Before diving into the future, it’s worth taking a brief look at the 2025 NFL Draft, which saw Ohio State send 14 players to the next level, one of the highest totals of any program in the country. This was a continuation of the Buckeyes’ trend of producing elite-level talent at virtually every position, from the quarterback to the defensive backfield. Ohio State has been able to blend coaching excellence, recruitment prowess, and player development to cultivate a pipeline of NFL-ready athletes.
With notable names like wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. and offensive lineman Paris Johnson Jr. leading the way in 2025, it’s clear that Ohio State has an exceptional ability to produce NFL-caliber talent. As the dust settles on the 2025 Draft, attention now turns toward the Buckeyes’ next wave of potential pros, a group that, based on current trajectories, is expected to be just as impressive.
The 2026 NFL Draft: A Look Ahead
Several players on Ohio State’s current roster are poised to join the ranks of future NFL players, with many expected to go high in the 2026 NFL Draft. Whether they are already standout players or still developing, these athletes bring a mix of raw talent and high football IQ that should allow them to thrive at the next level.
1. Kyle McCord – Quarterback
As one of the most high-profile positions on any football team, the quarterback position is always in the spotlight. Kyle McCord, who succeeded C.J. Stroud as Ohio State’s starting quarterback, enters the 2025 season as one of the most intriguing prospects in the nation. With Stroud’s departure to the NFL, McCord has the opportunity to prove himself as Ohio State’s next great quarterback and earn a coveted spot in the 2026 NFL Draft.
McCord’s experience in Ohio State’s offense, combined with his natural arm strength, accuracy, and poise in the pocket, make him a strong candidate for the draft. His ability to read defenses, deliver the football on time, and make adjustments under pressure will be critical to his success as he leads the Buckeyes through what promises to be another championship-contending season. With a solid supporting cast, McCord’s 2025 campaign could very well vault him into the upper echelon of quarterback prospects.
2. Emeka Egbuka – Wide Receiver
Ohio State’s wide receiver room has become a factory for NFL talent over the years, and Emeka Egbuka is primed to continue that tradition. With Marvin Harrison Jr. leaving for the NFL after the 2025 season, Egbuka is in line to take over as the team’s top receiving target. A dynamic playmaker with speed, route-running ability, and a knack for making highlight-reel catches, Egbuka has all the tools to shine on the national stage in 2025.
Egbuka has the potential to be a top draft pick, thanks to his explosive athleticism and ability to create separation from defenders. His chemistry with McCord will be crucial, as the two look to carry the Ohio State offense to new heights. Should Egbuka continue to develop as a route runner and refine his skills, he could easily be one of the most coveted wide receivers in the 2026 NFL Draft.
3. J.T. Tuimoloau – Defensive Line
While Ohio State’s offense has garnered much of the attention in recent years, the defensive line has also been a key strength of the program. J.T. Tuimoloau, a rising star on the defensive front, is a powerful, athletic force who can dominate both against the run and as a pass rusher. He’s already shown glimpses of greatness, and as he refines his technique and adds more consistency to his game, his stock should continue to rise heading into the 2026 NFL Draft.
Tuimoloau’s combination of size (he stands 6-foot-4 and weighs over 270 pounds) and athleticism gives him the ability to disrupt offenses in multiple ways. As a pass rusher, he’s capable of wreaking havoc on quarterbacks, and his ability to move laterally and contain runs makes him a versatile defender. If he puts together a strong 2025 season, Tuimoloau could very well be a first-round selection in the 2026 draft.
4. Caden Curry – Defensive End
Another name to watch on the Ohio State defensive line is Caden Curry, an athletic and aggressive defensive end who has shown the potential to become a major contributor for the Buckeyes. Curry has flashed his pass-rushing skills in limited opportunities but could have a breakout season in 2025. His relentless motor, quickness off the line of scrimmage, and ability to get around blockers make him a valuable asset to Ohio State’s defense.
As Curry continues to grow in his role, his ability to affect the quarterback and disrupt offensive schemes will be key factors that scouts will consider. With a standout 2025 season, Curry could rise into the conversation for a high draft pick in 2026.
5. Lathan Ransom – Safety
In a program that has produced numerous NFL-caliber defensive backs over the years, Lathan Ransom is well-positioned to continue that legacy. As a safety for Ohio State, Ransom has demonstrated exceptional instincts, excellent coverage skills, and the ability to play both in the box and deep in coverage. His versatility allows him to be a key player for Ohio State’s secondary, and his ability to read the quarterback and break on the ball is a trait that will translate well to the NFL.
Ransom’s leadership on the field, along with his ability to impact the game in both coverage and run support, makes him an intriguing prospect for NFL teams. With another strong season in 2025, he could emerge as one of the top safeties in the 2026 NFL Draft class.
6. Josh Simmons – Offensive Tackle
Ohio State’s offensive line has consistently been one of the best in the country, and Josh Simmons is poised to join the ranks of top-tier offensive linemen to come out of the program. A massive presence on the line, Simmons has the power and technique to dominate in both the run and pass game. His ability to protect the quarterback and open up lanes for running backs will be crucial for Ohio State’s offensive success.
Simmons’ combination of size, strength, and athleticism gives him the tools to be an immediate impact player at the next level. If he continues to improve his footwork and pass protection techniques, he could rise as one of the top offensive tackles in the 2026 draft.
7. Tyleik Williams – Defensive Tackle
Tyleik Williams is another player to keep an eye on as a potential NFL draft pick in 2026. As a defensive tackle, Williams has shown impressive ability to disrupt the pocket and collapse the offensive line. At 6-foot-3 and 325 pounds, he has the size to take on double teams and the agility to make plays in the backfield. His physicality and strength make him a force against the run, and his ability to rush the passer is a bonus.
With another strong season under his belt in 2025, Williams could prove himself to be one of the top defensive linemen available in the 2026 NFL Draft.
Ohio State’s Legacy of NFL Talent
Ohio State has long been a factory for NFL talent, and the 2026 draft is shaping up to be no different. The program’s success in producing high-quality players at virtually every position group speaks to the depth and excellence of its coaching staff, recruitment strategies, and development programs. With a robust pipeline of talent coming up through the ranks, Ohio State is not just a top-tier college football program but also a consistent producer of NFL-caliber athletes.
Looking ahead to the 2026 NFL Draft, Ohio State’s roster is filled with players capable of making an impact at the professional level. The names mentioned here are just a few of the players who could potentially be selected early in the draft, continuing the program’s proud tradition of sending Buckeyes to the NFL. As Ohio State continues to produce top talent, the future of its players in the NFL looks as bright as ever.
