Ohio State poaches battle-tested linebacker from Big Ten foe

Ohio State football continues to reload through the transfer portal, this time landing a commitment from former Wisconsin linebacker Christian Alliegro. Alliegro appeared in 10 games with eight starts during the 2025 season, totaling 49 tackles, one pass breakup, and a career-high four sacks. Buckeye fans may remember him best from Wisconsin’s matchup with Ohio State, when he broke his arm during the game and still returned to finish it.

Those performances earned Alliegro All-Big Ten Honorable Mention recognition from both the league’s coaches and media. Across three seasons in Madison, he made 35 appearances with 11 starts, establishing himself as a steady and physical presence in the Badgers’ defense. Once he entered the portal, Texas emerged as a serious contender, but after visits to both Austin and Columbus, the veteran linebacker ultimately chose Ohio State.

The Buckeyes are hoping Alliegro can help fill the void left by Sonny Styles at linebacker in 2026, with Styles expected to declare for the NFL Draft. Alliegro brings proven production and toughness, finishing his Wisconsin career with 124 tackles, eight sacks, and 14 tackles for loss.

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Alliegro becomes the fifth transfer portal addition for Ohio State this offseason. At the time of his commitment, he was ranked as the No. 10 linebacker in the portal by 247Sports.

This article originally appeared on Buckeyes Wire: Ohio State poaches battle-tested linebacker from Big Ten foe