As the NFL Scouting Combine approaches, the Big Ten Conference is gearing up for strong representation, notably from some of its powerhouse teams. Let’s delve into how the conference’s teams are stacking up.
Ohio State is leading the charge with a staggering 15 players on their way to Indianapolis. Fresh off a national title win against Notre Dame, the Buckeyes are riding high. This success is likely to enhance their recruitment efforts significantly. Josh Simmons, an offensive tackle, and Emeka Egbuka, a wide receiver, are notable names expected to go in the first round based on Nate Tice’s mock draft on Yahoo Sports. On defense, JT Tuimoloau and Jack Sawyer, along with offensive lineman Donovan Jackson, are also strong first-round prospects. The depth of Ohio State’s talent pool is evident, with standout players like running backs TreVeyon Henderson and Quinshon Judkins, and defensive players Ty Hamilton and Lathan Ransom making their mark and unlikely to linger in the draft for long.
Turning to the Pacific Northwest, Oregon, under Coach Dan Lanning, is creating a formidable team. Despite a disappointing rematch loss to Ohio State in the College Football Playoff, the Ducks are sending 12 players to the combine. This includes expected first-rounders like offensive lineman Josh Conerly and defensive tackle Derrick Harmon, as projected by Yahoo Sports. Additionally, Jordan Burch, a former five-star recruit, is likely to impress scouts. Wide receiver Tez Johnson, with 77 receptions this season, is another standout to watch.
Michigan may have had a less-than-ideal 8-5 season, largely due to inconsistent quarterback play, but the Wolverines are still sending eight players to the combine. Future prospects look bright with the potential addition of five-star QB Bryce Underwood. Defensively, players like Mason Graham and Will Johnson are expected to dominate the first round, which should boost their recruiting efforts despite the recent downturn.
Iowa doesn’t have any first-round headlines this year, but sending seven players to the combine is nothing to sneeze at. Running back Kaleb Johnson, whose performance could elevate his draft stock, and linebacker Jay Higgins, are players to keep an eye on come draft time.
Minnesota might surprise some, sending six players to the combine. Offensive lineman Aireontae Ersery might narrowly miss the first-round cut, but the team’s overall presence is notable and a point of pride for Coach PJ Fleck.
Maryland impressively matches Penn State with five players headed to Indianapolis. Receivers like Tai Felton and Kaden Prather are expected to garner attention on the field.
Penn State is riding high from a final four appearance with just five players headed to the combine. Yet, they’ve retained many key players who are aiming for another trip to the national championship next season. Abdul Carter and Tyler Warren are anticipated first-round picks, stoking excitement for what’s to come.
From UCLA, five players are making their way to the combine, outpacing their local rivals USC, who have just three. Linebacker Carson Schwesinger may not be in the first round, but his season’s 136 tackles definitely catch the eye of scouts.
Nebraska and Rutgers each have four attendees at the combine. Nebraska’s Ty Robinson might attract attention with his impressive seven sacks during the season. Over at Rutgers, running back Kyle Monangai, who rushed for 1,279 yards, could have a promising NFL career ahead.
USC only has three players attending the event, but this shouldn’t be a cause for much concern given the emerging talent that will soon make their way to Indianapolis. Meanwhile, Wisconsin also sends three, keeping its reputation as a wellspring of NFL talent alive with standout safety Hunter Wohler.
Lastly, Indiana finds two of its players headed to the combine. Defensive tackle CJ West could go early in the rounds, with quarterback Kurtis Rourke catching scouts’ eyes after a strong season.
While Illinois, Purdue, and Washington each send one player to Indianapolis, Michigan State and Northwestern take a backseat this year without any players participating. With the combine set to unfold, all eyes will be keenly watching how these prospects fare on the national stage.
