Trey Sermon brings 49ers record-breaking rushing ability
COLUMBUS — Trey Sermon broke records during his short time at Ohio State.
Now he is taking that record-breaking ability to the NFL: Sermon was selected by the San Francisco 49ers with the 88th pick in the 2021 NFL draft.
After a slow start to his lone Ohio State season following a transfer from Oklahoma, Sermon set the single-game record for rushing yards by a Buckeyes back (331) and a two touchdowns in the Big Ten title win over Northwestern. He followed it up with 193 yards and a score in the Ohio State Sugar Bowl win over Clemson.
Then the national title game happened. Sermon was injured on his first carry and didn’t return in the loss to Alabama. Since then, he’s been rehabbing and gaining back his ability to become a successful NFL running back.
Trey Sermon was a leader for the Buckeyes offense during the postseason run. (Sammy Silverman/Lettermen Row)
“It was pretty tough,†Sermon said after Pro Day last month. “I mean, not being out there on the field. I just know how well I prepared for that game. The biggest game of my life, and I was definitely ready for it. And just getting hurt on that first play — it was pretty tough. But again, I know everything happens for a reason.
“As far as my draft status, I felt like it wasn’t really that significant of an injury for there to be a concern. At the end of the day, all they have to do is just cut on the tape and see me playing at a high level. So, I’m not worried about it at all.â€
The 49ers aren’t worried about it either. Sermon and his record-breaking running ability are now headed to San Fransisco to begin what could be a special pro career.
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