A total of six Ohio State football players have declared for the 2024 NFL Draft later this April. While it’s still relatively unclear when these players will be drafted, this analysis aims to pinpoint exactly where each Ohio State player will fall based on projections for the players themselves and team needs in the NFL.
Marvin Harrison Jr. (WR) – Arizona Cardinals (Round 1, Pick 4) The main projections for the draft feature three quarterbacks filling out the first three picks. The Cardinals don’t need a quarterback with Kyler Murray at the helm but have glaring issues elsewhere, including the wide receiver position after the departure of DeAndre Hopkins. Marvin Harrison Jr. has proven to be a generational talent at the position during his time at Ohio State, tallying two 1,000-yard seasons in his final years as a Buckeye while also accumulating 14 touchdowns in each season. With a healthy Kyler Murray, adding Marvin Harrison Jr. to the Cardinals’ offense would elevate them to new heights and potentially make them playoff contenders.
Michael Hall (DT) – Kansas City Chiefs (Round 2, Pick 64) While there is talk that defensive tackle Michael Hall could go in the first round due to his physical attributes and explosiveness off the ball, his consistency will be a deciding factor. Hall is considered to be the prize of Ohio State’s defense in the draft. The Chiefs’ defensive line lacks depth compared to the rest of the roster, but Hall’s ability to pressure the quarterback and bypass offensive linemen would serve the Chiefs well in strengthening their defensive line. Despite already having an explosive playmaker in Chris Jones, adding Michael Hall would relieve some pressure off of Patrick Mahomes and the offense.
Xavier Johnson (WR) – Green Bay Packers (Round 5, Pick 169) Xavier Johnson had a slow year in 2022, recording only 13 catches for 151 yards. However, he picked up in the 2023 season, doubling his touches but failing to produce a touchdown and only netting 368 yards. Nonetheless, the Packers are in need of wide receiver help, and given their history of drafting wide receivers from Ohio State, Johnson could be a good fit. With more opportunities, Johnson has the potential to produce solid numbers, making him a suitable choice for the Green Bay Packers alongside his former teammate, Jaxon Smith-Njigba.
Steele Chambers (LB) – Pittsburgh Steelers (Round 6, Pick 202) While the Steelers typically avoid drafting players from Ohio State, they have a history of selecting linebackers from the university, such as Ryan Shazier. With needs at linebacker and other positions, Chambers, who transitioned from running back to linebacker at Ohio State in 2021, could be a valuable addition. He has demonstrated proficiency in locating the ball and fits well into a zone coverage scheme, characteristic of the Steelers’ defensive style. However, Chambers struggles with tackling and lacks discipline in run defense, areas the Steelers would need to address through coaching to maximize his potential contribution.
Matthew Jones (OL) – Baltimore Ravens (Round 7, Pick 250) The Ravens have significant needs, particularly in the offensive line and wide receiver positions. With the 30th overall pick, they might not address these needs early in the draft. However, Matthew Jones could be a steal for them in the seventh round. He possesses quick reaction time and athleticism in pass protection but lacks core power and drive, pushing him down in the draft. Nonetheless, these deficiencies are coachable, and with proper training, Jones could develop into a valuable asset for the Baltimore Ravens.
