11 Ohio State Players Headed to 2026 NFL Combine

Buckeyes have third-most invitees, with several projected as first-round draft picks

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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Ohio State will have 11 players participating in the upcoming 2026 NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis, the third-most invitees behind Texas A&M (13) and Alabama (12). The Buckeyes' contingent includes several projected first-round draft choices, including running back CJ Donaldson, receiver Carnell Tate, tight end Will Kacmarek, defensive tackle Kayden McDonald, defensive end Caden Curry, and safety Caleb Downs.

Why it matters

Ohio State is consistently one of the top producers of NFL talent, and this year's strong combine representation underscores the program's ability to develop elite-level players. The Buckeyes are aiming to tie the record for most first-round draft picks from a single school in one year, which could have major implications for their 2026 NFL Draft class.

The details

The 11 Ohio State players invited to the 2026 NFL Combine are: running back CJ Donaldson, receiver Carnell Tate, tight end Will Kacmarek, tight end Max Klare, defensive tackle Kayden McDonald, defensive end Caden Curry, linebacker Sonny Styles, linebacker Arvell, cornerback Davison Igbinosun, cornerback Lorenzo Styles Jr., and safety Caleb Downs. Ohio State had 14 players selected in last year's NFL Draft, falling just one short of the all-time record.

  • The 2026 NFL Scouting Combine will take place from February 23 through March 2 in Indianapolis.

The players

CJ Donaldson

Ohio State running back invited to the 2026 NFL Combine.

Carnell Tate

Ohio State wide receiver invited to the 2026 NFL Combine and projected as a first-round draft pick.

Kayden McDonald

Ohio State defensive tackle invited to the 2026 NFL Combine and projected as a first-round draft pick.

Caden Curry

Ohio State defensive end invited to the 2026 NFL Combine.

Caleb Downs

Ohio State safety invited to the 2026 NFL Combine and projected as a first-round draft pick.

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The takeaway

Ohio State's strong presence at the 2026 NFL Combine underscores the program's ability to consistently produce elite-level talent for the professional ranks. With several Buckeyes projected as potential first-round draft picks, the team has a chance to tie the record for most players selected in the opening round from a single school in one year.