Ohio State’s linebacker battle is starting to reveal the identity of the 2026 defense
Christian Alliegro’s experience, Payton Pierce’s reliability, and Riley Pettijohn’s upside are beginning to give Ohio State clarity at one of the most important positions on the roster after an encouraging spring.
Ohio State Buckeyes linebacker Christian Alliegro (14) lines up across from tight end Nate Roberts (83) during Student Appreciation Day spring practice at the Woody Hayes Athletic Center on April 4, 2026. | Adam Cairns/Columbus Dispatch / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images Ohio State entered the offseason knowing linebacker would become one of the most important questions on the entire roster. Replacing two top-10 picks in Sonny Styles and Arvell Reese was never going to be simple.
Those two were not just productive defenders. They were central to the structure, communication, and athletic ceiling of one of the best defenses in college football. And for much of the offseason, the uncertainty at linebacker felt real.
But after spring practice and the spring game, a clearer picture is beginning to emerge. Ohio State may not have finalized every role inside James Laurinaitis’s room yet, but the Buckeyes now appear to have something increasingly valuable in the modern game. Complementary options with very different skill sets.
Wisconsin transfer Christian Alliegro brings proven Big Ten production and versatility. Payton Pierce offers stability and reliability in the middle of the defense. Riley Pettijohn gives the room its highest athletic ceiling and perhaps its most intriguing long-term upside.
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