Emeka Egbuka, a national champion and the school’s career catches record holder, is departing Ohio State today.
Emeka Egbuka’s departure from Ohio State marks the end of an era for the Buckeyes’ football program. As a national champion and the school’s all-time leader in career receptions, Egbuka leaves behind a legacy that will be remembered for years to come.​SPORTHOUR+1Eleven Warriors+1
Early Life and Recruitment
Emeka Egbuka hails from Steilacoom, Washington, where he was a standout athlete in both football and baseball. As a senior in high school, he caught 83 passes for 1,607 yards and 25 touchdowns, earning him the 2019 Gatorade Player of the Year award in Washington. Egbuka also showcased his versatility by returning punts for scores and excelling on defense, recording eight interceptions and returning two for touchdowns. His all-around performance helped Steilacoom reach the 2A state championship game, where he set a title-game record with 18 receptions for 163 yards and three touchdowns. Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to the postponement of the 2020 high school football season in Washington, Egbuka’s talent remained undeniable. He was a consensus five-star recruit and the nation’s top-ranked wide receiver, ultimately choosing to play for Ohio State University.​Pinterest+1Ohio State+1Ohio State
Ohio State Career
Upon arriving at Ohio State, Egbuka quickly made his presence felt. In his freshman year, he contributed on special teams and offense, earning Freshman All-America honors by Pro Football Focus. He averaged over 41 yards per kickoff return in a win over Maryland, with a season-long return of 67 yards. Egbuka’s breakout came in his sophomore season, where he recorded 74 receptions for 1,151 yards and 10 touchdowns, ranking sixth in Ohio State history for single-season receiving yards. Despite battling injuries in his junior year, he rebounded in his senior season, finishing with 81 receptions for 1,011 yards and 10 touchdowns. This performance helped Ohio State secure the 2024 National Championship with a 34-23 victory over Notre Dame. In total, Egbuka amassed 205 receptions for 2,868 yards and 24 touchdowns over his career, setting school records for both receptions and receiving yards. ​Ohio StateOhio State+4Eleven Warriors+4Bleacher Report+4Bleacher Report+2Bleeding Green Nation+2Eleven Warriors+2Eleven Warriors+2Pats Pulpit+2Bleacher Report+2
Departure and NFL Prospects
Following his successful college career, Egbuka declared for the 2025 NFL Draft. His decision to leave Ohio State was a significant moment for the program, as he had been a key figure in their offense and a leader on and off the field. Egbuka’s NFL prospects are promising; he is known for his elite route running, spatial awareness, and ability to gain yards after the catch. He is often compared to players like Amon-Ra St. Brown and Chris Godwin for his polished skill set and football IQ. Teams such as the Denver Broncos have shown interest, with some mock drafts projecting him as a first-round pick. ​Bleacher ReportBleeding Green Nation+1Bleacher Report+1Bleacher Report+3Pats Pulpit+3Bleeding Green Nation+3
Legacy
Emeka Egbuka’s legacy at Ohio State is one of excellence and consistency. He was not only a standout on the field but also a model of academic achievement and leadership. Graduating with a degree in marketing, Egbuka was a two-time Academic All-Big Ten honoree and a three-time OSU Scholar-Athlete. His contributions to the team’s success and his role in leading Ohio State to a national championship will be remembered as a defining period in the program’s history.​Ohio State
Emeka Egbuka’s departure from Ohio State signifies the end of a remarkable chapter for the Buckeyes. His records, achievements, and leadership have left an indelible mark on the program, and his future in the NFL looks bright as he continues to build on his legacy.
