Top Transfer Portal Prospect Chaz Coleman Linked to Ohio State Football

Penn State defensive end Chaz Coleman is entering the college football transfer portal. The elite pass rusher is now the top-ranked overall prospect for the 2025 cycle. Reigning national champion Ohio State has emerged as an early favorite to land him.

According to On3 Sports, the Buckeyes are a school to watch for his decision. Coleman is an Ohio native, making this a potential major homecoming. His departure marks a significant loss for Penn State as they transition from the James Franklin era.

Why Ohio State Wants the Elite Edge Rusher

Coleman showed immense promise as a true freshman at Penn State. He recorded 8 tackles, 3 tackles for loss, and 1 sack this past season. He also forced a fumble and recovered two others in limited action.

His performance immediately boosted his profile nationally. Following his portal entry, 247Sports ranked him as the No. 1 overall transfer. Analysts like Rivals’ Charles Power praised him as one of the most dynamic freshman pass rushers in the country.

His potential commands a high price. On3 reports Coleman is projected to receive a seven-figure Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) package. For Ohio State, securing him would address a key need while weakening a conference rival.

The High-Stakes Transfer Portal Landscape

Coleman’s move highlights the intensified nature of modern roster management. The transfer portal window for football runs from January 2nd to 16th. This condensed timeline creates a frenzied period for players and programs.

For elite players like Coleman, the portal offers rapid financial and competitive mobility. His decision will significantly impact the defensive outlook for both his former and future teams. It underscores how top talent can reshape a conference’s balance of power in an instant.

This high-profile chase signals another aggressive offseason for Ohio State. The Buckeyes are leveraging their championship momentum to reload. Securing the portal’s top prize would send a powerful message to the rest of college football.

The pursuit of Chaz Coleman is a defining early story of the 2025 transfer cycle. His final decision will have major implications for the Big Ten championship race. The Ohio State football program is positioned as a prime contender for the top-ranked transfer.

Thought you’d like to know

Who is Chaz Coleman?

Chaz Coleman is a defensive end who played for Penn State as a true freshman. He is now the top-ranked player in the 2025 college football transfer portal. He is a former four-star recruit from Warren, Ohio.

Why is he transferring from Penn State?

His entry into the portal coincides with a coaching transition at Penn State. The program is moving forward after the departure of longtime coach James Franklin. Seeking a new opportunity and potential NIL benefits are likely factors.

What did he achieve as a freshman?

In his first season, Coleman registered 8 tackles and 3 tackles for loss. He also recorded 1 sack, a forced fumble, and two fumble recoveries. This production made him one of the most promising young pass rushers nationally.

How does the transfer portal work?

A player notifies their school’s compliance office of their intent to transfer. The school then has 48 hours to enter the player’s name into the private NCAA database. Once listed, other schools can legally contact the player to recruit them.

What is the timeline for transfers?

The main window for football players to enter the portal opened on January 2nd. It remains open for 15 days, closing on January 16th. This is the primary period for roster movement ahead of the 2025 season.

What does this mean for Ohio State?

Landing Coleman would be a massive recruiting win for the Buckeyes. It would add an immediate-impact pass rusher to their defensive front. It would also keep a top Ohio talent from playing for a conference competitor.