Ohio State University has long been known as a powerhouse in college football, consistently producing elite talent across all positions. One position, however, stands out in particular for its storied legacy: linebacker. From iconic names like Chris Spielman and A.J. Hawk to current stars like Pete Werner and Baron Browning, Ohio State football has established a tradition of linebacker excellence. But as the future of the program continues to unfold, the next great Buckeye linebacker may not come from the typical recruiting grounds. Instead, he could come from Cleveland, Ohio, bringing with him the grit, determination, and potential to continue Ohio State’s legacy of linebacker dominance.
The story of Ohio State’s linebackers is not just about individual accolades but about the program’s ability to develop players into some of the best in the country, many of whom go on to have successful NFL careers. The Buckeyes’ linebacking corps has often served as the backbone of the defense, ensuring that Ohio State remains a formidable force in the Big Ten and on the national stage. As the next generation of linebackers prepares to carry the torch, one Cleveland native is beginning to rise above the rest, showing that the next great linebacker for Ohio State might come from his city.
Ohio State’s Linebacker Legacy: A Tradition of Greatness
Before diving into the story of the Cleveland native who may continue this tradition, it’s important to understand the incredible history that Ohio State football has in developing elite linebackers. The position has been a cornerstone of the program for decades, with countless All-Americans, Big Ten champions, and future NFL stars emerging from the ranks.
Chris Spielman: The Early Standard
When talking about Ohio State’s linebacker history, one of the first names that comes to mind is Chris Spielman. A standout player for the Buckeyes from 1984 to 1987, Spielman’s tenacity and leadership set the standard for what it meant to be an Ohio State linebacker. Known for his intensity on the field, Spielman was a two-time All-American and a 1987 Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year. His ability to diagnose plays and make tackles all over the field earned him the reputation of one of the best linebackers in college football history.
Spielman’s success at Ohio State translated to the NFL, where he became a star with the Detroit Lions. His career in the pros solidified his place as one of the greatest linebackers of his era. For Ohio State, Spielman represents the archetype of the linebacker who is not only physically gifted but also mentally sharp, a trait that continues to be sought after in recruits today.
A.J. Hawk: The Modern Benchmark
In the early 2000s, Ohio State linebacker A.J. Hawk emerged as the next great linebacker in the Buckeyes’ rich history. Playing for Ohio State from 2002 to 2005, Hawk was a tackling machine and a leader on some of the most successful teams in recent memory. His versatility allowed him to excel in both run defense and pass coverage, and his ability to contribute to all areas of the defense made him indispensable to the Buckeyes.
Hawk’s career culminated in a national championship in 2002 and a Heisman Trophy finalist nod in 2005. After finishing his college career with numerous awards and accolades, Hawk went on to have a successful career in the NFL, most notably with the Green Bay Packers, with whom he won a Super Bowl. Hawk’s career at Ohio State exemplified what it means to be an elite linebacker in a program that values both athleticism and leadership. His combination of intelligence, physicality, and consistency continues to serve as the gold standard for Ohio State linebackers.
Recent Stars: Pete Werner, Baron Browning, and the Next Generation
While Spielman and Hawk are two of the most prominent names in Ohio State linebacker history, recent players have continued the tradition of excellence. Pete Werner, for example, was a standout for the Buckeyes from 2017 to 2020, finishing his career as a key contributor to the Buckeyes’ defense. Werner’s ability to cover tight ends and running backs in pass coverage, combined with his physicality against the run, made him one of the most well-rounded linebackers in the country during his time at Ohio State.
Similarly, Baron Browning’s development into an elite linebacker during his time in Columbus helped Ohio State’s defense remain one of the best in the country. Browning was known for his speed and athleticism, which allowed him to make plays all over the field. After his time at Ohio State, Browning was selected by the Denver Broncos in the third round of the 2021 NFL Draft.
The ability to develop linebackers who are versatile, intelligent, and impactful is at the core of Ohio State’s recruiting philosophy. But as the Buckeyes continue to build their linebacker corps, one of the most exciting and promising recruits in recent years comes from a city that has already produced some of Ohio State’s most talented athletes: Cleveland.
The Cleveland Native: The Next Great Linebacker?
The Cleveland native who is poised to continue Ohio State’s rich linebacker tradition is none other than C.J. Hicks. Hicks, a five-star linebacker from Archbishop Alter High School in Dayton, Ohio, is widely regarded as one of the top linebackers in the 2023 recruiting class. His decision to commit to Ohio State over a host of other elite programs further solidified the Buckeyes’ dominance in recruiting and their continued ability to attract top talent, especially at the linebacker position.
A Rising Star with Big-Time Potential
C.J. Hicks is a prototypical linebacker in the mold of Ohio State’s past stars. Standing at 6’2″ and weighing in at 210 pounds, Hicks possesses the size and athleticism to be an immediate contributor for the Buckeyes. His high school tape shows a player who is explosive off the ball, quick to diagnose plays, and capable of making plays in both the running game and the passing game. Hicks’ ability to cover ground quickly and his relentless pursuit of the football are hallmarks of his game, traits that will serve him well as he transitions to college football.
One of the most impressive aspects of Hicks’ game is his leadership on the field. Despite being a young player, Hicks demonstrates the ability to read offenses and make adjustments on the fly, much like the great linebackers who have come before him. This mental sharpness, combined with his physical gifts, makes him a player to watch as he begins his career at Ohio State.
Hicks’ versatility allows him to play in a variety of roles within Ohio State’s defense. Whether he’s playing as an inside linebacker, a coverage linebacker, or even rushing the passer, Hicks has the skills necessary to be a dynamic force. Ohio State’s defensive coordinator Jim Knowles, known for his complex defensive schemes and ability to maximize player strengths, will likely find ways to utilize Hicks in a variety of ways, much like how he did with other linebackers during his time at Oklahoma State.
Why Hicks Could Be the Next Ohio State Linebacker Star
Cleveland has historically been a hotbed of talent in the state of Ohio, and Hicks is a prime example of the high-caliber players that have emerged from the city in recent years. Ohio State’s ability to keep local talent home has been one of the pillars of its recruiting success, and Hicks is another example of the Buckeyes securing a top prospect from within their own backyard.
What makes Hicks particularly exciting is the potential for him to continue Ohio State’s linebacker legacy. His combination of speed, strength, football IQ, and versatility makes him a player with high upside. With proper development, he could follow in the footsteps of legendary Buckeye linebackers, eventually becoming an All-American and potentially an NFL draft pick.
Furthermore, Hicks is joining a linebacker room that is full of talent and experience. Under the guidance of Ohio State’s linebacker coach, Al Washington, Hicks will have the opportunity to develop alongside players like Tommy Eichenberg, Steele Chambers, and other talented defenders. The competition within the linebacker room will help elevate Hicks’ game, allowing him to push himself to reach his full potential.
The Impact of Hicks on Ohio State’s Defense
The addition of C.J. Hicks to Ohio State’s defense is not only important for his individual development but also for the team’s overall success. With a player of Hicks’ caliber joining the fold, Ohio State’s defense will only get stronger. Hicks’ athleticism and versatility will add a new dimension to the Buckeyes’ linebacker corps, giving them a player who can be effective in a variety of roles.
Ohio State has consistently been known for its high-powered offense, but in recent years, the defense has begun to catch up. The addition of a dynamic linebacker like Hicks further solidifies the Buckeyes’ ability to compete for national championships. A player like Hicks could be the difference-maker in big games, whether it’s making a critical stop in the run game, covering a dangerous tight end, or rushing the quarterback in a crucial moment.
The Next Chapter in Ohio State’s Linebacker Legacy
Ohio State has a long and storied tradition of developing elite linebackers, and C.J. Hicks has the potential to carry that legacy forward. As a Cleveland native, Hicks brings a unique blend of local pride, physical talent, and mental sharpness to the program, making him one of the most exciting recruits in recent memory. With his ability to impact the game in multiple facets and his commitment to Ohio State, Hicks is poised to become one of the next great linebackers in the Buckeyes’ rich history.
For Ohio State fans, the future of the linebacker position looks incredibly bright. As Hicks continues to develop under the guidance of the Buckeyes’ coaching staff, he could become a cornerstone of Ohio State’s defense for years to come. Whether he becomes the next Chris Spielman or A.J. Hawk, one thing is certain: C.J. Hicks has the potential to add another chapter to Ohio State’s illustrious linebacker tradition.