Eric Boggs
The NFL Combine is always a critical event for draft prospects looking to solidify or elevate their stock, and this year was no different for Ohio State’s top talent. Several Buckeyes delivered standout performances, while others left scouts with lingering questions. With the draft approaching, here’s a breakdown of how Ohio State’s best fared in Indianapolis.
Stock Risers: TreVeyon Henderson and Quinshon Judkins Impress
One of the most anticipated Buckeye performances belonged to running back TreVeyon Henderson, and he did not disappoint. Henderson recorded the fastest 40-yard dash time among Ohio State players, clocking in at 4.43 seconds. While an excellent mark, some scouts believe he has even more speed to unlock, pointing to his elite acceleration on game film.
“I expected a 4.39 or 4.38,” said one analyst. “But make no mistake, he’s got burst that very few backs can match.”
Henderson’s Pro Day will be another opportunity to showcase his explosiveness in more controlled drills, further solidifying his status as one of the top running backs in this year’s draft.
Meanwhile, running back Quinshon Judkins put to rest any concerns about his top-end speed by running a 4.48-second 40-yard dash at 221 pounds. That impressive showing, combined with his versatility as a blocker and proven production, likely cements him as a first-round pick. Some analysts have even compared him to former Buckeye J.K. Dobbins in terms of his blend of power and quickness.
“People worried about his speed,” one analyst noted. “Not anymore.”
Holding Steady: Denzel Burke’s Solid Yet Unspectacular Outing
Cornerback Denzel Burke ran a respectable 4.48-second 40-yard dash, a solid number but not one that significantly boosted his stock. While he didn’t hurt himself with his performance, he also didn’t separate himself from other top corners in the draft.
“He didn’t hurt himself, but he didn’t elevate himself either,” one commentator said. “At 4.48, you’re in the average range for an NFL corner. His film will have to do the talking.”
Burke’s second half of the 2023 season was strong, but without eye-popping testing numbers, teams will have to rely on his game tape to assess his true value at the next level.
Jack Sawyer: A Tweener With Upside
Defensive end Jack Sawyer had a solid showing but raised some questions about his measurables. Compared to fellow Buckeye J.T. Tuimoloau, his wingspan was noticeably shorter, and he struggled at times with his footing during position drills. Despite this, his leadership, production, and effort remain unquestioned.
“Some GMs only look at measurables,” said an analyst. “But Sawyer is a guy you want in your locker room. He’s productive, and he’s a gamer.”
Sawyer’s tape suggests he’s capable of making big plays, and his versatility could make him a valuable addition to the right defensive scheme. While his Combine performance may not have boosted his stock significantly, it likely won’t hurt him either.
Will Howard’s Mixed Results
Quarterback Will Howard had an underwhelming performance at the Combine, particularly in athletic testing. His vertical jump (31.5 inches) and broad jump (9 feet 4 inches) ranked among the lowest for quarterbacks, and his deep ball accuracy was inconsistent during throwing drills.
“I love his leadership,” one host noted. “But any talk of him as a first-round pick was just hype. He’s a third- or fourth-round guy at best.”
Some analysts pointed out that in today’s NFL, teams are more willing to build systems around quarterbacks with limitations, referencing Jalen Hurts as an example. However, Howard will need a strong Pro Day to reassure teams that his upside outweighs his weaknesses.
Looking Ahead: Pro Day Will Be Crucial
With the Combine wrapped up, Ohio State’s draft hopefuls will now turn their attention to their Pro Day, where they’ll have another chance to impress scouts. For players like TreVeyon Henderson and Quinshon Judkins, it’s about fine-tuning their already strong resumes. For others like Will Howard, it’s a critical opportunity to improve their draft outlook.
Ohio State continues to send elite talent to the NFL, and this year is no different. The only question now is where these Buckeyes will land and how they’ll fit at the next level.
