Ohio State Pro Day 2025: Five Buckeyes Who Elevated Their NFL Draft Stock
Every year, Ohio State University’s Pro Day serves as a crucial event for NFL hopefuls looking to improve their draft standing. Scouts, coaches, and general managers from across the league gather in Columbus to evaluate the latest crop of Buckeye talent, hoping to find the next breakout star. The 2025 Pro Day did not disappoint, with several players making a significant impression.
Among the standout performers, five players—offensive linemen Josh Simmons and Donovan Jackson, defensive ends J.T. Tuimoloau and Jack Sawyer, and cornerback Denzel Burke—made the biggest strides in boosting their NFL Draft stock. Their performances at Pro Day reinforced their value and answered lingering questions about their skills, athleticism, and readiness for the next level.
Josh Simmons: A Rising Offensive Tackle Prospect
Josh Simmons’ path to Ohio State was unconventional. Beginning his college career at San Diego State, he transferred to Ohio State in 2023 and became a key component of the Buckeyes’ offensive line. Initially seen as a mid-to-late round prospect, Simmons demonstrated substantial improvement in 2024, culminating in an impressive Pro Day performance.
Key Pro Day Highlights:
- Bench Press: 27 reps of 225 lbs, showcasing upper-body strength.
- 40-Yard Dash: 5.06 seconds, an impressive time for a lineman.
- Agility Drills: Quick lateral movement, fluid footwork, and strong hand placement impressed scouts.
NFL teams are always looking for linemen who can handle elite pass rushers, and Simmons’ combination of strength and agility has elevated him into early-round discussions. His performance has drawn interest from teams like the Philadelphia Eagles and New England Patriots, both of whom are looking to fortify their offensive line depth.
Donovan Jackson: The Versatile Guard-Tackle Hybrid
Jackson has been a mainstay on Ohio State’s offensive line for several years, playing both guard and tackle. His versatility is his biggest asset, as NFL teams value linemen who can play multiple positions. Prior to Pro Day, he was projected as a late second-round pick, but his workouts may have solidified him as a first-round talent.
Key Pro Day Highlights:
- 40-Yard Dash: 5.15 seconds, solid for an interior lineman.
- 3-Cone Drill: Demonstrated excellent bend and balance.
- On-Field Drills: Showcased powerful hand placement and quick feet, proving he can handle elite defenders.
The Philadelphia Eagles have reportedly scheduled a pre-draft visit with Jackson, signaling serious interest. His ability to move between guard and tackle makes him an appealing option for teams needing flexibility on the line.
J.T. Tuimoloau: A Dominant Defensive Force
J.T. Tuimoloau entered the 2025 draft cycle as one of the most highly regarded defensive ends. Known for his strength, explosiveness, and play recognition, he solidified his first-round status with a dominant showing at Ohio State’s Pro Day.
Key Pro Day Highlights:
- 40-Yard Dash: 4.75 seconds—elite for his size.
- Bench Press: 29 reps, displaying tremendous upper-body strength.
- On-Field Drills: Excelled in pass-rushing drills, using a blend of power and finesse to beat blockers.
NFL scouts were particularly impressed with Tuimoloau’s ability to transition from power moves to speed rushes, making him a potential game-changer at the next level. The Washington Commanders have been linked to him as a late first-round selection.
Jack Sawyer: The Relentless Edge Rusher
Jack Sawyer has been a force on Ohio State’s defensive line since his freshman year. His production in 2024—59 tackles, nine sacks, and three forced fumbles—was among the best in the Big Ten. His performance at Pro Day showcased why he is one of the most highly touted edge rushers in this class.
Key Pro Day Highlights:
- 40-Yard Dash: 4.72 seconds.
- Vertical Jump: 35 inches, proving his explosiveness.
- On-Field Drills: Quick, powerful, and relentless in his pass-rushing approach.
The Cincinnati Bengals have shown strong interest in Sawyer, recognizing his potential to become a premier pass rusher in the NFL. With his blend of speed and power, Sawyer is likely to hear his name called in the late first or early second round of the draft.
Denzel Burke: A Lockdown Cornerback in the Making
Denzel Burke has been a key part of Ohio State’s secondary for years, and his Pro Day further cemented his reputation as a top-tier cornerback prospect. His ability to shadow receivers, disrupt passes, and make open-field tackles makes him an appealing option for NFL teams needing secondary help.
Key Pro Day Highlights:
- 40-Yard Dash: 4.48 seconds, solidifying his speed.
- 3-Cone Drill: Quick footwork and fluid hips were evident.
- Ball Skills: Showed strong hands and anticipation during interception drills.
The Los Angeles Chargers have expressed interest in Burke, with draft analysts projecting him to go in the early-to-mid first round. His combination of speed, instincts, and coverage skills makes him a valuable asset for any defense.
Final Thoughts: The Impact of Ohio State’s Pro Day
Ohio State’s Pro Day once again proved why the Buckeyes are one of college football’s top NFL talent pipelines. The performances of Simmons, Jackson, Tuimoloau, Sawyer, and Burke have positioned them well heading into the draft. As April approaches, expect these names to be called early and often, continuing Ohio State’s rich tradition of producing elite NFL talent.