5 former Ohio State players who could go overlooked in the NFL draft
The NFL Scouting Combine kicks off on Tuesday, and once again the Ohio State football program will possess a heavy presence in Indianapolis.
After having 12 players drafted — including five first-rounders — a year ago, the Buckeyes will send eight former players to next week’s annual draft showcase. Among the former OSU players invited to this year’s combine are projected first-round picks Malik Hooker and Marshon Lattimore, as well as center Pat Elflein, linebacker Raekwon McMillan, H-back Curtis Samuel, cornerback Gareon Conley and punter Cam Johnston.
But just because a prospect didn’t get invited to the combine doesn’t mean his NFL hopes are over. With that in mind, let’s look at five ex-Buckeyes who could go overlooked this draft season.
Corey Smith
An oft-forgotten senior on Ohio State’s 2016 team, Corey Smith arrived in Columbus in 2013 as a 4-star prospect. Injuries, however, prevented Smith from receiving any sort of consistent playing time throughout his four seasons with the Buckeyes.
From 2014-16, Smith totaled 31 receptions for 351 yards. During Ohio State’s national championship season in 2014, the Akron native caught a career-high 20 passes for 255 yards, but failed to top more than 6 catches in either of the previous two seasons.
Nevertheless, Smith’s pro potential seems to have caught the eyes of NFL draft types. On his most recent big board, Bleacher Report’s Matt Miller ranked the former Buckeyes wideout as his No. 41 receiver and 261 overall prospect.
Without the benefit of the combine, Smith will have to wait until Ohio State’s pro day and individual workouts to prove his worth to NFL teams. But if he can do that — and stay healthy — he could unexpectedly hear his name at the draft this spring.
Entire article:
https://www.landof10.com/ohio-state/5-ex-ohio-state-players-go-overlooked-nfl-draft
