Emeka Egbuka opens up on his decision to return to Ohio State over leaving for NFL

Had Emeka Egbuka decided to leave Ohio State for the NFL, he would likely be preparing for training camp right now. The wide receiver was a candidate to be drafted on Day One with the potential to cash in after a nice college career. Instead, Egbuka is in Indianapolis for Big Ten Media Days, representing the Buckeyes ahead of a critical 2024 season.

Egbuka played in the Cotton Bowl against Missouri, a decision made before knowing what his future would hold. Ohio State wound up losing in Arlington and Egbuka was torn on whether to stay or go. After spending time in prayer, playing his senior season in the scarlet and gray was the ultimate decision.

“There was a lot that went into the decision,” Egbuka said Tuesday at Big Ten Media Days. “Coming out of the last game, Missouri, I was really 50/50. I didn’t really know where I was going to go. I just stayed prayerful about everything and leaned on my Lord to give me guidance, give me answers. I felt like he gave me the direction to come back here for senior year.

Despite playing in 10 games this year, Egbuka only put up 41 receptions for 515 yards, and four touchdowns. Injuries were a major storyline for him in 2023 and part of the reason why the numbers appear limited.

Go back to 2022 when 74 passes were hauled in for 1,151 yards plus 10 touchdowns and you will see the receiver Ohio State knows they have.

Coming back and doing it again felt right the right choice for Egbuka and he was not alone. Over double-digit contributors are coming back to Columbus instead of leaving for the NFL. Of course, football is the biggest reason why but Egbuka is ready to accomplish more outside of the sport with them.

“Turns out, a lot of my friends felt the same way and here we are with a very veteran and senior team,” Egbuka said. “We’re looking to do something great. Much bigger than football.”

Ohio State has incredibly high expectations entering the year. A lot of people will pick the Buckeyes to win the national championship. Egbuka and the returning stars are a huge reason why, having a roster former head coach Urban Meyer called the most talented he has ever seen.

A big weapon returning for whoever winds up winning the Buckeyes starting quarterback competition in a few weeks.