The 2026 NFL draft delivered a wave of Ohio State talent, with eleven Buckeyes hearing their names called across seven rounds. From the opening night of first‑round action to the final selections on Saturday, the group’s contracts reflect both the promise of their college performances and the financial stakes of the professional game.
Draft Day Highlights
Caleb Downs, a safety from the Buckeyes, became the first Ohio State player drafted, landing with the Dallas Cowboys in the first round. He quickly signed a four‑year deal worth $28,951,992, guaranteeing a substantial entry‑level salary.
Sonny Styles, a linebacker, followed with a first‑round selection by the Washington Commanders. His contract, valued at $37,211,592 over four years, places him among the highest‑paid rookies of the class.
Carnell Tate, a wide receiver, also secured a first‑round spot, this time with the Tennessee Titans. He signed a four‑year agreement projected at $51,134,910, underscoring the premium placed on his position.
Second‑round picks Davison Igbinosun and Max Klare added depth to their respective teams. Igbinosun, drafted by the Buffalo Bills, signed for $7,948,996, while Klare, chosen by the Los Angeles Rams, is slated for an $8,019,854 deal.
Kayden McDonald, a defensive tackle, joined the Houston Texans after being selected in the second round, signing a $12,904,759 contract that reflects his interior line potential.
Later rounds saw Caden Curry, a defensive end, drafted by the Indianapolis Colts in the sixth round and agreeing to a $4,586,532 four‑year pact. Ethan Onianwu, an offensive tackle, was picked by the Atlanta Falcons in the seventh round and signed for $4,535,928.
Will Kacmarek, a tight end, remains unsigned despite a projected $6,849,498 contract, while Max Klare’s deal is still pending. The hold‑outs illustrate the negotiation nuances that can accompany rookie agreements.
All of these signings are tracked by Spotrac, a leading sports contract database, which provides detailed breakdowns of each player’s financial terms. The contracts not only highlight individual earnings but also signal the broader economic trends shaping the NFL’s rookie wage scale.