Jack Sawyer is a defensive end from Ohio. He played for Ohio State from 2021-2024. He attended Pickerington High School North, where he played basketball and football. ESPN rated him a five-star recruit and the best collegiate prospect in the 2021 class.
His accolades don’t stop there—he was named defensive MVP in the 2025 Cotton Bowl game. Sawyer also played in the 2025 College Football Playoff National Championship game, in which Ohio State defeated Notre Dame to win the championship. But who are the parents behind the star edge defender? Let’s take a look.
Who are Jack Sawyer’s Parents? A Look at the NFL Draft Prospect’s Support System
Jack Sawyer was born on May 6, 2002, to Lyle Sawyer and Michelle Sawyer. Lyle Sawyer, Jack’s father, was a college football player for Findlay College, according to his official Ohio State Buckeyes roster, while his mom, Michelle Sawyer, is a former basketball player at Pickerington.
Sawyer’s parents are known to be very supportive of his career. They try to attend as many of his games as they can. He credits them for the support they’ve given him throughout his career.
“They mean a lot to me. They’re the main reason why I’m here today,” said Sawyer when he was named captain of the Buckeyes. His parents were also present at the Cotton Bowl when Sawyer delivered an MVP performance.
“It’s like a fairy tale. You just can’t make this stuff up. It’s amazing. It’s the best group of kids I’ve ever been around. The parents are amazing.
“I’m so thrilled for these boys. We love Coach Day. We love that whole staff. I’m just so happy for them,” his mother said after Sawyer strip-sacked Texas QB Quinn Ewers, scooped the ball, and took it home for an 83-yard touchdown.
Sawyer entered his high school team as a backup tight end. He was moved to defensive end and finished the season with 58 tackles, 16.5 tackles for loss, and 3.5 sacks. He recorded 62 tackles, 15 tackles for loss, and six sacks in his sophomore season.
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He committed to his hometown program, Ohio, over offers from Oklahoma, Michigan, Notre Dame, and Penn State.
When his varsity team was hit with injuries during his junior season, Sawyer took over as the quarterback. He completed 79 of 135 passes for 1,056 yards and nine touchdowns while rushing for 386 yards and six touchdowns.
Sawyer is currently in the 2025 NFL Draft and hopes his name will be called as the 3rd Round rolls on.
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