The Ohio State Buckeyes just saw one of their most well-known exiting transfers find his new home. While some of the entrees into the transfer portal from the Buckeyes were expected and non-impactful, any time a quarterback leaves a program, it is notable. Quarterback Lincoln Kienholz has found a new school to try to earn playing time with as early as the 2026 season.

The 2025 backup QB for the Buckeyes has committed to Jeff Brohm and Louisville. Kienholz was in contention to start for Ohio State this season but lost the job to transfer Julian Sayin. With Sayin still in the fold for 2026, Kienholz saw an opportunity to go elsewhere for a possible starting job.

The BIGGEST transfer portal debate for the Notre Dame Fighting Irish

“Sources tell @On3sports that Louisville got Lincoln Kienholz on campus on Saturday and quickly wrapped up his recruitment.” — Pete Nakos

The quarterback, while inexperienced, has a massive chance to make an impact for one of the top teams in the ACC for 2026. Jeff Brohm was pursued recently for multiple job openings across college football but remained committed to the Cardinals.

I talked with Brandon Little regarding Kienholz’ history with the Buckeyes and what’s next for him after Ohio State’s recent College Football Playoff loss.

“Kienholz spent three seasons in Columbus with Ohio State and played in 12 career games during that time. The South Dakota native’s most important time with the Buckeyes came in his junior season — as he served as the backup to QB Julian Sayin. 

Kienholz had a shot at the starting job entering 2025 and battled through the offseason and fall camp for the job. After not winning the starting gig, the 6-foot-3 quarterback still played for the Buckeyes as a running threat multiple times this past season. Now, Kienholz is going to get a shot to start in his fourth year of college football. 

Kienholz was expected to stay with Ohio State through the College Football Playoff — but that run ended in their first game — a loss to the Miami Hurricanes. Just days after that, Kienholz has already found his landing spot in the portal.” — Brandon Little, A to Z Sports