The 2025 NFL Draft has concluded, and the Ohio State Buckeyes have emerged as the program with the most selections, further solidifying their status as a dominant force in college football. A total of 14 former Buckeyes heard their names called during the seven rounds, surpassing perennial powerhouses like Georgia, Texas, and Oregon.1 This impressive showing underscores Ohio State’s ability to consistently produce top-tier talent ready for the professional level.
Record-Chasing Performance
Ohio State’s 14 draft picks came within one of tying the all-time seven-round record of 15 selections, set by Georgia in 2022. This near-record performance is particularly noteworthy considering the high caliber of programs that also had significant representation in the draft. Georgia finished with an impressive 13 picks, while Texas had 12, their most since 1987, and Oregon rounded out the top four with a program-best 10 selections.2
First-Round Firepower
The Buckeyes also led all schools with four first-round picks, demonstrating the elite talent at the very top of their roster.3 Wide receiver Emeka Egbuka was the first Buckeye off the board, followed by offensive lineman Donovan Jackson, defensive tackle Tyleik Williams, and offensive tackle Josh Simmons, all selected within the first 32 picks.4 This dominance in the early rounds highlights Ohio State’s ability to recruit and develop players who are considered among the best in the nation at their respective positions.
Depth and Breadth of Talent
Beyond the first round, Ohio State had players selected across various rounds and positions, showcasing the program’s overall depth. Running backs Quinshon Judkins and TreVeyon Henderson, defensive lineman JT Tuimoloau, linebacker Cody Simon, and defensive backs Lathan Ransom, Jack Sawyer, Ty Hamilton, Jordan Hancock, and Denzel Burke were all drafted, along with quarterback Will Howard. This wide representation across different position groups speaks to the comprehensive talent development within the Ohio State program.
Implications for College Football Dominance
Ohio State’s success in the 2025 NFL Draft is a powerful indicator of their continued dominance in college football. The ability to consistently send a large number of highly-drafted players to the NFL is a significant recruiting advantage. It demonstrates to prospective high school athletes that Ohio State provides a clear pathway to professional football. This draft performance, coupled with their recent national championship victory, positions the Buckeyes as a top program that can attract and develop elite talent year after year.
While Georgia, Texas, and Oregon also had strong draft showings, Ohio State’s overall volume and first-round presence in the 2025 NFL Draft solidify their claim as the leading program in producing NFL-ready talent, further cementing their dominance in the college football landscape.5 The Big Ten conference, as a whole, also demonstrated its strength, contributing the second-most draft picks (71) behind the SEC (79), underscoring the high level of competition and talent within the conference.
