4 Ohio State Buckeyes go in top 11 of 2026 NFL Draft

The 2026 NFL Draft, held Thursday in Pittsburgh, epitomized a historic night for Ohio State football as four Buckeyes were selected within the top 11 picks, an achievement not seen in 59 years and only the third time ever.

The Tennessee Titans opened Ohio State’s run by selecting wide receiver Carnell Tate at No. 4 overall. Tate developed into a dependable field-stretcher in 2025, racking up 51 receptions while averaging 17.2 yards per catch, outperforming teammate Jeremiah Smith in yards per reception. While not a game-breaking sprinter, the 21-year-old’s steady hands and week-to-week reliability made him a high-priority addition for Tennessee in their effort to support young quarterback Cam Ward’s growth. Tate is also expected to share the field with Wan’Dale Robinson in the Titans’ offensive setup.

At No. 5, the New York Giants picked linebacker Arvell Reese, a versatile defender who produced 6.5 sacks this past season while playing multiple roles, including pass rushing and coverage responsibilities. Reese, who will turn 21 in August 2026, has drawn comparisons to Micah Parsons due to his hybrid usage. The Giants now have to decide how to deploy him alongside experienced defensive pieces such as Brian Burns and Abdul Carter.

The Washington Commanders followed at No. 7 with linebacker Sonny Styles. A former safety, Styles transitioned to linebacker and brought his athletic upside into focus with a 4.46-second 40-yard dash and a 43.5-inch vertical leap. His intelligence and leadership style are compared to those of Fred Warner. The 21-year-old’s selection comes as the Commanders address a gap in the middle of its defense following changes involving Bobby Wagner and uncertainty around other linebacker roles.

At No. 11, the Dallas Cowboys traded two fifth-round picks to move up and select defensive back Caleb Downs. Renowned for his positional flexibility, the 21-year-old can operate in multiple defensive alignments, including slot, box, and deep coverage roles. Not the most physically imposing defensive back, but his high-level instincts and anticipation made him a valuable early-round selection. He is expected to pair with Jalen Thompson under defensive coordinator Christian Parker.

The post 4 Ohio State Buckeyes go in top 11 of 2026 NFL Draft appeared first on ClutchPoints.