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Ohio State quarterback J.T. Barrett, who already has graduated, announced Wednesday that he will return to Columbus for his senior year. "I'm coming back for my senior year," Barrett posted on his Instagram account. "Much love to Buckeye Nation and thank God for the blessings."
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As a graduate, Barrett could have returned to his native Texas and played for former Ohio State offensive coordinate Tom Herman, now the coach of the Longhorns.
But his heart remains in Columbus, plus some unfinished business.
The last time Barrett took the field was a time he, coach Urban Meyer and Buckeyes fans would like to forget. Clemson dominated Saturday's College Football Playoff semifinal game, shutting out Barrett and the Buckeyes in the Fiesta Bowl to earn a spot in the CFP championship game against Alabama on Monday.
Barrett, who holds numerous Ohio State records, probably didn't want to leave on such a sour note. He threw for more than 2,500 yards and 24 touchdowns, and added 845 yards and nine scores rushing to lead Ohio State to an 11-1 record before the Fiesta Bowl loss.
Barrett will be tutored by new quarterback coach and Chip Kelly protoge Ryan Day. Meyer also is close to hiring a new offensive coordinator, former Indiana head coach Kevin Wilson.
Earlier on Wednesday, linebacker Raekwon McMillian announced he would forgo his senior year and enter the NFL Draft. McMillian joined All-American safety Malik Hooker and cornerback Gareon Conley who also are jumping to the NFL.
Against Clemson, McMillan, a team captain, recorded 15 tackles and a sack. He's been a unanimous first-team All-Big Ten selection the past two seasons.
McMillian also was a finalist for the Butkus Award as the nation's top linebacker as a sophomore.
