Ohio State Defensive End C.J. Hicks to Redshirt Remainder of 2025 Season Amid Limited Role
In a move that has sparked waves of discussion among Buckeye Nation, Ohio State defensive end C.J. Hicks has decided to redshirt for the remainder of the 2025 season, opting to preserve a year of eligibility after seeing a limited role in the team’s defensive rotation. The news, confirmed by program insiders earlier this week, signals both a strategic career decision for Hicks and a significant depth adjustment for the Buckeyes as they push deeper into Big Ten play.
Hicks, a former five-star recruit from Dayton, Ohio, arrived at Ohio State with sky-high expectations. Touted as one of the most athletic defenders in his class, the 6-foot-3, 235-pound pass rusher was projected to become a cornerstone of the Buckeye defense. However, as the 2025 campaign unfolded, opportunities became scarce for the talented sophomore.
Despite strong offseason buzz and flashes of potential in spring practices, Hicks found himself buried behind veterans and emerging underclassmen in the rotation. With stars like Jack Sawyer and J.T. Tuimoloau anchoring the defensive line, Hicks’ snaps came in brief stints—mostly in mop-up duty or special packages. Sources close to the program indicate that the decision to redshirt was mutual between Hicks and the coaching staff, designed to maximize his long-term development and preserve his future impact within the program.
“It’s about growth and patience,” one team insider said. “C.J. is incredibly talented, but this allows him to step back, refine his technique, and be ready to take over a bigger role next season without burning a year of eligibility.”
For Hicks, the decision wasn’t easy. A fierce competitor and emotional leader, he has long dreamed of becoming a household name in Columbus. But rather than expressing frustration, Hicks is said to be embracing the process with maturity and determination—traits that have earned him immense respect within the locker room.
In limited action this year, Hicks has registered a handful of tackles and a quarterback hurry, but the numbers tell only part of the story. Coaches have praised his discipline in practice, his versatility in multiple defensive schemes, and his leadership on the sidelines. With the NCAA’s four-game redshirt rule, Hicks has already played in a few early-season contests but will now be sidelined for the remainder to maintain eligibility.
The Buckeyes, meanwhile, face a delicate balancing act. Losing Hicks’ depth on the edge could test their defensive front as injuries and fatigue mount through the second half of the schedule. Yet, the coaching staff appears confident that the long-term payoff outweighs the short-term loss.
Head coach Ryan Day has often spoken about the importance of player development and trust within the program. “Our goal is to put each player in the best position to succeed—not just this year, but throughout their entire career,” Day said earlier this month. “C.J. has an incredible future ahead of him, and we’re committed to making sure he’s ready to reach his full potential.”
Fans have taken to social media with mixed emotions—some expressing disappointment not to see Hicks on the field, others applauding his decision to prioritize longevity and preparation. Many see parallels to past Buckeyes who took a similar route, later emerging as key contributors and NFL prospects.
As for Hicks, the redshirt season may serve as a turning point. With an extra year to study film, build strength, and refine his pass-rushing arsenal, the stage is set for him to make a breakout return in 2026. For Ohio State, that patience could soon pay off in dominant fashion.
