The Ohio State Buckeyes are aiming to strengthen their defensive line for the upcoming season, and they’re eyeing Michigan State transfer Derrick Harmon to help achieve that goal.
In December, the Buckeyes were hopeful of acquiring Harmon, but he chose to stay with the Spartans after initially entering the transfer portal.
Harmon visited Ohio State, along with Oregon and Auburn, on Dec. 12 before ultimately deciding to remain in East Lansing. However, he’s back in the portal now, giving the Buckeyes another opportunity to pursue him.
Last season, Harmon posted 40 tackles, with 3.5 for loss and 1.5 sacks, for a Michigan State team that finished 4-8 and missed a bowl game.
According to On3’s Pete Nakos, Colorado and USC are leading candidates to land Harmon, who was an All-Big Ten player last year. However, Ohio State is making a strong push to recruit him.
“Sources have indicated to On3’s Steve Wiltfong and me that five teams are in consideration this time: Colorado, Michigan State, Ohio State, Oregon, and USC,” Nakos wrote. “The Buffaloes and Trojans have landed visits since Harmon entered the portal more than a week ago. He was tentatively scheduled to visit Miami earlier this week, but that trip was canceled.”
In his three seasons with the Spartans, the 6-5, 320-pounder has recorded 71 total tackles, with 6.5 for loss and 3.5 sacks. Harmon has also contributed two passes defended, a fumble recovery, and a forced fumble across 24 career games.
Although the Buckeyes already have a strong defensive front with Tyliek Williams and Ty Hamilton at defensive tackle, adding Harmon could elevate Ohio State’s defensive line to new heights.