Jack Swayer of Ohio State Receives Pro Football Focus Analyst’s First-Round Evaluation

Jack Sawyer of Ohio State Receives Pro Football Focus Analyst’s First-Round Evaluation: The Rise of a Potential NFL Star

As the 2024 NFL Draft approaches, college football fans and scouts alike are eagerly anticipating the next wave of talent that will make their way to the NFL. One player whose name has garnered significant attention is Jack Sawyer, a standout defensive lineman for the Ohio State Buckeyes. The former five-star recruit and dynamic defensive presence has been making waves for the Buckeyes since his arrival in Columbus, and now he’s receiving some of the highest praise possible from one of the industry’s most respected outlets—Pro Football Focus (PFF).

In a recent evaluation, PFF analyst Michael Renner gave Sawyer a first-round grade, signaling the growing consensus that the Ohio State defensive end has the potential to be one of the top players selected in the upcoming NFL Draft. This development is a testament to the hard work, development, and natural talent Sawyer has showcased during his time with the Buckeyes. His ascension into first-round discussions also highlights the evolving state of Ohio State football, where players like Sawyer continue to raise the bar for what it means to succeed in a top-tier program.

This article will explore Sawyer’s journey to this point, the key traits that have earned him a first-round evaluation, his potential fit at the next level, and the implications of his rise for both Ohio State and the NFL Draft landscape.

A Glimpse into Jack Sawyer’s Journey to Ohio State

Before we dive into his rise as a potential first-round NFL draft pick, it’s important to look back at how Jack Sawyer arrived at Ohio State. The 6-foot-4, 270-pound defensive lineman from Pickerington, Ohio, was a highly sought-after recruit, ranked as a consensus five-star prospect and one of the top defensive players in his class. Sawyer’s impressive high school career featured numerous accolades, including being named the Gatorade Player of the Year in Ohio during his senior season, a testament to his elite production and versatility as a pass rusher.

Sawyer’s combination of size, athleticism, and relentless motor made him a highly coveted recruit in the 2021 class, and Ohio State was fortunate to land his commitment. Despite playing for a stacked roster of recruits, Sawyer was quick to earn playing time as a true freshman, demonstrating his potential and high ceiling. By his second season in 2022, Sawyer had solidified himself as a key piece of the Buckeyes’ defense, consistently showing flashes of brilliance.

Ohio State’s defensive line, historically known for producing NFL-caliber talent, was the perfect environment for Sawyer’s growth. Under the guidance of defensive line coach Larry Johnson, one of the most respected position coaches in college football, Sawyer began to refine his skills and enhance his pass-rushing techniques. With the foundation of talent already in place, Sawyer’s development into an elite edge rusher was well underway.

Jack Sawyer’s 2023 Season: The Breakout Year

While Sawyer showed plenty of promise in his first two seasons, it was his 2023 campaign that truly cemented his status as one of the top prospects in college football. The defensive line at Ohio State has long been a strength of the program, and Sawyer played a significant role in ensuring the Buckeyes’ defense remained formidable in the trenches.

In 2023, Sawyer became a disruptive force on the edge, demonstrating his ability to rush the passer, contain the run, and create havoc in the backfield. His stats during the season were impressive, but it was his impact on games—particularly in high-profile matchups—that really stood out. Sawyer’s performance against teams like Michigan, Penn State, and Notre Dame showcased his elite ability to dominate against top-tier competition. His combination of speed, strength, and football IQ made him a headache for opposing offensive lines and quarterbacks.

Sawyer finished the 2023 season with impressive numbers: 12.5 tackles for loss, 8 sacks, and 3 forced fumbles. His ability to disrupt both the pass and run game solidified his place as one of the most well-rounded defensive linemen in the country. It was clear that Sawyer had developed into a complete player, capable of handling any challenge that came his way on the field.

Beyond the statistics, what set Sawyer apart during his breakout season was his mentality. He embraced his role as a leader on the defensive line, pushing his teammates to elevate their performance and holding himself to a high standard. Sawyer’s relentless work ethic and commitment to becoming a better player each day made him an invaluable asset to the Ohio State defense, and his ability to perform under pressure solidified his reputation as a future NFL star.

Pro Football Focus’s First-Round Evaluation: Why Jack Sawyer Is Destined for the NFL

When Pro Football Focus (PFF) analyst Michael Renner gave Jack Sawyer a first-round evaluation, it was a reflection of the consistent and undeniable talent that the Ohio State defensive end had shown over the past few seasons. PFF’s evaluations are based on a detailed breakdown of a player’s tape, assessing both his strengths and areas of improvement. The fact that Sawyer received a first-round grade speaks to his potential to be a game-changing player at the next level.

Renner’s evaluation is based on several key aspects of Sawyer’s game that make him an intriguing NFL prospect. Some of the most notable reasons behind his first-round projection include:

1. Pass-Rushing Ability

Sawyer’s ability to rush the passer is undoubtedly one of his most impressive traits. His explosiveness off the line of scrimmage, combined with his ability to bend around the edge, makes him a nightmare for offensive tackles. Sawyer can turn the corner with remarkable speed and has a variety of pass-rushing moves at his disposal, including spin moves and bull rushes, to keep blockers off balance.

His sack total of 8 in 2023 is a reflection of his ability to consistently create pressure on the quarterback. In the NFL, where quarterbacks are expected to perform at the highest level, having a dynamic edge rusher like Sawyer can make a significant difference. His skill set allows him to win in a variety of situations, whether in third-and-long passing downs or against the run.

2. Run Defense and Versatility

While Sawyer is known for his pass-rushing ability, he is also a well-rounded player who can hold his own against the run. His size and strength make him an effective force at the point of attack, and he’s able to set the edge, ensuring that running backs have nowhere to go. His understanding of gap assignments and ability to disengage from blockers allows him to stop runs before they gain any significant yardage.

Sawyer’s versatility also plays a crucial role in his evaluation. While he is primarily an edge rusher, his ability to play in a variety of defensive schemes, from a 4-3 to a 3-4 system, gives him additional value. In the NFL, teams are constantly looking for players who can adapt to different fronts and schemes, and Sawyer’s flexibility gives him the ability to play both defensive end and outside linebacker, increasing his potential suitors.

3. Motor and Work Ethic

One of the things that stands out about Sawyer is his relentless motor. He is constantly pursuing the ball, whether he’s engaged in a block or chasing down a quarterback. His drive and tenacity are evident on every play, and it’s clear that he takes pride in every aspect of his game. In the NFL, where every player has talent, it’s often the work ethic and intensity that separates the elite from the rest, and Sawyer’s drive to improve is one of the key reasons he’s receiving first-round attention.

4. Leadership and Mentality

A strong leadership presence on the field is something every NFL team covets, and Sawyer brings that to the table. Throughout his time at Ohio State, he has shown the ability to lead by example and motivate those around him. His approach to the game, combined with his ability to elevate the performance of his teammates, makes him an asset both on and off the field.

Leadership is an intangible quality that NFL teams place significant value on, especially when it comes to drafting players who will be expected to make an immediate impact. Sawyer’s mature mindset and passion for the game make him a player who could make an immediate difference at the next level.

Potential Fit at the Next Level: Which NFL Teams Could Be Interested?

As Jack Sawyer continues to impress evaluators, NFL teams are beginning to take notice of his potential. Several teams in need of an edge rusher will likely consider Sawyer in the first round of the draft. His skill set makes him a versatile prospect who could fit into a variety of defensive systems.

Teams like the Detroit Lions, Atlanta Falcons, and Seattle Seahawks could be among those that show heavy interest in Sawyer. All three teams have historically struggled to generate consistent pressure on the quarterback, and Sawyer’s pass-rushing ability could immediately elevate their defensive lines.

For the NFL teams that have an established defense but need that dynamic edge presence to put them over the top, Sawyer represents a tantalizing prospect who could contribute immediately as a starter. His combination of speed, strength, and leadership would make him a key asset for any team looking to improve its pass rush and overall defensive identity.