Three Ohio State Buckeyes Projected as 2027 NFL Draft First-Round Picks

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The Ohio State Buckeyes are poised to have another strong showing in the 2027 NFL Draft, with three players projected to be first-round picks. Wide receiver Jeremiah Smith, quarterback Julian Sayin, and linebacker Payton Pierce have all emerged as top prospects for the upcoming draft class.

Why it matters

Ohio State has long been a pipeline for NFL talent, and the continued success of its players at the professional level helps maintain the program's reputation as one of the premier college football powerhouses. The potential for three Buckeyes to be selected in the first round of the 2027 draft further solidifies Ohio State's status as a premier destination for elite recruits.

The details

Jeremiah Smith is projected to be a top-10 pick and potentially the first overall selection in 2027. The wide receiver is coming off a standout 2026 season in which he recorded 87 receptions for 1,243 yards and 12 touchdowns. Quarterback Julian Sayin is also expected to be a first-round pick after finishing third in the country in QBR in 2025 with 3,610 passing yards, 32 touchdowns, and only 8 interceptions. Linebacker Payton Pierce saw a significant uptick in production in 2025 and could follow in the footsteps of teammate Arvell Reese, who is projected to be a first-round pick in 2026.

• The 2027 NFL Draft is scheduled to take place in the spring of 2027.
• Jeremiah Smith, Julian Sayin, and Payton Pierce will be eligible for the 2027 NFL Draft after the conclusion of the 2026 college football season.