Ohio State’s Jack Sawyer has recently emerged as one of the most discussed defensive prospects in the 2025 NFL Draft. As the star edge rusher put up a jaw-dropping performance in the College Football Playoff, his draft stock is rising at an unprecedented rate. But does this meteoric rise reflect the true talent of the player, or is it a case of NFL teams overreacting to a few dominant games? Let’s take a controversial look at Sawyer’s draft stock and the hype surrounding him.
A Playoff Performance to Remember
Sawyer’s recent breakout in the College Football Playoff against some of the best offensive lines in the nation has made scouts, analysts, and fans alike question if he is the next big thing. In a dominating win against a top-ranked SEC school, Sawyer racked up multiple sacks, tackles for loss, and disrupted key plays. The performances were undeniably impressive, highlighting a player who can both set the edge and collapse the pocket with speed and power. His physical tools are undeniable—standing at 6’4″ and weighing 260 pounds, Sawyer possesses the size and athleticism that NFL teams salivate over.
But here’s the controversial angle: Are we witnessing the product of an ideal system, or is Sawyer truly an elite prospect who deserves to be in the first-round conversation?
The System Debate
Ohio State has become known for churning out defensive linemen who shine in their system, only to struggle when they face NFL-caliber talent. Players like Chase Young, Nick Bosa, and Joey Bosa have all had spectacular college careers, only for their success to somewhat translate into the NFL, but not always in a way that justifies their high draft status. Is Jack Sawyer next in line for this same pattern?
The Buckeyes’ defense is known for its aggressive scheme and heavy rotation, allowing players to stay fresh and make the most of their opportunities. While Sawyer has certainly stood out in key games, is his production a direct result of a favorable system, or does he genuinely possess the technical skills to dominate in the NFL?
A High-Risk, High-Reward Pick?
Let’s talk about the elephant in the room: NFL teams are notorious for overvaluing players based on playoff performances. The “drafting for potential” mindset is often the downfall of many general managers, who get swept up in a player’s flash plays and ignore the inconsistencies in their game. In Sawyer’s case, it’s hard to ignore the fact that he has displayed a troubling lack of consistency throughout his college career, sometimes getting lost in games where he was expected to dominate.
NFL scouts have to remember that dominating in college doesn’t always translate to NFL success, especially for edge rushers who have to battle against quicker, more skilled blockers every single snap. Sawyer’s penchant for disappearing in big moments during regular-season games raises legitimate questions about whether he can make that leap. While his playoff tape is exciting, it doesn’t erase the fact that he still has holes in his game—especially his pass-rush technique and ability to consistently shed blocks.
The Overblown Hype
Despite the big-name schools and fans of the NFL being quick to crown Sawyer as a first-round talent, there’s a dangerous undercurrent of overhyped expectations. Every season, players like Sawyer emerge after a few memorable games, only to fade into mediocrity once they reach the pros. Could Sawyer simply be a product of the moment? His career trajectory, which has shown flashes of greatness but a lack of true, consistent dominance, raises the question: Is he truly worth the gamble of a top pick?
NFL teams will face an intense decision regarding Sawyer. His athleticism and playoff dominance certainly demand attention, but one must be cautious not to place too much stock into a few moments. Will his success on the grand stage be enough to overshadow the entire body of his college work? Time will tell.
Conclusion: A Flash in the Pan or the Real Deal?
Jack Sawyer’s rise in the 2025 NFL Draft conversation is nothing short of a rollercoaster. His dominance in the College Football Playoff has undeniably made waves, but let’s not get carried away. He is a player with tremendous physical gifts and undeniable potential. However, whether he can sustain this success at the professional level remains an open question.
As we approach the NFL Draft, teams will need to dig deeper into Sawyer’s overall body of work. The hype surrounding his name could cloud the judgment of even the most experienced general managers. The key question remains: Is Sawyer the next big defensive stud, or is he a flash-in-the-pan player who dominated in a specific moment, with nothing left to show when the lights are no longer shining? The answer might not be as clear-cut as some believe.