Ohio State announced Monday that redshirt freshman tight end Bennett Christian is suspended for the 2023-24 season after testing positive for a banned substance in January.
Christian was entering his second season with the Buckeyes, appearing in two games last year – against Toledo and Michigan State – and ultimately taking a redshirt. A four-star prospect out of Acworth (Ga.) Allatoona, Christian was a member of the 2022 recruiting class, and the only tight end in the class.
“I’d like to share the news today that I took a supplement that contained a banned substance and I will be ineligible to compete for the Buckeyes for the entire 2023 football season,” read a statement from Bennett. “I tested positive this past January under NCAA testing protocols and I will not be eligible again until next January.
“I am sorry that I put myself in this position and even more disappointed to have let down my teammates, coaching staff and family,” he continued. “I accept responsibility for my actions and for this suspension. The Ohio State staff does an outstanding job educating us. This could have been so easily avoided had I reached out to our training staff about the supplement and confirmed it was within policy. That will forever be a lesson learned and something all athletes should be aware of going forward.
“My goal this year is to be the absolute best teammate I can be, and to continue to support this program for which I am so grateful to be a part. I look forward to returning in 2024.”
While Christian’s suspension is a hit for Ohio State’s depth at tight end, he was unlikely to be a significant factor this season, with incumbent starter Cade Stover leading the room and Gee Scott Jr. and Joe Royer battling to back up Stover. Christian will be able to remain with the team in the mean time, and will be eligible to return to the field for the 2024-25 season.
