Projected First-Round Picks from Ohio State
1. Caleb Downs – Safety
Caleb Downs, who transferred from Alabama to Ohio State, has quickly established himself as one of the premier safeties in college football. His versatility, football IQ, and athleticism make him a top prospect. In early mock drafts, Downs is projected to be a top-10 pick, with some placing him as high as 6th overall to the Carolina Panthers.
2. Carnell Tate – Wide Receiver
Carnell Tate has emerged as a dynamic playmaker in Ohio State’s receiving corps. His route-running precision and ability to make contested catches have caught the attention of NFL scouts. Tate is projected to be selected in the latter half of the first round, with some mock drafts placing him at 27th overall to the Washington Commanders.
3. Max Klare – Tight End
A transfer from Purdue, Max Klare has become a reliable target in Ohio State’s offense. His size and catching ability make him an intriguing prospect at the tight end position. Klare is projected to be a late first-round pick, with some mock drafts placing him at 22nd overall to the Los Angeles Chargers.
4. Sonny Styles – Linebacker
Sonny Styles is known for his versatility and athleticism on the defensive side of the ball. He can play multiple positions and has a knack for making big plays. Styles is projected to be selected in the mid-first round, with some mock drafts placing him at 20th overall to the Minnesota Vikings.
Other Notable Buckeyes to Watch
Beyond the projected first-rounders, Ohio State has several other players who could rise into first-round consideration with strong performances in the upcoming season:
- Donovan Jackson – Offensive Lineman: Known for his versatility, Jackson has experience at both guard and tackle positions. His adaptability and strength make him a valuable asset on the offensive line.
- Tyleik Williams – Defensive Tackle: Williams has shown flashes of dominance on the defensive line. With continued development, he could become a first-round talent.
Insights from the Buckeye Talk Podcast
The Buckeye Talk podcast, hosted by Doug Lesmerises, Nathan Baird, and Stephen Means, has been instrumental in providing in-depth analysis of Ohio State football and its players’ NFL prospects. They have highlighted the potential of players like Caleb Downs and Carnell Tate, emphasizing their readiness for the next level. The podcast also discusses the development of other players who could make a leap into first-round consideration with strong performances in the upcoming season.
Ohio State continues to be a breeding ground for NFL talent. With players like Caleb Downs, Carnell Tate, Max Klare, and Sonny Styles projected to go in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft, the Buckeyes are poised to make a significant impact. Additionally, players like Donovan Jackson and Tyleik Williams have the potential to rise into first-round contention. As the college football season unfolds, these projections will become clearer, but it’s evident that Ohio State’s presence will be strongly felt in the 2026 NFL Draft.
