3 Ohio State Players Who Could Be First-Round Picks in 2021 NFL Draft

The Ohio State Buckeyes were represented early and often during the 2020 NFL Draft. The top three picks were all Buckeyes at one point, and 10 players from the program were drafted overall. Attention now turns to 2021, and all the current Buckeyes who could be first-round picks next year. Three players in particular stand out as top prospects on the team, as well as in all of college football.

3. Wyatt Davis, OG

Ohio State State guard Wyatt Davis is a top offensive line prospect. / Leon Halip/Getty Images

Wyatt Davis was an absolute star for the Buckeyes in 2019 at the guard position. He was a first-team All-American in his first full season as a starter. The lineman stands 6-4 and weighs just over 300 pounds. Davis entered the program as one of the top overall recruits in the country, and just maintaining his level of play will keep him near the top of draft boards. He is a powerful guard who will be able to shine on a national stage at a top program.

2. Shaun Wade, DB

Ohio State DB Shaun Wade returns as the top guy in the secondary. / Jamie Sabau/Getty Images

Shaun Wade made a smart decision to return to school this year. The Buckeyes lost Jeff Okudah, Damon Arnette, and Jordan Fuller in the draft this year, leaving Wade as the top corner on the team. He was already a draft prospect in 2020, but showing his abilities as the top defensive back will only raise his stock barring an unexpected drop in production. Wade has four career interceptions and 57 career tackles. He could top both marks in 2020 in a full-time No. 1 role.

1. Justin Fields, QB

Ohio State QB Justin Fields should go off the board early in 2021. / Ralph Freso/Getty Images

Justin Fields is among the top quarterback prospects in the nation next year, ranking only behind Trevor Lawrence. He could go in the top five or even earlier, and no one would be surprised. Fields had 3,273 passing yards and 41 touchdowns in 2019, and could have had much bigger numbers if OSU hadn't blown out so many opponents. He also had 10 rushing touchdowns and fits the mold of the more athletic, dual-threat quarterback NFL teams are beginning to covet.