Ohio State DT Eddrick Houston had an injury scare yesterday during the Buckeyes’ first practice of the season, but avoided a major setback.
**Update: Eddrick Houston is dressed for Day 2 of practice, wearing a brace on his right knee.
During Ohio State’s first Fall Camp practice of the 2025 season, standout defensive tackle Eddrick Houston suffered an injury and was helped off the field, according to a report from Pete Thamel of ESPN. Fortunately for the Buckeyes, the injury is not considered serious and is not expected to be a long-term issue.
Sources: The lower body injury sustained in practice earlier today by Ohio State projected starting DT Eddrick Houston does not look like a long-term injury. The early results are that it’s not considered serious. pic.twitter.com/tq4j8xzy9d
— Pete Thamel (@PeteThamel) July 31, 2025
The initial concern surrounding Houston was significant, given the lack of proven depth at defensive tackle. The sophomore was projected to start alongside Kayden McDonald on the interior defensive line, forming the core of a unit already thin on experience.
Had the injury been serious, Ohio State would’ve been forced to turn to a group of largely untested players: Tywone Malone, Will Smith Jr., and Jason Moore. While Malone brings some experience, it’s been in a rotational role and not with sustained impact. McDonald is currently the only other interior lineman with notable game experience.
Houston’s presence is especially critical as the Buckeyes prepare for a monumental season opener against Texas. The Longhorns boast a powerful offensive line, explosive running backs, and a dual-threat quarterback in Arch Manning. Stopping the run and applying interior pressure will be key in slowing down the Texas offense, and Houston is central to those efforts.
The situation underscores the glaring concern of a lack of depth along the interior defensive line. Ohio State dodged a bullet this time. The Buckeyes must hope for both health and rapid development from the young talent behind their top guys. That combination keeps the National Title aspirations alive amid a challenging schedule.
Stay tuned to The Silver Bulletin for continued updates throughout Fall Camp.
Blake Biscardi is the Lead Sports Reporter and Senior Editor at The Silver Bulletin, focusing on Ohio State athletics, primarily football, the Big Ten, and the College Football Playoff. He’s the Creator & Host of the Buckeye Cadence and Saturday Cadence podcasts, and also a member of the FWAA. Biscardi has degrees in Business Administration and Strategic Communication & Leadership.