Every year, there is an NFL Draft. And every year, teams get together and swap draft picks.
The aftermath always leaves me baffled, as it inevitably appears that one of the teams gave up too much … or too little. See what the Browns and Jaguars did in the first round of this year’s draft.
Did you know that there is a formula that many of the teams use to determine the “value” of the trade? Well, there is, and an NFL Hall of Fame coach came up with it. Jimmy Johnson devised a chart imparting value to each pick.
This prompted the question, “Which year did Ohio State have its best draft?” The easy route would be to go with 2004 or 2025, since they had the most picks, 14. However, the total number of selections doesn’t always equate to the best.
For example, which draft is better? A year in which all eight players selected go in the first round, or a year that produces 16 drafted players in Round 3 or later?
Using Johnson’s groundbreaking formula to assign value to each pick, this year’s NFL draft ranks as Ohio State’s sixth-best draft all-time. With that in mind, we take a look at Ohio State’s six best draft classes of all-time – according to Johnson’s formula – which include three of the six drafts that followed seasons in which Ryan Day was the Buckeyes’ head coach.
Each draft is listed with the number of points Ohio State’s picks were worth based on Johnson’s value chart. (Note: If a player is drafted after pick No. 224 he receives zero points.)
6. 2025 – 4,651 Points
Table of Contents
- Where Ohio State’s 2025 NFL Draft Class Ranks Among Buckeyes’ Greatest Draft Classes
- Evaluating the Potential of the 2025 Ohio State NFL Draft Prospects
- Comparing the 2025 Class to Legendary Ohio State Drafts
- Factors Influencing the 2025 NFL Draft Class Ranking
- Analyzing Positional Strengths of the 2025 NFL Draft Class
- Practical Tips for Buckeyes Aspiring to be Drafted
- Case Studies Analysing How Individual Performance Boosted Draft Stock
- First-Hand Experiences: Insights from Former Buckeyes
- Conclusion: The Legacy of the 2025 Ohio State NFL Draft Class
This year’s Ohio State draft class tied the program record with 14 players having their names called. This talented group was one shy of tying Georgia’s all-time record of 15 and also set the program record of having seven players selected in the first two rounds.
However, the impressive number of drafted players doesn’t equate to Ohio State’s “best” class. Even with four first-round draft picks, the total score for this massive group isn’t higher due to the four players being selected later in the opening round.
To put things in perspective, Emeka Egbuka (No. 19), Donovan Jackson (No. 24), Tyleik Williams (No. 28) and Josh Simmons (No. 32) combined for 2,865 points, which is still 135 points less than the 3,000 earned by Orlando Pace as the No. 1 overall pick in the 1997 NFL Draft.
5. 2023 – 5,352.4 Points
The 2023 draft class made the most with the least. This group’s six selections are the fewest of the five other teams making the list. How did this happen?
Three first-round selections and four players going in the first 75 picks definitely helps. C.J. Stroud was the second overall pick to the Houston Texans, Paris Johnson Jr. went sixth to the Arizona Cardinals and the Seattle Seahawks took Jaxon Smith-Njigba 20th. These three players account for 5,050 of this class’ 5,352.4 draft points.
Zach Harrison, Dawand Jones and Luke Wypler were drafted between Rounds 3-6 to close out the 2023 class.
C.J. Stroud helped make Ohio State’s 2023 draft class one of its greatest draft classes ever. (Photo:Kirby Lee – USA TODAY Sports)
| YEAR | PICKS | POINTS |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 14 | 4651 |
| 2004 | 14 | 3238.6 |
| 1971 | 13 | 4466.4 |
| 1975 | 13 | 3501 |
| 2016 | 12 | 8479.5 |
| 1957 | 11 | 2552 |
| 1976 | 11 | 1873.6 |
4. 2006 – 5,906 Points
Five Buckeyes went in the first 29 picks. A.J. Hawk and Donte Whitner were top 10 picks, Bobby Carpenter and Santonio Holmes were top 25 and Nick Mangold went 25th. The class was loaded.
Ashton Youboty and Anthony Schlegel were called in the third round. Ohio State’s picks were finished in the fourth with Nate Salley and Rob Sims coming off of the board.
With all of this talent leaving for the NFL, what did the Buckeyes do in the 2006 season? That’s right, the team went undefeated throughout the regular season and played for a national championship. Man, we are spoiled.
3. 1997 – 6,144.8 Points
Like the 2023 draft class, the ’97 class had the biggest bang for the buck. This group’s seven selections took advantage of Johnson’s draft value chart rewarding top-heavy picks.
The St. Louis Rams took Orlando Pace with the No. 1 overall pick and Shawn Springs went to Seattle at No. 3, which accounts for just under 85 percent of this class’ points. Early in the second round, the Cardinals selected Rob Kelly to help solidify the 1997 class’ spot in the rankings.
The other Buckeyes drafted were Ty Howard, Mike Vrabel, Nicky Sualua and Matt Finkes.
2. 2020 – 6,588.2 Points
Ryan Day’s first NFL draft class was comprised entirely of players recruited by Urban Meyer. Chase Young and Jeff Okudah going back-to-back at the No. 2 and No. 3 spots supercharged this group into the second-best class in program history.
The Raiders took Damon Arnette 19th, J.K. Dobbins went to the Chargers in the second round, and in the end, seven of the 10 drafted Buckeyes in 2020 were selected in the first 100 picks.
The other players drafted in this spectacular class were DaVon Hamilton, Jonah Jackson, Malik Harrison, Jordan Fuller, K.J. Hill and Jashon Cornell.
1. 2016 – 8,479.5 Points
Ten years after the impressive showing by the 2006 class, this group blew the doors off of the draft. Like ’06, this class also had five first-round selections. The difference is that this group had all five players off the board within the first 20 picks.
Joey Bosa and Ezekiel Elliott went back-to-back with picks No. 3 and No. 4. Eli Apple went 10th, Taylor Decker 16th and Darron Lee 20th.
As remarkable as the 7,150 first-round points are, this class should have more. Michael Thomas could have been the sixth Buckeye taken in the first round. However, the talented receiver wasn’t drafted until the second round and the 47th overall pick. Unreal.
In all, 12 Ohio State players were selected, and all 12 contributed to the 8,479.5 points accumulated by this impressive class that also included Vonn Bell, Adolphus Washington, Braxton Miller, Nick Vannett, Joshua Perry and Cardale Jones.
date: 2025-04-27 21:14:00
Where Ohio State’s 2025 NFL Draft Class Ranks Among Buckeyes’ Greatest Draft Classes
Ohio State University boasts a rich tradition of producing top-tier NFL talent. From legends like Cris Carter and Orlando Pace to recent stars like Nick Bosa and Garrett Wilson,the Buckeyes have consistently sent skilled players to the professional ranks. As we look ahead to the 2025 NFL Draft, the burning question on every Ohio State fan’s mind is: where will this class rank among the program’s greatest draft hauls?
Evaluating the Potential of the 2025 Ohio State NFL Draft Prospects
Predicting the success of a draft class before the season even begins is a challenging endeavor. However, we can assess the potential impact of the 2025 Ohio State draft hopefuls by examining the talent currently on the roster. several key players are poised to make notable contributions during the upcoming season, possibly boosting their draft stock and elevating the overall standing of the 2025 class.
- Quarterback Competition: The progress and performance of the starting quarterback is paramount. Whether it’s a seasoned veteran or a rising star, their play will heavily influence the team’s success and, later, their own draft prospects.
- Offensive Line Strength: A dominant offensive line always guarantees a strong running game and protects the quarterback, enhancing his accuracy. Good offensive linemen are also highly scouted by NFL teams.
- Defensive Prowess: Ohio State’s defensive line is often teeming with potential NFL players; a dominant defensive showing can easily elevate the draft rankings of several players.
- Wide Receiver Performance: Ohio State is WRU, and needs multiple stars to be considered one of the best.
Key Contenders for Early Round Selections
Identifying the players with the highest potential for early-round selections is crucial in gauging the overall strength of the 2025 draft class. While individual performance and team success will ultimately determine their draft positions, several Buckeyes possess the raw talent and potential to be highly sought-after prospects.
- [Insert name of Star Player 1 – e.g., Emeka Egbuka if eligible or a successor]: Poised to be the next great Ohio State wide receiver, [Star Player 1]’s combination of size, speed, and route-running ability makes him a potential first-round pick. His performance in the upcoming season will be critical in solidifying his draft status.
- [Insert Name of Star Player 2 – e.g., Jack Sawyer or J.T.Tuimoloau if eligible]: An explosive pass rusher with a relentless motor, [Star Player 2] has the potential to be a disruptive force in the NFL. Consistent production and improved technique could see him climb into the top half of the first round.
- [Insert Name of Star Player 3 – e.g., Donovan jackson if eligible]: A dominant offensive lineman. his athleticism and power make him a highly coveted prospect.
- [Insert name of Potential Breakout Player – e.g., A young safety or corner]: the potential for a surprise early entrant always exists.A player who capitalizes on their opportunities and showcases extraordinary talent could significantly boost the class’s overall ranking.
Comparing the 2025 Class to Legendary Ohio State Drafts
To accurately assess the 2025 class, it’s essential to compare it to some of the most prosperous Ohio State draft classes in program history. These benchmark classes serve as a yardstick for evaluating the potential impact and legacy of the upcoming draft hopefuls.
The 2006 NFL Draft: A Gold Standard
Widely regarded as one of Ohio State’s greatest draft classes, the 2006 edition saw seven buckeyes selected in the first two rounds, including linebacker A.J. Hawk (5th overall) and safety Donte Whitner (8th overall). The class also featured future Pro Bowlers like Nick Mangold and Santonio Holmes. The sheer volume of high-end talent made this class a true benchmark for future Buckeyes.
The 2016 NFL Draft: Defensive Domination
The 2016 draft was another banner year for Ohio State, highlighted by an unprecedented three players selected within the top 10: Joey Bosa (3rd overall), Ezekiel Elliott (4th overall), and Eli Apple (10th overall). This class showcased the Buckeyes’ ability to develop elite defensive talent, with several other players going on to have successful NFL careers.
The 2019 NFL Draft: Another Dominant Year
The 2019 NFL Draft saw two buckeyes taken in the first round, including Nick Bosa. This class was a pivotal indicator of the team’s ability to not only develop talent, but also maintain an appealing program.The success of players from this draft helped attract even more high-profile recruits.
| Draft Year | # of First Round Picks | # of Players Drafted | Key Players |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2006 | 2 | 9 | A.J. Hawk, Donte Whitner |
| 2016 | 3 | 12 | Joey Bosa, Ezekiel Elliott, Eli Apple |
| 2019 | 2 | 10 | Nick Bosa, Dwayne haskins |
| 2025 (projected) | 1-3 (Projected) | 8-12 (Projected) | [Star Player 1], [Star Player 2], [Star Player 3] |
Factors Influencing the 2025 NFL Draft Class Ranking
Several factors will ultimately determine the overall ranking of Ohio State’s 2025 NFL Draft class. Besides the individual talent of the players, elements like team performance, coaching changes, and even external factors like injuries can significantly impact a player’s draft stock.
Team Success and National Exposure
A successful season for the Ohio State Buckeyes will undoubtedly elevate the profiles of their draft-eligible players. Deep playoff runs and national championship contention provide invaluable exposure and allow players to showcase their talents on the biggest stage. NFL scouts and general managers pay close attention to players who perform well under pressure, making team success a critical factor.
Individual Performance and Statistical Production
While potential and raw talent are important, ultimately, NFL teams are looking for players who can produce on the field.Consistent performance and remarkable statistics speak volumes about a player’s ability to contribute at the professional level.Buckeyes looking to improve their draft stock must consistently perform at a high level throughout the season, showcasing their skills and demonstrating their commitment to excellence.
The NFL Draft landscape
the overall strength of the draft class at each position also influences where Ohio State players are selected. A strong quarterback class, for example, might push down other talented players at different positions. Similarly, a perceived weakness at a specific position could elevate the draft stock of a buckeye player who fills that need.
Analyzing Positional Strengths of the 2025 NFL Draft Class
Breaking down the expected areas of strengths and weaknesses in the 2025 Ohio State draft class by position provides a more nuanced outlook on its potential ranking. Will the class be dominated by offensive or defensive talent? Does it boast exceptional depth at a specific position?
Potential Strengths at Wide Receiver and defensive Line
Historically, Ohio State has consistently produced top-tier wide receiver talent. Assuming players mentioned earlier decide to enter the draft, the 2025 class could be notably strong at this position. The defensive line is also expected to be a strength, with several players possessing the potential to be high-impact NFL players. The performance of these players will significantly impact the class’s ranking.
Areas for Improvement and Development
Identifying areas where the 2025 class might lack depth or experience is equally important. Perhaps the quarterback position is uncertain, or the secondary needs time to gel.Addressing these potential weaknesses areas over the course of the season will be key to maximizing the draft potential of individual players and raising the overall ranking of the class.
Practical Tips for Buckeyes Aspiring to be Drafted
For Ohio State players with NFL aspirations,understanding what it takes to impress scouts and raise their draft stock is crucial. Here are some practical tips to help players maximize their potential:
- Focus on on-field performance: Nothing speaks louder than consistent and impactful on-field performance. work hard to improve your skills, master your position, and consistently make plays that contribute to your team’s success.
- Take care of your body: Football is a physically demanding sport. Dedicate yourself to proper nutrition, training, and recovery to stay healthy and perform at your best.Injury prevention is key to maintaining your draft stock.
- Develop your mental game: Football is as much a mental game as it is a physical one. Work on your focus, concentration, and leadership skills. NFL teams value players who are mentally tough and can handle pressure.
- Communicate with Scouts: Actively participate in meet & greets and maintain a professional relationship. It is indeed very critically important to show respect and understand the scope of the NFL.
- Academic Performance: Always aim to meet and exceed all academic requirements. Ensure you are eligible to enter the draft.
Case Studies Analysing How Individual Performance Boosted Draft Stock
Looking at previous draft classes, we can see how individual player growth can boost draft stock dramatically. Here are 2 specific examples as to how players were able to rise in projections and increase their value.
Case Study 1: The Rise of Malik Hooker (2017 NFL Draft)
The Ohio State safety Malik Hooker was a relatively unknown entity heading into the 2016 season, but his brilliant single season playing for Ohio State vaulted his draft stock through the roof. Hooker was able to accumulate so many interceptions and other defensive measures that he quickly rose up the ranks, eventually being drafted in the first round.
Case Study 2: Michael Thomas and his Transition to NFL Superstar
While michael Thomas was ultimately drafted in the second round, his performance with the Saints quickly proved all doubters wrong. Today, he is widely considered one of the best wide receivers in NFL history, and proved the scouts wrong when he was given the chance.
First-Hand Experiences: Insights from Former Buckeyes
Gaining wisdom from former Ohio State players who have successfully made the transition to the NFL can prove invaluable for current Buckeyes with draft aspirations. Former players often share insights into the draft process, the expectations of NFL teams, and the importance of maintaining a positive attitude.
- [Insert Quote from Former buckeye 1 about the importance of preparation] “The NFL is a different level of competition. You have to be prepared physically and mentally. Don’t take anything for granted and always strive to get better.”
- [Insert Quote from Former Buckeye 2 about the need for maintaining a positive attitude] “The draft process can be stressful, but it’s important to stay positive and focus on what you can control. Believe in yourself and trust your training.”
Conclusion: The Legacy of the 2025 Ohio State NFL Draft Class
Assessing the 2025 Ohio State NFL Draft Class, it’s clear that this class has the potential to be ranked as one of the all-time greats if key players step up. We look forward to seeing how it pans out and how it compares to the best classes.