After months of speculation and behind-the-scenes deliberation, Ohio State Buckeyes star wide receiver Emeka Egbuka has officially announced his intentions for the 2025 NFL Draft. In a heartfelt statement shared via social media and confirmed by Ohio State’s athletic department, Egbuka revealed that he will forgo his final year of college eligibility and declare for the upcoming draft, putting an emphatic end to one of the most anticipated decisions of the offseason.
Egbuka’s choice marks a significant moment for the Buckeyes program. The 6-foot-1, 205-pound wideout has long been considered one of the most dynamic playmakers in the country, a true difference-maker with elite acceleration, crisp route-running, and an uncanny ability to make contested catches look routine. Over the course of his three seasons in Columbus, Egbuka developed into a fan favorite and a reliable offensive weapon, delivering big moments on the biggest stages and showcasing the polish of a professional long before stepping onto an NFL field.
In his statement, Egbuka thanked his teammates, coaches, and the Buckeye faithful for their unwavering support throughout his journey. “Wearing the Scarlet and Gray has been the honor of my life,” he wrote. “From the moment I stepped on campus, I knew I was part of something bigger than myself. Every touchdown, every practice, every game day in the ‘Shoe’ has shaped me, and I’ll forever carry Ohio State with me wherever I go.”
For Egbuka, the decision wasn’t made lightly. After a junior season filled with highs and lows—including a mid-season ankle injury that temporarily sidelined him—there were whispers that he might consider returning for a fourth year. His close bond with new quarterback Will Howard, along with unfinished business following a disappointing finish to the 2024 campaign, led some to believe he might want one more shot at a national title. But in the end, the lure of the NFL and the opportunity to cement his status as a first-round talent proved too strong to ignore.
NFL scouts have been enamored with Egbuka’s pro potential since his breakout sophomore season in 2023, when he posted 1,241 receiving yards and 11 touchdowns. Even with fewer targets in 2024 due to offensive adjustments and the emergence of other weapons, Egbuka still managed to rack up over 850 receiving yards and six touchdowns, all while drawing double teams and serving as a security blanket for Buckeyes quarterbacks. His route tree expanded, his footwork improved, and his ability to read defenses at the line of scrimmage made him a nightmare for opposing secondaries.
What sets Egbuka apart, according to multiple NFL insiders, is his maturity and football IQ. “He’s not just a guy who runs fast and catches the ball,” said one AFC personnel executive. “He understands leverage, spacing, timing. He’s NFL-ready in every sense of the word.” Analysts project Egbuka as a potential top-20 pick, with some mock drafts even placing him in the top 10 depending on team needs and combine performance.
Ohio State head coach Ryan Day praised Egbuka’s contributions both on and off the field, calling him “the ultimate competitor and teammate.” Day added, “Emeka represents everything great about our program. He’s resilient, driven, and leads by example. We’re going to miss him, no doubt, but we’re also incredibly proud of him. The NFL is getting not just a great player, but an outstanding person.”
Egbuka’s departure leaves a significant void in Ohio State’s receiving corps, which has consistently produced elite NFL talent in recent years. From Garrett Wilson to Chris Olave to Jaxon Smith-Njigba and Marvin Harrison Jr., the Buckeyes have become synonymous with elite wide receiver play. Egbuka fits right into that lineage, and his exit means it’s now time for the next generation of Buckeye pass-catchers—like Carnell Tate and Brandon Inniss—to step up and carry the torch.
As for Egbuka, the focus now shifts to preparing for the NFL Combine and Pro Day, where he’ll have a chance to further elevate his draft stock. Known for his meticulous preparation and work ethic, those close to him believe he’ll shine in interviews, on-field drills, and testing. “There’s no doubt in my mind that he’s ready,” said his position coach, Brian Hartline. “He’s done everything the right way, and I can’t wait to see what he does at the next level.”
While some fans may feel bittersweet about Egbuka’s early departure, there’s also an overwhelming sense of pride. After all, this is what Ohio State does—develops stars, wins games, and sends polished, high-character athletes to the next level. Egbuka’s journey from five-star prospect to future NFL starter is just the latest chapter in that story.
His legacy in Columbus is secure. He leaves Ohio State as one of the most respected and reliable receivers in recent memory, with a reputation built not just on highlight-reel plays but on consistency, toughness, and leadership. More than anything, Egbuka’s decision is a celebration of everything he accomplished—and everything he’s yet to achieve.
The countdown to the 2025 NFL Draft is on. And with Emeka Egbuka officially in the pool, the stakes just got a little higher.