BREAKING: Buckeyes Confirms 5 star RB commitment from Transfer Portal
The transfer portal opened on Dec. 9, and Ohio State’s coaching staff has been hard at work balancing preparations for their Dec. 21 playoff game against Tennessee with recruiting efforts, particularly in the portal.
While offensive tackle remains a top priority for the Buckeyes, the staff has also focused on reinforcing the running back position. With current stars TreVeyon Henderson and Quinshon Judkins likely headed to the NFL draft in April, Ohio State has been searching for a seasoned running back to add depth and experience.
That search led them to West Virginia’s CJ Donaldson Jr., who visited Columbus on Dec. 22, just a day after Ohio State’s playoff victory over Tennessee. Shortly after, Donaldson signed with the Buckeyes.
The 6-foot-2, 238-pound Donaldson transitioned from being a 3-star tight end out of Miami’s Gulliver Prep in the 2022 recruiting class to becoming a standout running back for the Mountaineers. As a high school senior, Donaldson was ranked as the No. 50 tight end nationally and the No. 92 overall prospect in Florida, holding offers from programs like Florida State, Miami, and Ole Miss before committing to West Virginia.
During his time at WVU, Donaldson played in 19 games, starting 10, and recorded seven 100-yard rushing performances. His productivity earned him All-Big 12 Honorable Mention honors. Over two seasons, he accumulated 2,058 rushing yards and 30 touchdowns, showcasing his ability as both a powerful runner and a capable pass-catcher out of the backfield.
Donaldson is expected to be a key contributor for the Buckeyes next season, potentially forming a dynamic duo with James Peoples, who gained valuable experience as a true freshman. Also competing for carries will be second-year back Sam Williams-Dixon and incoming 2025 signees Bo Jackson, Isaiah West, and Anthony Rogers. With Donaldson’s experience and versatility, Ohio State looks poised to maintain a strong running game heading into next season.