Ohio State has officially secured their kicker for the future, as former Baylor standout Connor Hawkins committed to the Buckeyes on Wednesday. This announcement positions Hawkins as the sole kicker on Ohio State’s roster, making him the primary choice for kickoffs, field goals, and extra points in the 2026 season.
In his redshirt freshman year at Baylor during 2025, Hawkins demonstrated his exceptional talent by successfully converting 18 of 22 field goals, translating to an impressive 81.8% success rate. Notably, he was flawless from within 40 yards, going 10 for 10, while also making 5 of 8 attempts from distances ranging from 40 to 49 yards. Hawkins showcased his power with 3 successful kicks from 50 yards or more, including a career-long 54-yard field goal.
As a 6-foot-2, 199-pound redshirt sophomore, Hawkins brings valuable skills to the Buckeyes. With the graduation of Jayden Fielding and Jackson Courville’s transfer to Tulane, Hawkins currently stands as Ohio State’s only kicker. However, the team plans to introduce competition for him in the offseason, potentially through the transfer portal or high school recruits.
Before Hawkins entered the transfer portal, Ohio State had not been linked to any other transfer kickers. Nevertheless, the Buckeyes have offered one of the top kickers remaining in the 2026 class, Jacobo Eccheveria, who ended his senior year at Upper St. Clair in Pittsburgh with a successful 12 of 13 field goals, including a long kick of 41 yards.
Hawkins marks the 12th transfer addition to Ohio State this offseason, joining a notable class that includes former Ohio tight end Mason Williams, former Alabama defensive tackle James Smith, and former Florida State defensive back Earl Little Jr. This continued focus on recruiting talent highlights Ohio State’s commitment to strengthening their roster ahead of the next season and solidifying their position as a competitive force in college football.