Ohio State football will begin its spring practice without two of its top running backs. Both Bo Jackson and Isaiah West, projected to be the Buckeyes’ RB1 and RB2 for the 2026 season, will miss all 15 spring practices due to recovery from offseason shoulder surgeries. Head coach Ryan Day confirmed the news during a recent radio appearance, emphasizing the impact of their absence on the team’s preparation.
Jackson had a standout freshman season, leading the Buckeyes with 179 carries for 1,090 yards and 14 touchdowns, in addition to making 22 catches for 161 yards and two scores. West contributed significantly as well, turning 59 carries into 310 yards and two touchdowns. Their injuries present challenges but also open up opportunities for other players to demonstrate their skills.
New Opportunities Arise
With Jackson and West sidelined, Ohio State will look to build depth in their running back position. Players like transfer Ja’Kobi Jackson, sophomore Turbo Rogers, and incoming freshmen Favour Akih and Legend Bey are poised to step up. The coaching staff is particularly excited about Bey, who was recruited from Tennessee. Day described him as a “dynamite” player, likening his potential to that of a “poor man’s Tyreek Hill” due to his speed and versatility.
The Buckeyes will rely on this newly formed depth chart during the spring to maintain momentum as they prepare for the upcoming season. Day’s enthusiasm for Bey highlights the team’s commitment to developing talent, even in the absence of key players.
Ohio State’s spring practices are essential for player development and team cohesion as they aim to build a competitive roster for 2026. The Buckeyes are determined to overcome these early setbacks and turn them into an opportunity for growth as they head into the spring and beyond.
