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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 inside the top 10, putting the program at the center of one of the biggest stories of the first round.
If anyone understands the level of talent coming out of Columbus, it’s former Buckeyes coach Urban Meyer. He joined “The Herd” with Colin Cowherd on Wednesday afternoon to preview the upcoming draft, highlighting three Ohio State stars who could hear their names called early.
That group includes linebackers Arvell Reese and Sonny Styles, along with wide receiver Carnell Tate, all projected as top-10 picks. Meyer believes every prospect has the tools to make an immediate impact at the next level, but he spoke especially about Reese’s upside.
“The guy is only 20 years old,” Meyer said. “The guy is an absolute freak. Obviously, a lot depends on the organization and what they’re going to run, but Arvell Reese can play safety, that’s what I hear. When you see him run, that’s 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 draft’s biggest steals.
“He’s a great blitz player, especially on his feet,” Meyers said. “So if you develop him, he’s 20 years old and at some point I imagine they’re going to teach and put their hands down and be one of the best pass rushers out there. I don’t know how you don’t draft Arvell Reese as soon as you put him on an NFL roster.”
Even with Reese’s immense potential at the next level, Meyer believes Styles can be a game-changer. He focused on going beyond Styles’ athleticism and talent, pointing instead to the winning mentality and leadership qualities he brings to the NFL locker room.
“I felt strongly about Sonny Styles and his performance at the combine and his workouts have been historic,” Meyers said. “I’m biased because I know this guy. I know what he is. I know what a locker room player is, and he’s a winner at everything he does. I’m very excited about Sonny Styles.”
Outside of defensive talent, Tate brings significant upside at a position that is expected to come off the board early in the draft. The Buckeyes have also earned one of the strongest reputations in college football for developing NFL-ready wide receivers.
Despite some concerns surrounding Tate’s play, Meyer still believes he is the best receiver in this year’s draft class.
“It was a blast for a year,” Meyer said. “I had heard about him and everyone wanted to see him develop. He was a guy that you weren’t really sure was a first-rounder, but that’s what happens with young players. He is, without a doubt, the best receiver in the draft.”
