The Ohio State Football program has continually produced elite NFL talent. From players like Michael Thomas to, more recently, quarterback C.J. Stroud, the Buckeyes have created a strong pipeline from Columbus to numerous NFL franchises.
Several first-round picks have gone on to be All-Pro-caliber players at the highest level in the sport. That said, ESPN has released its top 100 players entering the 2024 NFL season, and many Buckeyes cracked the list.
C.J. Stroud came in as the top non-Joe Burrow former Ohio State player. Burrow was No. 13, and Stroud was ranked No. 15. Nick Bosa was right after Stroud at No. 16.
“With the added playmakers for Stroud, there’s no reason to think he can’t throw for close to 5,000 yards,” ESPN’s DJ Bien-Aime wrote. “Last year, he led the league in passing yards per game (274) among eligible quarterbacks, and now he has All-Pro wide receiver Stefon Diggs and running back Joe Mixon to help elevate his game. In camp, there have been some days of struggle, but when he has been on, he has ripped the defense apart.”
Up at ESPN…
Our Top 100 NFL players. https://t.co/nABmYEQckX
— Matt Bowen (@MattBowen41) August 26, 2024
Multiple Buckeyes did crack the list with the entire 100 able to be viewed here. Of note, Garrett Wilson, the Jets star receiver, came in at No. 35 on the list.
As for Stroud, he put up a historic rookie season, ending with 4,108 passing yards, 23 touchdowns, and 5 interceptions. With the Texans adding Stefon Diggs late last season, their offense is expected to be more potent this upcoming year.
For other players like Bosa, Wilson, and a slew of other Buckeyes, the hopes are high as the 2024 NFL season is set for kickoff in just over a week.
