Get to know a Buckeye: Florida State insider weighs in on new Ohio State safety Earl Little Jr.

Ohio State is set to revamp its secondary following the departure of key players to the NFL. In the 2025 season, the Buckeyes boasted the nation’s top-ranked pass defense, allowing just 129.7 passing yards per game. Key contributors such as Caleb Downs, Lorenzo Styles Jr., and Davison Igbinosun have moved on, prompting Ohio State to seek new talent. Among the new additions is Earl Little Jr., a former Florida State safety.

Little, originally from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and a product of American Heritage High School, started his college career at Alabama. He later transferred to Florida State, where he excelled as a captain in 2024. During that season, Little recorded 76 tackles, four interceptions, and two forced fumbles, earning second-team All-ACC honors and being named FSU's Defensive MVP. His addition is expected to bolster the Buckeyes' defense as they prepare for the 2026 season.