5 Ohio State Wide Receivers in nfl History
Ohio state wide receivers in nfl, often referred to as “Wide Receiver U,” has a storied history of producing elite-level talent for the NFL—and its wide receivers are no exception. Over the years, the Buckeyes have gifted the league some of the most dynamic, reliable, and game-changing players to grace the gridiron. From clutch performers to Super Bowl champions, these athletes have left an indelible mark on both the NFL and college football.
But who truly stands out among Ohio State’s wide receiver alumni? Join us as we explore the greatest wide receivers OSU has brought to the NFL, analyzing their careers, ranking their impact, and celebrating the legacy they’ve cemented at every level of play.
Criteria for Selection
Before identifying the best Ohio State wide receivers in NFL history, it’s crucial to establish the criteria for ranking these players. The following factors were considered in the evaluation process:
- NFL Career Performance: Key statistics such as receptions, receiving yards, touchdowns, and Pro Bowl selections.
- Team Impact: Contributions to their NFL teams and their performances in critical moments (e.g., playoff appearances or championship wins).
- Longevity and Consistency: How players maintained their performance levels over their careers.
- College Legacy: Achievements and performances during their time at Ohio State, shedding light on early flashes of greatness.
These metrics provide a balanced view of each player’s career, combining statistical dominance with their significance to their teams and the game at large.
Profiles of Top Receivers
1. Cris Carter
Ohio State Career:
Carter was a standout wide receiver for the Buckeyes from 1984–1986. Known for his exceptional hands and precise route-running, he set school records for receptions (168) and touchdowns (27) at the time of his departure.
NFL Career:
Cris Carter’s NFL career began with the Philadelphia Eagles but soared to new heights with the Minnesota Vikings. Over his 16 NFL seasons, Carter amassed 1,101 receptions for 13,899 yards and 130 touchdowns. He was an 8-time Pro Bowl selection, a 2-time First-Team All-Pro, and a member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Carter’s incredible ability to catch under pressure and make acrobatic sideline grabs made him one of the most reliable receivers in history.
Key Achievements:
- Pro Football Hall of Fame inductee (2013)
- Ranked 4th all-time in career touchdown receptions at the time of his retirement
- Known for “possessing the best hands in NFL history”
2. Michael Thomas
Ohio State Career:
Michael Thomas made his mark during his time at Ohio State, particularly during the 2014 season when the Buckeyes won the College Football Playoff National Championship. Though his college stats didn’t break records, his potential as a game-changing receiver was clear.
NFL Career:
Drafted by the New Orleans Saints in 2016, Thomas wasted no time in becoming one of the league’s best. His 2019 season was historic, as he set the NFL single-season record for receptions (149) and was named AP Offensive Player of the Year. With over 6,100 receiving yards and 35 touchdowns in just six seasons, Thomas remains a force whenever healthy.
Key Achievements:
- NFL Offensive Player of the Year (2019)
- 3-time Pro Bowl selection
- Fastest player to reach 500 career receptions in NFL history (69 games)
3. Santonio Holmes
Ohio State Career:
Holmes demonstrated his big-play ability at Ohio State, racking up 140 receptions for 2,295 yards and 25 touchdowns over three seasons (2003–2005).
NFL Career:
Holmes’ professional career shined brightest during his time with the Pittsburgh Steelers. Known for his game-breaking speed and clutch performances, Holmes delivered one of the most iconic moments in NFL history by catching the game-winning touchdown in Super Bowl XLIII against the Cardinals—earning Super Bowl MVP honors.
Key Achievements:
- Super Bowl XLIII MVP
- One of the most memorable playoff performances in NFL history
- Career totals of 389 receptions, 6,030 receiving yards, and 36 touchdowns
4. Terry Glenn
Ohio State Career:
Glenn’s explosive 1995 season at Ohio State (1,411 yards, 17 TDs) earned him the Biletnikoff Award as the nation’s top receiver.
NFL Career:
Drafted 7th overall by the New England Patriots in 1996, Glenn contributed immediately, breaking the franchise’s rookie records for receptions and receiving yards. During his career, which included stints with New England, Green Bay, and Dallas, Glenn recorded 593 catches for 8,823 yards and 44 touchdowns.
Key Achievements:
- NFL Pro Bowl selection (1999)
- Instrumental in the Patriots reaching Super Bowl XXXI
- Remembered for his speed and deep-ball prowess
5. Joey Galloway
Ohio State Career:
One of the fastest receivers to come out of Ohio State, Galloway totaled 2,085 yards and 19 touchdowns during his OSU tenure (1991–1994).
NFL Career:
Selected by the Seattle Seahawks in the first round of the 1995 NFL Draft, Galloway brought elite speed to the league. Over his 16-year career, Galloway tallied 10,950 receiving yards and 77 touchdowns, becoming one of the premier deep threats of his era. His longevity was a testament to his unique skill set and conditioning.
Key Achievements:
- 3 seasons with 1,000+ receiving yards
- 2nd all-time receiving yards for the Seahawks (at retirement)
Comparison and Ranking
When ranking these receivers, it’s evident that each brought unique skills and qualities to the NFL:
- Cris Carter – Longevity, stats, impact, and Hall of Fame status make him Ohio State’s greatest wide receiver product.
- Michael Thomas – Though still in his prime, his record-breaking seasons cannot be ignored.
- Santonio Holmes – His Super Bowl heroics set him apart, but his career totals fall short of others on this list.
- Terry Glenn – A dominant college career and solid pro career land him in the top tier.
- Joey Galloway – Galloway’s incredible speed made him unforgettable, but he ranks slightly lower due to fewer accolades compared to others.
Ohio State’s Legacy in the NFL
Beyond individual players, the success of Ohio State wide receivers reflects the program’s ability to cultivate elite talent and prepare them for the professional stage. Players like Carter and Thomas set gold standards, while Holmes and Glenn brought thrilling moments to NFL fans. This rich tradition continues to attract top talent to Columbus, ensuring Ohio State remains “Wide Receiver U.”
Which Receiver Tops Your List?
Ohio State’s impact on the NFL is undeniable, and the accomplishments of its wide receivers showcase this legacy. From clutch Super Bowl performances to record-breaking seasons, these players have cemented their place in football history.
Who’s your all-time favorite Ohio State wide receiver in the NFL? Share your thoughts in the comments below—let’s settle the debate once and for all!
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