Eric Boggs
With the Ohio State Buckeyes’ season now complete, attention shifts to the 2025 NFL Draft, where the program could be on the verge of making history. The Buckeyes have a deep and talented class of draft-eligible players, with as many as 15 near locks to be selected and two additional prospects who could hear their names called in the later rounds. If things break the right way, Ohio State might tie or even surpass the record for most players drafted from one school in a single draft.
The record for the most players drafted from a single college team in an NFL Draft is 15, set by the University of Georgia in 2022. That mark broke the previous record of 14, held jointly by Ohio State (2004) and LSU (2020). With 15 players expected to be drafted and two others in contention for late-round selections, the Buckeyes could find themselves right at that historic number—or even surpass it.
Leading Ohio State’s draft class are several first-round-caliber players, including offensive tackle Josh Simmons, wide receiver Emeka Egbuka, EDGE rusher Jack Sawyer, and defensive lineman Tyleik Williams, all of whom rank within the top 32 of Pro Football Focus’ (PFF) big board. Junior running back Quinshon Judkins, who declared for the draft, is also expected to hear his name called early. Their performances at the NFL Combine and Pro Day will play a significant role in solidifying their first-round status.
While the Buckeyes boast high-end talent at the top of the draft, their depth is what makes this class special. Quarterback Will Howard, running back TreVeyon Henderson, offensive linemen Donovan Jackson and Seth McLaughlin, defensive standouts JT Tuimoloau, Ty Hamilton, Cody Simon, Denzel Burke, Jordan Hancock, and Lathan Ransom all project as mid-round picks who could contribute immediately at the next level.
One of the most intriguing players to watch is linebacker Cody Simon. ESPN draft analyst Mel Kiper Jr. recently highlighted Simon as one of the most underrated players available, praising his leadership, tackling ability, and versatility. Simon recorded 112 tackles, 13 tackles for loss, seven sacks, seven pass deflections, and a forced fumble in 2024, solidifying his place as a key member of the Buckeyes’ defense. Currently ranked as Kiper’s No. 6 off-ball linebacker, Simon projects as a mid-to-late-round selection, with PFF slotting him at No. 141 overall.
Two additional Buckeyes—offensive tackle Josh Fryar and tight end Gee Scott Jr.—are on the bubble as potential late-round selections. If just one of them hear their named called, Ohio State will break the all-time record for most players drafted in a single year.
The 2025 NFL Draft is set to take place from April 24–26 in Green Bay, Wisconsin, at the historic Lambeau Field. As teams evaluate their draft boards, the Buckeyes’ deep and talented class will undoubtedly be a focal point. If Ohio State reaches or surpasses 15 draftees, they will etch their name in NFL history, reaffirming their status as one of the premier talent-producing programs in college football.
