As the 2025 college football season looms, NFL scouts and analysts are already looking ahead to the 2026 NFL Draft. Among the names drawing early first-round projections are two standout athletes from Ohio State: safety Caleb Downs and defensive end Jack Sawyer. The Buckeyes have long been known as a factory for NFL talent, and the emergence of Downs and Sawyer as top-tier prospects continues that proud tradition.
In this Buckeye Breakfast breakdown, we take a closer look at why these two players are commanding first-round attention, what their rise means for the Ohio State program, and how their draft journey could unfold over the next year.
Caleb Downs: A Game-Changer in the Secondary
After transferring from Alabama to Ohio State, Caleb Downs immediately became a centerpiece of the Buckeye defense. Known for his exceptional instincts, range, and football IQ, Downs brings a level of polish and versatility rare for a college safety. He can cover sideline to sideline, drop into the box for run support, and match up with tight ends or slot receivers in man coverage.
What truly separates Downs from other draft prospects, however, is his anticipation and ability to make game-changing plays. In his 2024 season with the Buckeyes, he recorded 85 tackles, 4 interceptions, and 2 forced fumbles, showcasing his ability to impact games in multiple ways. Coaches rave about his preparation and leadership off the field, while scouts love his fluid hips, quick trigger, and physical tackling style.
If Downs continues to progress and avoids injury, he is a near lock to be selected in the top half of the 2026 first round. Some mock drafts already place him in the top 10, with teams seeking a foundational piece in the secondary.
Jack Sawyer: A Relentless Edge Rusher with NFL Tools
Jack Sawyer has long been considered one of the most talented edge rushers in the country, and his 2024 campaign only solidified that status. A former five-star recruit, Sawyer has refined his technique and improved his consistency, making him a nightmare for opposing offensive tackles. He finished last season with 11.5 sacks, 18 tackles for loss, and 3 forced fumbles.
Sawyer’s first step is explosive, and he combines it with violent hands and a non-stop motor. He can bend the edge, power through double-teams, and chase plays down from the backside. More importantly, he has shown the ability to drop into coverage when needed, adding another layer of versatility to his game.
Physically, Sawyer checks all the boxes for NFL evaluators: 6-foot-5, 265 pounds, with long arms and a frame built to withstand pro-level punishment. With continued production and strong testing at the NFL Combine, Sawyer could climb into the top 15 — or even top 10 — of the 2026 draft.
Ohio State’s NFL Draft Legacy Continues
Ohio State is no stranger to first-round success. In the 2025 NFL Draft, four Buckeyes were taken in the first round, including Emeka Egbuka, Donovan Jackson, Tyleik Williams, and Josh Simmons. This pipeline of talent has helped solidify Ohio State as one of the premier programs for developing NFL-ready athletes.
With Downs and Sawyer on deck, that trend appears set to continue. Both players exemplify what NFL franchises look for: elite athleticism, strong production, and high football character.
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