COLUMBUS, Ohio — Few outside of Columbus had Ohio State linebacker Arvell Reese on their radar a year ago. The Cleveland native was entering his third season with the Buckeyes, having played 309 career defensive snaps with no starts.
Now, he’s a household name.
The Giants took Reese with the fifth overall pick in last week’s NFL Draft, and he’s expected to make life difficult for opposing NFC East quarterbacks.
Will Ohio State have another breakout player who soars up NFL mock drafts in the coming months? If so, here are five potential candidates.
Eddrick Houston, defensive tackle
Many expected last year to serve as Eddrick Houston’s breakout season. However, injuries and inconsistent play led to a disappointing sophomore campaign for the defensive tackle.
Payton Pierce, linebacker
Reese and Sonny Styles were top 10 picks last week, giving Ohio State linebackers coach James Laurinaitis a banner moment in his young career. Payton Pierce could be the face of carrying that momentum forward.
Jaylen McClain, safety
Jaylen McClain will look to follow in Caleb Downs’ footsteps as a rare safety to land in the first round of a draft. The Buckeyes signed McClain as a four-star prospect in their 2024 recruiting class, and he spent his freshman season learning behind Downs and Lathan Ransom (fourth round pick in 2025). As a sophomore, McClain stepped into a starting role, usually lining up as a free safety while Downs roamed the field.
Kenyatta Jackson, defensive end
Ohio State defensive line coach Larry Johnson has produced NFL talent at a high level, but recent success has centered on defensive tackles. The Buckeyes haven’t had a first-round defensive end since Chase Young in 2020.
Jackson stepped into a starting role last year, collecting 45 pressures and 6.5 sacks across 549 defensive snaps played. If his play takes another step, and his stat line resembles that of Caden Curry last season (11 sacks), Jackson will be an intriguing prospect.
Ian Moore, offensive tackle
Ian Moore may not start for Ohio State in 2026, but if he does, it’s because he’s playing at a level worthy of moving All-Big Ten left tackle Austin Siereveld inside.
