Urban Meyer broke with his usual way of doing things this winter when he named a few players to serve as captains through the off-season months. Typically, the Ohio State head coach waits until Fall Camp before naming team captains. But shortly after the conclusion of the 2015 season, Meyer named three captains for 2016. So, why the change?

The Buckeye's will be sending at least 14 players to the NFL this year. That's how many players from the '15 roster were invited to the NFL combine last month. An incredible, 5 players have been invited to attend the first day of the draft – meaning that it's anticipated they will all be selected in the first round.

That's a major exodus of talent. Obviously, it will leave behind an inexperienced Ohio State squad for the '16 season. It makes sense that some of the few remaining, more veteran players will take up the reins of leadership. But naming three of them captains so early may add a little something extra to the mix.

Historically, the team's most motivated players have headed up their own player-run practices during the off season. This year, however, the workouts led by the team captains might carry a little bit more credibility than similar workouts in past years. The captains could be perceived as extensions of the head coach's authority. And rightfully, so.

If it increases attendance even a little bit, it will have been an brilliant move by Meyer. The younger players, especially, will benefit from the additional work. Of course, the extra responsibility will be felt by the captains, too. Knowing their head coach has that much faith in them could have a positive effect on each player individually.

They say Urban Meyer majored in psychology, by the way

It's also worthy of note that these three captains all play positions in the center or middle of the formation. In fact, Pat Elflein plays “center” – and Raekwon McMillan plays “middle” linebacker. Most coaches would probably agree – it's best to build a team from the inside-out. The 2016 Buckeyes are set up perfectly to do just that.

Quarterback, JT Barrett, Elflein and McMillan are already very dedicated members of the team. And each are great athletes in their own right. In fact, there is a very good chance all three could reach All-American status in 2016. After all, how many returning college football players would be considered to be significantly better than any one of those three at their respective positions?

It would be shocking if Elflein is not on the pre-season “watch list” for the Dave Rimington Trophy – awarded to the nation's top center. And it would be equally surprising if McMillan isn't on the watch list for the Butkus Award – presented to the nation's top linebacker. Of course, Barrett should be on the watch lists for several major awards – including the Heisman Trophy. He finished fifth in the balloting in 2014, incidentally.

Naturally, there will be some notable players returning to other schools at quarterback, center and middle linebacker. In fact, Clemson's quarterback comes immediately to mind. But Barrett, Elflein and McMillan should all, at least, be in the running as All-America candidates heading in to the season.

OK - maybe not superheroes.  But Captains (All) America -