Ohio State names 8 elite ‘Iron Buckeyes’ for offseason excellence

When Ryan Day spoke to the media after the first day of fall practice, he emphasized how important the offseason program is.

No qualms about it, our foundation is the weight room. That’s where you build your respect,” Day said.

Every year, the team hands out an award to an elite few who embody that mindset.

Ohio State named 8 players as “Iron Buckeyes” on Friday. The award is given to players who show “unquestionable training, dedication, determination, discipline, toughness and leadership.”

Being on this list is no easy feat. It requires an offseason of unrelenting effort, skill, and a work ethic that even one of, if not the best, defensive players in all of college football Caleb Downs, didn’t achieve.

One of the more curious honorees is QB Lincoln Kienholz, who is currently in a fierce battle with redshirt-freshman Julian Sayin to be the high-powered offense’s signal caller.

A few household names made the list as well. Linebacker Sonny Styles, receivers Jeremiah Smith and Carnell Tate (who could be one of the best WR duos in Ohio State history, and that really is saying something).

Offensive lineman Austin Siereveld, defensive end Kenyatta Jackson, linebacker Payton Pierce and safety Jaylen McClain also received the honor.