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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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Kansas City Chiefs tackle Jim Tyrer and Miami Dolphins defensive end Mel Branch (86) in action at the Orange Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Rod Hanna-USA TODAY Sports /

6. Best Ohio State alumni in NFL history: OT Jim Tyrer (1961-74)

On paper, Tyrer’s resume is unbelievable:

  • Super Bowl Champion
  • 3-time AFL Champion
  • 9-time Pro Bowl
  • 6-time All-Pro

The great players of his era raved about his dominance. Hall of Fame edge defensive end Elvin Bethea said the following about Tyrer:

"“He was THE preeminent left tackle in all of football. All other blockers I faced in the NFL were mediocre compared to him. He would just swamp me each game to where I would be lucky to beat him even once in a game.”"

Former NFL champion and AFL All-Star Ben Davidson called Tyrer the “best blocker” he ever faced:

"“He was easily the best blocker I ever faced. He had power and finesse. He could have made an excellent guard, too.”"

Unfortunately, Tyrer’s legacy has become synonymous with his tragic ending. After struggling with depression, he murdered his wife, then committed suicide. As a result, he was never inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. In all-time conversations, his name is rarely mentioned.

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