A total of 14 former Ohio State Buckeyes have earned over \$100 million in their professional sports careers, with Mike Conley, Joey Bosa, and D’Angelo Russell topping the list.
Ohio State University has long been recognized as a powerhouse in college athletics, consistently producing elite talent that transitions into the professional ranks. From the gridiron to the basketball court, the Buckeyes have supplied a steady pipeline of athletes ready to compete at the highest level. What’s even more impressive than their collegiate accomplishments is what many of them have achieved financially after leaving Columbus. Fourteen former Buckeyes have crossed a monumental threshold in their professional sports careers, each earning over \$100 million. Leading that elite group are NBA veteran Mike Conley, NFL pass-rusher Joey Bosa, and NBA guard D’Angelo Russell, each representing a different era and path of success, but all sharing a foundation that started with Ohio State.
Mike Conley, who starred at Ohio State for one season during the 2006–07 campaign, has become one of the NBA’s most consistent and respected point guards over the past decade and a half. His career earnings have now exceeded \$250 million, thanks to a combination of long-term contracts, smart financial management, and the evolution of NBA salary structures. When Conley entered the NBA as the fourth overall pick in the 2007 Draft, he joined a Memphis Grizzlies team in need of a floor general. Over time, he became the franchise cornerstone, guiding them through a sustained era of success that included multiple playoff appearances and one of the league’s most feared defenses. Off the court, Conley has built a reputation for professionalism and leadership. Though he never made an All-Star appearance until late in his career, he was always considered among the league’s most underrated talents.
Joey Bosa, meanwhile, has made his fortune in the NFL. Drafted third overall in the 2016 NFL Draft by the Los Angeles Chargers, Bosa made an immediate impact as a disruptive force on the defensive line. Known for his explosive first step and relentless motor, Bosa racked up sacks and accolades early and often. In 2020, he signed a massive five-year, \$135 million extension that cemented his status as one of the league’s highest-paid defensive players. His total career earnings have now easily surpassed the \$100 million mark. While injuries have at times limited his availability, his value when healthy is undeniable. Bosa’s dominance in the NFL is a reflection of his time at Ohio State, where he was a key figure on the 2014 national championship team. His success also set the stage for his younger brother Nick Bosa, who has followed in his footsteps both at Ohio State and in the NFL.
D’Angelo Russell is another former Buckeye who reached the \$100 million milestone. A one-and-done standout at Ohio State during the 2014–15 season, Russell was the second overall pick in the 2015 NBA Draft, selected by the Los Angeles Lakers. His career has been a journey across multiple teams, including stops with the Brooklyn Nets, Golden State Warriors, Minnesota Timberwolves, and a return to the Lakers. Along the way, Russell has been both praised and criticized, but he’s managed to secure substantial contracts due to his scoring ability, playmaking, and potential. His All-Star selection during his time with Brooklyn showed what he was capable of when given the reins of an offense. With total earnings now comfortably over nine figures, Russell’s career stands as an example of talent meeting market opportunity in a league where guards who can score are in high demand.
These three headliners are just the tip of the iceberg. The list of 14 Buckeyes to make over \$100 million spans multiple generations and sports. In basketball, former Ohio State players like Jared Sullinger and Evan Turner had lucrative NBA careers, with Turner, in particular, securing a large contract with the Portland Trail Blazers that significantly boosted his total earnings. Turner was the No. 2 overall pick in the 2010 NBA Draft after winning National Player of the Year honors at Ohio State, and while he never reached stardom at the next level, his defensive versatility and size made him a valued role player.
In football, the list grows even more impressive. Ezekiel Elliott, a star running back for the Buckeyes and key member of the 2014 national championship team, was drafted fourth overall by the Dallas Cowboys in 2016. He signed a massive contract extension in 2019 that included \$50 million in guaranteed money. Elliott’s blend of power and agility made him one of the most marketable and productive running backs in the league during his prime, and his earnings reflect that. Though the running back position has seen diminished value in recent years, Elliott capitalized on his opportunity at just the right time.
Another notable member of the club is Cameron Heyward, the longtime Pittsburgh Steelers defensive end and leader. Heyward, who played at Ohio State from 2007 to 2010, has carved out a highly respected NFL career built on consistency, toughness, and leadership. A multiple-time Pro Bowler and team captain, Heyward signed multiple contracts with Pittsburgh that pushed his career earnings past the \$100 million threshold. He’s been the heart of the Steelers’ defense and has remained productive even into his 30s, a rarity for linemen.
Malcolm Jenkins also deserves mention. Though now retired, Jenkins had a long and successful NFL career, most notably with the New Orleans Saints and Philadelphia Eagles. He won two Super Bowls and earned multiple Pro Bowl selections. Jenkins was also savvy off the field, investing wisely and launching business ventures that helped supplement his football income. His commitment to social justice initiatives also made him one of the league’s most vocal and respected voices, further enhancing his profile beyond the gridiron.
Former offensive lineman Andrew Norwell, though undrafted, managed to turn his talent and work ethic into a highly successful NFL career. After establishing himself with the Carolina Panthers, he signed a massive deal with the Jacksonville Jaguars, becoming the highest-paid guard in the NFL at the time. Norwell’s story is a testament to the fact that earning power in professional sports isn’t limited to high draft picks. Consistency, durability, and reputation can open doors to financial security.
Another lesser-known but high-earning Buckeye is Nick Mangold, a first-round pick in the 2006 NFL Draft who played his entire career with the New York Jets. Mangold was a mainstay on the Jets’ offensive line for over a decade, earning multiple Pro Bowl nods and becoming a beloved figure in the organization. Offensive linemen don’t always get the spotlight, but Mangold’s contract extensions and endorsement deals helped him build a significant financial portfolio.
There’s also Marshon Lattimore, a top-tier cornerback for the New Orleans Saints. Drafted in the first round in 2017, Lattimore quickly made a name for himself as a lockdown defender. He signed a five-year, \$97 million extension in 2021 that included over \$60 million in guaranteed money. With additional earnings from his rookie contract and endorsements, Lattimore has now crossed the \$100 million mark as well. His story is one of talent meeting production, and he remains one of the cornerstones of the Saints’ defense.
Another name on the list is Chase Young, the former No. 2 overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft. While his early NFL career has been interrupted by injuries, Young signed a lucrative rookie deal with the Washington Commanders and recently joined the New Orleans Saints on a fresh contract. With his endorsements and potential for another large deal if he performs well and stays healthy, Young has already reached significant financial milestones. His path serves as a reminder of the potential windfalls available to top draft picks in today’s NFL.
These 14 Buckeyes have not only thrived on the field and court but have also shown that Ohio State’s athletic programs prepare athletes for long-term success—financially and professionally. While the university itself provides a platform and support structure, it’s the work ethic, adaptability, and resilience of the individuals that turn potential into profit. They’ve navigated the challenging terrain of professional sports, managed their opportunities wisely, and in many cases, have become role models for future generations of Buckeyes hoping to follow in their footsteps.
The evolution of athlete salaries over the last two decades has also played a role. The average salaries in both the NBA and NFL have skyrocketed thanks to broadcast rights, league profitability, and collective bargaining agreements. But earning \$100 million still represents a remarkable achievement. It suggests not just brief success, but sustained excellence, marketability, and in most cases, an ability to adapt and evolve as their respective sports change.
In the end, Ohio State’s influence on professional sports can’t just be measured in wins, championships, or draft picks. It’s also reflected in the lives changed and the legacies built. The 14 former Buckeyes who’ve earned more than \$100 million represent just a fraction of the university’s impact, but they stand as shining examples of what’s possible when talent meets preparation, and when opportunity is maximized both on and off the field.
