CJ Hicks is currently in the middle of a battle for the starting linebacker spot at Will with Sonny Styles. Although the starter for the Ohio State Buckeyes isn’t quite set yet, defensive coordinator Jim Knowles recently talked about putting both players on the field and possibly using some three-linebacker sets.
Sonny Styles was recently named to Bruce Feldman’s annual “Freaks” list, and for good reason. The converted safety can fly around the field and makes good plays no matter where he’s lined up. At the same time, Hicks gets a lot of praise for his blitzing abilities. Eleven Warriors recently wrote about James Laurinaitis and Cody Simon, both of whom raved about Hicks.
With the team’s linebackers coach saying that Hicks is “probably the best blitzer on our team,” and veteran linebacker Mike also calling Hicks “one of the best blitzers on our team,” this clearly reinforces the idea that Hicks is a threat in the backfield.
In recent memory, there was one former Ohio State linebacker who seemed more dangerous in the backfield than anywhere else – that was Baron Browning. Browning played for the Buckeyes from 2017-2020, but shined as a blitzer during the 2019 season. That season, he recorded five sacks and had 43 total tackles from his linebacker position. Browning had a strong, sturdy build, which led to him spending a lot of time as an inside linebacker. His versatility allowed him to also play outside linebacker and even defensive end.
Although Browning could do pretty much everything, he performed best when he was closer to the line of scrimmage. His physicality and explosiveness came to the fore when rushing the passer. The Denver Broncos benefited from drafting him in the third round of the 2021 NFL Draft and using him as an outside linebacker in their 3-4 defensive scheme.
In 2022, Browning totaled 24 tackles and five sacks in just 14 games. Unfortunately for Browning and Denver, he missed the first six games of the 2023 season due to a torn meniscus. Upon his return, he once again appeared to be one of the team’s most dangerous pass rushers, recording 4.5 sacks and two forced fumbles in just 10 games.
Browning is currently listed at 6’3″ and 230 pounds, while CJ Hicks is listed at 6’3″ and 230 pounds, nearly identical sizes. If Hicks has the same explosiveness and ability as a pass rusher in addition to the similar size and stature, then his game may be best utilized as a 3-4 outside linebacker in the NFL.
If Styles can secure the starting linebacker spot from Will, Hicks might be the perfect designated pass rusher on the field. While Knowles explains that there would be more three-linebacker sets, it’s hard to imagine Ohio State not having five defensive backs on the field on most plays. On obvious passing attempts, like third-and-long, perhaps a down lineman could pop out for a player like Hicks. Hicks could line up near the line of scrimmage outside of Jack Sawyer or JT Tuimoloau.
The use of speed and aggressiveness is certainly intriguing. This could be an advantageous and productive tactic if the Ohio State coaching staff decides to use it to their advantage. This could not only help the Buckeyes this year, but also benefit Hicks when he eventually gets to the NFL.
If Hicks can consistently display Browning-like explosiveness, Ohio State fans will likely see a big impact from him this season, regardless of the exact role.
