CJ Donaldson's path to Ohio State was peculiar. A high school running back and wide receiver, Donaldson went to West Virginia as a three-star tight end recruit. As a freshman tight end, the team toyed with him at running back, where he excelled. He made the official transition to running back in 2023, leading the team in carries over the next two seasons. After Ohio State lost its running backs in the 2025 draft, Donaldson transferred to add physicality and leadership to the Buckeyes' backfield. Donaldson scored 11 touchdowns in 2025, his third straight season with double-digit scores.

Donaldson is an old-school bruiser, listed at 6-2 and 232 pounds. He's excellent and keeps his legs churning through contact, regularly getting stood up, only to continue moving forward or pushing a pile. His size isn't just used to pound; he also shows decent acceleration, footwork, and contact balance. His history as a receiver and tight end gives him shockingly soft hands. Like most power backs, Donaldson lacks some high-end speed and lateral agility. However, his upside as a potential three-down back with pass-catching chops should entice some teams.