In recent years, few college football programs have matched the consistency and excellence of Ohio State when it comes to producing elite wide receiver talent. With the conclusion of the 2025 NFL Draft, the Buckeyes have now seen five of their wideouts selected in the first round over the past four drafts—an extraordinary run that speaks to both the program’s ability to recruit and develop high-level talent and its commitment to a modern, dynamic passing game.
This pipeline began in earnest in 2022, when Garrett Wilson and Chris Olave were selected with back-to-back picks in the first round. Wilson went 10th overall to the New York Jets, and Olave followed at 11th to the New Orleans Saints. Both players had already dazzled during their collegiate careers with their route-running precision, deep-ball tracking, and consistent production against top-tier Big Ten competition. What made the duo particularly special was their complementary skill sets—Wilson with his sudden quickness and elite body control, Olave with his smooth strides and tactical intelligence. Their seamless transition to the NFL helped further cement Ohio State’s status as a WR factory.
In 2023, the trend continued with Jaxon Smith-Njigba, who was drafted 20th overall by the Seattle Seahawks. Despite battling injuries in his final college season, Smith-Njigba had already etched his name into Buckeye lore with his record-breaking performance in the 2022 Rose Bowl, where he racked up 347 receiving yards. His elite change of direction, sure hands, and football IQ made him one of the most polished route runners in the class. Teams recognized the potential he had shown in a fully healthy season, and the Seahawks were quick to invest in that upside.
Then came the 2024 NFL Draft, where Marvin Harrison Jr. took center stage. Widely regarded as the top receiver in his class—and one of the best overall prospects regardless of position—Harrison was selected fourth overall by the Arizona Cardinals. His selection marked the highest a Buckeye receiver had been taken since Terry Glenn went seventh overall in 1996. Harrison combined size, speed, body control, and an impeccable work ethic, drawing comparisons to NFL greats and setting an entirely new standard for what an Ohio State receiver could become. His presence elevated the entire program, and his impact was felt well beyond the field as a leader and role model.
Now, in the 2025 draft, Emeka Egbuka joined the prestigious lineage by being selected in the first round as well, making it five Buckeye receivers in four years. While overshadowed at times by Harrison during his college tenure, Egbuka was a star in his own right. His versatility, toughness after the catch, and ability to thrive both in the slot and outside made him a highly attractive option for NFL teams. Throughout his Ohio State career, Egbuka showcased a steady progression and resilience, battling through injuries and remaining a critical piece of one of the nation’s top offenses.
This unprecedented stretch of first-round picks not only underscores the talent of these individual players but also reflects the broader ecosystem that has allowed them to thrive. Head coach Ryan Day and wide receivers coach Brian Hartline have played crucial roles in building a culture of development, attention to detail, and NFL-level preparation. Hartline, a former Ohio State and NFL wide receiver himself, has been widely praised for his ability to identify and refine elite receiving talent, helping young athletes reach their full potential.
Moreover, Ohio State’s offensive system has become a showcase for receivers. With pro-style concepts and a focus on explosive plays, the Buckeye offense provides ample opportunity for receivers to run a variety of routes, develop chemistry with top-tier quarterbacks, and compete against some of the best defensive backs in the country. This environment has become a breeding ground for excellence, attracting top recruits year after year who see the path from Columbus to the NFL as clearly defined and increasingly proven.
The success of Ohio State receivers in the NFL further reinforces the program’s prestige. Wilson, Olave, and Smith-Njigba have all made early impacts with their respective teams, while Harrison and Egbuka are expected to follow suit. Their performances not only validate the decisions of NFL general managers but also amplify the program’s reputation on a national stage.
In the long history of college football, there have been many programs known for producing quarterbacks, linebackers, or defensive backs. But in the current era, no school has made a stronger case as “Wide Receiver U” than Ohio State. With five first-round receivers in just four years—and likely more to come—the Buckeyes have set a new gold standard, one that will influence recruiting, coaching hires, and NFL scouting departments for years to come.
