Report: Ohio State adds UNC's sack leader Atkinson

Ohio State made a splash Wednesday by landing North Carolina transfer edge rusher Beau Atkinson, a source told On3's Pete Nakos.

Atkinson entered the portal earlier in April and instantly became one of the best players available after leading the Tar Heels with 7.5 sacks in 2024. He also registered 12 tackles for loss in 13 games.

Georgia was also reportedly interested in Atkinson and hosted him on a visit. The 6-foot-6, 265-pounder, who registered 3.5 sacks at UNC in 2023, has two seasons of eligibility left.

Atkinson is a great addition to an Ohio State defense that suffered a big roster turnover after winning the national title this past season. The Buckeyes still roster a deep group of pass-rushers, including Caden Curry and Kenyatta Jackson.