How Ohio State football is affected by Davison Igbinosun’s NFL Draft selection

The landscape of college football is ever-changing, and for powerhouse programs like Ohio State, it’s crucial to keep a watchful eye on the NFL Draft and the decisions of its star players. One such player whose draft selection could have a significant impact on the Buckeyes’ future is Davison Igbinosun, a standout cornerback for Ohio State. Igbinosun’s performance and potential declaration for the 2025 NFL Draft are topics of considerable interest as Ohio State continues to position itself as one of the premier programs in the country. The Buckeyes’ defensive secondary, which has been a key component of their success in recent years, could undergo significant changes if Igbinosun chooses to declare for the draft, and this would affect the team in a variety of ways.

This article will explore how Ohio State football is impacted by Igbinosun’s NFL Draft selection, including the immediate consequences for the team’s defense, its future recruiting efforts, and its standing as a national championship contender.

Who is Davison Igbinosun?

Before diving into how Igbinosun’s decision affects Ohio State football, it’s essential to understand why his potential departure is such a pivotal event for the program. Davison Igbinosun, a cornerback for Ohio State, has been a rising star in college football. Originally a standout player at Ole Miss, Igbinosun transferred to Ohio State as part of the 2024 recruiting class, looking to elevate his game on one of the nation’s most competitive teams. Standing at 6’1” and weighing 190 pounds, Igbinosun boasts an ideal frame for a cornerback, with the combination of speed, length, and agility that makes him an exceptional cover man.

Igbinosun’s playmaking ability was on full display during his time at Ole Miss, where he was known for his ability to shut down opposing wide receivers, break up passes, and play physical in run support. His performance earned him considerable praise from NFL scouts, and after transferring to Ohio State, he quickly became one of the key players in the Buckeyes’ secondary. His ball skills, anticipation, and ability to track receivers make him one of the top cornerbacks in the country, and he is widely regarded as a potential first- or second-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft.

How Igbinosun’s NFL Draft Selection Could Impact Ohio State’s Defense

Ohio State’s defense, particularly its secondary, has been a strength for the program in recent years. The Buckeyes have consistently produced NFL-caliber talent in the defensive backfield, with players like Jeff Okudah, Damon Arnette, and Marshon Lattimore all going on to successful careers in the NFL. Igbinosun, with his blend of physicality, speed, and playmaking ability, has the potential to continue this trend and become another key defensive back drafted into the NFL.

1. Loss of Experience and Playmaking Ability

If Igbinosun declares for the NFL Draft, the immediate and most obvious impact on Ohio State’s defense would be the loss of his experience and talent in the secondary. Igbinosun has been a lockdown corner for Ohio State, capable of covering some of the best wide receivers in the country. His ability to disrupt passing games and act as a shut-down defender has been invaluable for the Buckeyes, and his departure would leave a significant void.

The loss of Igbinosun would be especially felt in high-pressure games against top-tier Big Ten teams like Michigan and Penn State, where passing games are key components of the offense. Without Igbinosun, Ohio State’s secondary would need to lean on younger players who may not yet have the experience or skill set to handle elite receivers. The team would need to replace his ability to consistently win one-on-one matchups, especially in critical third-and-long situations or in the red zone.

2. Strain on the Remaining Cornerbacks

While Ohio State has a solid group of cornerbacks, including Denzel Burke and Jordan Hancock, the loss of Igbinosun could place additional pressure on these players to step up and fill the gap. Igbinosun’s ability to match up against top-tier receivers allowed the Buckeyes’ defensive scheme to function with more flexibility, knowing that they had a reliable cornerback who could shut down one side of the field. Without Igbinosun, defensive coordinator Jim Knowles would need to make adjustments, possibly by shifting coverage schemes or relying more on safety help to cover deep routes.

Players like Burke and Hancock will need to elevate their play to maintain the strength of Ohio State’s secondary. Without Igbinosun’s coverage skills, the Buckeyes could be more vulnerable to explosive passing offenses, especially those that feature tall, fast, and dynamic receivers. Ohio State will also need its safeties, such as Lathan Ransom and Jahquez Robinson, to play a more active role in defending against the pass.

3. Recruiting Challenges and Depth Concerns

One of the long-term effects of Igbinosun’s potential NFL Draft selection is the impact it may have on Ohio State’s recruiting efforts. The Buckeyes have built a reputation for developing elite defensive backs, and Igbinosun is the latest example of a high-profile cornerback who could be drafted early. If Igbinosun is selected highly in the NFL Draft, it would reinforce Ohio State’s status as a prime destination for top-tier defensive recruits, and the program could continue to attract future cornerback prospects eager to follow in his footsteps.

However, if Igbinosun leaves early, Ohio State would need to ensure that it maintains depth at the cornerback position, especially with the possibility of more players following in Igbinosun’s footsteps and declaring for the NFL Draft in the coming seasons. While the Buckeyes have recruited some talented defensive backs, it will be crucial for the coaching staff to develop the next generation of cornerbacks quickly to avoid a drop-off in talent.

Players like Jyaire Brown and Kai Stokes, who are rising stars in the defensive backfield, will need to step up as reliable contributors in the secondary. Furthermore, Ohio State’s recruiting efforts in 2025 and beyond will likely focus on securing top cornerback prospects to offset the potential loss of Igbinosun and others. The coaching staff will need to prioritize building depth at the cornerback position to ensure long-term stability in the defensive backfield.

How Igbinosun’s Draft Decision Affects Ohio State’s National Title Aspirations

Ohio State has consistently been in the national championship conversation, and the 2025 season will be no different. The Buckeyes’ defense, especially the secondary, will play a critical role in their pursuit of a College Football Playoff berth and a potential national title. The loss of Igbinosun could have a significant impact on Ohio State’s ability to compete for a championship.

1. Defensive Balance and Flexibility

One of Ohio State’s strengths in recent seasons has been its ability to balance a high-powered offense with a defense capable of stifling opposing attacks. Igbinosun’s potential departure could force Ohio State to adjust its defensive strategy. Without a top-tier cornerback to match up against elite receivers, the Buckeyes might have to adjust their pass defense, shifting coverage schemes or relying more on their pass rush to pressure opposing quarterbacks.

The Buckeyes’ defensive line, led by JT Tuimoloau and Jack Sawyer, will need to take on more responsibility to offset the loss of Igbinosun. A stronger pass rush would take some of the pressure off the secondary and force opposing quarterbacks to make quicker decisions. However, relying more heavily on the pass rush could leave Ohio State vulnerable to quick, efficient passing attacks if the secondary cannot cover receivers for long periods.

2. Increased Pressure on Ohio State’s Offense

If Igbinosun leaves and Ohio State’s defense suffers as a result, the Buckeyes’ offense may be expected to carry an even greater load. Quarterback Kyle McCord and star wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. will need to elevate their play to ensure the offense remains dominant, especially in shootout situations. Ohio State’s offense, which has been among the nation’s best, will need to remain explosive to overcome any potential struggles on defense.

The Buckeyes’ offensive line, running backs, and playmakers in the passing game will need to continue to produce at a high level to keep Ohio State in contention for a national title. McCord, in particular, will need to develop even greater chemistry with his receivers, especially in tight games where the offense may need to put up significant points to secure a victory.

What Can Ohio State Do to Address the Loss?

In the event that Igbinosun declares for the NFL Draft, Ohio State will need to make several adjustments to remain competitive. First and foremost, the coaching staff will need to focus on developing young cornerbacks like Brown and Stokes, ensuring they are prepared to take on starting roles in the secondary. The coaching staff must also continue to recruit elite defensive backs to keep the depth strong at the cornerback position.

Additionally, Ohio State may need to place greater emphasis on strengthening its defensive line to compensate for any weaknesses in the secondary. A strong pass rush, led by Tuimoloau and Sawyer, could alleviate some of the pressure on the cornerbacks and keep opposing quarterbacks from having time to exploit the Buckeyes’ defensive backs.

The Domino Effect of Igbinosun’s NFL Draft Selection

Davison Igbinosun’s potential NFL Draft selection is a pivotal moment for Ohio State football. His decision to leave early would have immediate consequences for the Buckeyes’ defense, particularly in the secondary. While Ohio State has the talent to replace Igbinosun, his loss would still create significant challenges, especially in high-stakes games against top-tier opponents. The impact of his departure would be felt not only on the field but also in Ohio State’s recruiting efforts and its long-term defensive plans.

In the grand scheme, Ohio State’s ability to adapt and reload at the cornerback position will be crucial to maintaining its status as a national title contender. While Igbinosun’s decision could create some turbulence, it also provides an opportunity for young talent to emerge and for Ohio State to continue its tradition of developing elite defensive backs.