Two schools are already standing out for Ohio State transfer QB Lincoln Kienholz in the portal after his departure from Columbus
The Buckeyes’ backup quarterback may not end up going far at all.
The transfer portal is open and hundreds upon hundreds of college football players around the country will be entering. Ohio State has had several players already enter with more yet to decide.
One player who entered was QB Lincoln Kienholz, meaning that the Buckeyes will have a new backup quarterback in 2026. Kienholz spent three years with the program and is now in search of a chance at being the guy for a new school.
Pair of programs already standing out to land Ohio State transfer Lincoln Kienholz
According to On3’s Pete Nakos, two early schools to keep tabs on for Kienholz are Louisville and Cincinnati. Both programs will have new starting quarterbacks in 2026 and Kienholz fits that possible mold. The portal opened on Friday and will stay open for 10 days. Kienholz’s decision to enter came one day after the Buckeyes fell to Miami in the Cotton Bowl.
Kienholz played in 12 games over three seasons with the Buckeyes. During that time, the South Dakota native completed 21-of-36 passes for 250 yards and a touchdown. Kienholz brings dual threat ability and had 17 rushing attempts for 68 yards and a pair of touchdowns while in Columbus. Kienholz is the No. 77 overall player and No. 14 quarterback in 247 Sports’ transfer portal rankings.
In the class of 2023, Kienholz was the No. 15 quarterback and No. 194 player nationally. Kienholz battled for the starting job in Columbus before the 2025 season and eventually lost it to Julian Sayin.
With his senior season approaching, Kienholz is bound to land in a spot where he can start. Louisville and Cincinnati are the two early favorites for where that landing spot will be.
Ohio State Buckeyes News
Ohio State football is wasting no time bringing in a productive transfer portal player for a visit to Columbus
The Buckeyes are already working the transfer portal with a visit lined up.
