We’re inching ever so closer to both the college football and NFL 2025 season, and that means we can start watching current Ohio State players on the banks of the Olentangy on Saturdays, then turn on the television or streaming device on Sunday and watch more former Buckeyes do their best work in NFL stadiums.

There are a ton of former OSU players littered across NFL rosters, so you can almost watch a player or two with Scarlet and Gray in their blood almost every time you watch the game at its highest level.

CBS Sports has come out with its top 100 NFL players ahead of the coming season, and you know Ohio State is represented. There may not be too many former Buckeyes at the very top of the league any longer, but they are still there. In fact, CBS Sports has three former OSU players among the top 100. It’s just an opinion piece by Pete Prisco, but it’s still interesting to see who he has identified and what he says about each.

Here’s a look at all three, their ranking, and why they are ranked where they are, according to Prisco. We go from the furthest away from No. 1 to the closest.

What Prisco Says:

Bosa had nine sacks in 14 games, but still showed off his ability to win off the edge by totaling a lot of pressures. He didn’t get a lot of help from the rest of the line, which is why they had a major overhaul of that unit this offseason. He’s still just 27 and in the prime of his career. (Last season: No. 10)

What We Say:

If not for injuries and more talent around Bosa, he could be higher on this list. In fact, he was one of the most feared pass rushers in the NFL prior to this season. Don’t be surprised if he regains that form during the upcoming season.

No. 37 – Cameron Heyward, Defensive Tackle | Pittsburgh SteelersWhat Prisco Says:

After a down injury-plagued season in 2023, Heyward had one of his best seasons in 2024. He had eight sacks and was a force for the Steelers defense. Age is starting to be an issue at 35. (Last season: NR)

What We Say:

What a long and productive career Heyward has had. If it’s possible, the All-Pro might be a wee bit underrated. It looked like he was going to drop off after injuries as his career began to sunset in 2023, but last year showed everyone there is still something left in the tank.

What Prisco Says:

In 2024, when he finally had a top-level quarterback, McLaurin was even better than he had been in the past. He had 82 catches with a career-high 13 touchdown receptions as he and Jayden Daniels developed a nice rapport. (Last season: NR)

What We Say:

McLaurin surprised everyone when he became a star in the League during his rookie campaign and hasn’t looked back since. He finally has someone to throw to him and with his ability to get open, his speed, and hands, he has plenty of great years still ahead of him.

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