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May 2, 2025
NFL Draft Football

FILE - Ohio State offensive lineman Josh Simmons blocks against Western Michigan during an NCAA college football game Saturday, Sept. 7, 2024, in Columbus, Ohio. (AP Photo/Jay LaPrete, File)

Buckeyes Blaze Through Early Rounds: Ohio State Leads with Most Selections in 2025 NFL Draft

The roar of the crowd, the flash of the cameras, the culmination of years of dedication and relentless training – the NFL Draft is a spectacle unlike any other. For young men with dreams as big as their talent, it represents the gateway to professional football, a chance to etch their names into the annals of the sport. As the 2025 NFL Draft unfolded, the first two rounds delivered their usual share of surprises, elation, and anticipation for what the remaining selections would hold. However, one storyline stood out prominently: the remarkable success of the Ohio State Buckeyes in producing top-tier talent ready for the professional ranks.

By the conclusion of the second round, a staggering number of former Ohio State players had heard their names called, firmly establishing the program as a powerhouse in developing NFL-caliber athletes. In total, an impressive seven Buckeyes were selected within the initial 64 picks, a testament to the coaching staff’s ability to recruit and nurture exceptional talent, as well as the players’ unwavering commitment to excellence during their time in Columbus. This remarkable feat placed Ohio State firmly atop the list of universities with the most players chosen in the early stages of the draft, underscoring their consistent presence as a breeding ground for future NFL stars.

The breakdown of the selections showcased the diverse talent emanating from the Ohio State program. The first round alone saw four Buckeyes enter the professional ranks. This included defensive end Jack Sawyer, whose explosive athleticism and relentless motor made him a coveted pass rusher early in the draft. His ability to disrupt opposing offenses and get after the quarterback was a key factor in his high selection. Joining him in the first round was cornerback Denzel Burke, a shutdown corner with exceptional coverage skills and ball-hawking instincts. Burke’s ability to lock down opposing receivers made him a prized asset for any NFL defense looking to bolster its secondary.

On the offensive side of the ball, wide receiver Emeka Egbuka also heard his name called in the first round. Egbuka’s dynamic route running, sure hands, and ability to make plays after the catch made him an attractive target for teams seeking a versatile and impactful receiver. His collegiate production and NFL-ready skillset solidified his status as a top prospect. Rounding out the first-round selections from Ohio State was offensive tackle Donovan Jackson. Jackson’s blend of size, strength, and agility made him a highly sought-after offensive lineman capable of protecting the quarterback and opening up running lanes. His selection underscored the program’s ability to produce elite talent on both sides of the ball.

The success of the Buckeyes continued into the second round, with three more players joining their former teammates in the NFL ranks. Safety Lathan Ransom, known for his hard-hitting style and excellent coverage abilities, was selected early in the second round. His versatility and football IQ made him an appealing prospect for teams needing a reliable and impactful presence in their secondary. Also chosen in the second round was linebacker Tommy Eichenberg, a tackling machine and vocal leader on the Ohio State defense. Eichenberg’s instincts and physicality made him a valuable addition to any NFL team looking for a dependable middle linebacker. The final Buckeye selected in the second round was tight end Cade Stover, whose combination of size, athleticism, and receiving prowess made him an intriguing prospect for teams seeking a versatile player at the tight end position. Stover’s ability to block and catch made him a valuable asset in both the running and passing games.

This impressive showing in the early rounds of the 2025 NFL Draft is not an anomaly for Ohio State. The program has consistently produced a wealth of NFL talent over the years, a testament to their rigorous training regimens, world-class coaching staff, and the high caliber of athletes they attract. The success in this year’s draft further solidifies their reputation as one of the premier football programs in the nation, consistently churning out players ready to make an immediate impact at the professional level.

Beyond the individual talents of these seven players, their collective success in the draft speaks volumes about the culture and development within the Ohio State football program. Head coach Ryan Day and his staff have built a program that not only attracts top recruits but also cultivates their skills and prepares them for the demands of the NFL. The emphasis on strength and conditioning, coupled with sophisticated offensive and defensive schemes, ensures that Buckeye players are well-equipped to transition to the professional game.

Furthermore, the camaraderie and competition within the Ohio State program play a significant role in the development of these players. They are constantly challenged by talented teammates, pushing each other to improve and strive for excellence. This competitive environment fosters a level of preparedness that is evident when they enter the NFL.

The impact of these seven Buckeye draftees will be felt across the league. They bring a combination of athleticism, skill, and football intelligence that will make them valuable assets to their respective teams. Whether it’s Sawyer’s pass-rushing prowess, Burke’s lockdown coverage, Egbuka’s receiving ability, Jackson’s pass protection, Ransom’s versatility in the secondary, Eichenberg’s tackling ability, or Stover’s all-around game at tight end, each of these players possesses the potential to become a significant contributor at the NFL level.

As the remaining rounds of the 2025 NFL Draft unfold, there is anticipation for even more Buckeyes to hear their names called. The depth of talent within the Ohio State program suggests that several other players could find their way onto NFL rosters, further cementing the program’s status as a top producer of professional football players.

The success of Ohio State in the 2025 NFL Draft serves as a powerful recruiting tool, demonstrating to future prospects that Columbus is a place where they can develop their skills and achieve their dreams of playing in the NFL. The consistent pipeline of talent flowing from Ohio State to the professional ranks ensures that the program will remain a dominant force in college football for years to come.

In conclusion, Ohio State’s remarkable showing in the first two rounds of the 2025 NFL Draft, with seven players selected, underscores their position as a leading program in developing NFL-ready talent. The diverse skill sets and high potential of these draftees highlight the effectiveness of the Buckeyes’ coaching, training, and competitive environment. As these young men embark on their professional careers, they carry with them the legacy of Ohio State football, a legacy of excellence and a testament to the program’s ability to produce the next generation of NFL stars. The resounding success in this year’s draft will undoubtedly resonate within the college football landscape and continue to attract top talent to Columbus, ensuring the Buckeyes remain a force to be reckoned with for years to come. The NFL landscape has gained seven talented individuals, each carrying the Buckeye standard of excellence into their professional careers, and the football world will be watching with keen interest as they begin to make their mark on the biggest stage.

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