Ohio State coach Ryan Day was only allowed to bring three players with him to Big Ten Media Days in Las Vegas, but he wanted to bring plenty more. When asked who he wanted to bring in addition to the trio of junior safety Caleb Downs, sophomore wide receiver Jeremiah Smith and senior linebacker Sonny Styles, Day listed off several players during an interview on Tuesday, including redshirt junior defensive end Kenyatta Jackson Jr.
Jackson, a former top-60 recruit out of the 2022 class, hasn’t had the chance to spread his wings as a starter at defensive end with All-Big Ten pass-rushers JT Tuimoloau and Jack Sawyer sitting atop the depth chart in previous years. However, with both Tuimoloau and Sawyer currently in the NFL, Jackson has an opportunity to be a regular contributor along the defensive line this year. According to Downs, the 6-5 pass rusher is trending in the right direction heading into training camp.
“Kenyatta Jackson has stepped up in a big way this summer,” Downs said. “(He and Caden Curry) are elite players, and they’ve been waiting for their time, so I’m eager to see what they do when they get on the field.”
Jackson has also made improvements off the field, as a leader, according to Downs, and while trying to become better in his own right, he’s also aimed to help the entire position group as a whole.
“He’s just stepping up into a leadership role, taking control of the defensive line room,” Downs said. “He’s a veteran guy in that room, and he has a lot to prove. He’s pushed himself this summer to become better for himself and for the team, so I’m excited.”
Although Jackson was a backup defensive end in 2024, he still played in all 16 games for the Buckeyes, recording 16 tackles and 1.5 sacks. According to Styles, Jackson’s numbers could skyrocket in 2025.
“Kenyatta Jackson has done a very good job (as a leader).” Styles said. “I’m really excited for him. He’s going to have a huge year. He’s a great dude who does things the right way every day. He holds everyone accountable, including me. He obviously has all the tools it takes to be a monster, so I’m very excited for him.”
