College fans who switched off after Indiana’s national‑title celebration now face the NFL draft, set for April 23. Fernando Mendoza is the presumptive No. 1 pick, headed to the Las Vegas Raiders. Ahead of him, Ohio State boasts a historic talent pool, with four Buckeyes poised for top‑10 selections and a projected 12 players drafted overall this season draft.

Ohio State’s slate includes safety Caleb Downs, linebacker Sonny Styles, edge rusher Arvell Reese and receiver Carnell Tate, all likely to go before the Dolphins at No. 11. Miami follows, fielding tackle Francis Mauigoa and edge rushers Rueben Bain Jr. and Akheem Mesidor, aiming for a first‑round trio not seen since 2007. Texas A&M, Indiana and Oregon round out schools expected to send 11‑12 prospects each.

Analysts note a shift away from mid‑major schools producing early picks; only three first‑rounders emerged from those programs in the past three drafts. Running back selections remain rare, with just three top‑10 rushers since 2018, underscoring the uncertainty of turning a high draft slot into immediate impact. The 2026 draft promises depth across positions, making it a true test of scouting acumen.