Ohio State football has made an impressive mark on the NFL Draft over the past three years with a receiver selected in the first round each time. Emeka Egbuka is poised to keep that streak alive in April draft.
ESPN Mel Kiper Jr. and Dane Brugler from The Athletic both have Egbuka projected as the 21st overall pick to the Pittsburgh Steelers. If he is selected by the Steelers, Egbuka would be the team’s first receiver drafted in the opening round since Santonio Holmes in 2006.
However, projections vary. Ryan Wilson of CBS Sports has Egbuka going to the Philadelphia Eagles at No. 30, while Chris Trapasso, also from CBS, believes Egbuka will go earlier, at No. 14 to the Indianapolis Colts.
Egbuka had an exceptional career at Ohio State, accumulating a school-record 205 receptions, 2,868 receiving yards, and 24 touchdowns over four seasons. As part of the Buckeye 2021 recruiting class, he contributed significantly to their success, helping Ohio State secure the program ninth national title.
Alongside Egbuka, several other Buckeyes are poised for a strong showing in the NFL Draft. Brugler has projected five Ohio State players to be first-round picks: Egbuka, offensive tackle Josh Simmons, defensive tackle Tyleik Williams, offensive lineman Donovan Jackson, and defensive end J.T. Tuimoloau. Additionally, Jack Sawyer is expected to go early in the second round at No. 35.
While Ohio State may not reach Georgia record of 15 players selected in a single draft, Ohio State could still make a significant impact, with 12 Buckeyes ranked among the top 10 at their respective positions by Kiper.
Key Dates
National Signing Day: Feb. 5, 2025 (5 days)
Ohio State vs. Texas (season opener): Aug. 30, 2025 (211 days)
Ohio State vs. Penn State: Nov. 1, 2025 (274 days)
The Game 2025: Nov. 29, 2025 (302 days)
