Nick Bosa will not return to Ohio State this season, will withdraw from school

The worst nightmare for Buckeye fans has just officially come true as Ohio State has confirmed that All-American defensive end Nick Bosa will not return to the field for Ohio State this season, and that he will withdraw from school completely in order to devote his efforts to his rehabilitation. Following a core muscle injury suffered in the win over TCU in September, Bosa had surgery, and the initial timetable indicated that he would return in November.

However, as a projected top-5 pick in the 2019 NFL Draft, Bosa has decided to focus on the next phase of his football career. In his press conference on Monday, when OSU head coach Urban Meyer was asked whether or not Bosa would return this season, Meyer said that he was “hoping” that the DE would, but that he was scheduled to visit with his surgeons on Tuesday to assess his progress post-surgery.

On Tuesday, in an official statement, Meyer said, “I was hopeful that Nick would be able to return to play again for us. I know this was an extremely difficult and emotional decision for Nick and his family, and I wish him well as he moves on to get himself 100 percent healthy and ready for his next chapter. I want to thank Nick for the remarkable efforts he gave for this program. He is a first-class young man who we have been honored to coach.”

The Buckeyes are now likely to rely on Chase Young and Jonathon Cooper as the starting ends for the remainder of the season. Despite missing roughly four and a half games in the season, Bosa still ranks second on the team in sacks this year with 4.0. He also accounted for 14 total tackles, including 6 for loss, as well as a forced fumble, and a recovered fumble for a touchdown.

While this is undoubtedly a massive blow for the Buckeyes’ defense, it is likely the most prudent move for Bosa, as he is set to make millions of dollars in the Draft next year, and by not risking further injury in rushing his recovery, he is ensuring himself the best possible draft position.

We wish Nick the best in his recovery, and in what will certainly be a fantastic NFL career.