Ohio State’s Top 5 Highest-Rated Players for 2025 Revealed

Championship aspirations are soaring in Columbus as the Ohio State Buckeyes reveal their top five highest-rated players for the 2025 season. This elite group, spotlighted in Eleven Warriors’ “Buckeye 20” released on August 22, 2025, signals the team’s readiness to contend for a national title. The Buckeyes’ “reload, not rebuild” approach, cultivated by their wealth of talent, positions them as a formidable force in college football.

Buckeyes’ Elite Talent

Ohio State consistently boasts one of the most talented rosters in college football, a fact underscored by their ranking as third nationally in 247Sports’ Team Talent Composite for 2025. The Buckeyes’ roster includes an impressive 11 five-star players, nearly double the amount of any other Big Ten team. This concentration of elite talent is a key factor in their perennial status as national championship contenders.

Top-Rated Players: The List

The top five players, as identified by Eleven Warriors, represent a blend of established stars and emerging talents, poised to make a significant impact in the upcoming season.

1. Jeremiah Smith (Sophomore, Wide Receiver)

Jeremiah Smith isn’t just Ohio State’s top-rated player; he’s considered by many to be the best player in college football. As a freshman in 2024, Smith shattered Ohio State’s freshman receiving records, hauling in 76 catches for 1,315 yards and 15 touchdowns. His performance included a national championship-clinching score, solidifying his reputation as a clutch performer. Entering his sophomore year, Smith is expected to be even more dominant, presenting a virtually unmatchable challenge for opposing defenses. His exceptional talent and proven performance make him the focal point of the Buckeyes’ offensive strategy.

2. Caleb Downs (Junior, Safety)

Junior safety Caleb Downs, a unanimous All-American in 2024, is another cornerstone of the Ohio State defense. Ranked among the top players nationally, Downs is celebrated for his versatility, elite athleticism, and exceptional football IQ. His ability to impact every play makes him an invaluable asset. According to team analysts, Ohio State’s defensive scheme will once again be built around Downs’ unique skill set, leveraging his strengths to maximize the unit’s overall effectiveness. His leadership and playmaking ability are crucial for the Buckeyes’ defensive success.

3. Sonny Styles (Senior, Linebacker)

Senior linebacker Sonny Styles occupies the third spot, reflecting his significant growth and impact on the Buckeyes’ defense. After transitioning to linebacker, Styles demonstrated continuous improvement throughout the 2024 season, culminating in a standout performance during the College Football Playoff. His development and physical presence are vital for the Buckeyes’ defensive unit. Coaches emphasize Styles’ improved understanding of the defensive scheme and his ability to anticipate plays, making him a formidable force in the middle of the field. His continued progress is essential for Ohio State’s defensive aspirations.

4. Carnell Tate (Senior, Wide Receiver)

Senior wide receiver Carnell Tate is poised for a breakout season, stepping into the No. 2 role behind Jeremiah Smith. In 2024, Tate recorded 52 receptions for 733 yards and four touchdowns as the team’s clear No. 3 receiver. Now, with an expanded role, he is expected to emerge as one of college football’s premier wideouts in 2025. Tate’s combination of size, speed, and route-running ability makes him a dangerous weapon in the passing game. Offensive coordinator Chip Kelly has highlighted Tate’s potential to stretch the field and create mismatches, further enhancing the Buckeyes’ offensive firepower.

5. Max Klare (Redshirt Junior, Tight End)

Rounding out the top five is redshirt junior tight end Max Klare. Klare is recognized as a reliable and consistent target in the passing game, providing a valuable option for the Ohio State quarterbacks. While his statistics may not be as eye-catching as the wide receivers, Klare’s ability to secure key receptions and contribute as a blocker makes him an integral part of the Buckeyes’ offensive scheme. His presence adds another dimension to the offense, forcing defenses to account for his versatility and reliability.

The Road Ahead

The presence of these highly-rated players underscores the Buckeyes’ commitment to maintaining a championship-caliber roster. With a blend of established stars and emerging talent, Ohio State is well-positioned to make a strong push for the 2025 national championship. The leadership of head coach Ryan Day, combined with the exceptional talent on the roster, creates a potent combination that could lead the Buckeyes to the pinnacle of college football.

Implications for the Season

The rankings provided by Eleven Warriors offer valuable insight into the Buckeyes’ potential for the upcoming season. These top five players are expected to be key contributors, driving the team’s success on both sides of the ball. Their performance will be critical as Ohio State navigates a challenging schedule and aims to secure a spot in the College Football Playoff. The team’s success hinges on the ability of these players to live up to their potential and lead the Buckeyes to victory.

Conclusion

Ohio State’s 2025 roster is brimming with talent, exemplified by its top five highest-rated players. Led by stars like Jeremiah Smith and Caleb Downs, the Buckeyes are poised for a season filled with high expectations and championship aspirations. With a strong foundation of talent and experienced leadership, Ohio State is ready to contend for the ultimate prize in college football.