Ohio State reserve defensive lineman Hero Kanu has entered the transfer portal. A former four-star prospect, Kanu will have two years of eligibility left at his next destination.
Part of the 2022 recruiting class, Kanu was ranked as the 121st overall player, the 15th best defensive lineman, and the 9th top prospect in California.
Kanu played 90 snaps for the Buckeyes in 2023 and increased his contribution to 123 snaps in his third year, playing a role in Ohio State’s national championship victory. Throughout his career, he recorded 14 total tackles and one sack.
Kanu had the potential to secure a spot on the defensive line next season but opted to enter the transfer portal. This comes as the Buckeyes are set to lose all four starting defensive linemen: Jack Sawyer, Tyleik Williams, Ty Hamilton, and J.T. Tuimoloau.
Ohio State will retain defensive tackles Eric Mensah, Jason Moore, Kayden McDonald, Will Smith Jr., and Tywone Malone. Additionally, the Buckeyes have brought in three defensive tackles as part of their 2025 recruiting class. However, with Kanu’s departure, the position now seems somewhat thin.
Kanu spent three seasons with the Buckeyes, contributing to the team over the past two years. He will now move on to complete his college football career elsewhere.
