Breakout Candidate: Brandon Inniss Primed for a Standout Season

Much like Carnell Tate did last season, Brandon Inniss has the potential to make a major impact as the third receiver on the depth chart this year.

When previewing Ohio State’s wide receiver corps for the upcoming season, much of the spotlight is on Jeremiah Smith, with Carnell Tate not far behind. But there’s another highly-touted recruit who’s been quietly waiting for his turn — and that time may finally be here.

That player is rising junior Brandon Inniss.

The 6-foot, 200-pound wideout from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, is projected to be the team’s No. 3 receiver heading into the season, positioned behind Smith and Tate, and just ahead of freshman Mylan Graham on the depth chart.

Inniss was a highly regarded prospect coming out of high school, ranked as the No. 5 wide receiver, No. 9 overall player in Florida, and No. 35 nationally in the 2023 class. 247Sports Director of Scouting Andrew Ivins described Inniss as one of the most proven talents in the class, noting his early emergence as a standout player and relentless drive to win.

“He’s arguably the most polished player in his class. He made an impact as early as eighth grade in South Florida and kept delivering throughout his high school career,” Ivins said. “While he’s listed as a wide receiver, he plays like a true alpha—someone who despises losing and will do anything to win.”

Ivins praised Inniss for his growth as a receiver, highlighting his ability to thrive as a dynamic slot option capable of running a full route tree. He also projected him as a future first-round NFL draft pick, likening his game to Detroit Lions standout Amon-Ra St. Brown. Inniss held offers from top programs including Florida State, Miami, Alabama, and Oklahoma.

Thus far, Inniss has had to bide his time behind a string of NFL-bound receivers, earning limited chances on the field. Over his college career, he’s tallied 15 receptions for 234 yards and two touchdowns — averaging 15.6 yards per catch. As a freshman, he logged one reception for 58 yards and a touchdown in eight games. In his sophomore year, he hauled in 14 passes for 176 yards and one score across 16 games.

Despite limited volume, Inniss made his presence felt in key moments, including a touchdown against Penn State and a crucial first-down grab in the national championship matchup versus Notre Dame.

He also contributed on special teams, returning 14 punts for 107 yards and three kickoffs for 47 yards. He averaged 7.6 yards per punt return and 15.7 per kick return.

“When you feel like it’s finally your time, your mindset shifts,” Inniss told 247Sports in April. “Last year, I was still considered a backup, but now with the chance to start, everything changes — mentally, physically. The number change, my body transformation — it’s all aligning.”

Despite still competing for touches behind star receivers Jeremiah Smith and Carnell Tate, and with standout tight end Max Klare in the mix, Inniss understands the importance of seizing his moment. He’s been patient, and now he’s ready to deliver.

“We call it competitive excellence — stepping up when your number’s called,” Inniss explained. “Every time I’m on the field, I know I’m either putting something good or bad on tape. And I’m not trying to put bad tape out there. That mindset drives me on every snap.”

Now in his third year, Inniss is poised to be a key contributor. As defenses focus on slowing down Smith and Tate, opportunities could open up for the junior to make a meaningful impact.