COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) – The media got its first look at the future of Ohio State football on Tuesday morning as several transfers got behind the microphone at the Woody Hayes Athletic Center. 

Among the high-profile players joining the Buckeyes is ex-Alabama safety Caleb Downs, who surprised many when the freshman announced he would come to Columbus instead of committing to Georgia after entering the transfer portal on Jan. 17. Downs is a native of Hoschton, Georgia. 

“I just feel like it was the best decision for me. At the end of the day, everybody needs to do what they need to do for themselves and I think that’s evident,” Downs said. “I just love the program here. I love [cornerbacks coach Tim] Walton and loved what the people had to say around here. I believe in coach [Ryan] Day and I believe in this team.”

Downs had 107 tackles to lead the Crimson Tide last season, becoming the first true freshman in program history to do so. He was a five-star recruit coming out of high school. 

Downs’ Alabama teammate, Seth McLaughlin, also made his first appearance in front of the media as a Buckeye. The former center for the Crimson Tide started 14 games in 2023 and eight games the previous year. McLaughlin also played in the 2021 Iron Bowl against Auburn and the SEC championship game against Georgia, bringing big game experience to Ohio State.

“I thought Ohio State is one of the greatest programs in college football,” McLaughlin said. “Coming from a place like Alabama, I thought I wanted to go to another similar place that’s always competing to win championships and has great coaching and great development.”

And McLaughlin had high-praise for his teammate, Downs, as the duo prepares for their first season as Buckeyes.

“I was excited. Been watching Caleb for a year now at Alabama and he was very, very impressive. He walked in and he acted like a third-year starter,” McLaughin said. “He was a veteran and it’s very rare for a freshman. So he’s one of the most impressive freshmen I’ve ever seen come through Alabama.”

Ohio State also added former Kansas State quarterback Will Howard, Ole Miss transfer Quinshon Judkins and former Ohio Bobcat tight end Will Kacmarek.