Ohio State tight end A.J. Alexander reportedly out for the season

Ohio State’s depth at tight end will be tested this season, as one of their younger players with real experience will miss the entire 2017 season.

According to Tim May at the Columbus Dispatch, A.J. Alexander will miss the year thanks to a knee injury sustained while playing basketball.

Alexander, a redshirt sophomore, has been a pleasant surprise for the Buckeyes. A more under-the-radar three-star recruit on a roster full of blue-chippers, Alexander played in every game last season, standing out with his physicality.

Without him, the Buckeyes will likely turn to redshirt freshman Luke Farrell and Jake Hausmann, two blue-chip recruits from the 2016 class. Marcus Baugh will be the returning starter for the Buckeyes.

Under Kevin Wilson, it’s believed that the Buckeyes will utilize the tight end in the passing game more than they have over the last few seasons, so losing a player with game experience isn’t ideal. The Buckeyes have recruited well at the position and have a potential NFL Draft pick in Baugh, but if he gets hurt as well, things could get dicey.

Here’s hoping Alexander makes a full recovery.