Ohio State football receives most NFL combine invites of any school
Ohio State Football Receives Most NFL Combine Invites of Any School
As the 2025 NFL Scouting Combine approaches, one story is catching the attention of football fans and analysts alike: Ohio State University is sending the most players to the event, solidifying its reputation as one of the most successful and elite football programs in the country. With a remarkable 14 players invited to participate, the Buckeyes are leading all schools in terms of representation, highlighting the depth and talent that has made Ohio State a perennial contender in college football.
The NFL Scouting Combine is a pivotal event for college football players looking to make the transition to the professional ranks. It’s a week-long showcase where top draft prospects undergo a series of drills, interviews, and evaluations that determine their draft stock. For Ohio State, having the most invites to this prestigious event is not just a reflection of the individual talent of these players; it’s also a testament to the strength of the program and the culture that has been cultivated under head coach Ryan Day.
In this article, we will take a closer look at Ohio State’s dominance in the NFL Combine landscape, examining the players who received invites, the factors that contribute to the school’s success, and what it means for both the program and the future of the players involved.
Ohio State’s NFL Combine Dominance
The NFL Combine has become one of the most important events in the scouting process for NFL teams. It’s where top prospects showcase their physical attributes, mental sharpness, and readiness for the professional level. For Ohio State, receiving the most invites to the event speaks volumes about the caliber of athletes the program consistently produces.
Ohio State’s 2025 NFL Combine invitees represent the program’s rich history of developing top-tier talent. From quarterbacks to wide receivers, offensive linemen to defensive backs, the Buckeyes have players at nearly every position receiving invites, a reflection of the depth and versatility that exists within their roster.
The 14 players invited to the combine are expected to make significant impacts at the professional level, and each one brings something unique to the table. For Ohio State, the Combine invites serve as a feather in the cap of a program that has already produced numerous NFL stars and continues to recruit top-tier talent year after year.
Key Ohio State Players at the 2025 NFL Combine
The NFL Combine is an opportunity for players to display their abilities in front of NFL coaches, general managers, and scouts. For Ohio State’s 14 invitees, this is the moment where they can elevate their draft stock and make a case for being selected early in the NFL Draft. Among the 14 players, there are several who are expected to generate significant buzz due to their exceptional performances in college football and their potential at the next level.
CJ Stroud – Quarterback
CJ Stroud, one of the most highly anticipated quarterbacks in the 2025 NFL Draft class, is perhaps the most notable name on Ohio State’s list of invitees. Stroud had an illustrious career with the Buckeyes, showcasing elite arm strength, accuracy, and decision-making ability throughout his tenure. He led Ohio State’s high-powered offense and earned numerous accolades, including being a Heisman Trophy finalist.
Stroud’s skill set has NFL scouts salivating. He has the prototypical size and physicality for an NFL quarterback, standing at 6’3” and weighing in at around 215 pounds. His ability to make all the throws, combined with his poise in the pocket, makes him one of the top quarterbacks in the 2025 class. At the NFL Combine, Stroud will be looking to further prove his ability to perform under pressure and demonstrate why he’s a potential top-five pick in the upcoming draft.
Jaxon Smith-Njigba – Wide Receiver
Jaxon Smith-Njigba has been one of the most productive and dynamic wide receivers in college football over the past few seasons. The Ohio State standout had a breakout 2022 season, setting several records and solidifying his status as a future NFL star. Known for his exceptional route-running ability, sharp hands, and ability to create separation, Smith-Njigba has all the tools to succeed at the next level.
Smith-Njigba’s combination of speed and agility makes him a dangerous threat in the passing game, and his stellar performance in college has only increased his draft stock. He is expected to be one of the first wide receivers selected in the 2025 NFL Draft, and the Combine will give him the platform to showcase his explosiveness and athleticism.
Paris Johnson Jr. – Offensive Tackle
As one of the most highly touted offensive linemen in the country, Paris Johnson Jr. has been an anchor on Ohio State’s offensive line for multiple seasons. Standing at 6’6” and weighing in at around 310 pounds, Johnson is the ideal size for an NFL tackle. His combination of power, mobility, and technical skill makes him a standout at his position, and he’s expected to be one of the top offensive line prospects in the 2025 draft.
At the NFL Combine, Johnson will look to demonstrate his strength and agility through a series of drills, including the 40-yard dash, bench press, and offensive line-specific exercises. His performance could solidify his status as a first-round pick and further elevate Ohio State’s reputation as a school that develops top-tier offensive linemen.
Zach Harrison – Defensive End
Zach Harrison has been one of the most disruptive forces on the defensive side of the ball for Ohio State over the past few seasons. The 6’6”, 270-pound defensive end has a unique combination of size, strength, and speed that makes him a dangerous pass-rusher. Harrison has the ability to dominate in the trenches, and his production for the Buckeyes has earned him recognition as one of the top defensive prospects in the 2025 draft class.
At the Combine, Harrison will be eager to demonstrate his explosiveness and quickness, which are essential traits for success as a pass-rusher at the NFL level. His performance in the drills and workouts will be pivotal in determining whether he’s selected early in the draft, with many analysts predicting he’ll go in the first or second round.
Kourt Williams – Linebacker
Kourt Williams is a versatile linebacker who has been an integral part of Ohio State’s defense in recent years. Known for his athleticism and instincts, Williams has the ability to cover ground quickly and make plays all over the field. His speed, strength, and ability to read the offense make him a highly sought-after linebacker prospect for NFL teams.
At the NFL Combine, Williams will aim to showcase his athleticism and ability to cover in space. Linebackers with his skill set are in high demand, especially those who can contribute in pass coverage, and a strong performance at the Combine could solidify his draft stock and place him in the conversation as one of the top linebackers in the class.
Factors Contributing to Ohio State’s NFL Success
Ohio State’s dominance at the NFL Combine can be attributed to several key factors, each of which plays a role in why the Buckeyes continue to produce top-tier talent year after year.
Elite Coaching Staff and Development
A critical aspect of Ohio State’s success is its elite coaching staff, led by Ryan Day. Day, a former offensive coordinator at Boston College and Philadelphia Eagles coach, has built a program that emphasizes both individual and team development. His offensive schemes have consistently showcased top-tier talent at quarterback, running back, and wide receiver, while the defense has also been a force under defensive coordinator Jim Knowles.
Day’s ability to develop players both on and off the field has led to Ohio State becoming a breeding ground for NFL-caliber athletes. His attention to detail, ability to develop relationships with players, and focus on maximizing talent has resulted in numerous Buckeyes entering the NFL combine year after year.
Recruiting Success
Ohio State has long been recognized for its recruiting prowess, attracting some of the top high school talent in the country. Their recruitment efforts consistently bring in top players, especially on both sides of the ball. With a track record of developing top prospects, Ohio State has continued to be a destination for elite recruits who are looking to prepare for the next level.
Whether it’s quarterbacks like CJ Stroud, wide receivers like Jaxon Smith-Njigba, or defenders like Zach Harrison, Ohio State’s recruiting network ensures that the program has a constant pipeline of future NFL talent. The Buckeyes have been able to attract and develop players at nearly every position, making them a staple in the NFL draft landscape.
National Exposure and Success
Ohio State is one of the most successful programs in college football, and their consistent national exposure plays a significant role in their success at the NFL combine. As a team that is regularly in the hunt for a national title and features in high-profile games, Ohio State players are given the opportunity to showcase their talents on a national stage, making it easier for NFL scouts to identify and evaluate future talent.
What Ohio State’s NFL Combine Success Means
Ohio State’s dominance in the 2025 NFL Combine invites is not just a reflection of the individual success of its players—it’s also a reflection of the success and culture of the football program as a whole. With 14 players receiving invites, Ohio State continues to prove its status as one of the top programs in the country, with an ability to consistently develop and send top-tier talent to the NFL.
For Ohio State, this success at the Combine is a testament to the program’s commitment to excellence, from recruitment to player development. As the NFL draft approaches, all eyes will be on the Buckeyes as their 14 invitees aim to impress and make their case for being selected among the best of the best.
As Ohio State continues to produce elite talent, their reputation as an NFL talent factory is only growing. With a mix of exceptional coaching, world-class facilities, and a relentless commitment to development, the Buckeyes are poised to remain a dominant force in both college football and the NFL for years to come.
