In an exciting twist ahead of the 2025 NFL Draft, Ohio State defensive end Jack Sawyer has made his intentions known, expressing a strong desire to be selected by either the Cleveland Browns or Cincinnati Bengals. Sawyer, one of the top prospects in the upcoming draft, revealed his wish to stay close to home and play for one of Ohio’s NFL teams during a recent interview, adding another layer of intrigue to his already highly anticipated draft journey.
Sawyer, a standout performer for the Buckeyes, has long been regarded as one of the top defensive talents in the nation. His ability to disrupt opposing offenses, paired with his relentless motor and versatility along the defensive line, has made him a prime candidate for a high draft pick. However, it’s his connection to Ohio—having grown up in the state—that now plays a pivotal role in his preference for one of the state’s two NFL teams.
Jack Sawyer’s Ohio Roots
Sawyer, who hails from Pickerington, Ohio, has always been deeply connected to the state’s football culture. His high school career was marked by dominance on the field, which led to his commitment to Ohio State, where he quickly became a key player for the Buckeyes’ defense. His standout performances in college, especially in critical games, have only strengthened his reputation as a potential game-changer at the next level.
“I’ve always dreamed of playing in the NFL, and being able to do that in my home state with either the Browns or Bengals would mean everything to me,” Sawyer said in a recent interview. “Ohio is home, and I’ve always had a special connection to both of those teams. It’s the chance to represent my state and bring pride to the fans here.”
The Cleveland Browns and Cincinnati Bengals: Potential Fits
Both the Cleveland Browns and Cincinnati Bengals are positioned as potential landing spots for Sawyer, each offering unique opportunities for the rising star.
Cleveland Browns: The Browns have been steadily building a competitive roster, and their defense is one area where they could use an influx of young talent. With players like Myles Garrett already establishing themselves as defensive stars, adding a player like Sawyer—who can create pressure and disrupt opposing quarterbacks—could provide a significant boost. The Browns also offer the appeal of a passionate fanbase and the potential for immediate playing time.
Cincinnati Bengals: The Bengals, fresh off a Super Bowl appearance and a series of playoff runs with quarterback Joe Burrow at the helm, are a team on the rise. With a need to continue building a strong, balanced roster, Sawyer could help add depth and power to their defensive front. Pairing Sawyer with emerging stars like Trey Hendrickson could give the Bengals a formidable pass-rushing duo. Additionally, the Bengals’ growing status as a championship contender could make them an appealing destination for a player eager to compete for titles early in his career.
Sawyer’s Impact on Both Teams
For both the Browns and Bengals, Sawyer’s skills on the field make him an attractive prospect. Standing at 6-foot-4 and weighing around 270 pounds, Sawyer has the size and agility to line up in multiple positions along the defensive line. His ability to rush the passer and disrupt plays in the backfield has been a hallmark of his game at Ohio State, and that’s something both teams could certainly use to bolster their defensive units.
The Bengals, who have seen improvements in their defense but still face challenges in generating consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks, could benefit from Sawyer’s explosive ability to rush off the edge. Meanwhile, the Browns—who have a solid defensive front but are looking to add depth and youth—could find a complementary piece in Sawyer to pair with Garrett and enhance their overall pass rush.
A Potential Draft Day Decision
As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, Sawyer’s preference for either the Browns or Bengals could play a significant role in shaping his decision. While Sawyer has made it clear that he would be thrilled to play for either team, the reality of the draft process means that team needs, draft positions, and other factors could influence where he ultimately lands.
For the Browns and Bengals, the prospect of selecting a local star like Sawyer is an enticing one. Beyond his on-field talent, the ability to bring in a homegrown player would be a strong selling point to fans in Ohio. Both teams would undoubtedly love the added benefit of keeping Sawyer close to his roots, tapping into the emotional connection he has with the state, and adding a potential star to their respective defenses.
Looking Ahead: A Bright Future
Whether Sawyer ultimately joins the Browns or Bengals, one thing is clear: his future in the NFL is incredibly bright. With a stellar college career behind him, Sawyer is ready to take the next step in his football journey, and whichever Ohio team selects him will likely see an immediate impact on their defensive front.
For now, Sawyer will continue to prepare for the draft while also reflecting on the possibility of playing for a team he has followed for much of his life. “It would be a dream come true,” he said. “No matter which team it is, I’m just excited to get out there and prove myself at the next level.”
Conclusion
Jack Sawyer’s desire to be drafted by either the Cleveland Browns or Cincinnati Bengals adds another exciting element to the 2025 NFL Draft. With his elite talent and Ohio roots, Sawyer represents the perfect combination of hometown pride and potential NFL stardom. As the draft approaches, fans in Ohio will be watching closely to see if Sawyer’s wish to stay home comes true, and whether he can make an immediate impact in the NFL as one of the league’s top young defensive stars.
