Ohio State's kicking game just got a boost with the addition of a new transfer kicker, Marcello Diomede. This move adds depth and experience to the Buckeyes' roster, creating an intriguing dynamic for the upcoming season.
The Kicking Conundrum: Ohio State's Strategic Roster Moves
Ohio State is gearing up for the 2026 season with an impressive kicking trio. Following the signing of Baylor transfer Connor Hawkins, who is set to be the starting kicker, and the addition of high school talent Cooper Peterson, the Buckeyes have now welcomed former Notre Dame kicker Marcello Diomede to their ranks.
Diomede expressed his gratitude on Twitter, thanking the Ohio State coaching staff for the opportunity. His arrival adds an interesting layer to the team's kicking unit.
With three seasons of experience at Notre Dame, Diomede brings a solid foundation to the Buckeyes. He appeared in 10 games for the Fighting Irish, showcasing his skills with 17 kickoffs for an impressive 64-yard average and 11 touchbacks. While his extra point attempts were successful, he never attempted a field goal during his time at Notre Dame.
The Diomede File: A Closer Look
- Year: Redshirt Junior
- Size: 6-1/195
- Position: Kicker
- Previous School: Notre Dame (2023-2025)
- 2025 Stats: 2-3 PAT, 16 kickoffs for 1,033 yards (64.6 average), 11 touchbacks
Hailing from Glen Ellyn, Illinois, Diomede is expected to provide depth rather than challenge for the starting role, which is likely to be Hawkins' position. However, his presence is crucial given the departure of both Ohio State's 2025 kickers, Jayden Fielding and Jackson Courville.
Diomede has two years of eligibility remaining, and he joins a group of specialists who have joined Ohio State through the transfer portal this offseason. This includes scholarship long snapper Dalton Riggs (UCF), walk-on punter Brady Young (Houston Christian), and walk-on long snapper Landon Beal (Maine).
And here's where it gets interesting: with these strategic roster moves, Ohio State is shaping up to have a highly competitive kicking unit. But will Diomede's experience at Notre Dame give him an edge, or will Hawkins' starting role be secure? And this is the part most people miss: the impact of these transfers extends beyond the field, influencing team dynamics and potentially shaping the Buckeyes' future success.
What do you think? Will Ohio State's kicking game be a strength or a point of contention this season? Let's discuss in the comments!
