Ohio State Buckeyes Set NFL Draft Records

The Buckeyes have produced more NFL draft picks than any other college program.

Published on Feb. 20, 2026

Ohio State University has a long and storied history in the NFL Draft, dating back to the very first edition in 1936. The Buckeyes have produced more draft picks than any other college program, with over 500 players selected by NFL teams. Ohio State holds several records, including the most first-round selections with 95, and could become the first school to reach 100 first-rounders in 2026 if projections hold true.

Why it matters

Ohio State's dominance in the NFL Draft reflects the program's ability to develop elite talent and send players to the professional ranks. This success is a point of pride for the university and its passionate fan base, and it also helps the Buckeyes attract top recruits who aspire to play in the NFL. The program's draft records demonstrate its consistent excellence over decades and cement its status as one of the premier college football powerhouses.

The details

Some of Ohio State's key NFL Draft records and milestones include: the most total draft picks with 505, the most first-round selections with 95, and the only school to produce multiple drafts with at least five first-rounders. The Buckeyes have had three players selected first overall, and have had at least one player taken in the first round every year since 2016, the second-longest active streak in the NCAA. Ohio State has also had 10 players inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame, five of whom were drafted by NFL teams.

  • The 2026 NFL Draft is just around the corner.
  • Ohio State has had at least one first-round pick every year since 2016.

The players

Tom Cousineau

One of three Buckeyes selected first overall in the NFL Draft.

Dan Wilkinson

One of three Buckeyes selected first overall in the NFL Draft.

Orlando Pace

One of three Buckeyes selected first overall in the NFL Draft, and the most recent Buckeye inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

Dante Lavelli

One of five Buckeyes inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame who were drafted by NFL teams.

Cris Carter

One of five Buckeyes inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame who were drafted by NFL teams, selected in the supplemental draft by the Philadelphia Eagles.

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What’s next

The 2026 NFL Draft will be a chance for Ohio State to potentially become the first school to reach 100 first-round draft picks.

The takeaway

Ohio State's unparalleled success in the NFL Draft, with records in first-round selections, total draft picks, and Hall of Famers, solidifies the program's status as one of the premier college football powerhouses and a consistent producer of elite NFL talent.