Ohio State wide receiver explains why he plans to return in 2024.

During the first two years of his football career at Ohio State, Emeka Egbuka appeared to be a player who was obviously on a three-and-done track.

He established himself as a return specialist in his rookie year in 2021 and became one of the select few wide receivers in the Buckeyes history to have a 1,000-yard campaign in 2022. He was expected to duplicate that performance with Marvin Harrisooon Jr. this past season before they both entered the NFL Draft this spring as the newest additions to Brian Hartline’s string of first-round selections.

Harrison’s dream came true, as he now appears to be headed toward becoming the first player taken in April who isn’t a quarterback. However, Egbuka had to adjust after a 2023 marred by injuries.

On 97.1 The Fan’s ‘Morning Juice’ during the 2024 Buckeye Cruise, Egbuka commented, “It’s just a part of the game, something you come to understand when you’re involved in football. Initially, I saw it as unfortunate, but it ultimately led me back to Ohio State for my fourth year, which I believe was part of God’s plan for me.

I’m eager to seize this opportunity and make the most of it.” Reflecting on his decision to return for the 2024 season, Egbuka acknowledged the significant role his lost season played and recognized the chance to emerge as a leader in the wide receiver group. However, he admitted that reaching this decision was a back-and-forth process until he finalized it.

“It was the most indecisive I’ve ever been,” Egbuka admitted. “I leaned heavily on my faith, spending much time in prayer and seeking guidance. Ultimately, I felt led to return here, and once that decision was made, I was fully committed.

” As a former five-star recruit, Egbuka boasts 124 career catches for 1,857 yards and 14 touchdowns, and returning for his fourth year offers the opportunity to climb the school’s all-time leaderboards. Additionally, he joins other members of the 2021 recruiting class who also felt their time at OSU wasn’t complete, contributing to a unified sense of purpose within the 2024 roster.

“These teammates I’ve spent the last four years with are like family, and I cherish every moment playing alongside them,” Egbuka emphasized. “While each decision was personal, the chance to contend for a championship definitely influenced us. We’re aiming to achieve something special this year.”