COLUMBUS, Ohio (TheOBR.com)- This weekend in college football features many great matchups, including a showdown in Columbus between the top-ranked Longhorns and the third-ranked Ohio State Buckeyes. Both teams have some highly regarded 2026 NFL Draft prospects, but here are the names that I think Cleveland Browns fans should pay the most attention to on Saturday.
FILE – Brutus, the Ohio State mascot, stands with members of the band outside AT&T Stadium prior to the Cotton Bowl College Football Playoff semifinal game against Texas, Jan. 10, 2025, in Arlington, Texas. (AP Photo/Gareth Patterson, File)(Gareth Patterson | AP)
Max Klare, TE, Ohio State
Klare brings valuable versatility to the Buckeyes’ offense, with the ability to line up at multiple positions across the field. He’s a sharp route runner with excellent body control and a strong understanding of how to find and exploit soft spots in zone coverage. His athleticism and ability to create separation make him a consistent threat, and he’s especially dangerous after the catch.
A true mismatch for opposing defenses, Klare has the potential to make a significant impact this season in Columbus. However, the biggest area for improvement in his game is run blocking. While he shows effort and has solid strength, his technique still needs refinement.
Caleb Downs, S, Ohio State
Caleb Downs is arguably the best defensive player in the country, and possibly the best overall player in the country. He’s a true Swiss Army Knife as a defensive back with elite football IQ and instincts. You can line him up anywhere you want in the defensive backfield, but he’s at his absolute best as a box safety.
He’s a physical tackler who aims to make his presence felt early. Downs has excellent range and movement skills to cover a lot of ground in a hurry. Add in that he’s a dangerous returner on special teams, and you have all the makings of a top-five pick in next year’s draft.
Trevor Goosby, LT, Texas
Trevor Goosby is set to be a full-time starter for the first time as the new left tackle for Texas after Kelvin Banks moved on to the NFL. Goosby saw action last year at both left tackle and right tackle as an injury replacement and played well. Right now, he is a much better pass protector than a run blocker. In 162 pass blocking snaps last year, he allowed only five total quarterback pressures.
He’s strong and has quick feet with the ideal size, length, and overall frame you want your tackle to have. Goosby is still a bit raw and needs more development with the technical parts of the game, but he’s a guy I will be watching closely this year because he’s got the tools to be a good left tackle and prospect.
Michael Taaffe, S, Texas
Taaffe is a smart, instinctive coverage player with a high motor and solid speed. He has impressive range and closes ground quickly, allowing him to make plays all over the field. Even when beaten initially by a receiver, he shows excellent recovery skills—his fluid hips and burst allow him to flip and accelerate without hesitation.
As a deep free safety, Taaffe’s instincts consistently put him in position to create turnovers or break up passes. He reads the quarterback well, tracking their eyes and anticipating throws—especially when the quarterback locks onto a target.
Despite being under 200 pounds, Taaffe isn’t shy about coming downhill and getting physical in run support. He’s aggressive, willing to take on contact, and has no problem sticking his nose into the action.
Sonny Styles, LB, Ohio State
Sonny Styles is an interesting prospect. He started his collegiate career as a safety for Ohio State in 2022 and 2023 before transitioning to linebacker last season. Styles is a fantastic athlete and found himself on Bruce Feldman’s freak list. From his time as a safety, he’s a versatile player, so you can get creative and move him around like you can with Caleb Banks. Styles has excellent instincts, diagnoses plays quickly, and is always in the right place and time.
He’s a physical force and loves to get involved in the run game with strong, violent hands to shed blocks. He’s inconsistent in man coverage but comfortable in zone coverage, where his instincts and range shine through. He’s got to improve his tackling technique and get more comfortable at the position, but he’s a guy I believe will be a draft riser over the course of the season.
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