BREAKING: Ohio State lands transfer safety Earl Little Jr.

Ohio State has strengthened its defense by securing former Florida State safety Earl Little Jr. from the transfer portal. Little, who has one year of eligibility remaining, initially declared for the 2026 NFL Draft before deciding to transfer. He joins the Buckeyes after a standout season with Florida State, where he led the team in tackles with 76 and recorded four interceptions, making him a key addition to Ohio State's relatively inexperienced defense.

Little's move to Ohio State addresses a significant need following the departure of safety Caleb Downs to the NFL Draft. A versatile defender, Little played both deep safety and a hybrid linebacker/safety role, fitting well into Matt Patricia's defensive scheme. Previously, Little played for Alabama before transferring to Florida State in 2024, where he developed into a second-team All-ACC performer.

His addition comes as Ohio State's secondary experienced further losses, including cornerback Davison Igbinosun and nickel Lorenzo Styles Jr. Little, with his proven playmaking ability and experience,