Ohio State's kicking game just got a major boost with the commitment of former Baylor standout, Connor Hawkins. This move has left many fans excited and eager to see what Hawkins can bring to the team.
The Kicking Conundrum: A New Era for Ohio State?
With the departure of Jayden Fielding and Jackson Courville, Ohio State found itself in need of a reliable kicker. Enter Connor Hawkins, a redshirt sophomore with an impressive track record. In 2025, Hawkins showcased his skills, converting 18 out of 22 field goals, an impressive 81.8% success rate. His accuracy from various distances, including a perfect 10 out of 10 from inside 40 yards, has fans buzzing.
But here's where it gets interesting. Hawkins is currently the only kicker on the Buckeyes' roster, which means he's expected to handle kickoffs, field goals, and point-after attempts in 2026. However, Ohio State is not resting on its laurels and is actively seeking competition for Hawkins, either through the transfer portal or by recruiting high school talent.
And this is the part most people miss: Ohio State has already offered one of the top kickers in the 2026 class, Jacobo Eccheveria. Eccheveria, a senior from Upper St. Clair (Pittsburgh), made 12 out of 13 field goals with a long of 41 yards in 2025. This move suggests that Ohio State is not only looking to secure its kicking game but also to create a competitive environment, which could drive both Hawkins and Eccheveria to new heights.
Hawkins' commitment is just one piece of Ohio State's transfer puzzle this offseason. The Buckeyes have been active, bringing in a total of 12 transfers, including former tight end Mason Williams, defensive tackle James Smith, and defensive back Earl Little Jr. This influx of talent has the potential to significantly impact the team's performance in 2026.
So, what do you think? Is Ohio State's kicking game set with Hawkins, or should they continue to seek out competition? Share your thoughts in the comments below! We'd love to hear your predictions and insights on how this could shape the team's future.
