LOS ANGELES – Devin Brown is on the verge of signing with a new team, yet he’s standing tall as Ohio State’s backup quarterback in one of the biggest games of the season: the Rose Bowl against Oregon. Talk about living on the edge. As he navigates College Football Playoff preparations and keeps his name in the transfer portal, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Yet, Brown says it’s all manageable.
“It’s been a lot of calls, a lot of logistics, but I’ve managed to push it aside,” Brown explained to cleveland.com. “The coaches have been incredibly supportive, respecting my decision to stay and helping me juggle it all.”
After announcing his entry into the transfer portal on Dec. 8, most players would be packing up and leaving. But not Brown. He chose to stick with Ohio State, committing to his role as Will Howard’s backup quarterback through the postseason. Brown’s dedication to the Buckeyes is unwavering, showing no signs of distraction. He even turned down transfer visits during critical CFP prep time.
“When I came back after last year’s Cotton Bowl, I promised I’d stick with this team and fight for a national championship, whether I’m the starter, the backup, or even not playing at all,” Brown said. “As a leader, I’m all about keeping my word.”
Despite swirling rumors on social media, including a buzz around his supposed commitment to California, Brown swiftly addressed the speculations, putting the rumors to bed on X (formerly Twitter). With his dad and agent handling the transfer portal buzz, Brown’s sole focus remains on supporting his Buckeyes.
Brown’s Ohio State journey hasn’t gone as planned. A fierce competition for the starting spot last year saw him lose out to Kyle McCord, and when McCord transferred after the Cotton Bowl, Brown got his shot—only to be sidelined early by an injury. Ohio State then brought in Will Howard, who won the starting position this season.
“It’s been a rollercoaster,” Brown reflected. “But that’s college football. It doesn’t always go the way you expect.”
Despite the ups and downs, Brown’s Ohio State story isn’t over yet. With quarterbacks like Joe Burrow, Quinn Ewers, and McCord carving out successful careers after transferring, Brown aims to join that legendary list, hoping to make the most of the education and experience Ohio State has provided.
“The football knowledge here is top-tier,” Brown said. “It’s been an incredible learning experience for me, and I’m grateful for everything it’s taught me.”
From being on the verge of leaving to potentially stepping up in a championship-worthy moment, Devin Brown’s journey is anything but ordinary. And the Rose Bowl may just be the perfect stage for his next chapter.
