2. Will Shaun Wade return?
Despite being a slot cornerback and only starting for one season, Shaun Wade could be the third Buckeye taken in the 2020 NFL Draft — possibly in the first round. He has never played outside, so he could plausibly return to make himself more versatile and gain more experience. In doing this, Wade could propel himself from fringe first-rounder to the clear top-10 pick that Okudah is this year. But what if he leaves now?
The Buckeyes are already losing the rest of their secondary. In addition to Okudah, Damon Arnette and safety Jordan Fuller are seniors. It would be huge to return the talent and experience of Wade to the secondary.
Hard-hitting safety Josh Proctor looks ready to take Fuller’s spot at free-safety in Ohio State’s new single-safety scheme. Cornerbacks Amir Riep, Sevyn Banks and Cam Brown rotated in relief of Okudah, Wade and Arnette due to minor injuries suffered throughout the season. Marcus Williamson and Tyreke Johnson will be in the mix at corner as well.
Regardless of Wade’s decision, the 2020 Ohio State secondary will be riddled with inexperience. But if Wade returns, it gives the Buckeyes a clear defensive star in a season in which established star power appears to be lacking on that side of the ball.
Wade has millions of dollars to earn if he leaves, but the cornerback can’t be happy with the way his 2019 season ended. Not wanting to end his collegiate career that way coupled with top-ten draft potential in 2021 could be enough to entice Wade to return.