Lathan Ransom Drafted by Panthers in Fourth Round of 2025 NFL Draft

COLUMBUS, Ohio — The Carolina Panthers selected Lathan Ransom, a standout safety from Ohio State, in the fourth round of the 2025 NFL Draft on Saturday. Ransom was chosen with the 122nd overall pick, marking another step in his football journey.

Ransom, a native of Tucson, Arizona, had an impressive five-year college career, recording 226 tackles, 3.5 sacks, six forced fumbles, and three interceptions during his time with the Buckeyes. He played a critical role in leading OSU’s defense to a national championship in the 2024 season.

<p“As a hard-hitting safety, Ransom often delivered game-changing plays,” said a source close to the team. “His ability to deliver impactful hits was highlighted during the 2024 College Football Playoff.”

Despite facing injuries early in his career, including a serious leg injury in the 2022 Rose Bowl, Ransom bounced back to become a key player for Ohio State. He also excelled on special teams, blocking two punts in 2022.

Ransom’s standout performance came against Oregon in the Rose Bowl, where he recorded seven tackles and a sack, helping secure a dominant 41-21 victory. This performance played a crucial role in shutting down one of the nation’s finest offenses.

Ransom was not the only Buckeye drafted this year; his teammate Cody Simon was also selected in the fourth round, taken No. 115 overall by the Arizona Cardinals. Simon, Ohio State’s 2024 team captain, led the team with 112 total tackles during his final season.

The 2025 NFL Draft continues to highlight the talent emerging from Ohio State, with 15 Buckeyes anticipated to be drafted by the end of the event. Ransom is the first Ohio State safety to be picked since Jordan Fuller was selected by the Los Angeles Rams in the sixth round of the 2020 draft.