Ohio State Tight End Jelani Thurman Enters NCAA Transfer Portal: A Look at His Career and Future Plans
Ohio State tight end Jelani Thurman has decided to enter the NCAA transfer portal, as confirmed by his representatives at Rosenhaus Sports. Thurman, who has two years of eligibility left, spent three years at Ohio State, including a redshirt year in 2023. During the 2025 season, he recorded seven receptions for 84 yards and a touchdown. In total, Thurman accumulated 13 catches for 144 yards and two touchdowns during his time with the Buckeyes. His decision to enter the transfer portal was announced shortly after Ohio State's season concluded in the Cotton Bowl against Miami.
For the latest updates on player transfers, you can follow On3's Transfer Portal wire. Stay informed about the latest moves by following the On3 Transfer Portal Instagram and Twitter accounts. Thurman, a former four-star prospect from Fairburn (Ga.) Langston Hughes High School, was ranked as the No. 117 overall player in the 2023 recruiting cycle by Rivals Industry Ranking.
Ohio State finished the season with a 12-2 record, going undefeated in the regular season and securing a spot in the College Football Playoff as the No. 2 seed. Despite a strong start, the Buckeyes fell to Indiana in the Big Ten Championship and faced Miami in the Cotton Bowl. Miami dominated the first half of the playoff quarterfinal, taking a 14-0 lead into halftime. Ohio State struggled offensively, but they made a comeback in the third quarter with two touchdowns to cut Miami's lead to 17-14.
However, Miami's defense held strong, forcing Ohio State to punt and ultimately securing a 24-14 victory with a late rushing touchdown. The loss marked the end of Ohio State's season, but the team showed resilience in the face of adversity. Thurman's decision to enter the transfer portal adds to the offseason changes for the Buckeyes, as they look to regroup and prepare for the upcoming season.