Ohio State's Five First-Round Gems: Buckeyes Headed to Pittsburgh for the 2026 NFL Draft

The special nature of spring in Columbus becomes evident through the red carpet invitation which five Ohio State Buckeyes receive for the NFL Draft. The five players which include Caleb Downs, Arvell Reese, Sonny Styles, Carnell Tate, and Kayden McDonald will all compete in the first round of the draft when they appear at the Pittsburgh event which starts on April 23. My experience watching this program has developed my ability to recognize talent, and the current group of players appears to be a once-in-a-generation recruitment which demonstrates why Ohio State produces NFL players at such a high rate.

The Historic Pipeline That's Turning Heads

If all five of these guys go in the first round — and the mocks say it's very likely — Ohio State ties its own school record for first-round picks in a single draft. Four of them (Downs, Reese, Styles, and Tate) are sitting in the top-15 conversation, with serious buzz about three or even all four cracking the top 10. That's not just good. That's legendary territory. The last time a school had four top-10 picks in one year? You have to go back decades. This is the kind of night that Buckeye fans will be talking about for years.

Defensive Dominance: The Heart of This Class

Start with the defense, because that's where the Buckeyes have been stacked lately. Caleb Downs, who transferred to the team and played safety, became the vital force driving secondary performance in his new role. He displays complete defensive range combined with exceptional ball-handling abilities and natural intuition, which enables him to compete as a top-five player in most mock drafts. The linebackers feature two players who stand at least 6 feet 4 inches tall and who recorded 4.46 seconds in their 40-yard dash during the Combine. With his 6.5 sacks from last season, Reese possesses edge-rushing abilities, while Styles functions as a versatile middle linebacker who excels at both run defense and pass protection. The defensive tackle does not receive as much media attention but he operated as the fundamental player who enabled all others to pursue tackles. NFL teams will be attracted to his combination of strength and relentless work ethic.

Carnell Tate: The Offensive Game-Changer

On the other side of the ball, Carnell Tate is the wide receiver prospect who currently attracts all the attention from NFL scouts. His speed does not make him the fastest player on the field but his exceptional skills in catching the ball and controlling his body and winning battles for the ball make him an elite athlete. He has been projected to become a top-10 draft pick who will immediately become the team's primary wide receiver. The highlights of his performance will accumulate on Sundays when he plays with an effective quarterback.

What This Means for Ryan Day and Buckeye Nation

Beyond the individual talent, this draft class is proof of the culture Ryan Day has built in Columbus. These aren't just five random dudes — they're the product of elite recruiting, development, and competition that pushes everyone to be great. For fans, it's exciting to see the next wave of Buckeyes going pro. For the program, it's fuel to keep the pipeline flowing. You can check out the full official draft details and order right here on NFL.com.

And if you're the type who likes to geek out on film (like I do), head over to this page on efilmroom.com for the in-depth breakdowns that show exactly why these five are headed for the first round.

Watch the Hype: Breakdown of the Top Buckeye Prospects

This breakdown video has been making the rounds — it's got the tape, the Pro Day reactions, and exactly why these guys are must-watch prospects. If you haven't seen it yet, do yourself a favor and hit play.

The main point is that Ohio State fans will enjoy April 23. The NFL draft selection will announce five players who the entire league considers draft prospects. Buckeye Nation, get ready to celebrate.

Who’s Next? Ohio State’s Wide Receivers Coach Opening for 2026

Brian Hartline is officially gone. On December 3, 2025, the guy who turned Ohio State’s wide receiver room into “Wide Receiver U” took the head coaching job at South Florida. He’ll coach the Buckeyes through the playoff, then head to Tampa. That leaves Ryan Day with one of the most important hires he’ll make this cycle: who coaches the best wide receiver room in college football starting in 2026?

The Clear Front-Runner: Devin Jordan

If you’ve paid any attention to Ohio State recruiting the last three years, you already know Devin Jordan’s name. The former Buckeye wideout (2008–11) came back to Columbus in 2022 as director of player development and recruiting, basically Hartline’s right-hand man in the WR room every single day.

Before that, Jordan spent four years (2018–21) as the actual wide receivers coach at Bowling Green and did a really solid job — guys like Davon Spencer and Quintin Morris put up big numbers under him. At 34 years old, he’s young, energetic, relates to players ridiculously well, and — maybe most importantly — he’s already one of the best recruiters in the Midwest. Current commits and targets call him “big bro.”

Everything Ryan Day has done the last two off-seasons screams internal promotion. He moved Hartline up to OC, kept Keenan Bailey in-house, promoted from within on defense multiple times. Promoting Jordan would be the easiest, smoothest transition imaginable. Most people around the program expect it to happen within the next week or two.

The Other Realistic Names

Keenan Bailey

Current co-OC and tight ends coach. Bailey is super well-liked and has been at Ohio State forever (analyst → TE coach → co-OC). A promotion to WR coach would let Day keep his offensive structure intact, but it would mean moving him off tight ends, which feels awkward. Possible, but not the favorite.

Santonio Holmes

The 2006 Buckeye legend is currently the wide receivers coach at South Carolina State. He’s expressed interest in coming home, and the players would lose their minds. Cool story, huge name, but Day almost never goes the “splashy external alum” route for assistant jobs. Feels more like a feel-good long shot.

The Chip Kelly Wild Card

Chip got fired by the Raiders in November and still has a house in Columbus. There’s real chatter he could come back in some kind of senior offensive assistant/WR coach hybrid role, especially if Day wants an experienced voice while a younger guy (Jordan) learns on the job. It’s not the most likely outcome, but it’s absolutely on the table.

Bottom Line

Unless something dramatic changes in the next few days, bet on Devin Jordan. He’s been training for this exact moment for four years, the players already trust him, and the 2026 recruiting class (Landon Dowden, Quincy Porter, etc.) is comfortable with him running the room.

Ryan Day loves continuity, and promoting Jordan is the definition of continuity. Expect the announcement sometime between the playoff rounds — probably with the simple title “wide receivers coach” and a quiet two-year deal to keep him from getting poached.

Ohio State’s wide receiver factory isn’t slowing down. It’s just getting a new foreman who already knows where all the tools are.

Buckeyes Snag a Homegrown Gem: Kellen Wymer's Epic Ohio State Commitment

 

For sure, if you're a fan of Ohio State like myself, then today is nothing less than Christmas that has come three weeks early. Just imagine a crisp November morning, the sound of leaves crunching beneath the feet, and suddenly—Kellen Wymer, this gigantic offensive guard from Ohio, announces that he is fully committed to the Buckeyes class of 2027. I mean, we are talking about a kid who has been dreaming of wearing scarlet and gray since he could walk. This is the type of recruiting victory that makes you pump your fist in the air in your kitchen while your coffee gets cold. Let's explore the reasons that have made this story the talk of the town.

Meet the Man-Mountain: Who Exactly Is Kellen Wymer?

Okay, time for a confession—I stumbled upon Kellen Wymer at the beginning of last spring while wandering through one of those random YouTube rabbit holes. This guy is from Liberty Center High School, a small place in northwest Ohio that produces football talent well beyond its size. At 6-foot-5 and still gaining weight like he is on the job, Wymer is the perfect example of that raw, untapped potential you wish to have on the O-line.

 

Scouts are drooling over him: four-star status, ranked No. 216 nationally in the 2027 class, and dead last? Nah, he's the No. 5 prospect in Ohio. That's huge in a state where Friday nights feel like the Super Bowl prelims. What sets him apart? It's not just the size—though, yeah, he looks like he could bench-press a tractor—it's the way he moves. Quick feet to stonewall rushers, that mean streak to pancake linebackers on runs. I've watched clips where he straight-up engulfs defenders like a human eclipse. And growing up in Buckeye country? He's got that fire in his belly to prove he's the next big thing from the heartland.

The Commitment Story: From Offers to "O-H-I-O"

Recruiting these days is like a soap opera on steroids—twists, turns, and enough drama to fill a season. Wymer's journey? Pure Midwest magic. He had the big boys circling: Notre Dame whispering sweet nothings about their golden dome, Indiana throwing in-state vibes, and a handful of others sniffing around. I kept thinking, "C'mon, Kellen, don't make us sweat this one."

But on November 2—today, folks—he made it official, committing right alongside another O-line stud, Mason Wilt. Double trouble for the Buckeyes' future trenches! His announcement hit social media like a thunderclap: probably a hype video with family cheers, hats flipping, the whole nine yards. I scrolled through X and saw fans losing their minds—memes about Notre Dame crying into their Fightin' Irish cereal, breakdowns from insiders calling it a "lockdown" for OSU. It's moments like these that remind you why we love this game: a kid from a small town choosing home, betting on the program that's defined generations.

You know, I remember my own high school days, dreaming of playing big-time ball. Wymer's story hits different—it's validation that the grind pays off, especially when the pull of Columbus is this strong.

Why This Matters for the Buckeye Big Boys Up Front

Let's get real: Ohio State's offensive line isn't just a unit; it's the backbone that lets stars like that future QB (whoever he is) dance without a care. Ryan Day's crew has been hammering this position in recruiting, and Wymer's the perfect puzzle piece. He's the fourth commit for 2027 already, and with Wilt in the mix, we're talking about a foundation that could dominate the Big Ten by decade's end.

Imagine it: A revamped line full of Ohio kids who eat, sleep, and breathe scarlet. It shores up depth, quiets the "what if we lose our starters?" whispers, and keeps the national title dreams alive. In a conference that's basically an arms race now—with Michigan lurking and Oregon flexing NIL cash—this kind of early momentum is gold. Fans like me? We're already sketching out how Wymer anchors left tackle while the crowd chants his name.

The Buzz from the Bleachers and Beyond

I poked around the recruiting gurus today, and yeah, they're all high-fiving over this. One analyst straight-up labeled it a "program-altering boom," raving about Wymer's starter potential by year two. Forums are popping off too—Buckeye boards joking that OSU's secret sauce is turning four-stars into All-Big Ten beasts, while rivals grumble about "stealing" another local hero.

It's not all sunshine; recruiting flips happen, and 2027 feels like forever away. But Wymer's roots run deep here. Experts agree: This feels locked in, the kind of commitment that sticks.

Wrapping It Up: Here's to the Next Chapter

As the sun sets on this commitment day, I can't help but grin. Kellen Wymer isn't just a name on a roster—he's the next wave of Buckeye pride, ready to block for glory and maybe hoist that crystal football one day. To Kellen, his family, and every kid grinding in Ohio gyms: Keep pushing. You've got a hell of a ride ahead.

What do you think, Buckeye faithful? Who's next on the wishlist? Drop your takes below—O-H-I-O!

Ohio State vs Oregon: Rose Bowl 2025 Showdown

It's a stage set perfectly at the iconic stadium known as the Rose Bowl Stadium in Pasadena, California, when the Ohio State Buckeyes take on the Oregon Ducks in an exciting College Football Playoff quarterfinal matchup on January 1, 2025, at 5 p.m. ET. Below is a detailed look regarding this anticipated matchup:

Game Details:

* Date: Wednesday, January 1, 2025

* Time: 5:00 PM EST

* Venue: Rose Bowl Stadium, Pasadena, CA

* TV/Streaming: Live on ESPN, with options to stream.

Coaches:

Ohio State: Ryan Day, 67-10 at Ohio State. All the energizing offenses come from Day, the coach who has his job on the line after losing to Michigan but should rebound with a strong showing versus Tennessee in the first round of the CFP.

Oregon: Dan Lanning, in his third year, has guided the Ducks to a perfect 13-0 record, capturing the Big Ten title in their first season in the conference. His strategic mind has helped shape the winning run by Oregon.

Key Players:

Ohio State:

Quarterback: Will Howard, the transfer from Kansas State, has been very impressive this year, completing 72.9 percent of his passes. Other players who support the offense in its cause include the wide receivers Emeka Egbuka and freshman sensation Jeremiah Smith.

Running Back: TreVeyon Henderson has been a workhorse, particularly in the fourth quarter, with an average of 8.6 yards per touch.

Oregon:

Quarterback: Dillon Gabriel has been the motor of the Ducks offense, completing 73.2% of his passes while contributing in very big ways with both his arm and legs.

Running Back: Jordan James had an outstanding year on the ground, topping 1,200 yards and 15 touchdowns, and was the toughest back to face down.

Defense: Jordan Burch is back from injury and has added considerable strength with his 8.5 sacks this season.

Odds:

The early betting line had Oregon as a slight favorite, but at the latest reports, Ohio State comes in at 2.5-point favorites, with an over/under of around 54.5 points.

How to Win:

Ohio State:

That creative offense will need to keep this Oregon defense guessing on each and every play. Ohio State needs to make Oregon one-dimensional by stopping the run and Jordan James. The OSU defensive line has to pressure Gabriel consistently in order to disrupt the passing game.

Oregon:

What Oregon will want to do is keep its offensive effectiveness alive with the mobility of Gabriel and his acumen as a passer. They will want to make a strength-on-strength takeaway in the air to Ohio State by using its strong secondary, and to affect Howard's rhythm, pressuring him is required, which depends upon the availability of Burch. 

Last Meeting:

Oregon upset Ohio State, 32-31, in an absolute nail-biter back in October at Autzen Stadium. Oregon's quarterback completed 341 passing yards against Ohio State's defense for three total touchdowns. The close victory showcased how Oregon can win the tight ones. The game also outlined where the roots of this great victory were rooted.

What to Watch For:

Both teams boast high-powered offenses, along with defenses that have flashed brilliance-all the ingredients for another classic. Under the microscope will be the players' performances: the strategy matchup between Day and Lanning. With the stakes escalated to a playoff quarterfinal, there figures to be some strategic adjustments on both sides, possibly making for a game decided in the final moments, much like their last encounter.

For most enthusiast fans, hard-core analysts, and fervent bettors alike, the question lingers whether Ohio State can finally have its revenge or Oregon will move into the semifinals undefeated. It promises football at a very high level, with a very important stake in the development of this budding rivalry.

College Football Playoff Quarterfinals: No. 8 Ohio State vs. No. 1 Oregon | Game Preview

Ohio State Buckeyes vs. Oregon Ducks: The long-awaited showdown is here at last

Anticipate an exhilarating college football clash this weekend! This is the game that was waited for by everyone, the #3 Oregon Ducks will play the #2 Ohio State Buckeyes. Get ready as the action begins at Autzen Stadium, Eugene Oregon on October 12th 2024 at 730 PM ET. Get your burritos and drinks ready for the game, you're not going to miss any minute of this clash on NBC.

A Brief History

The history of Ohio State University and the University of Oregon has witnessed several face-offs. In their head-to-head record Ohio State has a slight edge over Oregon. However, the most interactive contest that fans worldwide still remember vividly remains to be their trip to 2015 College Football Playoff National Championship when Ohio State earned a victory against Oregon. And now, the stakes are set, the game will be literally another piece in their storied rivalry.

The Coaches

In 2019, Ryan Day was elevated to the Buckeyes' head coach revamping OSU’s formerly rich football program. In contrast, Dan Lanning, the head coach of the Oregon Ducks managed to learn a few tricks from his strong defense during his short time as a head coach.

Players to Watch

Amongst others, Will Howard the senior quarterback at Ohio State, is worth watching. He's at the top of the list with some impressive stats: 1,248 passing yards, 12 touchdowns, and 3 interceptions this season. Keep an eye on wide receiver Jeremiah Smith and running back Quinshon Judkins too.

Even though quarterback Dylan Gabriel plays a significant role in enhancing Oregon's offense, ensuring more than 1200 yards and 10 touchdowns, it is clear that Sewell anchors the Ducks. He will play a big role in attempting to contain Ohio State's high scoring machine.

Breaking Down the Game

Offense: Rated as one of the country’s most prolific offenses, Ohio State typically scores 46 points in a span of 60 minutes. Thanks to their ability to gain yardage through carries and passes, Ohio State holds an advantage over Oregon whose average point per game is 35.

Defense: Ohio State's defense has been stellar, allowing just 6.8 points per game, the best in the nation. Oregon is also good in defense, which allows 17 points, not very low or very high, and is ranked 18th in the country.

Special teams: While both teams have dependable kickers and return units, the performance of the special teams units tilts to Ohio State's favor this season.

The Odds

The Ohio State Buckeyes are currently a 3.5-point favorite in the tilt, with the over/under standing at 53.5 points. This reflects an evenly matched game, with the brunt of the action leaning towards Ohio State.

A Personal Story

I recall the numerous friends that I watched the action-packed 2015 National Championship game with. Everyone was one the edge of the seat waiting in anticipation for the outcome. The amount of energy in the hall was very high considering how much people waited for the final snap. I will remember that day forever in the future. This weekend's game has the potential to create similar unforgettable moments.

Final Thoughts

Facing off Ohio State against Oregon is no mere collision, but a conflict of rivals in which much is at stake. Whosoever you may be, whether a supporter ready to burst with fanaticism or just a person who cannot stand missing live football, this is going to be a very interesting match. Meanwhile, get your favorite foods, find a comfortable spot, and prepare yourself for the intense action lined up.

De'zie Jones Commits to Ohio State: A Game-Changer for the Buckeyes

WAYNE, New Jersey — In a move that has the Buckeye state buzzing, De’zie Jones, an electric wide receiver from DePaul Catholic, has officially committed to Ohio State. The 5-foot-10 dynamo is set to shine on the gridiron in Columbus, and fans already picture him blanketing the field in grey and scarlet.

The Decision

Jones had no shortage of suitors. Florida, Penn State, Michigan State and Rutgers all competed for his talent. But when it came down to it, the horseshoe attraction proved irresistible. The Buckeyes’ tradition, passionate fan base and championship pedigree prevailed. Plus, who can resist the siren call of the Shoe on a crisp autumn Saturday?

 

A Playmaker Extraordinaire

What makes Jones so special? Let's break it down:

1. Speed Demon: Jones has jets. His acceleration off the line is like a Ferrari hitting the Autobahn. Cornerbacks beware—you won't catch him once he hits that second gear.

2. Route Savvy: He's got a PhD in route-running. Whether it's a crisp slant, a double move, or a deep post, Jones knows how to create separation. Defensive backs will be left scratching their heads.

3. Hands of Glue: Sticky fingers, they call it. Jones snatches balls out of thin air like a magician pulling rabbits from a hat. Expect jaw-dropping catches and circus grabs.

4. Yards After Catch: Jones isn't content with just catching the ball. He turns short gains into explosive plays. His ability to make defenders miss in open space is downright unfair.

The Impact

Buckeye faithful, get ready. Jones is a game-changer. With his commitment, Ohio State's 2025 recruiting class vaults to the top nationally. Ryan Day must be grinning somewhere, knowing that he's got a future star in the making.

So, what's next? Jones will don the scarlet helmet, lace up those silver cleats, and step onto the hallowed turf of Ohio Stadium. The Shoe will roar, and De'zie Jones will dance. Touchdowns will rain down like confetti, and the Buckeyes' faithful will chant his name.

Welcome to the family, De'zie. The Horseshoe awaits, and the future is bright. 🌟🏈

On National Letter of Intent Signing Day 2024, Ohio State added a dynamic playmaker to its roster in the commitment of four-star wide receiver De'zie Jones from Wayne, New Jersey. Impressed by the coaching staff and the program's precedent with developing wide receivers, Jones chose Ohio State after having a few other top programs in pursuit of his services while attending DePaul Catholic High School. Productive and able to get open consistently, Jones had a great senior season, recording 64 receptions for 1,069 yards and 15 touchdowns. His commitment is a big boost to Ohio State's 2025 recruiting class and adds depth to their receiving corps.
 

 

Dijon Johnson 2023 Ohio State Corner Back

The 4-star corner back prospect from Ohio State is one of the top recruits in the country. Dijon Johnson a big, physical presence (6'2", 175 lbs.) on the field that can make an immediate impact for any team. Johnson is a highly sought-after prospect that will be a key piece of the Buckeye's future success. Steve Spurrior Jr recruited him for Mississippi State while Brent Venables and Jay Valai recruited him for Oklahoma and Tim Walton and Tony Alford pursued him for the Buckeyes.

 

The latest on four-star corner back Dijon Johnson

Dijon Johnson is one of the top corner backs in the country and he's just made his commitment to Ohio State official. Johnson is a versatile player who can line up all over the field, and he's expected to make an immediate impact for the Buckeyes. He will join a team with only 6 scholarship corner-backs on the roster and only two other defensive backs in the 2023 class, Malik Hartford and Cedrick Hawkins.

What Dijon Johnson's commitment means for Ohio State

Dijon Johnson's commitment is a huge win for Ohio State, as they beat out some of the top programs in the country for his services. Johnson is a talented player who will add depth and talent to an already strong Ohio State team. He had offers from Ohio State, Oklahoma, Alabama, USC, and Auburn, in addition to 31 others.

How Dijon Johnson fits into Ohio State's plans

Dijon Johnson is a perfect fit for what Ohio State wants to do on defense. He has the size, speed, and athleticism to be a disruptive force in the middle of the field, and he'll be a key piece of the Buckeyes' defensive plans going forward.

The 5-star athlete from Wharton Tampa, Florida

Dijon Johnson is a 4-star athlete out of Wharton Tampa, Florida. He's ranked as the #46th athlete in the state of Florida and the #29 corner back in the country. He's now a big Buckeye fan, and he's excited to be able to play for the new defensive coaching staff that Ryan Day has put into place.

An impressive football resume

Johnson has an impressive football resume. He was an All-State selection, had 6 interceptions, 4 touchdowns for a 9-3 team that went into the third round of the Florida playoffs. As a sophomore he was a two way player for Tampa Wharton.

A versatile player who can make an impact on both sides of the ball

2023 CB Johnson is a versatile player who can make an impact on both sides of the ball. He played receiver and defensive back in high school, and he's been touted as a potential star at either position. He will play corner back for the Buckeyes in 2023.

Dijon Johnson Crystal Ball

Johnson had all Ohio State predictions leading up to his commitment including Bill Kurelic, Andrew Ivins, Steve Wiltfong, Parker Thune, Justin Thind, and Zach Blostein all coming out on April 16th and 17th. In addition, Rivals analyst Zach Carpenter, Josh McCuistion, Richard Schnyderite, and Kyle Kelly all felt Johnson was going to Ohio State the day he made the announcement.