Post-NFL Combine Mock: Ohio State Football’s First-Round Draft Prospects

As we transition from the NFL Scouting Combine to the 2025 NFL Draft, the prospect pool has become clearer, and analysts are revising their projections accordingly. One school that continues to capture the attention of NFL scouts, executives, and fans alike is Ohio State. A program that has produced an array of NFL talent over the years, Ohio State consistently churns out high-level athletes ready to compete at the professional level.

This year’s draft cycle is no different, with several Buckeyes firmly in the first-round conversation. However, after the NFL Combine, where prospects had the opportunity to show off their physical traits and drill work, some Ohio State stars have seen their stock rise, while others may have seen a slight dip. Let’s break down the key players who are most likely to hear their names called in the first round, and how the Combine impacted their prospects.

1. Paris Johnson Jr. – Offensive Tackle (OT)

Pre-Combine Status: Paris Johnson Jr. has long been regarded as one of the top offensive line prospects in the 2025 draft class. As a left tackle for Ohio State, he has been the anchor of a dominant offensive line. His combination of size, athleticism, and technical refinement has made him a favorite for teams in need of a franchise-caliber tackle.

Combine Performance: Johnson came into the Combine as one of the most highly anticipated offensive linemen. He measured in at 6’6” and 313 pounds, and his athletic testing only solidified his standing as a potential top pick. Running a 4.88-second 40-yard dash for a player of his size is nothing short of impressive, and his explosiveness was further showcased with a 1.75-second 10-yard split. His agility was also on display with an impressive 7.62-second three-cone drill.

Post-Combine Outlook: Johnson’s Combine performance only strengthened his case as a top-tier prospect. Given the increasing demand for elite offensive linemen in today’s NFL, Johnson is almost certainly a lock to go in the first half of the first round. Teams like the Chicago Bears (picking No. 1 overall) or the New York Jets (No. 13 overall) are expected to be in the mix for his services. Johnson’s ability to handle pass-rushers while also creating lanes in the run game makes him a perfect fit for teams that prioritize both facets of their offense.

2. Jaxon Smith-Njigba – Wide Receiver (WR)

Pre-Combine Status: Jaxon Smith-Njigba entered the 2025 draft cycle as one of the most polished wide receivers in college football. After an explosive 2022 season, Smith-Njigba’s 2023 campaign was marred by injuries, leading to some concerns about his durability. However, when healthy, Smith-Njigba demonstrated an elite ability to separate, high-level ball skills, and outstanding route running.

Combine Performance: Smith-Njigba’s Combine performance helped reaffirm his status as one of the top wideouts in the class. He ran an official 4.48-second 40-yard dash, a solid time that fits his playing style. While he isn’t known for burning defenders with top-end speed, his 6.57-second three-cone drill time – one of the fastest among all receivers – showcased his elite agility and ability to get in and out of cuts. Additionally, his 34.5-inch vertical jump demonstrated his ability to go up and get the ball, a crucial trait for a wideout in the NFL.

Post-Combine Outlook: Smith-Njigba’s performance at the Combine cemented his status as a likely top-20 pick. While other receivers may have more impressive combine numbers, Smith-Njigba’s polished game and high football IQ make him an intriguing prospect for teams looking to add a reliable target. Expect him to land with a team in need of an immediate-impact wideout. The Houston Texans (No. 2 overall) and the New England Patriots (No. 14 overall) are two teams that could take a hard look at the Ohio State product.

3. C.J. Stroud – Quarterback (QB)

Pre-Combine Status: C.J. Stroud has been a fixture in the top of the draft conversation for the better part of two years. As the starting quarterback for Ohio State, Stroud showcased exceptional poise, accuracy, and decision-making. His ability to push the ball down the field and his command of the offense made him one of the top quarterback prospects in recent memory.

Combine Performance: Stroud didn’t perform as many drills at the Combine as some of the other quarterbacks, as he opted out of some of the more physically demanding tests. Nevertheless, his throwing session was the highlight of the week for many scouts. His mechanics were on full display, showing that he’s ready to play at the highest level. His velocity on deep balls, touch on throws in the intermediate range, and accuracy on short throws left no doubt that Stroud has all the tools needed to succeed in the NFL.

Post-Combine Outlook: Stroud remains one of the top quarterback prospects in this draft class. While some have questioned his ability to thrive in certain offensive schemes, his Combine performance reassured teams that he is capable of running any offense. Given the increasing importance of the quarterback position and the ongoing need for franchises to secure their future under center, Stroud is still very much in the mix to go No. 1 overall. The Indianapolis Colts (No. 4 overall) and Carolina Panthers (No. 6 overall) could be two teams that make a play for Stroud.

4. Dawand Jones – Offensive Tackle (OT)

Pre-Combine Status: Dawand Jones, the mammoth right tackle for Ohio State, entered the draft cycle as one of the more intriguing prospects. Standing at 6’8” and weighing in at nearly 375 pounds, Jones is a physical marvel. His size alone makes him an interesting prospect for NFL teams, but his ability to move with such agility for a man of his stature has drawn comparisons to other elite tackles at the next level.

Combine Performance: Jones had an extremely solid performance at the Combine, running a 5.35-second 40-yard dash, which is excellent for his size. Additionally, his 1.85-second 10-yard split showcased his burst off the line of scrimmage. Despite his size, Jones demonstrated impressive fluidity and balance in drills, suggesting that his size won’t hinder him as he makes the transition to the NFL.

Post-Combine Outlook: After the Combine, Jones is widely considered a strong candidate for the first round. His physical tools are hard to ignore, and teams in need of a massive, physical tackle to protect their quarterback or improve their running game will have him high on their list. Jones may end up being selected in the 20s, with teams like the Washington Commanders (No. 20 overall) or the Seattle Seahawks (No. 23 overall) potentially eyeing him.

5. Zach Harrison – Edge Rusher (DE)

Pre-Combine Status: Zach Harrison has been a highly touted pass-rusher for Ohio State over the past several seasons. Known for his freakish athleticism and ability to win with speed off the edge, Harrison has always had immense upside, but his consistency has been questioned at times.

Combine Performance: Harrison impressed at the Combine with his physical measurements and testing numbers. Standing 6’5” and weighing in at 272 pounds, he posted a 4.56-second 40-yard dash time, a blistering mark for an edge rusher of his size. His 37.5-inch vertical jump also showcased his explosiveness. His ability to bend and get around the edge was clear, and NFL scouts took notice of his natural burst and quickness.

Post-Combine Outlook: After his solid Combine showing, Harrison’s stock is on the rise. With his size, athleticism, and potential to be a disruptive force in the NFL, Harrison is now firmly in the conversation for a first-round pick. Teams like the Detroit Lions (No. 9 overall) or the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (No. 19 overall) are two teams that could take a flyer on Harrison, looking for a powerful edge rusher to generate pressure on opposing quarterbacks.

6. Ronnie Hickman – Safety (S)

Pre-Combine Status: Ronnie Hickman has been one of the most consistent players in Ohio State’s secondary over the past few seasons. His ability to read the quarterback, make plays on the ball, and be a dynamic presence in the secondary has earned him attention from NFL scouts. While he is not considered a top-tier prospect at the safety position, Hickman’s ability to contribute immediately at the next level could make him a valuable asset.

Combine Performance: Hickman turned heads with a solid performance at the Combine, running a 4.53-second 40-yard dash and posting a 34-inch vertical jump. His movement skills in the drills showed that he has the agility and burst to be a valuable asset in pass coverage, both as a deep safety and in man-to-man situations. His ability to cover ground and make plays in space was evident.

Post-Combine Outlook: Hickman is still considered a likely second- or third-round pick, but he has a legitimate chance of sneaking into the back end of the first round, particularly given the increasing importance of versatile, athletic safeties in the NFL. Teams like the Green Bay Packers (No. 15 overall) and the Kansas City Chiefs (No. 31 overall) could be in the mix for Hickman, looking to shore up their back-end defense.

The Ohio State Draft Class

In summary, Ohio State’s draft prospects are looking as strong as ever, with Paris Johnson Jr. and Jaxon Smith-Njigba leading the way as potential first-round selections. C.J. Stroud’s Combine performance reaffirmed his status as one of the top quarterbacks in the draft, while Dawand Jones, Zach Harrison, and Ronnie Hickman also have a good chance to land in the first or second round. These players, along with a strong supporting cast from Ohio State’s program, have the potential to make a major impact in the NFL. The 2025 NFL Draft is shaping up to be another fruitful year for the Buckeyes, who will undoubtedly see several of their stars enter the next phase of their careers.