Ohio State Football: NFL Draft continues to be recruiting tool for Buckeyes

The Ohio State football team had four former players selected in the first round of the NFL Draft. Joe Burrow, Chase Young, and Jeffrey Okudah were the Top 3 selections which set a new record.

The first round of the NFL draft was held last night  as three former members of the Ohio State football team were selected. Well, four if you count LSU transfer QB Joe Burrow who was a Buckeye for three seasons.

Joe Burrow, Chase Young, and Jeffrey Okudah were selected back-to-back-to-back to open the round. All three of these elite players were recruited by Urban Meyer and Mark Pantoni. Being able to identify that kind of talent speaks to the level of recruiting at Ohio State.

This is the first time in the modern draft era former teammates are the top three selections. Later in the round, CB Damon Arnette was selected by the Oakland Raiders which surprised some, but gave the Buckeyes yet another first round draft pick.

Ohio State (84) surpassed USC (82) last night for the most first round draft picks in history. However, an even more interesting statistic for the Buckeyes is having eight DBs selected in the first round since 2014. Schools like Texas and LSU argue for being DBU, but Ohio State identifies as BIA and let the draft picks and player development speak for themselves.

The importance of a strong culture and elite player development are two of the main areas of focus in Columbus. Each year the NFL Draft is proof the Buckeyes are the best in the country at acquiring and developing talent.

Players drafted from Ohio State enter the NFL ready to go on day one which is another testament to the elite level of coaching by Urban Meyer and now Ryan Day and his staff. In fact, the cornerback spot has virtually become a millionaire position at Ohio State. Shaun Wade looks to be added to the list next year.

The NFL draft has undoubtedly become one of the greatest recruiting tools the Buckeyes have with the number of top draft picks each year. If recruits are watching, how can they disregard what Ohio State is able to do on a consistent basis and not want to be a part of the legacy of becoming a Buckeye.

Expect RB JK Dobbins to be the next Buckeye off of the board tonight as he will make whichever organization drafts him very happy with their choice. Like Dobbins, players from Ohio State exude exemplary character, a hard work ethic and an acute understanding of a strong culture and what it takes to win.

These are just some of the reasons selecting a Buckeye is so beneficial because these organizations are getting more than just a football player. They are getting guys who understand the importance of family and teamwork; life; and the intangibles for success.