Ohio State’s 2021 WR Dream Team Shines in the NFL After Dominating College Defenses
The Ohio State Buckeyes have long been a powerhouse in college football, boasting an impressive legacy that includes nine national championships and a steady stream of players making their mark in the NFL. Among the standout talents that emerged from this esteemed program is a remarkable cohort of wide receivers who electrified the field during the 2021 season. Before they became household names on Sundays, players like Emeka Egbuka, Marvin Harrison Jr., Chris Olave, Jaxon Smith-Njigba, and Garrett Wilson were wreaking havoc on opposing defenses in Columbus.
The Elite WR Corps of 2021
The 2021 season at Ohio State was marked by an abundance of wide receiver talent, a group that has since risen to prominence in the NFL. Each player brought a unique skill set to the table, contributing to one of the most dynamic receiving corps in college football history.
Emeka Egbuka’s Promising Start
As a five-star recruit and the top-ranked wide receiver in the 2021 class, Emeka Egbuka did not take long to make an impact. In his freshman year, he caught nine passes for a total of 191 yards, which included a stunning 85-yard reception that showcased his explosive potential.
Marvin Harrison Jr.’s Legacy Begins
Following in the footsteps of his father, Pro Football Hall of Famer Marvin Harrison, Marvin Harrison Jr. entered Ohio State with high expectations. Despite being a four-star recruit ranked 21st among wide receivers, he made his mark as a freshman, recording 11 receptions for 139 yards and three touchdowns. His early performance hinted at the stardom that lay ahead.
Chris Olave: The Senior Leader
As a senior, Chris Olave established himself as the team’s primary receiving threat. Although he did not lead in receptions or yards, he topped the team with 13 touchdown catches, solidifying his status as a key player. Olave’s experience and route-running skills made him a valuable asset on the field.
Jaxon Smith-Njigba: A Defensive Nightmare
Jaxon Smith-Njigba, who joined Ohio State as the fifth-best wide receiver in the 2020 recruiting class, had a breakout season in 2021. He was a consistent target for his quarterbacks, racking up an astounding 95 receptions for 1,606 yards—both team highs. His nine receiving touchdowns further demonstrated his ability to find the end zone, making him a nightmare for opposing defenses.
Garrett Wilson’s Impactful Performance
Another key member of the Buckeyes’ receiving corps was Garrett Wilson, a junior who brought experience to the field. Despite opting out of the Rose Bowl, Wilson’s contributions during the season were significant, as he finished with 70 receptions for 1,058 yards and 12 touchdowns, further adding to the team’s offensive arsenal.
Ohio State WR Depth Chart
The depth chart for the 2021 wide receivers was impressive, with Olave leading the pack as WR1, followed closely by Wilson as WR2, and Smith-Njigba and Egbuka filling critical roles in the lineup.
WR1: Chris Olave
WR2: Garrett Wilson
WR3: Jaxon Smith-Njigba
WR4: Emeka Egbuka
WR5: Julian Fleming
WR6: Marvin Harrison Jr.
A Memorable Social Media Moment
As the members of this talented WR room began to make names for themselves, Pro Football Focus’ college account shared an image featuring Harrison, Wilson, Smith-Njigba, and Olave alongside quarterback CJ Stroud. The post invited fans to “caption this,” but it quickly became a point of contention among Ohio State supporters. The image sparked responses highlighting the group’s inability to secure a playoff victory or a national title, with one commenter quipping, “Hands down best receiver group to never win a playoff game,” while another lamented, “Defense wins championships.”
Ohio State WRs Enter the NFL Draft
As the 2021 season came to a close, the talent of Ohio State’s wide receivers was evident, and many of them entered the NFL Draft with high expectations. Their performances in college set the stage for promising professional careers, but their journey through the draft and into the NFL is a narrative still unfolding. As they navigate the challenges of professional football, their college legacy continues to resonate, proving that while they may have fallen short in the playoff race, their impact on the field is undeniable.
