Buckeye Breakfast: Ohio State football might carry on an incredible NFL Draft trend

Ohio State University has long been one of the most prestigious programs in college football, boasting a rich history of success on the field. The program’s dominance in the Big Ten is undeniable, and its consistent appearances in major bowl games and College Football Playoffs have solidified Ohio State’s status as one of college football’s blue-blood programs. However, one of the most remarkable aspects of Ohio State football in recent years has been its unparalleled success in the NFL Draft.

From Dwayne Haskins to Nick Bosa, the Buckeyes have seen their share of players drafted highly by NFL teams. But what makes Ohio State’s trend particularly remarkable is how consistent and widespread it has been. Almost every year, it seems like the Buckeyes are sending several players into the NFL, and in many cases, they’re first-round picks. Whether it’s offensive linemen, wide receivers, defensive backs, or quarterbacks, Ohio State has become a factory for NFL talent.

As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, Ohio State fans and scouts alike are asking: will the Buckeyes continue this incredible draft trend? Given the talent on the current roster and the high level of coaching from Ryan Day and his staff, it seems likely that Ohio State will continue its path of churning out first-round picks and future NFL stars.

This article will delve into Ohio State’s NFL Draft legacy, explore some of the top Buckeyes who could hear their names called early in the 2025 draft, and examine how the program’s structure and culture contribute to its success in developing NFL-caliber talent.

Ohio State’s NFL Draft Legacy: A Legacy of Success

Ohio State has always been a powerhouse in college football, but in the past decade, its success in the NFL Draft has elevated the program to even greater heights. The Buckeyes have produced a plethora of NFL talent, many of whom have gone on to become stars at the next level.

First-Round Talent Year After Year

One of the most incredible aspects of Ohio State’s NFL Draft success is the consistent number of players the program sends to the NFL in the first round. Over the past several years, Ohio State has seen players drafted early in the first round of the draft, which speaks to the program’s ability to develop elite talent. Here are some notable first-rounders in recent years:

• 2024 Draft:
  • Jaxon Smith-Njigba (WR): A standout at Ohio State, Smith-Njigba was a highly-coveted prospect who went early in the 2024 NFL Draft.
  • Paris Johnson Jr. (OL): Another first-round selection from Ohio State in 2024, Johnson Jr. is a dominant force on the offensive line.
• 2023 Draft:
  • CJ Stroud (QB): The quarterback for the 2024 Ohio State team was one of the most promising prospects in years, being taken in the top five of the 2023 NFL Draft.
  • J.K. Dobbins (RB): After proving himself to be an all-around back at Ohio State, Dobbins made his way to the NFL in the second round.
• 2022 Draft:
  • Garrett Wilson (WR): Wilson’s exceptional ability at wide receiver made him one of the most coveted draft picks in 2022.
  • Chris Olave (WR): Another star wideout from Ohio State, Olave was taken early in the first round in the 2022 draft.

The list goes on, with players like Nick Bosa, Joey Bosa, Dwayne Haskins, and Chase Young representing Ohio State as first-round draft picks in previous years.

What this trend indicates is that Ohio State is consistently producing high-level talent, especially on offense and defense, where the Buckeyes have had top-tier players at multiple positions. This consistency in the draft is no accident—it’s a direct result of Ohio State’s elite development program, its recruiting prowess, and its ability to adapt to the ever-changing landscape of college football.

NFL Draft 2025: The Buckeyes’ Potential First-Round Picks

As we look ahead to the 2025 NFL Draft, Ohio State’s roster is again filled with players who could hear their names called early in the first round. Let’s break down some of the top Buckeyes who could continue the program’s remarkable NFL Draft success.

1. Marvin Harrison Jr. (WR)

Arguably the most highly-anticipated draft prospect from Ohio State in 2025 is Marvin Harrison Jr. Harrison Jr. has been one of the most dominant wide receivers in college football, following in the footsteps of his father, Hall of Famer Marvin Harrison. With his elite combination of size, speed, and route-running ability, Harrison Jr. has established himself as a surefire first-round pick and one of the most coveted players in the 2025 draft class.

In 2024, Harrison Jr. put up jaw-dropping statistics, finishing the season with over 1,500 receiving yards and 15+ touchdowns. His ability to create separation with his smooth routes and his contested-catch skills make him a nightmare for opposing defenses. As a potential top-5 pick in the 2025 draft, Harrison Jr. will continue to be the focal point of Ohio State’s offense and is widely regarded as one of the best wide receiver prospects to come out of college football in recent memory.

2. JT Tuimoloau (DE)

On the defensive side of the ball, JT Tuimoloau has emerged as one of the best pass rushers in college football. The defensive end from Hawaii has been a force for Ohio State since he arrived on campus, and his 2024 season was nothing short of spectacular. Tuimoloau is an explosive athlete with the speed, strength, and instincts to dominate at the next level. His combination of size and athleticism makes him a top-tier defensive prospect who could be selected in the top 10 of the 2025 NFL Draft.

Throughout the 2024 season, Tuimoloau proved to be a game-changer for the Buckeyes’ defense, tallying multiple sacks, forced fumbles, and pass deflections. His ability to rush the quarterback and disrupt opposing offenses will be a major asset for any NFL team that selects him. As one of the top defensive prospects in the draft, Tuimoloau will likely be one of Ohio State’s most coveted players come April 2025.

3. Paris Johnson Jr. (OT)

Paris Johnson Jr. is another player who could continue Ohio State’s first-round streak in 2025. Johnson, a left tackle, is one of the top offensive line prospects in the 2025 draft class. With his size, technique, and versatility, Johnson has the potential to be a franchise cornerstone for whichever NFL team picks him.

In 2024, Johnson solidified his status as one of the premier tackles in college football, regularly going up against some of the best defensive linemen in the country. His ability to protect the quarterback’s blindside and anchor the offensive line has made him a highly coveted prospect. Johnson’s potential in the NFL is immense, and he could be one of the first offensive linemen selected in the 2025 draft.

4. Cade Stover (TE)

A lesser-known but highly talented prospect to keep an eye on is Cade Stover, Ohio State’s standout tight end. Stover has been a consistent target in the passing game for the Buckeyes, and his ability to block and catch the ball makes him a versatile asset. In a draft that is expected to feature multiple talented tight ends, Stover could emerge as a top pick, especially if he builds on his already impressive 2024 season.

Stover’s strong combination of size and athleticism makes him an intriguing prospect for NFL teams looking for a dual-threat tight end who can both block and create mismatches in the passing game. With a solid 2024 campaign, Stover could be looking at a selection in the early rounds of the draft.

Why Ohio State Continues to Produce NFL Talent

There are several factors that contribute to Ohio State’s incredible success in the NFL Draft. The program’s elite recruiting pipeline and coaching staff are two of the most significant reasons behind their continued production of top-tier talent.

1. Elite Recruiting

Ohio State’s recruiting efforts have been second to none, consistently landing some of the nation’s top high school prospects. The Buckeyes have been able to build depth at every position, creating a culture of competition that pushes players to perform at their best. Ryan Day’s ability to recruit on both sides of the ball ensures that Ohio State remains a powerhouse year after year.

2. Player Development

Once players arrive at Ohio State, the coaching staff, led by Ryan Day and his assistants, is renowned for developing players into future NFL stars. Under Day’s tutelage, players are consistently coached up to maximize their potential. From developing quarterbacks to crafting dominant defensive lines, Ohio State’s coaching staff ensures that players are prepared for the next level.

3. High-Level Competition

Playing in the Big Ten and consistently facing top-tier competition has also been beneficial for Ohio State players. Week-in and week-out, the Buckeyes compete against some of the best teams in the nation, helping to prepare their players for the level of competition they will face in the NFL.

Will Ohio State Keep the NFL Draft Trend Going?

With top prospects like Marvin Harrison Jr., JT Tuimoloau, and Paris Johnson Jr. potentially heading to the NFL in the 2025 draft, Ohio State’s incredible NFL Draft trend shows no signs of slowing down. As long as the program continues to recruit at a high level, develop players effectively, and compete against the best, Ohio State will remain a key contributor to the NFL’s talent pool.

The Buckeyes’ ability to produce first-round picks and future NFL stars is a testament to the success of their program, and fans can expect more Ohio State players to hear their names called early in the draft for years to come. As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, Ohio State will once again showcase the talent that has made them a perennial powerhouse in college football.