Each year, the Ohio State Buckeyes assemble a talented squad featuring NFL-ready players and others who have the potential to develop into NFL talent. This season has been no different, as OSU has several players projected to be selected in the first round, and multiple prospects are hopeful of increasing their stock in the College Football Playoffs.
With that being said, here are all the players from Ohio State that scouts are sure to be watching out for against Miami.
Arvell Reese, EDGE/LB
PFSN EDGE Impact: 77.2, C+
Only a few players this season have proven to be worth the No. 1 pick in 2026, and Arvell Reese is one of the few deemed worthy by multiple draft analysts. Listed as an EDGE for PFSN’s Impact Ratings, Reese still finds plenty of work at the LB position, offering solid versatility on top of his emphatic hitting.
Austin Siereveld, OL (Tackle)
PFSN Offensive Line Impact: 85.3, B
Ohio State’s highest-graded offensive lineman per PFSN, Austin Siiereveld, has been the glue that holds the Buckeyes’ offensive line together this season. His lateral movement and ability to finish through his blocks will entice multiple teams looking to add depth to their line next season.
Caden Curry, EDGE
PFSN EDGE Impact: 83.8, B
One of the biggest draft risers this season has been EDGE Caden Curry, who comes into the game against Miami with 11 sacks already to his name. His finesse and pursuit have helped play his way into the top two rounds of the 2026 draft, making him a big name to watch during round two of the playoffs.
Caleb Downs, S
PFSN Safety Impact: 84.1, B
If positional value were out the window, Caleb Downs would, without a doubt, be a top ten pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. Unfortunately, because safeties aren’t regarded as highly as other positions, Downs will possibly slip in the draft even though he’s considered a consensus top ten player in the class. His athleticism, High IQ, and ability to diagnose plays off the snap make Downs an immediate impact player for whatever team drafts him.
Carnell Tate, WR
PFSN Wide Receiver Impact: 84.5, B
Coming into the season, all the talk surrounded underclassman Jeremiah Smith, but Carnell Tate was able to mold himself into a pristine WR1 prospect in his 6-foot-3Â frame. He excels in yards after the catch with the ability to shift gears in stride and make defenders miss. While some analysts have Makai Lemon or Jordyn Tyson above him on their boards, Carnell Tate is my WR1 for the 2026 NFL Draft.
CJ Donaldson, RB
PFSN RB Impact: 69.7, D+
A West Virginia transfer this year, CJ Donaldson, has put together three straight seasons with double-digit touchdowns, proving to be a dominant weapon inside the red zone. Not regarded for breakaway speed or dual threat capabilities, Donaldson plays an old-school, smashmouth brand of football that some teams will covet in the NFL when looking for a player who can pack a punch.
Davidson Igbinosun, CB
PFSN Cornerback Impact: 87.8, B+
Eye test alone, David Igbinosun checks off plenty of boxes that scouts are going to love when watching the 6-foot-2 cornerbacks’ tape. While he did not face many major tests in the Big Ten this season, when Igbinosun was targeted, he displayed some solid coverage skills. His speed, fluid hips, and instinct for the football make the lengthy corner a potential early round selection.
Jermaine Matthews Jr., CB
PFSN Cornerback Impact: 80.5, B-
The Buckeyes’ second draftable corner, Jeremaine Matthews Jr., projects well for a heavy zone coverage team, as that is where the 5-foot-11 corner can make the most of his work. He offers the versatility to play in the slot and outside, but will likely make an NFL living on the inside, where he can also support against the run with keen tackling abilities.
Kayden McDonald, DL
PFSN Defensive Line Impact: 77.2, C+
Junior defensive tackle Kayden McDonald is being projected as an early-round pick after an explosive season for the Buckeyes. After forcing two fumbles and logging three sacks this season, McDonald’s ceiling as a top-end nose tackle could entice teams to take a chance on the 6-foot-3 bull rusher to load up their defensive line.
Kenyatta Jackson Jr., EDGE
PFSN EDGE Impact: 77.8, C+
A powerhouse in his own right on OSU’s talented defense, Kenyatta Jackson Jr., is a menacing pass rusher who utilizes his length and speed to close in on quarterbacks promptly. He’s an impactful run stopper and is currently projected to go in the middle rounds.
Max Klare, TE
PFSN Tight End Impact: 80, C+
Projected as a top-five tight end prospect in the 2026 class, Max Klare has all the makings to be a solid TE in the NFL. A well-rounded athlete at almost 6-foot-5, Klare’s pass-catching ability was on full display during his time at Purdue, with flashes following his transfer to Ohio State in a loaded offense. Still, his improvement as a blocker during his time in Columbus has been a testament to his game and willingness to develop his craft.
Sonny Styles, LB
PFSN Linebacker Impact: 78.6, C+
Buckeye’s LB Sonny Styles has flown under the radar this season since the emergence of Arvell Reese. Still, the 6-foot-4 linebacker has proven his worth, earning first-round grades from several NFL Draft analysts. His best work is in coverage, but he still offers excellent support against the run.
