The Ohio State Buckeyes' tight end position is in flux as they prepare for the 2026 season. With the departure of Max Klare and Will Kacmarek, the team is looking to establish a new starting lineup. Nate Roberts, a sophomore, has emerged as a strong contender for the top spot, showcasing his versatility as both a receiver and a blocker. His impressive performance this spring, coupled with his goal of becoming the starting tight end, has earned him the top ranking in the eyes of Keenan Bailey.
However, the competition is fierce. Transfer additions Mason Williams and Hunter Welcing have also made a strong impression on coaches with their ability to contribute in both the passing and running game. Williams, in particular, has demonstrated his effectiveness in the short and intermediate passing game, while Welcing has proven his capability as a receiver and blocker. The question remains: who will be the most consistent pass-catching threat among the group?
The depth chart is deep, with Roberts, Williams, Welcing, and Bennett Christian all vying for playing time. The most likely scenario is that Roberts and one of the transfers will be the primary starters, with the other transfer and Christian rotating in. The team also has three other scholarship tight ends competing for playing time, but their chances are slim. The wide receiver group is also deep, which could impact the number of snaps available for the tight ends.
Despite the competition, the Buckeyes have a strong foundation at tight end with Roberts' emergence and the experience of Williams and Welcing. The combination of these three players, along with Christian, provides great depth and versatility. While they may not have an established star, they have the potential to be reliable blockers and contributors in the passing game. With an elite receiving corps led by Jeremiah Smith, the Buckeyes are well-positioned to have a strong offense in 2026.
