Top 10 best Ohio State football players of all time

Few college programs have shaped football history like Ohio State University. From the roaring crowds at Ohio Stadium to Heisman-winning moments and national championships, the Buckeyes’ legacy is carved deep into the sport’s soul. At Wintips.com, we take a closer look at the best Ohio State football players of all time — the legends who defined generations of Buckeye greatness.

Top 10 best Ohio State football players of all time

For decades, Ohio State has been a pipeline of NFL legends - players who didn’t just wear scarlet and gray but carried that spirit onto the biggest stages. Now, let’s count down the best Ohio State football players of all time, from the modern icons to the eternal legends.

10. London Fletcher

London Fletcher was the unsung hero of the ‘Greatest Show on Turf’ era. As the heart and soul of the Rams’ defense, he brought unmatched consistency and leadership. A true iron man, Fletcher never missed a single game in his 16-year NFL career - a testament to his grit and professionalism.

ondon Fletcher wearing the St. Louis Rams uniform, preparing for a defensive play during the 1999 Super Bowl season — London Fletcher – the relentless linebacker who anchored the Rams’ defense during their golden era

Though often overshadowed by the offensive stars, he was every bit as crucial to the Rams’ success, especially during their Super Bowl XXXIV triumph.

9. C.J. Stroud

C.J. Stroud may represent the new age of Buckeye greatness, but his calm precision and football IQ have already earned him a seat among the elite. With laser accuracy and poise under pressure, Stroud set multiple passing records, redefining what a modern Ohio State quarterback looks like.

C.J. Stroud, Ohio State quarterback during 2022 season — C.J. Stroud – calm precision and rising NFL brilliance

Beyond stats, Stroud’s leadership and quiet confidence made him a fan favorite - the kind of player who doesn’t just play the game but orchestrates it like a maestro.

8. Justin Fields

When Justin Fields transferred to Ohio State, he didn’t just join a team - he changed its trajectory. His dual-threat ability made every defense tremble, and his fearless performances in the College Football Playoff proved that he was built for greatness.

Justin Fields in Ohio State uniform preparing to throw — Justin Fields – the dual-threat quarterback redefining Buckeye offense

Fields was the perfect mix of athleticism, intelligence, and resilience - the kind of quarterback who could both outrun and outthink his opponents. He remains a symbol of courage and consistency, carrying the Buckeye flame into the NFL.

7. Joey Bosa

Joey Bosa didn’t just play defense - he terrorized offenses. As one of the most dominant defensive ends in college football, Bosa was the heart of the Buckeyes’ iron wall, feared for his explosiveness and relentless pursuit of the quarterback.

Joey Bosa, Ohio State defensive end making a tackle — Joey Bosa – relentless force of Ohio State’s defense

His time in Columbus helped build the modern Ohio State defensive identity. The Bosa legacy - later carried on by his brother Nick - still strikes fear across the Big Ten.

6. Ezekiel Elliott

When Ohio State fans hear “feed Zeke,” they smile with nostalgia. Ezekiel Elliott’s postseason run in 2014 was pure cinematic magic - from his 230-yard destruction of Alabama to the national championship glory that followed.

Ezekiel Elliott celebrating a touchdown for Ohio State — Ezekiel Elliott – the modern Buckeye superstar

Elliott’s mix of speed, strength, and swagger made him unforgettable. He was the heartbeat of an offense that refused to be denied, and even today, fans remember his towel wave and fearless energy.

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5. Orlando Pace

Nicknamed the “Pancake Man,” Orlando Pace redefined what it meant to play offensive tackle. In an era when linemen rarely got the spotlight, Pace became a Heisman Trophy finalist - a nearly impossible feat for his position.

Orlando Pace, Ohio State offensive tackle and NFL Hall of Famer — Orlando Pace – redefining dominance on the offensive line

His dominance protected quarterbacks and opened holes like a human bulldozer. He later became an NFL Hall of Famer, proving that even linemen can become legends in their own right.

4. Chris Spielman

Toughness - Leadership - Heart. Chris Spielman embodied the Buckeye spirit in every snap he played. As one of the fiercest linebackers in college football, he was the soul of Ohio State’s defense - a tackling machine with an unstoppable motor.

Chris Spielman, Ohio State linebacker and team leader — Chris Spielman – fierce linebacker and heart of the Buckeyes' defense

After college, Spielman continued his greatness in the NFL and later as a broadcaster and mentor. His story reminds every Buckeye that greatness isn’t just about talent, but about commitment and grit.

3. Troy Smith

Troy Smith’s journey from underdog to Heisman Trophy winner is pure Buckeye folklore. In 2006, he commanded the Ohio State offense with poise and flair, leading the team to an undefeated regular season and securing the nation’s top individual honor.

Troy Smith, quarterback for Ohio State during 2006 season — Troy Smith – the Heisman-winning leader of the 2006 Buckeyes

Smith’s style was electric - confident yet composed - the definition of leadership. He remains a symbol of how perseverance and hard work can turn dreams into gold.

2. Eddie George

Few players have ever run with such power and poetry as Eddie George. The 1995 Heisman Trophy winner was the ultimate workhorse, known for his bruising style and calm determination.

Eddie George, Ohio State running back and 1995 Heisman winner — Eddie George – power, precision, and pride of the Buckeyes

Every carry felt like a statement - that greatness requires both grace and grit. George’s impact stretched beyond the field, as he became a beloved ambassador for the program and a model of discipline.

1. Archie Griffin

Archie Griffin stands as college football’s ultimate legend - the only player to ever win the Heisman Trophy twice. A master of consistency and humility, Griffin rushed for over 5,500 yards and became the face of Ohio State excellence.

Portrait of Archie Griffin, legendary Ohio State running back — Archie Griffin – the only two-time Heisman Trophy winner in college football history

He didn’t need flash or drama; his greatness was quiet, methodical, and undeniable. To this day, his record remains untouched - a testament to how hard work can become history.

Best current Ohio State football players

While history shines bright, the present looks just as golden. Players like Marvin Harrison Jr., Emeka Egbuka, and TreVeyon Henderson continue to carry the Buckeye banner high, blending skill with modern swagger. They are the heartbeat of today’s team - the best players on Ohio State football - and the next chapter in this unstoppable story.

Why Ohio State football keeps producing legends

It’s not luck. It’s culture. Ohio State’s relentless drive, elite coaching, and NFL-level preparation make it a breeding ground for greatness. The Buckeye Brotherhood emphasizes discipline, teamwork, and pride - values that forge both players and men. Every generation inherits that same fire: to outwork, outplay, and outlast.

Conclusion – Ohio State’s never-ending line of greatness

Ohio State football is more than trophies and records - it’s a living, breathing tradition. From Archie Griffin to C.J. Stroud, the scarlet and gray run through generations of champions who embody what it means to be the best.