In an offseason so marred by all of Ohio’s player losses, the secondary group remained largely unchanged.
The secondary was a key unit on a defense that finished in the top 10 nationally last year, and with the return of several starters, the defensive backs will once again look to shore up the Bobcats’ defense.
Who is gone?
Justin Birchette and Torrie Cox are the primary losses in the secondary this offseason. Both cornerbacks played well last season, with Birchette finishing the season with 29 total tackles and nine pass breakups and Cox finishing his season with 36 total tackles, one interception and one pass breakup.
The two players combined for 4.5 tackles for loss and 1.5 sacks this year. Cox transferred to Illinois in the offseason and Birchette left to play professionally. Their departures will leave holes in Ohio’s secondary this season.
Safety Walter Reynolds was the other big loss for Ohio, as the graduate student had done great things in his final season in 2023, finishing with 71 total tackles, two interceptions and two pass breakups.
Who is back
The secondary was arguably the position group least affected by transfers and departures this offseason, as many key players such as Jeremiah Wood, Austin Brawley, Roman Parody, Tank Pearson and Adonis Williams returned.
Brawley only played nine games in 2023, but recorded 39 tackles, two interceptions and two pass breakups. Adonis Williams had a similar season last year as a safety, recording 39 tackles, 3.5 tackles for loss, one interception and two pass breakups.
Parody and Pearson were key players on the perimeter last season and will take on even bigger roles this season. Parody had 20 tackles and one pass defense last year, while Pearson finished with 16 tackles, two interceptions and one pass defense.
These returnees top a veteran group for Ohio and should be one of the best position groups on the field for Ohio in 2024.
Who is new
While there was no shortage of talent returning to the secondary, Ohio still added talent and experience in the transfer portal. Former Air Force and Wisconsin cornerback Michael Mack headlines the group. Mack was productive in his time at Air Force before transferring to Wisconsin, but his transfer eligibility prevented him from playing for the Badgers last season.
Jaylen Johnson is another cornerback with Big Ten experience who is transferring to Ohio this season. He played at Ohio State and Memphis before transferring to Ohio this season. The former four-star recruit should help bring some talent to Ohio this season.
Position outlook
Overall, the defensive back room is loaded with talented and experienced players this season. They return a wealth of players like Roman Parody, Tank Pearson, and Austin Brawley, and are still adding talent with guys like Michael Mack and Jaylen Johnson.
This unit should remain a highlight not only for Ohio’s defense this year, but for the entire team.
@CharlieFadel
