DONE: Ohio State Buckeyes ran the table at the end of the 2024-25 season, winning the national title as the sixth-seed in the College Football Playoff. That team was immensely talented, and the NFL took notice, as 14 Buckeyes were drafted into the league — the highest number in college football. A handful of others signed with teams as undrafted free agents. Who are the top returning players that will be a part of their national title defense? We ranked the 10 best.

10) Arvell Reese, Linebacker

Reese contributed effectively in a rotational role in 2024, finishing with 43 tackles, including 18 solo stops. At 6’4″ and 238 pounds, he’s a force in the middle of the defense and is expected to elevate his performance as a junior.
A former four-star prospect in the 2023 class, Reese’s speed and athleticism have made him valuable as a sideline-to-sideline defender and situational pass rusher — areas where he may see increased usage in 2025.

9) James Peoples, Running Back

As a freshman, Peoples saw action in eight games and showcased the talent that earned him the No. 4 RB ranking in the 2024 recruiting class. He logged 197 yards and two scores on 49 carries while playing behind two future NFL draft picks.
With West Virginia transfer C.J. Donaldson likely sharing backfield duties, Peoples’ agility and quickness should provide a strong contrast to Donaldson’s power, giving the Buckeyes a potent one-two punch. Peoples has the tools to become the next elite Buckeye back.

8) Julian Sayin, Quarterback

The top quarterback recruit in the 2024 class, Sayin is the frontrunner to start under center in 2025. He had limited playing time last year but managed 84 yards and a touchdown on five completions in mop-up duty.
Armed with elite arm talent and mobility, Sayin will be under pressure to guide Ohio State’s championship aspirations. If he meets expectations, he could be the next Buckeye quarterback to transition to the NFL.

7) Caden Curry, Defensive End

Curry made a notable impact in a rotational role in 2024 with 15 solo tackles, 2.5 sacks, and two forced fumbles — including one in the CFP semifinal against Texas.
With Jack Sawyer and J.T. Tuimoloau off to the pros, Curry will step into a leading role on the edge. Thanks to his relentless effort and quick burst, he’s poised to significantly increase his production.

6) Carson Hinzman, Interior Offensive Lineman

Hinzman started at center in 2023 but was replaced by Alabama transfer Seth McLaughlin in 2024. However, an injury to McLaughlin late in the season gave Hinzman another opportunity, which he seized.
Now in line to start again, Hinzman brings experience and leadership to a line replacing multiple starters. He’s a strong candidate for All-Big Ten recognition in his senior year.

5) Davison Igbinosun, Cornerback

Returning as a starting cornerback, Igbinosun adds experience and reliability to the secondary. In 2024, he tallied 45 tackles, two interceptions, and broke up nine passes.
At 6’2″ and 193 pounds, he brings a physical style to coverage but must reduce penalties from over-aggressive play. As Ohio State’s likely top corner, he’ll be a critical defensive piece in 2025.

4) Sonny Styles, Linebacker

In his first year playing linebacker full-time, Styles was a standout performer, notching 100 total tackles, six sacks, five pass deflections, and a forced fumble.
Previously a safety, Styles’ transition was seamless. Entering 2025, he’s on the radar for All-American honors and the Butkus Award as the centerpiece of the Buckeyes’ defense.

3) Carnell Tate, Wide Receiver

Tate served as a key depth receiver his first two seasons but is primed for a breakout in 2025. He caught 52 passes for 733 yards and four TDs as a sophomore, including a clutch performance against Texas in the playoffs.
With NFL traits already evident, he’ll be one of the top WR2s in the country — just behind the Buckeyes’ top returning player.

2) Caleb Downs, Safety

A game-changer since transferring to Ohio State before the 2024 season, Downs delivered a dominant sophomore campaign with 81 tackles, two picks, and six pass breakups.
The 6’0″, 205-pound safety consistently disrupted opposing offenses and is already considered a future top-five NFL Draft prospect. He’s a vital component of the Buckeye defense.

1) Jeremiah Smith, Wide Receiver

Smith had a sensational freshman season, highlighted by 76 catches, 1,315 yards, and 15 touchdowns. His explosive performance in the playoffs, including 161 yards and two TDs in one half against Oregon, showcased his superstar potential.
With his combination of size, speed, and route running, Smith is nearly impossible to cover. If Ohio State repeats as champs, it’ll be due in large part to Smith’s game-breaking ability.