SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. — Ohio State head coach Urban Meyer said Thursday two-time All-American and Big Ten Defensive Lineman of the Year Joey Bosa plans to enter the NFL Draft, joining running back Ezekiel Elliott and quarterback Cardale Jones as Buckeyes electing to leave early.
The news is hardly surprising, as Bosa is expected to be a top-three pick. The junior is one of the more highly touted prospects in this class, despite seeing his numbers take a dip in 2015 compared to a year ago.
Bosa told reporters Wednesday at Fiesta Bowl Media Day that he had made a decision on his future, but said he would likely announce it after the Buckeyes take on Notre Dame New Year's Day at University of Phoenix Stadium. Turns out, his head coach told the world for him.
Jones confirmed Wednesday his intentions to leave early and not transfer to another school for his final year of collegiate eligibility. Elliott said after a 17-14 loss to Michigan State Nov. 21 that he has no plans on returning to Columbus for his senior season.
The NFL regular season comes to a close this weekend, but as it stands through 16 weeks of competition, the Tennessee Titans hold the first overall pick in the draft. The Cleveland Browns are slotted second and San Diego Chargers third.
Meyer said he's had conversations with other players about their futures, but they all agreed to fully revisit it following the Fiesta Bowl. He did not specifically say which players.
The Buckeyes and Fighting Irish are set for a 1 p.m. kickoff Friday.
