“Buckeyes’ Draft Dominance: Ohio State Sets Program Record with 14 Picks in a Single Draft, Solidifying Position as a Powerhouse in College Football and Demonstrating Unwavering Commitment to Building a Championship Roster”

The Ohio State Buckeyes have always been synonymous with excellence on the gridiron, but their most recent NFL Draft showing has taken that legacy to an entirely new level. In a historic display of talent development and recruiting prowess, the Buckeyes saw a program-record 14 players selected in the 2025 NFL Draft, breaking previous benchmarks and reaffirming their status as one of college football’s most dominant forces.

This draft haul not only places Ohio State among the nation’s elite in player production, but also solidifies the program’s reputation for developing pro-ready athletes at every position. The historic achievement sends a clear message to recruits, rivals, and the college football world: the Buckeyes are not just competing for championships—they’re building them through the NFL pipeline.

Before 2025, Ohio State’s previous record for most draft picks in a single year stood at 12, set in 2004 and matched again in 2016. This year, however, the Buckeyes surpassed that mark with a staggering 14 players hearing their names called across all seven rounds.

The selections weren’t limited to just one side of the ball. From explosive offensive playmakers to lockdown defenders and trench warriors, Ohio State demonstrated comprehensive dominance. Seven players were taken within the first three rounds—underscoring the high-end talent the Buckeyes consistently develop.

“It’s a testament to the culture we’ve built here,” said head coach Ryan Day following the draft. “We want to prepare young men not just to compete at the highest level of college football, but to succeed in the NFL. This class represents the best of that vision.”

The Headliners: First-Round Stars

Among the 14 picks, several Buckeyes stood out as centerpieces of the program’s 2024 campaign and as high-value targets for NFL franchises.

Emeka Egbuka, the polished wide receiver who followed in the footsteps of Garrett Wilson and Chris Olave, was selected 11th overall by the Los Angeles Chargers. Known for his precise route running and strong hands, Egbuka is poised to make an immediate impact in the NFL, pairing with young quarterback Justin Herbert.

Another first-round standout was J.T. Tuimoloau, the edge rusher who anchored the Buckeye defense. Chosen 19th overall by the Seattle Seahawks, Tuimoloau brings explosive athleticism and refined technique to a defense in need of pass-rushing firepower.

Denzel Burke, a lockdown corner with elite instincts and ball skills, rounded out Ohio State’s trio of first-round picks by going 28th overall to the Dallas Cowboys.

One of the most impressive aspects of Ohio State’s record-setting draft class is the diversity of player types and positions represented. This isn’t simply a product of one good recruiting cycle—it’s a result of sustained player development across multiple classes.

Donovan Jackson, a versatile offensive lineman selected in the second round, credits offensive line coach Justin Frye for his growth.

“I came to Columbus with raw talent,” Jackson said. “But the coaching, the weight room, the competition—it refined me. I left ready for Sundays.”

On the other side of the trenches, Michael Hall Jr., a third-round pick, gave opposing offenses fits with his relentless motor. His selection marked another defensive lineman developed by Ohio State to find success in the NFL, following in the footsteps of Chase Young and the Bosa brothers.

Several Buckeyes were scooped up in the middle rounds, where NFL teams often look for high-upside prospects with the potential to develop into starters or key contributors.

Kyle McCord, the quarterback who transferred midseason but remained eligible for the draft, was selected in the fourth round. Though his Ohio State tenure was turbulent, NFL scouts saw enough arm strength and football IQ to warrant a shot at the next level.

Wide receiver Julian Fleming, a former five-star recruit whose career was slowed by injuries, found a home in the fifth round. Teams remain intrigued by his combination of size and speed, especially given his background in a pro-style offense.

Steel Chambers, a linebacker converted from running back, also went in the fifth round, a remarkable achievement considering his positional transition. His versatility and leadership made him a favorite of NFL personnel departments.

If you’re a high school prospect dreaming of NFL glory, Ohio State just made your decision a little easier.

The Buckeyes’ unmatched draft success is a massive recruiting pitch in and of itself. It’s not just about playing in the Big Ten or competing for a playoff berth. It’s about positioning yourself to be among the next wave of NFL stars.

“We talk to recruits all the time about our blueprint,” said Director of Player Personnel Mark Pantoni. “It’s about development. It’s about opportunity. And now it’s about proof. These 14 picks? That’s our resume.”

Indeed, the numbers are staggering. Over the last five seasons, no program outside of Alabama or Georgia has produced more draft picks than Ohio State. With this latest class, the Buckeyes are in striking distance to overtake both, especially with strong 2026 and 2027 classes on the horizon.

What separates Ohio State from other programs churning out NFL talent is the way they prepare players—mentally, physically, and schematically.

NFL coaches often praise the “plug-and-play” nature of Buckeye alumni. The playbooks at Ohio State mirror pro systems, the strength program is among the best in the country, and players are drilled on accountability, professionalism, and attention to detail.

Former Ohio State and current Houston Texans receiver Chris Olave summed it up in a social media post after the draft: “When you play at OSU, you’re not just learning football. You’re learning how to be a pro.”

This culture of preparation was reflected in how seamlessly rookies like C.J. Stroud and Paris Johnson Jr. transitioned to the league last year. Now, with 14 more heading to the NFL, the tradition continues.

While the draft success is cause for celebration, it also underscores the challenge ahead for Ryan Day and his staff. Replacing 14 NFL-bound players isn’t easy, especially with major losses at receiver, cornerback, and on both lines.

But the Buckeyes have recruited at a high level, and their 2025 spring practices have already showcased young talent ready to step up. Former five-stars like Brandon Inniss, Carnell Tate, and Sonny Styles are poised for breakout seasons, while transfer additions and early enrollees are expected to bolster the depth chart.

There’s also the intrigue of a new quarterback battle and a defense adjusting to life after Tuimoloau, Hall, and Burke. Yet if any program is built to reload, it’s Ohio State.

With 14 picks, Ohio State ties the modern draft record set by LSU in 2020 and matches Alabama’s 2021 performance. It places them in rare company and adds another banner moment to the program’s rich legacy.

Only a handful of college programs have ever sent this many players to the NFL in one draft. Ohio State’s inclusion in that group isn’t surprising, but it’s still significant. It also continues a trend that began under Jim Tressel, expanded with Urban Meyer, and is now flourishing under Day.

This is not a one-off success. It’s the continuation of a dynasty.

The college football world took notice. Analysts across ESPN, FOX, and CBS Sports praised Ohio State’s dominance during draft weekend. Former players took to social media to congratulate their alma mater. Even rival fanbases, begrudgingly, acknowledged the achievement.

“Ohio State just put on a clinic,” tweeted NFL Network’s Daniel Jeremiah. “They’re developing guys like an NFL farm system.”

With this draft success fresh in mind, Ohio State is expected to gain even more traction on the recruiting trail. Already, five-star prospects in the 2026 class are naming the Buckeyes in their top schools, citing the program’s clear pathway to the NFL.

And as Name, Image and Likeness (NIL) continues to reshape college football, Ohio State’s ability to combine draft success with NIL opportunity makes them one of the most appealing destinations in the country.

The 2025 NFL Draft will be remembered as a turning point in Ohio State football history—not just for the number of players selected, but for what it symbolizes.

It’s the clearest reflection yet of a program firing on all cylinders: recruiting, developing, and graduating elite athletes to the highest level of football. For Ryan Day, the coaching staff, and Buckeye Nation, it’s validation that the process works.

But more importantly, it’s a declaration: The Buckeyes aren’t just producing NFL players. They’re shaping the future of the league—and they’re just getting started.