There have been obvious strides for Jelani Thurman to take since he arrived at Ohio State as a highly-touted freshman with the recruiting class of 2023.
He has not yet emerged as a star, but his blocking has improved. His game knowledge has developed. And more important than anything for tight ends coach Keenan Bailey, lately, his third-year pupil is carrying himself like a veteran.
“He's off the charts, night and day, more mature,” Bailey said during spring practice. “Been really impressed with his work ethic. He's in here every night getting extra work in. I challenged him to learn every position on offense.