Ex-Michigan linebacker Joey Velazquez opts to transfer to Ohio State.
According to a report, Joey Velazquez, a former linebacker for the Michigan Wolverines, is set to leave Ann Arbor and make a move to Columbus to join the Ohio State Buckeyes. This offseason switch sees the Wolverines’ linebacker, a graduate transfer, becoming a walk-on for the Buckeyes starting this spring.
A Columbus native, Velazquez played in 16 games over five seasons with the Wolverines. His standout season was in 2021, participating in 10 games and achieving a career-high six tackles. The 6-2, 222-pound defender concluded his time with the Wolverines with eight tackles and one fumble recovery.
In his pursuit at Ohio State, Velazquez aims to secure a spot on the two-man depth chart with guidance from James Laurinaitis, a former All-American Buckeyes star. Laurinaitis recently shared a photo featuring all linebackers, including Velazquez, watching Super Bowl LVIII at his home in Columbus.
The Buckeyes have been active in the transfer portal, adding seven players since their loss against Missouri in the Cotton Bowl. Notable names include quarterback Will Howard (Kansas State), running back Quinshon Judkins (Ole Miss), center Chase McLaughlin (Alabama), and safety Caleb Downs (Alabama), expected to be key contributors from Week 1.
Tight end Will Kacmarek (Ohio) could contend for the starting position following the departure of Cade Stover. Stover, a John Mackey finalist, left an opening that Kacmarek might fill after a productive season with the Bobcats, tallying 22 catches for 243 yards and two TDs.
Ohio State also welcomed five-star recruit Julian Sayin, a former Alabama signee, who will compete for the starting quarterback position alongside Devin Brown, Lincoln Kienholtz, and four-star recruit Air Noland. The Buckeyes are set to kick off their 2024 season at Ohio Stadium against Akron on Aug. 31.
