A shocking announcement has just been made by Ohio State's tight end, Jelani Thurman, in the wake of their devastating loss to Miami in the Cotton Bowl. Thurman's decision to enter the transfer portal moments after the defeat has sent shockwaves through the college football world.
In a surprising move, Thurman's agency revealed his plans to explore new opportunities, just minutes after the final whistle. This announcement adds an intriguing twist to an already dramatic season-ending game.
Thurman, a seasoned player with three seasons under his belt at Ohio State, will have two years of eligibility remaining. His career with the Buckeyes saw him make 13 catches, accumulating 144 yards and scoring two touchdowns. In the 2025 campaign, he showcased his skills with seven receptions, 84 yards, and a touchdown.
But here's where it gets controversial... Thurman's decision to transfer comes at a time when he found himself on the fringes of the starting lineup. With players like Max Klare, Will Kacmarek, Bennett Christian, and Nate Roberts seeing more playing time, Thurman's snaps were limited to 135 this season, earning him a PFF overall grade of 82.2.
And this is the part most people miss... Despite being a top-75 prospect in the 2023 recruiting class, standing at an impressive 6-foot-6 and weighing 250 pounds, Thurman's role on the team seemed to diminish as the season progressed.
Ohio State's 2025 college football season may have ended on a sour note, but the transfer portal and recruiting processes offer new beginnings. As the basketball season gears up, with conference games on the horizon, Ohio State is in the midst of a busy period. Stay tuned as the Buckeye nation navigates these transitions and looks ahead to 2026.
What do you think about Thurman's decision? Is it a bold move or a sign of something more? Share your thoughts in the comments and let's discuss the future of college football!
