SHOCKING TWIST: Cincinnati to Host Buckeyes Ahead of NFL Draft
In a move that has sent shockwaves through the college football and NFL communities, the University of Cincinnati will *officially host* the Ohio State Buckeyes for a pre-draft showcase—just days before the 2025 NFL Draft. Yes, you read that right: the Buckeyes, Ohio’s flagship football powerhouse, are heading down I-71 to prepare for the next level *on enemy turf*.
The decision, which came seemingly out of nowhere, has blindsided fans, alumni, and even some insiders within the Buckeye program. For decades, a low-simmering rivalry has existed between the Bearcats and Buckeyes, despite Ohio State’s dominance in head-to-head matchups. The idea of Buckeye stars training or appearing in red and black facilities? Unthinkable—until now.
Sources close to the situation say the move is part of a new partnership between the programs, brokered in secret over the past six months. Why the secrecy? According to one OSU insider, “Because we knew people would lose their minds.” And lose their minds they have—social media has exploded with backlash, memes, and speculation.
Cincinnati’s newly renovated indoor practice facility, the jewel of their $100 million athletic overhaul, was reportedly a huge draw for Ohio State’s coaching and draft preparation staff. But that hasn’t stopped Buckeye purists from calling it a betrayal. “We have everything we need in Columbus,” one former OSU player tweeted. “Why give Cincinnati the spotlight?”
Adding to the drama, top NFL scouts and media outlets have already confirmed they will attend the joint event—meaning Cincinnati, not Columbus, will be the center of Ohio football just days before the draft. For the Bearcats, this is an unprecedented PR victory. For some Buckeye diehards, it’s a punch to the gut.
The coaching staffs are publicly playing nice, calling it a “collaborative effort for the benefit of Ohio athletes,” but insiders say this may just be the beginning of a strategic alliance that could reshape recruiting in the region. “It’s chess, not checkers,” said one high-level OSU staffer off the record.
Still, the optics are undeniable: the mighty Buckeyes, long the kings of Ohio, setting foot on what many considered “inferior” turf just a decade ago. Is this a sign of humility, desperation—or brilliant foresight in an evolving college football landscape?
Whatever the case, one thing is clear: Cincinnati didn’t just host the Buckeyes. They took the power seat just before the NFL Draft. And that’s a headline no one saw coming.