3 Ohio State Offensive Risers Who Elevated Their Stock in Fall Camp

Ohio State is one week away from its season opener against Ball State, and fall camp has provided a clearer picture of the Buckeyes’ offense in 2026.

Three players in particular have elevated their stock — a transfer carving out a key role in the receiver room, a quarterback taking greater command, and a returning starter solidifying his place as a leader.

Devin McCuin

Few offensive players raised their stock more during fall camp than wide receiver Devin McCuin.

The senior transfer spent the past three seasons at UTSA, where he led the team with 65 receptions, 726 receiving yards and eight touchdowns last season. At Ohio State, McCuin has put himself in position to emerge as the No. 3 receiver behind Jeremiah Smith and Brandon Inniss.

Early in camp, head coach Ryan Day noted McCuin’s consistency and the importance of the role he is competing for.

“I thought he was consistent in the spring, but now he’s gonna take a huge step here, because that position, as we know, is gonna be critical,” Day said. “That position is really gonna be an important part of our offense. And Devin certainly has put himself in a position to be that guy that was gonna compete for it and win the job.”

Quarterback Julian Sayin has also praised McCuin for his speed, willingness to block, and ability to consistently be in the right place. Those traits have helped the transfer earn trust inside the receiver room.

Julian Sayin

Julian Sayin’s arm talent and accuracy were clear last season. The next step was taking greater command of the offense.

With a full year of starting experience, Sayin has made that jump. Teammates have described the difference from last year as night and day.

“He’s doing a great job using his voice more, taking command of offense,” Jeremiah Smith said. “He’s taken that step and he’s in the huddle like … telling everybody to shut up and saying all types of stuff. You see that swagger coming out of him.”

Sayin was named one of Ohio State’s seven captains and has also been placed on five major preseason award watch lists. The increased leadership presence has been one of the clearer developments of fall camp.

Brandon Inniss

Brandon Inniss continues to establish himself as one of the leaders of Ohio State’s offense.

He was named a captain for the second consecutive season and selected as the Block “O” recipient, earning the right to wear No. 0 in honor of Ohio State legend Bill Willis. The number represents toughness, accountability and character — traits Inniss has shown throughout his career.

“Being a captain at Ohio State is different, it’s different than anywhere else in the country,” Inniss said. “When you’re a captain here, you leave a legacy behind.”

Inniss will again play a major role alongside fellow captain Jeremiah Smith. He finished last season with 35 receptions for 271 yards and three touchdowns while playing in every game.

Both receivers like where the offense stands after two strong scrimmages.

“I love where we stand,” Inniss said. “We had two great scrimmages, we watched the film, we corrected some things. I love where offense stands. We’re gonna be a great, explosive offense this year, put up a lot of points, and have a lot of wins.”

The Bigger Picture

McCuin’s emergence, Sayin’s growth as a leader, and Inniss’ continued presence give Ohio State a more stable and confident offensive identity heading into the season.

With the Ball State opener one week away, these three players have done the most to raise their stock during fall camp and position themselves for bigger roles in 2026.

13. FAQ Section

Who are the three Ohio State offensive risers from fall camp?
Wide receiver Devin McCuin, quarterback Julian Sayin, and wide receiver Brandon Inniss.

What did Devin McCuin do at UTSA last season?
He led the team with 65 receptions, 726 receiving yards and eight touchdowns.

Is Julian Sayin a captain this year?
Yes. He is one of seven captains named by Ryan Day.

What special honor did Brandon Inniss receive?
He was selected as the Block “O” recipient and will wear No. 0.

When does Ohio State open the 2026 season?
Against Ball State in Week 1.

Reader Question

Which of these three players do you think will have the biggest impact on Ohio State’s offense in 2026?