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10 best Ohio State alumni in NFL history

By Jakob Ashlin

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
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 /
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Denver Broncos linebacker Randy Gradishar on the field against the San Diego Chargers at at Mile High Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rod Hanna-USA TODAY Sports /

7. Best Ohio State alumni in NFL history: LB Randy Gradishar (1974-83)

Gradishar is one of the most underrated players in NFL history. The seven-time Pro Bowl linebacker was the heart of Denver’s “Orange Crush” defense in the 1970’s. Longtime Ohio State head coach Woody Hayes called him the best linebacker he ever coached at Ohio State.

In college, Gradishar was a force. He finished sixth in Heisman Trophy voting in 1973, and that success translated to the next level. In 1978, he became the first program alumni to win NFL Defensive Player of the Year.

Gradishar was a complete all-around linebacker. For his career, he ranks in the top 20 among former Buckeyes in interceptions (20), sacks (19.5), and fumble recoveries (13).

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