Five Buckeyes Set for NFL Draft Green Room as Ohio State Eyes Historic Achievement

Ohio State is poised to make NFL draft history on April 23rd as five Buckeyes prepare to take their seats in the green room for the first round in Pittsburgh, with the program potentially joining exclusive company in the process.

Defensive back Caleb Downs, defensive tackle Kayden McDonald, linebackers Arvell Reese and Sonny Styles, along with wide receiver Carnell Tate, will all be present to hear their names called by Commissioner Roger Goodell at the drafts premier event.

The quintets attendance signals Ohio States confidence that multiple players will be selected early, with the Buckeyes harboring hopes of achieving something truly special. If four Ohio State players are taken within the top 10 selections, the program would join Michigan State (1967) and Notre Dame (1946) as the only schools in history to accomplish such a feat.

This potential milestone would cap off a remarkable recruiting and development cycle for Ohio State, which has consistently produced elite NFL talent in recent years. The five draft attendees represent different position groups and skillsets, showcasing the programs ability to develop players across the entire roster.

Caleb Downs, the versatile defensive back, has emerged as one of college footballs premier safeties through his combination of coverage skills and run support ability. McDonald brings impressive size and athleticism to the defensive tackle position, making him an attractive option for teams seeking interior pass rush.

The linebacker duo of Reese and Styles offers NFL teams different but complementary skillsets. Reese has proven himself as a reliable run defender with excellent instincts, while Styles brings the versatility to play multiple positions in modern NFL defensive schemes. Wide receiver Tate rounds out the group with his route-running precision and reliable hands.

While Ohio State commands significant attention, they wont be alone in having multiple representatives. Alabama will have offensive tackle Kadyn Proctor and quarterback Ty Simpson attending, while Miami counters with defensive end Rueben Bain Jr. and offensive lineman Francis Mauigoa.

The remaining attendees represent a diverse collection of programs and positions. Texas Tech linebacker David Bailey, LSU defensive back Mansoor Delane, Auburn defensive end Keldric Faulk, Southern California wide receiver Makai Lemon, Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love, and Arizona State wide receiver Jordyn Tyson will also experience the drafts signature moment.

Notably absent from the green room will be Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza, the projected first overall pick by the Las Vegas Raiders and Heisman Trophy winner. Mendoza has chosen to watch the draft with family and friends in Miami rather than make the trip to Pittsburgh.

Mendozas decision makes him the first projected top overall pick to skip the draft since Travon Walker was selected by Jacksonville in 2022. While unconventional, the choice reflects the personal nature of such a momentous occasion in these young athletes careers.

For Ohio State, the draft represents the culmination of years of recruiting, coaching, and player development. Head coach Ryan Day and his staff have built their programs reputation on preparing players for the next level, and Thursday night could provide the ultimate validation of that approach.

As the draft unfolds, all eyes will be on how many Buckeyes hear their names called early, and whether Ohio State can etch its name alongside Michigan State and Notre Dame in the record books.