’s offensive line. The junior lineman played in all 16 games for the Buckeyes in 2024-25 and is now transitioning from guard to left tackle.
Inniss may be the least experienced of the new group of captains, but his impact has been unmistakable. The junior wideout earned high praise in camp from offensive coordinator Brian Hartline and fellow receiver Jeremiah Smith for his relentless energy and enthusiasm.
The Hollywood, Fla., native, Inniss, accumulated 15 catches for 234 yards and two scores in his first two seasons at Ohio State.
