Emeka Egbuka #2 of the Ohio State Buckeyes
Ohio State’s Emeka Egbuka Drawing High Praise Ahead of NFL Draft
The Ohio State Buckeyes have consistently produced top-tier NFL talent, and this year is no exception. As several Buckeyes prepare for the jump to the pros, one name gaining significant attention is wide receiver Emeka Egbuka.
Egbuka, who played a key role in Ohio State’s run to a national championship, is widely projected as a Day 1 or Day 2 pick in the upcoming NFL Draft. His performance in the College Football Playoff only solidified his status as a top prospect, and now, some believe he has the potential to develop into a true star at the next level.
Amon-Ra St. Brown Comparisons
Bleacher Report’s Dame Parson sees Egbuka’s NFL potential as elite, comparing him to Detroit Lions standout Amon-Ra St. Brown. That’s high praise, considering St. Brown has emerged as one of the league’s most reliable and dynamic receivers.
“Placing Egbuka in a timing and rhythm offense is best for his ability and NFL future,” Parson wrote in his scouting report. “Egbuka wins from the slot with nuance and detailed route running. Depending on where he is breaking, he uses his body to stem routes inside or out to get his defender to move with him. He manipulates off-coverage defenders with his quickness out of the breaks. Egbuka is a smooth and fluid mover who quickly changes directions to separate from coverage. Out of the slot, he runs a variety of routes, including choice/option, outbreakers, double moves, fades, and corners.”
If Egbuka can replicate St. Brown’s success in the NFL, he’s poised for a long and productive career.
Egbuka’s College Production and NFL Outlook
Egbuka put up solid numbers during the 2024 season, recording 81 receptions for 1,011 yards and 10 touchdowns. However, his best statistical season came in 2022, when he posted 74 catches for 1,151 yards and another 10 scores.
As Ohio State’s No. 2 receiver behind Jeremiah Smith this past season, Egbuka wasn’t the primary focal point of the passing attack. That raises an interesting question—can he step into a true No. 1 receiver role at the professional level, similar to St. Brown?
With his precise route-running, quickness, and ability to create separation, Egbuka has all the tools necessary to thrive in the right system. Now, it’s just a matter of which NFL team takes a chance on him and how they utilize his skill set.
Come draft night, expect Egbuka’s name to be called early—possibly even in the first round.
