Ohio State vs. Iowa: 2027 NFL Draft Prospects to Watch in Big Ten Showdown
The fifth-ranked Ohio State Buckeyes travel to Iowa City to face the 14th-ranked Hawkeyes in a pivotal Big Ten matchup Saturday afternoon. Beyond the conference standings, this game offers a prime look at several players who could hear their names called early in the 2027 NFL Draft.
Kickoff is set for 3:30 p.m. Eastern on CBS and Paramount+. For Iowa fans and draft enthusiasts alike, here's a breakdown of the top prospects on both rosters.
Who are the top Ohio State draft prospects in this game?
Ohio State brings a loaded roster to Kinnick Stadium, headlined by a wide receiver who could make history.
Jeremiah Smith, wide receiver (Junior)
Smith is the headliner. At 6-foot-4 and 225 pounds, he combines rare size with explosive speed. He attacks routes aggressively and wins contested catches at the highest point. Analysts suggest he could become the first wide receiver selected with the No. 1 overall pick since Keyshawn Johnson in 1996, and only the fourth in NFL history.
For teams like the Miami Dolphins, who may hold an early pick, Smith represents a franchise-altering weapon. His Miami roots make him an especially intriguing homecoming candidate for South Florida.
Julian Sayin, quarterback (Redshirt Sophomore)
Sayin is a rhythm passer who relies on anticipation and timing. He understands offensive structure and delivers accurate throws to the right spots. Having Smith as his top target certainly helps. Some draft analysts speculate a team could pair the two in the same draft class, selecting Smith in round one and Sayin in round two to develop behind an established starter.
Jaylen McClain, safety (Junior)
McClain stepped into the starting lineup in 2025 and quickly became the defensive backfield's leader. He communicates well, organizes the secondary, and tackles reliably. His range suits a free safety role at the next level. He recorded his first career interception earlier this season against Texas. Currently projected as a third-round pick, McClain could rise with continued ball production.
Kenyatta Jackson Jr., edge (Redshirt Senior)
Jackson uses long arms, speed, and power to pressure quarterbacks. His flexibility allows him to bend around tackles in passing situations. The knock on him is inconsistent finishing, but his raw potential keeps him in day-two conversations. Improving his counter moves would solidify his stock.
Luke Montgomery, guard (Senior)
Montgomery is the steady, reliable interior lineman every offense needs. In 2025, he allowed just three sacks and drew only two penalties across 14 games. He has the athleticism to pull and clear lanes at the second level. While he could play tackle in a pinch, his future in the NFL is at guard. He's a strong day-three value with a chance to sneak into round three.
Which Iowa Hawkeyes could be drafted in 2027?
The Hawkeyes have several prospects who fit the program's traditional hard-nosed identity.
Reece Vander Zee, wide receiver (Junior)
At 6-foot-4 and 215 pounds, Vander Zee is a physical presence on the outside. He wins contested catches and blocks willingly in the run game. His route running needs refinement, which could push him to return for another season. If he declares, he projects as a late-round pick with special teams value.
Addison Ostrenga, tight end (5th-year Senior)
Ostrenga is a classic in-line blocker who can function as a sixth offensive lineman. He missed most of 2025 with an Achilles tear but has returned to play in all four games this season, posting seven receptions for 70 yards and a touchdown. Comparisons to former Dolphins tight end Durham Smythe fit well. He profiles as a reliable depth piece at the NFL level.
Zach Lutmer, cornerback (Redshirt Junior)
Lutmer thrives in the slot as a nickel corner. He tackles well, supports the run, and blitzes effectively. He can slide outside when needed, though his best fit is inside. Press coverage and footwork remain areas for improvement. He projects as a mid-round pick with special teams upside.
Trevor Lauck, offensive tackle (Redshirt Junior)
Lauck is a polished pass protector who keeps his quarterback clean and handles stunts well. His run blocking needs work, and speed rushers can give him trouble. He could develop into a swing tackle or move inside to guard, where his skill set might translate better. He's a day-three prospect with developmental upside.
Hank Brown, quarterback (Redshirt Junior)
Brown is an old-school pocket passer who became the starter this year. He's shown flashes but needs to cut down on turnovers. He's likely system-dependent at the next level and would require development time. He profiles as a capable backup who can steady an offense when called upon.
What does this game mean for Iowa fans?
Beyond the draft intrigue, this is a statement game for the Hawkeyes. A win over a top-five opponent would boost Iowa's playoff resume and validate the program's standing among the Big Ten elite. For fans, it's a chance to see future NFL talent on both sides of the ball in a high-stakes conference clash.
The matchup also highlights Iowa's continued pipeline of NFL-ready talent, particularly on the offensive line and at tight end, positions where the program has historically excelled.
Frequently asked questions about the Ohio State vs. Iowa draft prospects
Who is the highest-rated draft prospect in the Ohio State vs. Iowa game?
Ohio State wide receiver Jeremiah Smith is widely considered the top prospect in this game and a potential No. 1 overall pick in the 2027 NFL Draft.
Which Iowa player has the best chance to be drafted early?
Zach Lutmer, the Hawkeyes' nickel cornerback, currently projects as the team's highest pick, with mid-round potential that could improve with a strong season.
What time is the Ohio State vs. Iowa game?
The game kicks off at 3:30 p.m. Eastern (2:30 p.m. Central) on CBS and Paramount+.
Could any Iowa offensive linemen be drafted in 2027?
Yes, left tackle Trevor Lauck is a day-three prospect who could also move to guard at the NFL level.