The Ohio State secondary was a much improved one in 2019 compared to what we saw just a season ago in 2018. It helped turn a defense that struggled with the big play become a top five national unit this season.
But as good as that sounds, there is a lot to work to do next year because the Buckeyes are staring down the barrel at potentially losing all four members of the back-end. Safety Jordan Fuller and cornerback Damon Arnette are graduating, and it’s likely a lock that Jeff Okudah declares for the draft as the best corner prospect in the class if he comes out early.
But that’s not all. The other corner, Shaun Wade, is also contemplating an early jump to the NFL. He’s just a sophomore, but was red-shirted his freshman year, so he’s three years removed from graduating high school and thus, also eligible to enter the draft.
There’s really been no tea leaves to read on whether Wade would make the jump or stay in school, but it was clear Ohio State wasn’t as great of a defense when he was out of the game. He’s still a little raw but he’s extremely skilled.
So, the question remains — will Wade leave early or come back?
We won’t have to wait long, because he’ll be making his decision via live stream on Letterman Row this coming Saturday at Noon. He (or someone close to him) is dubbing it “The Decision.”
It would obviously be great news if Wade were to come back for one more season at Ohio State. Not only could he use a little more seasoning as the unquestionable No. 1 guy at the corner position, but it would help ease some of the new starters into the rotation for whatever new assistant coach comes to work with the secondary.
So tune in. We’ll have reaction to whatever his decision is when it’s made known.
