Former Ohio State Star Jack Sawyer Returns as Free Agent, Downplays Rivalry with Michigan

Former Ohio State Star Jack Sawyer Returns as Free Agent, Downplays Rivalry with Michigan

 

COLUMBUS, Ohio — Former Ohio State standout Jack Sawyer is back — this time as an NFL free agent — and he’s making headlines not just for his return, but for his controversial take on one of college football’s biggest rivalries.

The defensive end, who played three seasons for the Buckeyes before entering the NFL Draft, re-signed with an undisclosed team this week after being released earlier in the offseason. While his NFL journey continues to unfold, it’s his comments about the Ohio State–Michigan rivalry that are stirring up conversation across the college football landscape.

Speaking during a post-workout interview with local reporters on Monday, Sawyer was asked about his thoughts on returning to the league and reflecting on his college days, particularly his experience in “The Game” — the annual Ohio State–Michigan clash that defines the season for both programs.

“To be honest, defeating Michigan isn’t that big of a deal,” Sawyer said. “People hype it up like it’s everything, but at the end of the day, it’s just one game. If you win that and don’t win a championship, what does it really mean?”

The comment, while possibly an attempt to shift focus to broader team goals, struck a nerve with fans and alumni alike. Ohio State–Michigan is not only one of the most storied rivalries in sports but a defining moment for players on both sides. For many, it’s more than a game — it’s legacy.

Sawyer, a native of Pickerington, Ohio, was a five-star recruit and one of the most highly touted defensive prospects in recent memory when he committed to Ohio State. Known for his aggressive pass rush and relentless motor, he racked up 15.5 career sacks in Columbus and was a consistent presence on the Buckeyes’ defensive line.

He declared for the NFL Draft after his junior year and was selected in the mid rounds, but struggled to find a consistent role in his rookie season. Now, returning to the league as a free agent, Sawyer appears eager to reset his professional career — even if it means stirring up a little controversy in the process.

Former teammates and fans were quick to respond on social media. Some defended Sawyer’s comments, suggesting he was merely expressing a winner’s mentality — that championships matter more than rivalry wins. Others weren’t so forgiving.

“Every Buckeye knows what Michigan week means. You can’t just brush that off,” one fan tweeted. “That game is the season.”

For his part, Sawyer hasn’t walked back his comments but did clarify later on social media that he respects the rivalry and “knows how much it means to fans,” adding that his focus now is on becoming the best version of himself as a pro.

As he fights for a roster spot in the upcoming NFL season, Sawyer’s play will ultimately determine how long his second chance lasts — but his words have ensured people will be watching closely.

Whether Buckeye Nation forgives him or not may depend on time — and perhaps a few wins over Michigan in the years to come.