COLUMBUS – Receiver Michael Thomas and safety Vonn Bell declared their intention to enter the NFL draft Tuesday, bringing the total number of Buckeye underclassmen to forego their remaining eligibility to nine, the most in school history.
Thomas and Bell join receiver Jalin Marshall, linebacker Darron Lee, safety Tyvis Powell, running back Ezekiel Elliott, quarterback Cardale Jones, defensive end Joey Bosa and corner Eli Apple.
Thomas amassed more than 1,602 receiving yards and 18 touchdowns in his Buckeye career. He was the team’s leading receiver the past two seasons and is projected to be a first- or second-round draft choice.
Bell, who emerged as a consistent playmaker for Ohio State, recorded nine interceptions during his career and was the team’s leading tackler during the 2014 national championship season.