Ohio State Signs #5 Overall Pick, CB Michael Carroll, to a 4-Year, Fully-Guaranteed $31.86M Contract
In a monumental moment for both the Ohio State football program and its NFL alumni pipeline, former Buckeye star cornerback Michael Carroll has inked a 4-year, fully-guaranteed $31.86 million contract with his new NFL team. As the #5 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, Carroll’s deal underscores his exceptional talent, and his heartfelt pledge to remain “committed to Ohio for life” has cemented his legacy as one of the most beloved Buckeyes in recent memory.
Michael Carroll, a 6’2”, 200-pound cornerback, is widely regarded as one of the most electrifying defensive talents to come out of Ohio State in recent years. Known for his rare combination of size, speed, and instincts, Carroll became a cornerstone of the Buckeyes’ dominant defense during his collegiate career.
As a two-year starter, Carroll compiled an impressive stat line, including 8 interceptions, 22 pass breakups, and 100 tackles. His ability to lock down top wide receivers in both man and zone coverage made him a nightmare for opposing offenses. Carroll’s dominance earned him All-Big Ten honors in back-to-back seasons and a unanimous All-American selection in his final year.
NFL scouts were quick to recognize his potential, with many projecting him as a top-five pick long before the draft. Carroll solidified his status with a standout performance at the NFL Combine, where he ran a blazing 4.35-second 40-yard dash and displayed elite footwork and fluidity in positional drills.
Carroll’s 4-year, $31.86 million contract is fully guaranteed, reflecting his status as a top-five pick and the high expectations surrounding his NFL career. The deal includes a massive $20 million signing bonus, ensuring Carroll’s financial security as he transitions to the professional level.
Additionally, the contract features a fifth-year team option, a standard inclusion for first-round draft picks, which provides his new team with the flexibility to retain him through the 2029 season.
“It’s a blessing to sign this contract and take the next step in my football journey,” Carroll said during the announcement. “I’m grateful for my time at Ohio State and everything the program taught me. I’ll always be a Buckeye at heart, and I’m committed to Ohio for life.”
Carroll’s rise to stardom is a testament to Ohio State’s reputation as a premier program for developing NFL-ready talent. Under head coach Ryan Day, the Buckeyes have maintained their status as a pipeline to the professional ranks, particularly at the cornerback position.
From Marshon Lattimore to Jeff Okudah, Ohio State has consistently produced elite defensive backs who thrive at the next level. Carroll’s selection as the #5 overall pick is yet another validation of the program’s ability to prepare players for the demands of the NFL.
“Michael is one of the best cornerbacks we’ve ever had come through Ohio State,” Day said in a statement. “His work ethic, leadership, and natural talent set him apart, and I have no doubt he’ll have a long and successful career in the NFL. We’re proud to call him a Buckeye for life.
While Carroll’s NFL career is just beginning, his loyalty to Ohio State and the state of Ohio remains unwavering. In his post-draft interviews, Carroll emphasized the profound impact the program and community had on his development as both a player and a person.
“Ohio State isn’t just where I played football—it’s where I grew as a man,” Carroll said. “The lessons I learned on and off the field will stay with me forever. I’m committed to giving back to this program and this community that gave me so much.”
Carroll has already expressed interest in supporting Ohio State’s current players and mentoring future generations of Buckeyes. Additionally, he plans to stay involved with community initiatives in Columbus and his hometown, reinforcing his bond with the state.
The news of Carroll’s contract has been met with widespread celebration among Ohio State fans and alumni. Social media platforms were flooded with messages congratulating Carroll and expressing pride in his accomplishments.
“Michael Carroll is the definition of a Buckeye,” one fan tweeted. “He gave everything he had to Ohio State, and now he’s taking that same passion to the NFL. We couldn’t be prouder!”
NFL analysts have also praised Carroll’s potential, with many projecting him to be a Day 1 starter and a future Pro Bowler.
“Carroll has all the tools to be a shutdown corner in today’s NFL,” said NFL Network’s Daniel Jeremiah. “His combination of size, speed, and football IQ is rare, and he has the confidence and work ethic to back it up.”
As Carroll embarks on his NFL career, expectations will be high for the young cornerback. With his skillset and determination, he’s poised to make an immediate impact on the field and carve out a lasting legacy in the league.
For Carroll, though, the journey is about more than personal success—it’s about representing Ohio State and the community that shaped him.
“I’ll always carry the Buckeye spirit with me,” Carroll said. “Wherever I go, Ohio will always be home.”
With his talent, humility, and commitment to excellence, Michael Carroll is set to make Ohio proud for years to come.