Lincoln Kienholz, a standout quarterback for the Ohio State Buckeyes, has made waves in the college football world with his recent decision to enter the transfer portal. This move, announced with two years of eligibility remaining, marks a significant turning point in his career and raises questions about the future of Ohio State's quarterback position. Kienholz, who joined the Buckeyes in 2023 as a highly ranked recruit, has been a key player in the team's dynamics, even if he has not yet secured a starting position .
Kienholz, hailing from South Dakota, was the nation's No. 13-ranked quarterback as a senior in 2022 and No. 172 overall player according to 247Sports . His journey to Ohio State was marked by a late addition to the team's 2023 class, flipping from Washington just a week before National Signing Day. This move highlighted his potential and the Buckeyes' interest in securing a talented quarterback for their program .
Throughout his time at Ohio State, Kienholz has been a versatile athlete, known for his agility and strategic play. He participated in two regular-season games, accumulating 21 snaps, which showcased his ability to contribute to the team's success, even if he was behind starters Kyle McCord, Will Howard, and Julian Sayin in the depth chart . Kienholz's presence on the roster has been noted for his hard work and dedication, which he demonstrated by doing everything asked of him since signing .
Entering the transfer portal, Kienholz faces a crossroads in his career. His decision stems from the competitive nature of the quarterback position at Ohio State, where the presence of an established starter like Julian Sayin leaves limited opportunities for other quarterbacks to step into the starting role . This situation has led Kienholz to reevaluate his future, stating that his goal is to eventually make it to the NFL . His decision to remain with the Buckeyes through the College Football Playoff before entering the transfer portal indicates a level of respect and commitment to the program, even as he explores new opportunities .
Lincoln Kienholz's transfer is a testament to the evolving landscape of college football, where player mobility and the transfer portal play pivotal roles. His journey from a highly ranked recruit to a transfer portal candidate highlights the competitive nature of collegiate athletics and the importance of strategic career decisions. For Ohio State, Kienholz's departure opens a new chapter in their quarterback roster, while for Kienholz, it represents a step toward achieving his NFL aspirations. As the transfer window approaches, all eyes will be on Kienholz and his next move, which could significantly impact his football career and Ohio State's quarterback depth .
