Ohio State opened spring practice on Tuesday, and Ryan Day spoke about several players who were among the most improved during winter workouts.

Redshirt freshman cornerback Jakailin Johnson, sophomore cornerback Jordan Hancock and redshirt freshman wide receiver Jayden Ballard were among some other Buckeyes that were honored as some of the most improved after winter workouts.

About QB C.J. Stroud, Day said the Buckeyes will “put a little bit more on (his) plate” in 2022.

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“When you dive into C.J., he’s highly motivated. … He comes out with the mindset that he has something to prove every day.” Day said, and added that the quarterback is “on his way” to being great.

Stroud has solidified the position after a position battle last offseason. Stroud took control of the offense and became a Heisman Trophy finalist.

Stroud led the best offense in the nation last season with Ohio State being No. 1 nationally in total offense (561.2 yards per game) and scoring offense (45.7 ppg), and No. 3 in passing offense (380.9 ypg). He completed 317-of-441 passes for 4,435 yards with 44 TDs vs. just 6 INTs.

Also, Day said WR Kamryn Babb is fully healthy and had a really good first practice of the spring. “If he can stay healthy, he’s going to have an impact on this offense, for sure.”

H/T Dan Hope and Griffin Strom