While the 2025 season may have ended on a disappointing note for Ryan Day and the Ohio State Buckeyes, there is one undeniable strength that the program can still boast about – its ability to develop top-notch NFL talent. Year after year, the Buckeyes send multiple players to the professional ranks, many of whom go on to carve out successful careers at the next level. And in the recent NFL Divisional Round, Ohio State achieved a feat that 135 other FBS programs can only envy.
The Ohio State Buckeyes have a long history of producing NFL-level talent. From legendary players like Archie Griffin and Cris Carter to recent stars like Nick Bosa and Ezekiel Elliott, the Buckeyes have a rich tradition of churning out top-quality players who go on to make an impact at the professional level.
But what sets Ohio State apart from other college football programs is not just the number of players they send to the NFL, but the success those players achieve. According to data from the NFL, Ohio State has the second-highest number of players currently on NFL rosters, with 56 players in the league. And these players are not just benchwarmers but are making significant contributions to their respective teams.
In the recent NFL Divisional Round, Ohio State had an impressive 13 players representing the Buckeyes on various teams. This number is second only to Alabama, which had 14 players in the Divisional Round. This is a testament to the talent and development that Ohio State provides to its players, which allows them to excel in the highly competitive and demanding world of professional football.
Among the notable Buckeyes who made it to the Divisional Round are Nick Bosa, Joey Bosa, Chase Young, Marshon Lattimore, and Michael Thomas, to name a few. These players have not only made significant contributions to their teams but have also earned individual accolades, with many of them being selected for the Pro Bowl.
But Ohio State’s success in the NFL is not limited to just the Divisional Round. In fact, the Buckeyes have the most players on active rosters among all FBS programs, with a total of 56 players in the league. This shows that Ohio State’s ability to develop NFL-level talent is not a one-time fluke but a consistent trend that has been going on for years.
What makes Ohio State stand out as a program that produces top-level NFL talent is their emphasis on player development. The Buckeyes have a renowned strength and conditioning program, led by coach Mickey Marotti, which has been instrumental in preparing players for the physical demands of the NFL. This, coupled with excellent coaching and a winning culture, has created an environment where players can thrive and reach their full potential.
Furthermore, Ohio State’s success in the NFL is not just limited to players. The Buckeyes also have a strong track record of producing successful NFL coaches, with names like Urban Meyer, Jim Tressel, and Ryan Day himself, all coming from the Ohio State coaching tree.
In conclusion, while the 2025 season may not have lived up to expectations for the Ohio State Buckeyes, the program can still hold its head high and be proud of its ability to develop top-tier NFL talent. With a consistent track record of success and a winning culture, the Buckeyes continue to be a top destination for talented players looking to make a name for themselves at the highest level. And as we saw in the recent NFL Divisional Round, Ohio State’s impact on the NFL is only growing stronger, making it a program that 135 other FBS programs can only envy.
