Keeping an Eye on Indy: Buckeyes at the 2026 NFL Combine
As the NFL Combine kicks off this week at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, all eyes are on the 11 former Ohio State Buckeyes aiming to impress scouts and boost their draft stock ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft in Pittsburgh. Coming off a stellar 12-2 season, Ohio State is once again a focal point for talent, even if they won't match last year's record of 14 draft selections.
Spotlight on the Buckeyes
The Buckeyes' representatives include standout cornerbacks Davison Igbinosun and Lorenzo Styles Jr., safety Caleb Downs, linebackers Arvell Reese and Sonny Styles, defensive linemen Caden Curry and Kayden McDonald, running back CJ Donaldson, wide receiver Carnell Tate, and tight ends Max Klare and Will Kacmarek. Each of these players is looking to make a mark this week.
Who Will Be the Top Buckeye Pick?
Ohio State is expected to have a strong showing early in the draft, with five players projected as first-round picks. Linebacker Arvell Reese is the consensus favorite to be the first Buckeye off the board, potentially heading to the New York Jets at No.
- Reese's athletic prowess and impressive 2025 season stats make him a top contender.
However, Caleb Downs and Carnell Tate are poised to challenge Reese for the top spot. Tate's reputation as part of Ohio State's "Wide Receiver U" and his breakout season could elevate his draft status. Meanwhile, Downs, a three-time All-American, is almost a lock for a top-10 pick, and his interviews could further solidify his position.
Sonny Styles also has a chance to climb the ranks, showcasing his athletic abilities and extensive college experience.
Combine or Pro Day?
A perennial question for prospects is whether to showcase their skills at the Combine or wait for their pro day. With nearly two months since the season ended, these Buckeyes have had ample time to recover and prepare. The decision to participate in drills at Lucas Oil Stadium or wait for a more familiar setting at their pro day could impact their draft positioning.
Kayden McDonald's Moment
Kayden McDonald, who declared early for the draft after a standout junior year, is projected as a late first-round pick. At 6-foot-3 and 326 pounds, McDonald is slightly undersized for an interior lineman, but his film speaks volumes. Scouts will be keen to see his measurements and on-field performance to validate his potential.
Mid-Round Buckeyes on the Rise
While top picks grab headlines, mid-round selections often form the backbone of NFL rosters. Players like Davison Igbinosun, Max Klare, and Caden Curry are looking to solidify or enhance their draft positions. Igbinosun's experience, Klare's versatility, and Curry's potential all make them intriguing prospects.
The NFL Combine is a golden opportunity for these Buckeyes to showcase their talents and make significant strides in their draft journey. With a mix of raw talent and polished skills, Ohio State's hopefuls are ready to leave a lasting impression.