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When the 2026 NFL Draft begins Thursday night in Pittsburgh, Ohio State is expected to dominate the spotlight. The Buckeyes could have several players selected in the top 10, putting the program at the center of one of the biggest storylines of the first round.
If anyone understands the talent level in Columbus, it’s former Buckeyes coach Urban Meyer. He joined “The Herd” with Colin Cowherd Wednesday afternoon to preview the upcoming draft, highlighting three Ohio State stars who may have heard their names called early.
That group includes linebackers Arvell Reese and Sonny Styles, as well as receiver Carnell Tate, all projected top-10 picks. Meyer believes every prospect has the tools to make an immediate impact at the next level, but he spoke particularly highly of Reese’s upside.
“This guy is only 20 years old,” Meyer said. “This guy is a real monster. Obviously a lot of it depends on the organization and what they’re going to run, but Arvell Reese can play safety, that’s what I’ve heard. When you watch him run, you see how fast and athletic he is.”
Meyer also pointed to Reese’s versatility and untapped potential as reasons why he could become one of the biggest steals in the draft.
“He’s a great blitzer, especially from a standing position,” Meyers said. “Then if you develop him, he’s 20 years old and at some point I imagine they’ll teach, put his hand in the ground and become one of the best passers. I don’t know how you don’t take Arvell Reese as soon as you put him on an NFL roster.”
Even with Reese’s immense potential at the next level, it’s Styles who Meyer believes can truly be a game-changer. He focused on going beyond Styles’ athleticism and talent, instead emphasizing the winning mentality and leadership qualities he brings to an NFL locker room.
“I felt strong about Sonny Styles and his performance at the combine and his workouts were historic,” Meyers said. “I’m biased because I know this kid. I know what he is. I know what a locker room player he is, and he’s a winner at everything he does. I’m very into Sonny Styles.”
Outside of defensive talent, Tate brings major upside to a position that should come off the board early in the draft. The Buckeyes have also built one of the strongest reputations in college football by developing NFL-ready wide receivers.
Despite some concerns about Tate’s play, Meyer still believes he is the best receiver in this year’s draft class.
“It was a wonder for a year,” Meyer said. “You kind of heard about him and everyone wanted to see him develop. He was a guy that you weren’t really sure was going to be a first-rounder, but that’s what happens with young players. He’s, without a doubt, the best receiver in the draft.”
