As the 2025 NFL Draft concludes, attention turns to the 2026 class, with Ohio State’s Caleb Downs and Sonny Styles emerging as top prospects. Both players are projected to be first-round selections, continuing the Buckeyes’ tradition of producing NFL-ready talent.

Caleb Downs: A Top-10 Prospect

Caleb Downs, a junior safety, is widely regarded as one of the most complete defensive backs in college football. After transferring from Alabama, Downs showcased his versatility and playmaking ability at Ohio State. His instincts, tackling, and coverage skills have drawn comparisons to NFL stars like Minkah Fitzpatrick. Analysts project him as a top-10 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.

Pro Football Focus (PFF) highlights Downs as the top prospect on their early 2026 NFL Draft big board, noting his exceptional performance over the past two seasons. According to PFF, Downs has been the most valuable safety in college football during that span, with a 91.7 overall grade and a 91.2 coverage grade. His ability to play multiple roles in the secondary, including free safety, slot corner, and box safety, adds to his draft appeal.

Bleacher Report also projects Downs as a top-five pick, emphasizing his impact as a do-it-all safety and comparing him to elite prospects like Minkah Fitzpatrick and Jamal Adams. They suggest he could be the highest-graded safety since Eric Berry.

Sonny Styles: Versatile Linebacker on the Rise

Senior linebacker Sonny Styles has made a significant impact since transitioning from safety. His physicality, football IQ, and adaptability have positioned him as a potential first-round pick. Styles’ leadership on defense and ability to excel in multiple roles make him an attractive prospect for NFL teams.

According to Tankathon, Styles is projected as the 28th overall pick in their early mock draft, with the Minnesota Vikings selecting him. They note his NFL legacy and his disruptive play near the line of scrimmage, particularly highlighting his performance against Texas in the Cotton Bowl, where he recorded three tackles for loss, including a sack.

Styles’ athleticism is also noteworthy. He has been featured on Bruce Feldman’s “Freaks List,” with teammate Marvin Harrison Jr. praising his speed and strength. Styles reportedly ran the 40-yard dash in the high 4.4s, broad-jumped 11 feet, and squatted 600 pounds, showcasing his elite physical traits. (

Ohio State’s Continued NFL Pipeline

Ohio State’s reputation for developing NFL talent remains strong. In the 2025 NFL Draft, the Buckeyes had four first-round selections: Emeka Egbuka, Donovan Jackson, Tyleik Williams, and Josh Simmons. With Downs and Styles leading the 2026 class, Ohio State is poised to continue its legacy of producing top-tier NFL players.

The Columbus Dispatch notes that after tying a school record with 14 players selected in the 2025 draft, Ohio State is looking at a smaller draft class next year. However, they emphasize that Downs and Styles are “locks” to be drafted, with Downs expected to be a top-10 pick and Styles projected as a first-rounder.

Looking Ahead

As the 2025 college football season approaches, all eyes will be on Downs and Styles. Their performances will not only impact Ohio State’s success but also solidify their positions in the 2026 NFL Draft. Fans and scouts alike will be watching closely as these two Buckeyes aim to make their mark on the next level.

With their combination of talent, versatility, and leadership, Caleb Downs and Sonny Styles exemplify the qualities NFL teams seek in first-round picks. Their continued development and on-field success will be critical in maintaining Ohio State’s status as a premier pipeline to the NFL.