Caden Curry Takes in Ohio Stadium One More Time Before NFL Draft

The former Ohio State defensive lineman reflects on his time with the Buckeyes before entering the NFL.

Apr. 19, 2026 at 9:26pm

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A fractured, multi-perspective painting in bold, geometric shapes and colors, depicting a football player's final moments on the field at Ohio Stadium.As Caden Curry prepares to leave Ohio State for the NFL, a cubist interpretation of his final moments on the field captures the bittersweet transition from college to the pros.Columbus Today

Caden Curry, a former Ohio State defensive lineman, returned to Ohio Stadium for the Buckeyes' annual spring game. Though he is now just days away from the NFL Draft, where he is projected as a mid to late round pick, Curry took the time to reflect on his four years with the program and the impact it has had on him.

Why it matters

Curry's journey with the Buckeyes showcases the growth and development of a college football player. His ascension from a role player early in his career to one of Ohio State's most productive defensive linemen in his final season highlights the program's ability to cultivate talent. As Curry prepares to take the next step in his career, his connection to Ohio State and Columbus remains strong.

The details

In four years at Ohio State, Curry worked his way into the defensive line rotation early in his career before taking on a much larger role in his final season. That growth was reflected in his statistics, as he recorded 66 tackles, 16.5 tackles for loss, and 11 sacks in 2025, earning Associated Press All-American honors.

  • Curry returned to Ohio Stadium for the Buckeyes' annual spring game in April 2026.
  • Curry is just days away from the 2026 NFL Draft.

The players

Caden Curry

A former Ohio State defensive lineman who is projected to be a mid to late round pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.

Ryan Day

The head coach of the Ohio State Buckeyes football team.

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What they’re saying

“It is different. Coming out here and playing all four years, it is something special on this field. Now being an alum, it is special.”

— Caden Curry, Former Ohio State Defensive Lineman

“Yeah, just staying around Columbus, talking with coaches. Obviously it is the best facilities around, so being able to be with our guys and keep getting work in every day.”

— Caden Curry, Former Ohio State Defensive Lineman

“There's a lot of production there that we have to replace.”

— Ryan Day, Ohio State Head Coach

What’s next

Curry will participate in the 2026 NFL Draft, where he is projected to be selected in the mid to late rounds.

The takeaway

Caden Curry's journey at Ohio State showcases the program's ability to develop players and the strong connection that student-athletes can build with the university and the city of Columbus. As Curry prepares to take the next step in his career, his time with the Buckeyes will continue to shape his path forward.