NFL Draft 2025: Ohio State Sends 14 Players to the League, 3 More Sign as UDFAs

The 2025 NFL Draft served as a celebration of talent for the Ohio State Buckeyes, as the program once again proved why it remains a perennial powerhouse in both college football and player development. A staggering 14 Buckeyes were selected during the seven-round draft, while three more signed as undrafted free agents (UDFAs), totaling 17 players making the leap to the NFL ranks over the weekend.

This year’s impressive class further solidifies Ohio State’s reputation as a consistent NFL pipeline, with head coach Ryan Day and his staff drawing national praise for preparing their players to compete at the next level. The success comes at a pivotal time as the Buckeyes reload with a star-studded 2025 roster expected to contend for a national title.

Ohio State had a strong presence on opening night, with three Buckeyes hearing their names called in the first round, underlining the top-tier talent developed in Columbus.

Emeka Egbuka (WR): Egbuka was the first Buckeye off the board, taken 11th overall by the Las Vegas Raiders. He capped off a stellar career with 1,221 yards and 10 touchdowns in his final season and is expected to be an immediate impact player in the Raiders’ revamped offense.
JT Tuimoloau (DE): A disruptive force on the defensive line, Tuimoloau was selected 17th overall by the Los Angeles Rams. His blend of power, technique, and leadership made him a standout during his time in Columbus. NFL scouts loved his versatility and motor.
Denzel Burke (CB): Taken 24th overall by the Baltimore Ravens, Burke brought lockdown capabilities to Ohio State’s secondary and is poised to fill an immediate need in the Ravens’ defense. His physical style and ball skills stood out during the pre-draft process.

These three first-rounders marked the third straight year Ohio State has had multiple first-round selections and showcased the program’s balance on both sides of the ball.

Rounds 2 and 3 added more star power to NFL rosters, as five additional Buckeyes were chosen in the heart of the draft.

TreVeyon Henderson (RB): Drafted in the second round (No. 45 overall) by the Minnesota Vikings, Henderson brings elite acceleration and a three-down skill set. Despite injury setbacks in his college career, his upside remains enormous.
Donovan Jackson (OL): Taken 50th overall by the New York Giants, Jackson offers positional versatility on the interior line and was a steady presence up front throughout his Buckeye career.
Tommy Eichenberg (LB): Picked 65th overall by the Pittsburgh Steelers, Eichenberg is a throwback linebacker with a nose for the football. His leadership and tenacity made him a fan favorite in Columbus.
Tyleik Williams (DL): A high-upside run-stopper with pass-rush potential, Williams went 71st to the Carolina Panthers. His size and athleticism give him potential to start early in his pro career.
Josh Proctor (S): The hard-hitting safety landed with the New Orleans Saints at No. 89, adding toughness and range to their secondary.

These mid-round selections reflect Ohio State’s talent pipeline extending beyond the marquee names, with players capable of stepping into NFL rotations and contributing quickly

Day Three of the draft saw six more Buckeyes find NFL homes, many of whom could end up being steals.

Matthew Jones (OL): Drafted in the fourth round by the Indianapolis Colts, Jones was one of the most experienced players on Ohio State’s offensive line and offers plug-and-play ability at guard.
Cade Stover (TE): Taken in the fifth round by the Dallas Cowboys, Stover’s toughness, blocking, and developing pass-catching skills made him an intriguing prospect. Dallas is expected to use him in a hybrid H-back role.
Lathan Ransom (S): Once a projected first-rounder before injury, Ransom fell to the sixth round, where he was picked by the Cleveland Browns. If healthy, he could emerge as a contributor sooner than expected.
Ty Hamilton (DL): Hamilton joined the Atlanta Falcons in the sixth round, continuing a strong family legacy—he is the younger brother of former Ohio State and NFL DT DaVon Hamilton.
Julian Fleming (WR): Drafted in the seventh round by the Tennessee Titans, Fleming’s college career was hampered by inconsistency, but he offers intriguing athletic traits as a depth receiver.
Xavier Johnson (WR/RB/ST): Perhaps one of the most versatile players in the draft, Johnson went to the San Francisco 49ers with their final pick. He can contribute as a returner, special teams ace, and gadget weapon.

Three more Buckeyes weren’t selected in the draft but quickly signed with teams, keeping their NFL dreams alive.

Chip Trayanum (RB/LB): Signed with the Denver Broncos, Trayanum’s two-way ability is rare. He could make the roster as a special teams contributor and depth linebacker.
Josh Fryar (OL): The former starting tackle inked a UDFA deal with the New England Patriots, who are known for developing overlooked linemen. Fryar has a shot to make the practice squad or more.
Noah Ruggles (K): The former All-Big Ten kicker signed with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, giving him a chance to earn a roster spot in a kicking competition.

Though undrafted, these players have the work ethic and experience to push for active roster spots during camp and preseason.

The Buckeyes continue to produce NFL-ready talent at a staggering clip. Since 2000, Ohio State has consistently ranked among the top three schools for most players drafted. The 2025 class is a testament to the program’s commitment to player development, elite recruiting, and competitive success.

This year’s draft haul was especially balanced, featuring stars on offense, defense, and special teams. From Egbuka’s game-breaking ability to Tuimoloau’s defensive dominance, to Henderson’s dynamic running style and Eichenberg’s leadership in the middle, the Buckeyes showcased elite football acumen across all positions.

While Buckeye Nation celebrates this remarkable draft class, the focus now turns to the next generation. With stars like quarterback Julian Sayin and wide receiver Jeremiah Smith ready to take the reins, expectations are sky-high for the 2025 season.

Ohio State returns a top-3 preseason roster with CFP aspirations. The mass exodus of talent to the NFL is significant, but the Buckeyes have reloaded with elite recruiting classes and key transfer portal additions.

Head coach Ryan Day said after the draft: “We’re proud of all the guys who heard their name called and those who signed free agent deals. This is what we strive for—to see them succeed on the next level. Now, it’s about continuing the standard and getting the next group ready to follow in their footsteps.”

In total, 17 Ohio State players are entering the NFL this offseason. That kind of volume isn’t just impressive—it’s rare. Only a handful of programs in the country can claim that level of production.

With talent spread across both early rounds and the tail end of the draft, as well as UDFAs, NFL teams see value in Buckeye players regardless of draft position. They know Ohio State players are disciplined, well-coached, and have been tested at the highest level of college football.

With stars like C.J. Stroud, Garrett Wilson, and Nick Bosa already thriving in the NFL, the 2025 class joins a growing list of Buckeyes looking to make their mark. The culture of excellence in Columbus not only develops top-tier athletes but prepares them to handle the mental and physical grind of the NFL.

As mini-camps and OTAs begin, the next chapter of these 17 players’ careers unfolds. While not all will be instant starters, history shows that Ohio State alums typically rise quickly in their respective organizations.

For Ohio State, the message is clear: Come to Columbus, and you’ll be developed for Saturdays and Sundays.

1st Round