An Ohio State football player and social media star has been mysteriously kicked off the Buckeyes' roster just days before the national championship game.
Caden Davis was a defensive lineman who amassed hundreds of thousands of followers on TikTok and Instagram thanks to clips of the team's behind-the-scenes life.
Davis posted videos from inside the facility, as well as photos on the field, on the bench, outside a private jet and even a signed autograph card, despite never playing a game for the Buckeyes.
The sophomore has been released by the team ahead of Monday's College Football Playoff finale against Notre Dame.
The precise details of why and when he was kicked off the team remain unclear, but he was recently brought to attention by a teammate who commented on a now-deleted post.
“No play here,” offensive lineman George Fitzpatrick wrote alongside the video, which appeared to be from Ohio State's recent trip to face Texas in the Cotton Bowl.
An Ohio State football player and social media star has been mysteriously kicked off the roster
Caden Davis' TikTok page is dominated by images from his time with the Ohio State team.
Davis appears to have flown on private planes during his time as an Ohio State football player.
But the images are reportedly from the Buckeyes' Cotton Bowl appearance in 2024, rather than January 2025.
The school newspaper, the flashlightfirst reported his departure from the team, but the Buckeyes could not provide a reason. DailyMail.com has contacted Ohio State for comment.
Davis issued a statement on social media, confirming that he is off the team and thanking his coaches and teammates for their support.
'Being a horse chestnut has always been a dream come true for me since I was a child. “I am very grateful to the coaches, staff and players for welcoming me to the team.” wrote on Instagram.
'I really can't thank you enough for allowing me to live my dream for the last two years and guiding me like you have.
'With the changes at the NCAA and personal professional reasons, I will not be a PWO (preferred walk-in) at OSU. I appreciate everyone's support and help in respecting my privacy regarding the decision made. Thanks, Go Bucks.'
The Buckeyes are chasing their first title since 2014 when they take on the Fighting Irish at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Monday.