Eli Apple grew into an essential cog in Ohio State's defense near the end of his redshirt freshman season, when the Buckeyes won massive games against Michigan State, Minnesota, Michigan Wisconsin, Alabama and Oregon on the way to a national championship.
Apple became Ohio State's lead corner upon completion of the 2014 season, when Doran Grant graduated and moved on to the NFL. As a redshirt sophomore, it was clear Apple had a decision to make on his future once the 2015 season ended.
He chose to leave, and Apple's seen his pro stock rise ever since.