Breaking: Ohio State is in contention to land one of their Big Ten rivals’ star defensive players

Ohio State’s defense should be among the best in the country by 2024, and while that side of the ball is already stacked, they can always add additional depth.

They might potentially target one of their Big Ten opponents’ top players, who entered the spring transfer portal last week.

Ohio State Has Stars All Over Their Defense

This offseason, the Buckeyes were extremely fortunate since many of their standout defenders elected to return to school rather than pursue a professional career. Some of the big names included defensive lineman Tyleik Williams, defensive ends J.T. Tuimoloau and Jack Sawyer, and defensive backs Lathan Ransom, Denzel Burke, and Jordan Hancock.

Ohio State just did not return almost every major defensive piece. Nonetheless, they secured the finest defensive transfer in the country in Alabama’s safety, Caleb Downs, and now have the opportunity to sign a quality defensive tackle.

Derrick Harmon Could Be Heading To Columbus

Derrick Harmon, Michigan State’s outstanding defensive tackle, entered the transfer portal early last week, and On3.com’s Steve Wiltfong and Pete Nakos report that Harmon is interested in joining the Buckeyes.

The 6-foot-5,320-pound defensive lineman originally entered the portal in late December of last year and paid a visit to Ohio State on December 12th. However, he chose to remove his name from the portal and return to Michigan State. Nonetheless, he entered his name back into the portal after spring ball ended last week.

Harmon enrolled at Michigan State in 2021, and last season, Harmon recorded 40 tackles with 3.5 for loss and 1.5 sacks.

Three Other Big Ten Schools Are In The Mix

Three other Big Ten colleges, including Oregon, USC, and Michigan State, are all reportedly interested in the Detroit, Michigan native. Colorado is also on the list of colleges, although this season they will play in the Big 12.

It will be intriguing to watch which school Harmon chooses, and one Big Ten school may be thrilled if they acquire the standout defensive tackle.