10 best Ohio State alumni in NFL history

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New Orleans Saints wide receiver Michael Thomas gestures after a catch during the second half against the Chicago Bears at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Chuck Cook-USA TODAY Sports /

9. Best Ohio State alumni in NFL history: WR Michael Thomas (2016-present)

Other former Buckeyes have put up better career numbers. Thomas is only seventh among school alumni in receiving yards, but his peak rivals any other wide receiver in NFL history. In 2019, Thomas set an NFL single-season record with 149 receptions. As a result, he became the first former Buckeye to win NFL Offensive Player of the Year.

Over his first four professional seasons, he posted 470 receptions (NFL record) for 5,512 yards (NFL record) and 32 touchdowns. During that span, he was a two-time first-team All-Pro and three-time Pro Bowl selection.

Since then, he has struggled with injuries. He missed the entire 2021 campaign due to an ankle injury. In 2022, he only managed to play in three games. Thomas is 30 years old. There is still plenty of time for him to rack up career numbers and accolades. For now, his historic run still cements him as a top-ten Ohio State alumni.

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