The Ohio State Buckeyes are going to have a good chance to compete to win it all again in 2026, but getting back to that level again will heavily rely on the step QB Julian Sayin is able to take. 

Sayin was good in his first year as a starter last year, but there was meat left on the bone. The California native struggled in the last two games of the season in the biggest moments against Indiana and Miami. 

It would be great for all involved if Sayin can make the jump into being a legit first-round draft prospect. If he doesn’t, Ohio State will have a tough decision on its hands. 

ESPN draft analyst’s take on Julian Sayin is raising eyebrows  

Jordan Reid of ESPN put out an early list taking a look at the top 2027 draft prospects. It’s a good piece, you should read it. I believe Reid is one of the best in the business when it comes to the draft. I personally was interested in his take on where Ohio State’s starting QB can improve. 

 “Sayin doesn’t have ideal size, and his lack of arm strength to drive the ball into tight areas is apparent, resulting in few throws in the middle of the field. The Buckeyes’ offense has a lot of predetermined deep throws to the outside and quick-game concepts attacking the off coverage by defenders. Pre- to post-snap coverage rotation was a constant battle for Sayin last season, especially in losses to Indiana and Miami. Scouts also want to see Sayin use his mobility more. His youth (20 years old) might lead him to wait until 2028 to enter the draft.”

The last part is the most interesting, that Sayin’s age could be more reason for him to return to college for a fourth year. The redshirt sophomore sat behind Will Howard and Lincoln Kienholz a season before he was the starter in 2025. Deciding to return for another college season would mean Sayin didn’t light the world on fire, and it would leave OSU with a decision to make. 

Ohio State perhaps could have another Kyle McCord situation in its hands 

If Ohio State comes up short again in 2025 and Sayin doesn’t take the leap, then yes, he’s likely returning to school. The problem is that Ohio State has former five-star recruit Tavien St. Clair behind him. As it currently stands, St. Clair is going to spend the first two seasons of his college career on the bench. 

St. Clair wouldn’t be sitting on the bench a third season, so it’s possible Ohio State would have to push Sayin out to let the younger QB with a rocket arm step in. Of course, we’re talking in theoreticals here, but it’s a real possibility.

If all goes to Ohio State’s plans, Sayin will help lead them to a national title in 2026 in what will be Jeremiah Smith’s last year with the program. Then, both players would head off to the NFL. If Sayin doesn’t show enough to be a first-round pick, things will get interesting.