Buckeyes’ Draft Dominance: Ohio State Sets Program Record with 14 Picks in a Single Draft, Solidifying Position as a Powerhouse in College Football and Demonstrating Unwavering Commitment to Building a Championship Roster
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Published: May 23, 2025
The 2025 NFL Draft was a historic event for the Ohio State Buckeyes, as the program set a new school record with 14 players selected, reaffirming its status as a premier talent factory in college football. This remarkable achievement not only underscores Ohio State’s commitment to excellence but also highlights the program’s ability to develop players ready to make immediate impacts at the professional level.
A Historic Haul
Ohio State’s 14 draft selections in 2025 surpassed its previous record and came just one shy of the all-time single-draft record of 15 set by Georgia in 2022. This impressive feat also matched the Big Ten record for most players drafted from a single team, a mark previously set by Ohio State in 2004.
The Buckeyes led all programs in the 2025 draft, with Georgia following closely with 13 selections and Texas with 12. This dominance is a testament to the depth and quality of talent cultivated in Columbus.
First-Round Excellence
Ohio State’s presence was felt early in the draft, with four players selected in the first round, the most of any school in 2025.
- Emeka Egbuka, Wide Receiver: Selected 19th overall by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Egbuka was a standout performer for the Buckeyes, leading the team with 81 receptions for 1,011 yards and 10 touchdowns in 2024.
- Donovan Jackson, Offensive Lineman: Chosen 24th overall by the Minnesota Vikings, Jackson was a three-time first-team All-Big Ten honoree and a 2024 first-team All-American.
- Tyleik Williams, Defensive Tackle: Picked 28th overall by the Detroit Lions, Williams anchored Ohio State’s top-ranked defense, becoming the first Buckeye defensive tackle selected in the first round since 2004.
- Josh Simmons, Offensive Tackle: Selected 32nd overall by the Kansas City Chiefs, Simmons started all 19 games at Ohio State before an injury ended his collegiate career.
These selections increased Ohio State’s all-time total of first-round NFL Draft picks to 95, extending its lead over other programs.
Depth Across the Board
Beyond the first round, Ohio State’s talent continued to shine, with seven players selected in the first two rounds, matching the program record set in 2016.
Notable selections included:
- Quinshon Judkins, Running Back: Drafted 36th overall by the Cleveland Browns, Judkins was a key contributor to Ohio State’s offense.
- Will Howard, Quarterback: Selected 185th overall by the Pittsburgh Steelers, Howard’s leadership and performance were instrumental in the Buckeyes’ success.
The distribution of draft picks across various positions underscores the comprehensive development approach taken by Ohio State’s coaching staff.
A Testament to Development
Ohio State’s record-setting draft performance is a reflection of its unwavering commitment to player development. The program’s ability to produce NFL-ready talent across multiple positions speaks volumes about its coaching, facilities, and culture.
The Buckeyes’ success in the draft also serves as a powerful recruiting tool, demonstrating to prospective players the program’s capacity to prepare athletes for the next level.
Looking Ahead
With the 2025 NFL Draft behind them, the Buckeyes turn their attention to the upcoming college football season. Building on the momentum of their national championship and historic draft class, Ohio State aims to continue its tradition of excellence on and off the field.
The program’s recent achievements have solidified its position as a powerhouse in college football, and the future looks bright for the Scarlet and Gray.
