The Ohio State Buckeyes take on the NFL Combine, taking the next step toward their dream of playing in the league. Here are the dates and times to watch their workouts.
Each spring, the NFL Combine transforms Indianapolis into a proving ground where college football’s elite showcase their speed, strength, and skill before pro scouts and coaches. As usual, the Ohio State Buckeyes are well represented. This year, eleven Buckeyes received invitations, underscoring the program’s reputation as one of the nation’s premier NFL pipelines. Among them are:
- WR Carnell Tate
- RB CJ Donaldson
- TE Will Kacmarek
- TE Max Klare
- DE Caden Curry
- DT Kayden McDonald
- LB Arvell Reese
- LB Sonny Styles
- CB Davison Igbinosun
- CB Lorenzo Styles Jr.
- SAF Caleb Downs
Each of them is looking to solidify their draft stock and carry the Scarlet and Gray legacy to the next level. Boasting a handful of first-round prospects, these Buckeyes arrive in Indy to prove that Ohio State continues to set the standard for NFL-ready talent.
Thursday, Feb. 26 – Defensive Linemen & Linebackers (3-8 p.m. ET)
The first day in Indianapolis will showcase the Buckeyes’ defensive muscle. Defensive linemen Caden Curry and Kayden McDonald headline the linemen drills, both aiming to prove they can bring pressure at the next level. Linebackers Arvell Reese and Sonny Styles should also draw plenty of attention. Reese’s testing numbers should jump off the charts, and he has confirmed he will participate in all drills. Styles’ blend of size, speed, and coverage skills makes him one of the week’s most intriguing hybrid defenders.
Friday, Feb. 27 – Defensive Backs & Tight Ends (3-8 p.m. ET)
Friday belongs to the secondary and the big men who catch passes. Ohio State sends a deep defensive back group, including standout corners Davison Igbinosun and Lorenzo Styles Jr., as well as versatile safety Caleb Downs, who might steal the show with his athletic testing. On offense, tight ends Will Kacmarek and Max Klare will look to impress scouts with their blocking power and route-running precision.
Saturday, Feb. 28 – Quarterbacks, Wide Receivers & Running Backs (1-8 p.m. ET)
Expect Saturday to be a highlight day for Buckeye fans. Wide receiver Carnell Tate enters the spotlight after a strong junior season, and he’ll look to confirm his elite route-running and speed numbers. Joining him is running back CJ Donaldson, whose blend of power and agility makes him a fascinating watch in positional drills. Both could significantly elevate their draft stock with standout performances.
Sunday, March 1 – Offensive Linemen (1-5 p.m. ET)
The Combine wraps up with the big men in the trenches. While no Buckeye offensive linemen are participating this year, Sunday will still offer context for how Ohio State’s skill players fit within broader team needs. Especially for franchises looking to pair young linemen with dynamic skill talent like the Buckeyes have sent to Indy this week.
With all eyes on them in Indianapolis, this week’s workouts and interviews are pivotal for the Buckeyes’ draft hopes. A strong showing could launch players like Carnell Tate or Sonny Styles even higher on draft boards.
I’ve had the privilege of working across every corner of the sports media landscape—from covering Friday night lights as a beat writer for PrepRedzone, to reporting with the team at News Channel 4 WSMV (NBC affiliate), and diving deep into recruiting and scouting as an intern at Middle Tennessee State. During my time as a college student at MTSU, I also honed my broadcasting skills at the campus radio station, bringing live sports coverage and in-depth analysis to listeners across campus. My passion for sports runs deep, but nothing fires me up quite like Ohio State football. I can’t wait to bring my energy, experience, and Buckeye enthusiasm to this new opportunity!