By all accounts and measures, the 2020 NFL Draft that just finished up was a literal and “virtual” success. Ten Ohio State players were selected, continuing a trend of sending a slew of players to the next level. But now, it’s time to focus on next season and the 2021 NFL Draft.
One of the foremost experts on all things NFL draft related is ESPN’s Mel Kiper, Jr. of course. He’s been fixing his hair, talking fast, and providing expert analysis for as long as anyone can remember.
And now, in early May, he has just released his big board rankings for 2021. As you would expect, there are some Ohio State players appearing in his top twenty-five. What you may not have surmised is that there are three Buckeyes included.
Quarterback Justin Fields, cornerback Shaun Wade, and wide receiver Chris Olave are all among those that Kiper believes will be first-day guys when all the fun rolls out next April.
Here’s what Kiper says about all three, and where he has them ranked.
Next … Justin Fields
No. 3 – Quarterback Justin Fields
What Kiper says:
“Fields is a legitimate challenger to Lawrence as the top quarterback in this class. The Georgia transfer got immediate eligibility to play in 2019, and he put up huge numbers, finishing third in the Heisman Trophy voting. Fields threw 41 touchdown passes with just three interceptions and added 10 rushing TDs. He was incredibly efficient last season, and he made it look easy. Fields has room to improve, though, in how he sees the field and progresses through his reads. Two of his three picks came in the College Football Playoff game against Clemson, including this one in which he stared down his receiver. There’s a lot to like here about Fields as prospect, and I’m looking forward to seeing another full season from him.”
Next … Shaun Wade
No. 6 – Cornerback Shaun Wade
HT: 6-1 | WT: 194 | Class: Fourth-year junior
What Kiper says:
“On a defense that just had two first-round corners in Jeff Okudah and Damon Arnette, Wade played mostly in the slot, but his athleticism popped when I studied the Buckeyes. He’s going to move outside in 2020, but the versatility to move inside or outside is an asset as he transitions to the NFL. Wade has four interceptions over the past two seasons, and he also picked up two sacks in 2019. He is going to be the man in the new-look Ohio State secondary this season.”
Next … Chris Olave
No. 20 – Wide receiver Chris Olave
HT: 6-1 | WT: 188 | Class: Junior
What Kiper says:
“With K.J. Hill, Binjimen Victor and Austin Mack all off to the NFL, it’s the Olave show for the Buckeyes in 2020. He caught 49 passes for 849 yards and 12 touchdowns last season. He tracks the deep ball well and made a few spectacular plays. And check out his hands and concentration on this 42-yard bomb. He’s going to have a big year while catching passes from Justin Fields.”
