Source: Ohio State LB Ryan Shazier to declare for NFL draft

The loss of Shazier is a significant, but expected, blow to a Buckeyes defense that gave up 74 points in its final two games. Linebacker was Ohio State's

Ryan Shazier finished the season with double-digit tackles in six of Ohio State's 13 games / Getty Images

The loss of Shazier is a significant, but expected, blow to a Buckeyes defense that gave up 74 points in its final two games. Linebacker was Ohio State's weakest defensive position in 2013. Shazier led the Buckeyes with 134 tackles, 55 more than the second-highest Buckeyes. (Those numbers do not include the Orange Bowl). Shazier was also considered a key locker-room presence for the energy he brought to practice every day.