Emeka Egbuka transitioned from being the focal point of Ohio State football’s 2021 receiver class to emerging as an underrated standout and then facing challenges to return to play. Jaxon Smith-Njigba, the player he replaced as Ohio State’s slot target, had experienced a similar journey. However, when it was time for Smith-Njigba to decide on the NFL Draft, the timing compelled him to focus on the beginning of his professional career
On Thursday, Egbuka revealed that he has decided to stay in Columbus for a fourth season. This choice presents him with a chance that Smith-Njigba didn’t have—the opportunity to showcase the most polished iteration of his skills in the later stage of his collegiate career. Additionally, Egbuka can now take on the role of an on-field mentor for the younger receivers who are aiming to make the same leap that he successfully made in the past.
Moreover, Egbuka has the opportunity to etch a lasting milestone into his legacy. As of the opening day, he is just 1,042 yards away from surpassing Michael Jenkins as Ohio State’s all-time leading receiver. The newly implemented Big Ten championship game qualification format and expanded playoff system may provide him with additional games, bringing the record even closer.
We are already familiar with the impact of a healthy Egbuka season coupled with top-notch quarterback play. In 2022, Marvin Harrison Jr. garnered widespread recognition as C.J. Stroud’s most potent weapon. Meanwhile, Egbuka quietly compiled an impressive season, ranking fifth in Ohio State’s history for both receptions (74) and yards (1,151) at that time.
In 2023, glimpses of brilliance resurfaced for Egbuka, notably during crucial contributions against Notre Dame when Marvin Harrison Jr. was hampered by an ankle injury. However, Egbuka faced his own
midseason setback with a high ankle sprain, leading to tightrope surgery and a three-game absence, ultimately affecting his performance. This injury may have also influenced his decision to stay in Columbus, considering potential lingering effects that could impact his pre-draft preparations.
Among the recent NFL Draft decisions that kept Ohio State fans on edge, Egbuka’s wasn’t the most pivotal. This observation doesn’t diminish his skills or impact but speaks to the abundance of talent
consistently emerging in Brian Hartline’s receiver group. Finding a replacement for Egbuka merely involves turning to one of the numerous highly touted prospects on the cusp of breakthroughs in this fiercely competitive unit.
Nevertheless, Egbuka’s return offers the prospect of unlocking untapped potential. While he has excelled in the slot within previous receiver configurations, his speed and versatility could enable him to operate across multiple positions. Alongside other versatile talents like Carnell Tate, Brandon Inniss, Jeremiah
Smith, and more, Egbuka could become the central figure in a new offensive approach, presenting a multi-positional threat that challenges opposing defenses in innovative ways.
Egbuka’s versatility is evident even when confined to the slot, showcasing his capacity to introduce a dynamic element to the run game.
In addition to their on-field contributions, emerging talents like Egbuka, Harrison, and Fleming also benefit from having a seasoned veteran to look up to. Smith-Njigba was expected to fill that role for Egbuka, Harrison, and first-time starter Julian Fleming in 2022, but a hamstring injury sidelined him for the majority of the season. Despite his absence, the group performed well, with Egbuka seamlessly stepping into Smith-Njigba’s shoes.
Looking ahead, Egbuka’s presence continues to offer tangible advantages. His established abilities provide a sense of security for the upcoming starting quarterback, whether it’s the incoming transfer Will Howard from Kansas State or the determined Devin Brown. Furthermore, Egbuka’s wealth of experience positions him as a mentor for those he will eventually pass the NFL-ready torch to a year from now.