Julian Sayin anchors an elite offensive nucleus.
All programs
Capital Rank1
Ohio State
Julian Sayin, Bo Jackson and Jeremiah Smith create an elite offensive nucleus, backed by strong line talent. Defensive returning-starter loss is the principal concern.
Reported spendMore than $40M
Roster gradeA+
Confidencehigh
Reported estimate · not audited payroll
Roster construction
What the roster says
Bo Jackson and Jeremiah Smith create exceptional top-end skill talent.
Strong offensive- and defensive-line talent supports the roster's ceiling.
Continuity & integration
The largest continuity question is replacing defensive starters rather than rebuilding the roster's core identity.
The case
Strengths
- Elite offensive nucleus
- High-end line talent
- Proven program development
The countercase
Risks
- Defensive returning-starter losses
Evidence trail
Sources used for this record
CBS SportsCollege football roster spending rankings: Most expensive teams in 2026247SportsCollege football roster spending tiers for the Power Four247Sports2026 College Football Team Talent CompositeESPNFinal preseason college football SP+ rankings and takeaways for 2026On3CBS Sports ranks the most talented college football units in 2026Ohio State Athletics2026 Football Coaches