Ohio State football has shocking amount of first-round picks in CBS Sports NFL mock draft

Ohio State football has long been known for producing top-tier talent, especially when it comes to sending players to the NFL. In the latest CBS Sports NFL Mock Draft, Ohio State has a truly shocking amount of first-round picks, demonstrating just how much raw talent has been developed at the university in recent years. This development not only highlights Ohio State’s dominance in college football but also their ability to prepare players for the next level. Let’s dive deeper into Ohio State’s impressive presence in the first round of the mock draft, exploring the athletes selected, their potential, and what this means for the Buckeyes’ legacy.

The Rise of Ohio State Football

Ohio State University has always had a rich history of success, both in the Big Ten and on the national stage. The football program has produced countless NFL players, from legendary quarterbacks to elite defensive players. The Buckeyes have become a pipeline for NFL talent, particularly in recent years, where they’ve seen an influx of high-profile prospects being selected in the first round of the draft. The 2025 NFL Mock Draft, as compiled by CBS Sports, is no different, with Ohio State continuing its tradition of developing top-tier players.

This rise isn’t just about the athletes themselves, but also about the coaching and the system in place at Ohio State. With coaches like Ryan Day leading the charge, the Buckeyes have created an environment that fosters growth, turning talented high school recruits into highly coveted NFL prospects. This is evident in the 2025 NFL Mock Draft, where multiple Ohio State players are projected to be selected in the first round, a testament to the program’s ability to develop elite-level talent.

The Players on the First Round Radar

The CBS Sports NFL Mock Draft showcases Ohio State players in key positions on both sides of the ball. From the offensive line to wide receiver to defensive back, Ohio State players are making waves and earning recognition as some of the top prospects in the upcoming draft. The number of first-round picks from Ohio State is a testament to the program’s talent pool and coaching staff. Let’s break down some of the key players making waves in the 2025 mock draft.

1. Marvin Harrison Jr. – Wide Receiver

Perhaps the most shocking and most obvious inclusion in the first round is wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. Widely considered one of the best wide receiver prospects to come out of Ohio State in recent years, Harrison Jr. has all the tools to succeed at the next level. Standing at 6’4” and weighing in at around 205 pounds, Harrison combines elite size, speed, and route-running ability to make him a matchup nightmare for defenders.

Harrison has proven himself as one of the most dominant players in college football, with an ability to stretch the field and make acrobatic catches. His combination of size and athleticism is what makes him so appealing to NFL teams, and it’s no surprise that he is being projected as a top-10 pick in many mock drafts. The son of NFL Hall of Famer Marvin Harrison, Harrison Jr. has been able to draw from his father’s legacy, but he has already built a legacy of his own, further cementing Ohio State’s reputation as a wide receiver factory.

2. J.T. Tuimoloau – Edge Rusher

Another Ohio State player who has made a massive impact on the defensive side of the ball is J.T. Tuimoloau, an edge rusher who has been dominant in the trenches. Tuimoloau has been a force for the Buckeyes, showcasing his ability to pressure quarterbacks, disrupt the run game, and be a true playmaker on defense. His explosive first step, strong hand placement, and ability to bend around the edge make him one of the most feared pass rushers in college football.

With his combination of size (6’4″ and 270 pounds), athleticism, and football IQ, Tuimoloau has the potential to be one of the best edge rushers in the NFL. His versatility allows him to play in multiple defensive schemes, which is highly attractive to NFL teams that value flexibility. Tuimoloau is projected to be a top-15 pick in the 2025 draft, and it’s clear that he has the talent to be an immediate impact player at the next level.

3. Cade Stover – Tight End

Cade Stover, a standout tight end for Ohio State, has emerged as one of the top prospects at his position in the 2025 NFL draft. At 6’4” and 250 pounds, Stover combines excellent size with a surprising amount of speed and agility. His ability to block effectively in the run game, combined with his ability to stretch the field as a receiver, makes him a valuable asset for NFL teams looking for a well-rounded tight end.

Stover’s performance in the 2024 season, where he showcased both his receiving ability and his toughness as a blocker, has earned him a place in the first round of many mock drafts. With the increasing demand for versatile tight ends in the NFL, Stover’s unique skill set makes him an enticing option for teams looking to add a weapon in both the passing and running game.

4. Tyler Williams – Offensive Tackle

Ohio State has been known for producing elite offensive linemen, and Tyler Williams is no exception. Standing at 6’6″ and weighing in at around 320 pounds, Williams is an imposing figure on the offensive line. His combination of size, strength, and technique has made him a key player for Ohio State’s powerful offense. Williams has the ability to protect quarterbacks and create running lanes, making him one of the top offensive tackle prospects in the 2025 draft.

What sets Williams apart is his impressive combination of power and athleticism. He has the ability to move defenders off the ball in the run game, while also being able to hold his own in pass protection. His ability to be a cornerstone piece for an NFL offensive line makes him a strong candidate to be selected in the first round.

5. Denzel Burke – Cornerback

On the defensive side of the ball, cornerback Denzel Burke has established himself as one of the top defensive back prospects in the 2025 NFL draft. Burke’s size (6’1″) and athleticism give him the ability to lock down wide receivers and make plays on the ball. His fluidity in coverage, ability to read the quarterback, and strong tackling skills make him a complete cornerback who can contribute immediately in the NFL.

Burke’s performance in the Big Ten has proven that he can hang with some of the top receivers in college football, and he has shown the ability to be a difference-maker in the secondary. As more NFL teams prioritize building solid, physical secondaries, Burke’s skill set makes him a valuable first-round prospect.

Ohio State’s Continued Dominance

Ohio State’s dominance in the 2025 NFL Mock Draft is not just a one-time occurrence. The university has long been a breeding ground for NFL talent, particularly in the first round. With an abundance of talent at every position, it’s no surprise that so many Ohio State players are projected to be selected among the top picks.

The Buckeyes have been able to maintain this high level of talent year after year due to their stellar recruiting, player development, and coaching. Coaches like Ryan Day and his staff have done an incredible job of developing players and preparing them for the next level. Whether it’s through their strength and conditioning programs, film study, or position-specific coaching, Ohio State has created an environment that allows players to reach their full potential.

Moreover, Ohio State’s success is not just about the talent that it produces, but also the success of their players in the NFL. The program’s track record of success at the next level helps attract high-level recruits and boosts its reputation as a legitimate NFL pipeline. Players know that by coming to Ohio State, they will have the opportunity to develop their skills and ultimately achieve their dreams of playing in the NFL.