Kirk Herbstreit has high expectations for Shaun Wade in 2020

The Buckeyes will see Shaun Wade return in 2020, and analyst Kirk Herbstreit is already setting high expectations for 2020.

The Ohio State Buckeyes secondary will be a rebuilt one this upcoming season.

The unit may go from one of the Buckeyes’ strongest units to one of its biggest question marks with three starters either exiting college or declaring for the NFL Draft.

Those stars include Jeff Okudah, Damon Arnette Jr., and Jordan Fuller, the team’s best two cornerbacks and Ohio State’s starting safety. All three are likely going to be among the top ten prospects at their respective position.

Those decisions put pressure on former five-star cornerback Shaun Wade. A three-year sophomore in college eligibility, Wade made his decision this past Saturday, and it was one that will change both his future and the Buckeyes.

There it is. He is staying.

Truth be told: the Ohio State Buckeyes would be in trouble if Wade declared for the draft, skipping his fourth year like corner Jeff Okudah is doing.

But, Wade, who was a top-400 all-time recruit according to 247 Sports, will return and look to improve on an already-high draft stock.

That said, many analysts know the importance of Wade’s return, and one familiar name, Kirk Herbstreit, has already set high expectations on the soon-to-be senior cornerback.

Wade recorded 26 tackles, two sacks, and one interception this past season. Like Herbstreit noted, he played primarily in the nickel and will transition into an every-down corner that will be Ohio State’s top option.

With Clarke Phillips II, a four-star cornerback flipping from Ohio State and heading to Utah, Wade’s presence will be even more important. He’ll be the engine to a somewhat inexperienced secondary.

Like Herbstreit noted, Wade should be in store for a career-altering season in 2020.