Ohio State Football: Could OSU have 3 top 10 picks in draft?
The Ohio State football team had a great showing this week in Indianapolis. Could the Buckeyes have three top-ten picks?
The Ohio State football team is no stranger to having first-round NFL draft picks. In fact, no other school in draft history has more. But the Buckeyes have a chance to re-write the record books in this year’s draft.
Ohio State has a chance to have three top-ten NFL draft picks following the impressive performances of quarterback C.J. Stroud, offensive tackle Paris Johnson, and wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba.
Stroud has been seen as a top-five pick since September. His arm strength and accuracy I would put up against anybody coming out of college in this draft. His brain might be his best tool though as he can read and react to defenses at a lighting quick rate.
Paris Johnson Jr. might have separated himself as the best offensive tackle in this draft following some impressive performances in Indianapolis. He looked great in individual drills and was probably the most fluid and natural athlete out of all the offensive tackles that participated. With a strong pro day coming up, Johnson could further separate himself as the top tackle in 2023 and that would certainly give him top-ten consideration.
Lastly, Jaxon Smith-Njigba showed scouts exactly what they wanted to see. He was crisp, ran excellent routes, and ran the fastest three-cone drill and 20-yard shuttle in the entire combine. For someone who didn’t run the 40-yard dash, JSN most certainly improved his draft stock and showed scouts that he’s completely healthy following his hamstring issues.
If I’m the Falcons sitting at eight or the Panthers at pick nine, I would strongly consider JSN as the need for playmakers on both teams is a high priority. And with the recent success of Ohio State receivers in the NFL, there’s a track record of success.
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Although it’s unlikely, Smith-Njigba would still be a long shot at top-ten status, there certainly is the possibility for Ohio State to have three top-ten picks in this year’s draft. And if that happens, what a recruiting weapon that could be for Ryan Day and the staff.