The road to the NFL Draft — and the Draft itself — is unpredictable as teams look to reshape their rosters and address key needs. This seven-round mock draft projects each team’s pick and factors in trades that could shake up the draft and throw teams into a loop.
All picks and trades below were made using Pro Football Network’s Free Mock Draft Simulator. For any prospect listed in our top 100, the analysis was written by PFN Draft Analyst Dalton Miller based on his January Big Board.
The days of statuesque passers are a thing of the past. Shedeur Sanders is the evolution of the pocket passer. He’s athletic enough to get on the hoof and pick up first downs with his legs, but many might be surprised to hear he’s not close to the athlete his father was. Instead, he fits into the Geno Smith or C.J. Stroud-like mold.
Sanders’ almost instantaneous release makes up for what is only a slightly above-average arm. It lets him consistently test tight windows, and his class-best accuracy helps his projection as a long-time NFL starter.
Sanders’ pressure-to-sack rate and willingness to hold onto the ball could, and should, cause some concern. However, the context to that is he’s also operated on an NFL timeline for the past two seasons behind arguably one of the worst offensive lines in the country.
With every arm angle and endless reserves of velocity at his disposal, Cam Ward is the most exciting quarterback in college football. He also boasts impressive athleticism, allowing him to make rushers miss while also boasting a dense frame that can shake weaker sack attempts.
Unfortunately, Ward’s urge to create also leads to a bevy of bad habits, including cross-body and cross-field attempts into traffic. He also struggles to take care of the ball inside of the pocket while creating.
However, Ward’s biggest issue is not remaining on schedule and living as a quarterback on a down-in, down-out basis. He lives and dies by the big play, and while he’s a better athlete with a better arm, his game resembles Zach Wilson’s.
Ward likely needs a runway to sit behind a bridge quarterback. If afforded that, he has the highest ceiling in this class by a wide margin.
We haven’t seen hands this violent on the interior since Jeffery Simmons was coming out of Mississippi State. Mason Graham’s explosiveness makes him a terrifying interior matchup alone, but his rare ankle flexibility makes him special.
Michigan frequently used him from the A gap to the outside of the tackle, and he’s often seen looping from his interior position to bend around the edge.
Graham also displays outrageous anchoring ability and a quick processor against the run, making him one of the most well-rounded interior defenders of the past decade. His play with his pants on fire while craving violence is reminiscent of Braden Fiske, who is prospering as a rookie despite having half the physical tools Graham has at his disposal.
Travis Hunter is one of one. If we had allowed ourselves to split the player into a cornerback and wide receiver, he would have ranked first and 12th, respectively. He’s the top cornerback in the NFL Draft, and he’s the best receiver. His rare ball skills as a wide receiver translate to the other side of the ball, and he’s played with more physicality in 2024 than in 2023.
Hunter won’t play full-time on both sides at the next level. Teams must decide if he’s more valuable to them as a full-time defensive or offensive player.
All that said, it would be malpractice to take away a potentially generational defensive prospect from that side of the ball entirely. A “best of both worlds” scenario would be playing 80-100% of the team’s defensive snaps while also playing 10-20% of the offensive snaps.
Tetairoa McMillan’s length is his greatest weapon. He possesses a wingspan matched only by the likes of Mike Evans and Kyle Pitts, which makes him an enticing prospect that the Jaguars may not be able to pass up as they look to get someone opposite rookie sensation Brian Thomas Jr.
However, as consistently outstanding as Evans is, he’s never been considered one of the five best wide receivers in the game. He is 20 pounds heavier and has far more physicality than McMillan.
The Arizona WR isn’t nearly as explosive as Pitts. His closest comparisons are probably Drake London and Tee Higgins. While both have been excellent as pros, neither are among the league’s best.
McMillan might be an outlier to bet on, though. He’s smooth and technical as a route runner, and he attacks the football and makes it disappear better than anyone in recent memory not named Mike Gesicki. However, his lack of post-catch creativity and overall explosiveness means he lacks two of the most consistent indicators for NFL success.
Malaki Starks possesses the frame necessary to survive in the box and the reactionary athleticism to legitimately line up as a boundary cornerback. However, his best role would be as a back-end safety.
Starks is an intelligent coverage defender on the back end with a quick downhill trigger as a buzz defender and as an alley filler in the run game. In a league moving more and more toward coverages requiring safeties to survive against the vertical threat from No. 2 receivers, players like Starks are a huge relief for defensive coordinators worried about explosive plays.
Mykel Williams hasn’t racked up the pass-rush productivity we’d all like to see from a top-flight NFL Draft prospect, but the physical tools he possesses are rare. His wingspan is otherworldly, and there are reps of him on the interior (at 265 pounds) extending a wing on an interior defender while anchoring down against a second blocker coming his way.
Although raw as a rusher, we’ve consistently seen players like Williams quickly round into dominant forces at the NFL level. Pass rushers frequently exchange notes and train together with private coaches who have found the secret sauce to turn these ingredients into five-star meals.
Williams’ upside will be hard to walk away from in a class lacking many true “first-round” graded players. However, his physical gifts only extend so far. He potentially has more lower-half flexibility to produce than he currently provides on tape, but his lack of bend, in addition to his technical smoothness, could land him lower in Round 1 than we originally anticipated.
In this mock draft, Carter falls to the eighth pick, and the Panthers don’t hesitate to turn this card in. In April, Carter is likely to be taken within the first five picks, if not the first three.
It’s impossible not to see Micah Parsons in Carter’s game. They’re similarly built, although Carter clearly has more anatomical length. Penn State figured out that Carter should live on the edge, just as Dallas figured out with Parsons before too long. Carter plays with the same violence, but he’s far more developed as a pass rusher than Parsons was at the same point in his career.
In his first full season rushing the passer, Carter’s progression has been linear. After a slow start, he became increasingly dangerous as the season progressed. His hands are lightning-fast, violent, and accurate. He possesses the bend and lateral agility coveted in NFL rushers, and he flashes the same instant transmission closing speed as Parsons.
The Texas offense is an architectural masterpiece. It quickly attacks space while making almost everyone’s job easier, including its offensive tackles.
We don’t see Kelvin Banks Jr. in many traditional pass sets. He rarely kick-steps vertically and is often not even forced into a 45-degree set.
Although he’s a bit more heavy-footed than is ideal for a tackle, Banks makes up for it by understanding his opponent and playing to attack their weaknesses while combatting their strength off the edge.
You’ll often see him employing different strike techniques within the same game depending on the situation and which opponent pass rusher is coming off the edge at him.
Saquon Barkley was a unique athlete. Bijan Robinson’s usage at Texas made him a special prospect. But neither player was as complete as Ashton Jeanty.
Aside from not being able to ride every ride at the amusement park, Jeanty’s profile has no weaknesses. He led all running backs in receiving yards in 2023 and few are more alert and adept in pass protection.
His vision is S-Tier good. Jeanty pops off Marshawn Lynch-esque runs of strung-together broken and missed tackles, all while possessing more than enough long speed to be an explosive threat every time he touches the ball.
Just like the Lions selected Jahmyr Gibbs early in the first round, new head coach Ben Johnson might look to do the same in Chicago.
Nic Scourton isn’t perfect, but nobody else in this class possesses his blend of technical prowess, bend, size, and power. He’s playing too heavy right now, but losing the unnecessary weight he’s currently carrying on his frame should only make him more dangerous as an arc rusher.
Scourton’s pass-rush plan is artwork, and the suddenness and fluidity he already plays with at 280 is terrifying. He’ll be one of the youngest players in the class while already possessing nuance far beyond his years.
Scourton’s naturally thick lower half makes him a sturdy edge setter, and there’s a chance he’ll continue growing into his frame while building a more consistent power element to his game.
James Pearce Jr.’s effortless explosiveness makes him a consistent arc threat. Pearce’s ankle and hip flexibility make him a true danger, but his ability to win with his hands outside, through, and inside tackles could make him a pass-rushing assassin at the next level.
When the Volunteers’ pass rusher times up the snap perfectly, there’s nothing for an offensive tackle to do but open up the door and let him in the house. Pearce is too explosive and turns too tight of a corner to stop him.
He’ll likely fit into the mold of Brian Burns. That means he’s a consistent threat on passing downs while being an overall underwhelming run defender, but Pearce’s pass-rush chops still make him worthy of high draft capital.
Dolphins fans will want an offensive lineman here, but with many questions about Tyreek Hill’s future and Jaylen Waddle’s uninspiring performances the past two seasons, they’re going to need to continue to surround quarterback Tua Tagovailoa with weapons.
Luther Burden III could step into the NFL and be the best wide receiver from this class or quickly slide into anonymity. His physical talent is impressive but not unique in the NFL these days.
Burden is a dangerous post-catch weapon, but he carries the burden of playing in Missouri’s offense, which doesn’t ask him to run a diverse route tree, nor does it manufacture enough touches for him, given how dangerous he is with the ball in his hands.
Burden has a knack for making huge plays in important moments, usually on slot fades and while flashing only one hand out to finish the catch. The highs are incredibly high, but the lack of nuance as a route runner and the amount of volume he receives crossing the field or on screens compared to winning 1-on-1 matchups is alarming for his projection as a separator at the next level.
Nevertheless, Burden’s natural fluidity, conspicuous explosiveness, and violent agility with the ball in his hands should realistically extend to his natural separation ability at the NFL level.
Trade: Chargers received pick 14 from the Colts. Indianapolis received picks 22 and 55.
Shavon Revel Jr. might have the easiest long speed in the class. He effortlessly carries receivers downfield, and that same explosion extends to his ability to bait throws from quarterbacks and close downhill when playing from space.
While he has the eyes and athleticism to bait quarterbacks into bad decisions, good passers can manipulate him in the same ways. Revel’s high-cut frame also makes him slightly sticky in transition, and a lack of film against legitimate competition and an ACL injury keeping him from participating in an all-star game muddies his evaluation further.
There’s nothing in coverage that Will Johnson can’t do. He’s shown everything he needs to hear his name called early on that fourth Thursday in April despite missing a good chunk of the season.
Johnson has prototypical size, length, and reactive athleticism. If it weren’t for Hunter, we’d discuss Johnson’s ball skills among the best we’ve seen in recent times. He consistently shows he can turn, find the ball, locate it in the air, and elevate to its highest point while finishing the catch to the turf.
Johnson is a better true man coverage cornerback than Hunter, and he’s certainly no slouch playing with zone eyes, either.
Tyler Booker is a physical and technically sound offensive guard who excels in both pass protection and run blocking. His strong hands and powerful lower body allow him to anchor effectively against interior rushers, while his quickness and footwork make him reliable when pulling or working in space.
Booker’s physicality shines in the run game, where he drives defenders off the ball and creates clear lanes for ball carriers. His ability to maintain leverage and sustain blocks demonstrates his attention to detail. By refining his hand placement and consistency, Booker has the tools to become a dominant and dependable force on the interior.
Emeka Egbuka has the natural play strength, frame, and technical detail to play on the outside at both outside designations. However, his skill set would be best utilized in the slot, allowing him full freedom to operate as the route-running savant he is.
Egbuka’s lackluster top-end explosiveness theoretically limits his ceiling, but he’s in a similar mold to Amon-Ra St. Brown, who has rounded into one of the most dangerous pass catchers in the NFL.
Trade: The Ravens received pick 18 from the Seahawks. Seattle received picks 27 and 59.
Will Campbell is an excellent college tackle who could see a slide to the interior at the next level because of his lackluster length. However, his uniquely high stance calls into question how seamless that move could be.
The Tigers’ left tackle doesn’t have the outrageous physical tools we’ve seen from other top blockers in recent years, but Campbell makes up for it with outstanding technical prowess, impressive balance, a stout anchor, and excellent rotational strength (which is why a move to the interior could yield All-Pro upside, whereas that ceiling is likely much lower on the bookend).
Opinions on Jalon Walker vary greatly from his draft stock to the position he should play at the NFL level. He’s displayed flashes of pass-rushing brilliance, and despite his sawed-off frame, Walker has adequate length to be a full-time pass rusher. However, he’s currently more of a “master of none,” which is common for defenders playing multiple positions without specificity.
Walker is inexperienced in coverage, and much of his pass-rush productivity stems from spying quarterbacks and using his outstanding closing speed to bring them to the turf when they attempt to leak away from the pocket. His length also helps him take on climbing offensive linemen, and he has a natural feel for playmaking.
However, without adequate examples as a coverage player, it’s hard to love Walker’s entire profile.
Think of everything Brock Bowers did for Georgia’s offense over the years, and then package that in a prototypical in-line TE frame with more athleticism. Tyler Warren is practically the TE version of the Permian Panthers’ Boobie Miles.
He’s a big, physical, explosive, loose route runner with the frame and ball skills to shield himself from defenders. Some of Penn State’s most explosive offensive moments come from Warren taking direct snaps in the backfield, capturing the edge, and scampering toward the sideline where he can bully defensive backs with his size.
AND HE CAN PASS!
Admittedly, the Georgia tape is worrisome, and the FBS-leading penalty marks don’t quell concerns. Nevertheless, Cameron Williams is one of a select few athletes in this class who possess legitimate OT tools from top to bottom. He does all this in a ridiculously athletic 335-pound frame.
Williams is certainly an inexperienced gamble, but his length, ease of movement, natural power, and flashes of consistent brilliance are enticing.
Trade: Chargers received pick 14 from the Colts. Indianapolis received picks 22 and 55.
Harold Fannin Jr. is so talented that despite being the only real threat to Power Four schools defensively, he was still able to bully both Penn State and Texas A&M in consecutive weeks early in the season.
Despite some clear stiffness to his rocked-up frame, Fannin makes himself a difficult target to take down with the ball in his hands, both with impressive contact balance and some creativity to make defenders miss in space. He’s undersized but ferocious as a run blocker.
Nick Emmanwori hasn’t received enough love in the 2025 NFL Draft class. Nobody seems to care about safeties, but one built like a linebacker who plays the back end like Kyle Hamilton did at Notre Dame should have everyone’s juices flowing.
Seriously, there is absolutely nothing in the Alabama, Oklahoma, or Missouri games that suggests Emmanwori should be considered anywhere outside of the top half of Round 1. Although his unique measurables are scary on the surface for his position, there is no stickiness to his movements, he carries downfield with ease, and he’s an incredibly intelligent boundary safety for the Gamecocks.
The only thing really missing from Emmanwori’s game because of the way he’s deployed is a blitzing element. However, his sure tackling force and technique, paired with unique athleticism, should make him a weapon there for imaginative defensive coordinators at the next level. He’s also uniquely qualified to be a TE erasure because of his blend of coverage prowess, physicality, and length.
Emmanwori continues to rise in the rankings here until he hits the ceiling for where he can ascend in this class. His tape became more impressive as exposure mounted.
Marcus Freeman’s defensive backs are always high-IQ players, and Benjamin Morrison is no exception. His high-cut frame makes him look taller than he actually is, but his wingspan and feel for playing off receivers with over-top leverage help keep everything in front of him.
That extends to man coverage, where Morrison plays on the front hip. While that allows nuanced receivers with brakes to snap off routes back to the QB on him, Morrison’s feel for route depth and receiver tells keeps him tight and disallows big plays with consistency.
Trade: The Browns received pick 25 from the Texans. Houston received pick 33 and Cleveland’s 2026 second-round pick.
Few players looked better in the first eight weeks of the college football season than the Ohio State LT. In fact, the reps Josh Simmons took at that time were the best of any offensive lineman in the country, and he was well on his way to securing OT1.
However, the unfortunate nature of the business is that a knee injury against Oregon sidelined Simmons for the rest of the season and left us with serious questions.
Although improved technically and mentally from a season ago, Ohio State’s schedule left Simmons without a marquee matchup. Even Marshall’s Mike Green barely lined up across from him in their matchup.
In short, Simmons didn’t face any legitimate NFL talent.
Things weren’t so pretty when he did in 2023. While his game certainly improved from that time, the bad taste from stiffer competition couldn’t be washed away in 2024 because of the injury. It feels like Simmons will hit, and the NFL should likely take him early because of his tools and play in 2024, but it still feels like a mighty gamble.
Even Graham can’t boast Tyleik Williams’ consistency, even if his ceiling is levels higher.
Rumor has it Williams hasn’t played a bad game since arriving on campus in Columbus, Ohio. Although he’s never consistently flashed as a pass rusher, he’s also largely been deployed as the yin to Mike Hall Jr. and Ty Hamilton’s yang. He does the dirty work while they have all the fun.
Williams possesses eye-popping torque strength and consistently stuns blockers with a quick first step to reset the line of scrimmage. He’s quick to read run keys, and his peripheral vision and insane flexibility allow him to drop anchor against double teams with ease.
Trade: The Ravens received pick 18 from the Seahawks. Seattle received picks 27 and 59.
The modern safety as we know it has changed. Many of the back-end NFL players we see were college slot defenders. Jahdae Barron’s step to outside cornerback for the Longhorns in 2024 was a success, but his skill set still suggests a slide back into the slot or deeper as a split-field player.
Barron is incredibly adept at playing from depth and seeing the picture through receivers and to the quarterback with zone eyes. Like his running mate just above him, Barron has a thirst for filling the alley and making tackles. That physicality serves him incredibly well as a Cover 3 cornerback, but he will truly shine as an alley player in the NFL.
Kenneth Grant possesses impressive lateral explosiveness as a run defender to avoid getting reached by offensive linemen. However, he also tends to be late off the snap, which has been a common issue among Michigan interior defenders for years now.
Yet, Grant’s size, athleticism, and hand usage should make him an impressive presence in the middle of an NFL defense quickly. He only really possesses a swim move as a pass rusher, but he’s surprisingly nimble when given the green light.
The Michigan State transfer came alive in Eugene, Oregon. Playing alongside a talented defensive front, Derrick Harmon found more advantageous opportunities to slash through gaps in 2024. Like fellow tall interior rusher DeForest Buckner, Harmon’s go-to move is a swim move. Because of his length and height, he can be a devastating winner.
Even though Harmon is a bit high-cut, he fires low with a wide base in short-yardage situations, proving he’s not just a gap-shooting disruptor as a run defender. But the ferocity with which he flows against horizontal stretch concepts while defending the run stands out the most on tape.
Tre Harris won’t blow your door off with his athleticism or his route tree at the college level, but the latter has more to do with Mississippi’s offense than his inability to snap off at the top of routes.
His suddenness and strength at the line of scrimmage should make him a red-zone favorite at the next level. Harris possesses freedom in his midsection to pivot at speed while also displaying detailed enough footwork to surprise defensive backs with impressive stopping power to drive back to the quarterback. He’s also a strong finisher and a tough tackle on first attempts.
Mike Green is a very dangerous presence off the edge. He possesses eye-popping burst and bend while also showcasing some impressive proactive pass-rushing moves, including a devastating Eurostep spin move he showed against Ohio State.
However, Green’s pursuit speed doesn’t match the burst he shows off the line, and his lack of play strength leaves him engulfed by run blockers. Still, an early-career Yannick Ngakoue isn’t a far-off comparison for Green, and that type of production, although inconsistent, is incredibly valuable.
Jonah Savaiinaea has the athleticism, footwork, and length to live at offensive tackle. However, his unnerving tendency to overset and lose the arc to rushers with more advanced outside rush moves suggests he would be best served on the interior at the NFL level.
Those issues shouldn’t follow Savaiinaea to the inside, where he can dictate tempo more consistently.
Trade: The Browns received pick 25 from the Texans. Houston received pick 33 and Cleveland’s 2026 second-round pick.
Trey Amos is a gifted cornerback with the tools to be a long-term starter. His athleticism and frame make him an intriguing prospect, and with the right development, he has the potential to thrive at the next level.
While refining his eye discipline will be key, his natural talent and upside could make him a valuable addition, especially for a team in need of help on the outside.
Jalen Milroe stands out as the most athletic quarterback in this draft, boasting a cannon for an arm and elite athleticism—rivaling even last year’s No. 1 pick, Caleb Williams. However, his accuracy in the 10-19-yard range needs improvement. If he sharpens his short and intermediate passing, Milroe’s game will be complete.
For now, his raw athleticism lets him outrun SEC linebackers, while his arm strength can deliver strikes to receivers with minimal separation. Development is key, but his natural gifts already set him apart.
Jihaad Campbell is the prototype. He’s carved from stone but with outrageous freedom to change direction. The Alabama linebacker’s growth in coverage has been beautiful to watch unfold. He drops with intention, gets his eyes on his responsibility, and uses his outrageous athleticism to match them by flipping across the field, carrying vertically, and even mirroring them on multi-layered routes.
Campbell possesses the kind of playmaking gene that coaches dream of, and he’s no slouch as a blitzer or in the Sam role rushing off the edge. In a world where positionless football becomes ever more present, Campbell has every available tool in the shed. The only thing keeping him from ascending into blue-chip territory is a lack of instantaneous run key instincts and inconsistencies as a reactive run defender.
There are worrying inconsistencies on Donovan Jackson’s tape, but when things are clicking, few blockers in the country are more impressive. Jackson possesses an absurd wingspan for an interior blocker, along with smooth hips, an explosive first step, and enough juice to lead the charge in the open field.
Xavier Restrepo almost certainly won’t see the same success as Cooper Kupp at the NFL level, but the Hurricanes’ playmaking hero could easily fit into the role Sean McVay created for Kupp.
Restrepo thrives as a David vs. Goliath blocker in the run game, and his undersized frame actually boasts decent density to hold up. He’s also a shifty route runner and an impressive backyard football finder. He can be a third-down demon or a Patrick Mahomes-like creator’s best friend.
As a proactive athlete, it’s unfair to have Shemar Stewart’s blend of length, explosiveness, and density. He’s a lab-built creation with untapped potential as a pass rusher.
Stewart may never have the technical details of his pass-rushing Aggies partner on the defensive line, but he also possesses an athletic profile we haven’t seen since J.J. Watt.
That’s not to say he’ll be Watt. That would be reckless, even if he was a technical wizard. However, Stewart converts speed to power at an outstanding rate, and that is as translatable to the NFL level as pure juice and bend are. He also provides interior alignment versatility, plus he’s no stranger to dropping into coverage.
Trade: The Dolphins received pick 39 from the Bears. Chicago received picks 48 and 98 from the Dolphins.
Walter Nolen’s highs are incredibly impressive. He’s a top-20 talent at his peaks but practically unplayable in his valleys. There are times he’s consistently terrorizing opposing quarterbacks and ball carriers and others where he’s being washed away to sea while teams run right at him for chunks.
Nolen is a peculiar case because his consistent echo-of-the-whistle effort doesn’t appear to be to blame for his inconsistencies. That leads one to postulate that certain environmental factors offensively cause a seed of doubt in his processor, making him a half-step slow, spelling doom for him for four quarters at a time.
Harness his high points, and Nolen could be the steal of the entire draft if teams let him fall this far.
Kyle Kennard has the uncanny ability to fight through contact and soften rush angles up the arc. Linemen hook him when he rips through on exterior rushes, but his ferocity and ability to reduce his surface area often set him free.
As a proactive rusher, Kennard possesses the length and power to punish tackles. However, his lack of density shows up as a run defender when he’s forced into a reactionary position. Kennard is often washed out of the picture against the run, making him a prime DPR candidate early in his career.
Although listed as a tight end, Colston Loveland’s game doesn’t translate to success at the NFL level as a traditional TE. It will take an offensive coordinator who knows how to properly deploy his ilk. Teams will need a veteran on the roster who they can use as their primary in-line tight end, and they’ll need to run an offense that can maximize the production from a big slot.
However, Loveland’s freedom of movement and catch radius aren’t too dissimilar to McMillan’s, although he’s not as explosive as the Arizona WR. Loveland’s use as a WR outside of the numbers could also entice teams to use him as their X, but it will take a quarterback comfortable throwing into tight windows to maximize him in that role.
There are few players we are more confident in being a decade-long NFL starter in this class than Xavier Watts. He engulfs runners with impressive form-tackling ability. His knack for being in the right place at the right time to receive the ball from opposing passers may appear accidental at times, but it stems from being assignment sound.
Watts has no weaknesses in his game. His quick trigger gets him downhill quickly to jump crossing routes, and he has enough fluidity and understanding of route dangers at different depths to keep him sticky in man coverage.
The only thing keeping Watts from being a Day 1 player is lackluster size and athleticism. It may limit his draft potential, but we’ve seen countless “average” athletes flourish on the back end of NFL defenses. Watts will be no exception. He’s going to make a team very happy.
Maxwell Hairston didn’t play many snaps in 2024 because of injury, but he’s displayed enough when on the field to potentially command Day 1 draft capital if a team falls in love with his enticing traits.
Hairston possesses outrageous confidence in his fluidity, agility, and burst at the line. He’s unbelievably patient against flamboyant releases by receivers to the point where he practically looks bored waiting for them to make their move.
Although he’s definitely lean, we’ve consistently seen teams throw caution to the wind when it comes to the cornerback’s weight, and Hairston isn’t even bordering the danger area there.
The nature of TreVeyon Henderson’s injury history might scare some teams away, but his on-field ability is worthy of the hype.
Henderson is an explosive and dynamic running back with a rare combination of speed, vision, and versatility. He excels in identifying running lanes and accelerating through them, making him a consistent big-play threat. Henderson’s quickness and agility allow him to navigate traffic effectively, while his top-end speed makes him a dangerous weapon in the open field.
He’s also a reliable pass-catcher, adding value as a three-down back. While he could improve in pass protection and add more power to his running style, Henderson’s game-changing ability and versatility make him an exciting running back prospect in the upcoming draft.
Jack Sawyer does one thing extremely well as a pass rusher, which has made him relatively dominant at the college level. He consistently and effectively uses the “run through a player’s chest” approach, but with reportedly sub-33-inch arms, will Sawyer be able to consistently win that way at the next level without developing more?
Nevertheless, Sawyer plays with his pants on fire as a run defender. He also has that T.J. Watt knack to him where he curiously always finds his hands on the football, whether it be batting down passes, intercepting them, or recovering them off the turf.
There have been multiple times throughout the past three years where one thought, “This is the game that proves Princely Umanmielen has put it all together,” only for him to disappear for a chunk of the rest of the campaign.
With natural bend, impressive density, desirable length, adequate burst, and flashes of technical brilliance, Umanmielen resembles a stronger version of Tennessee’s Pearce. Unfortunately, his flashes of dominance come few and far between.
Umanmielen turned it on in the waning hours of his collegiate career, but it wasn’t enough to feel confident that he’ll live up to his ever-present hype.
In a world of lab-built bendy pass rushers, JT Tuimoloau’s game is a bit antiquated. He possesses average or above-average size, length, burst, and run-defending ability.
He’s a good player, but Tuimoloau’s not a difference-making defensive end. He doesn’t play with the same violent force as his running mate, but he’s a more consistent run defender.
Still, a Sam Hubbard-like career is nothing to scoff at, which is the kind of role Tuimoloau could play at the next level.
Trade: The Dolphins received pick 39 from the Bears. Chicago received picks 48 and 98 from the Dolphins.
Landon Jackson has been on the NFL Draft radar for multiple years now. He already possessed enough polish to declare a season ago, but he might have made the right decision to stay an extra season and declare in an admittedly weaker class.
Despite his measurables, Jackson plays with the smooth finesse of a much smaller arc rusher. He’s surprisingly adept at getting skinny and reducing his surface area to slice through the shoulder of offensive tackles on his way to the quarterback.
It wasn’t long ago that Javonte Williams was running through ACC defenses like a man possessed, and he passed the torch to Omarion Hampton. Hampton’s outrageous burst and dense frame make him someone that nobody wants to make contact with in an open rushing lane.
He’s a well-rounded runner overall, boasting impressive pass-protection prowess alongside natural hands. Although he forces missed and broken tackles at a high rate, Hampton’s not as fluid or creative in the open field as his contemporaries. And his inconsistent vision, although improving, keeps him from holding the RB2 crown in this class.
Trade: The Giants received pick 50 from the Seahawks. Seattle received picks 65, 104, and 155 from the Giants.
Wyatt Milum is a model of consistency at left tackle for the Mountaineers. Although it was early in the season, he even got through the Penn State game without looking like a fool against Carter.
Although he’s proven his ability to protect the passer at the collegiate level, Milum will almost certainly be reduced inside at the NFL level. That’s perfectly fine because his hands are deadly accurate in the run game, and his sixth-sense awareness means he’ll likely assimilate quickly to the interior.
Emery Jones Jr. would benefit from returning to school, but LSU’s … situation … becomes increasingly unclear moving forward with Brian Kelly.
Jones hasn’t sharpened the physical gifts he possesses into translatable starting NFL tape. Although his skill set currently suggests a move inside, if given the runway of a developmental role behind entrenched starters, there’s no reason not to try to develop him in the shadows as a tackle.
Jones possesses Tyler Smith-esque flexibility to absorb outrageous amounts of contact and the natural length to keep defenders at bay. That could benefit him on the interior, but his athleticism and the league’s lack of quality OT play make him a prime candidate to “fail” to the inside.
Elic Ayomanor couldn’t get the ball this year in a dreadful Stanford offense, but he displayed more than enough talent in 2023 to command excitement as an NFL Draft prospect.
Ayomanor could be one of the class’s best values because he was hidden in a bad situation. He’s a legitimate downfield threat with good density and power in his frame. He’s a fluid athlete with a natural hip sink to get in and out of route breaks.
Following a strong season, Darien Porter has emerged as a potential Day 2 selection in the 2025 NFL Draft. His stock has risen significantly throughout 2024, showcasing explosive speed, effective route recognition, anticipation, and the length needed to thrive as a press corner at the next level.
After starting his first two college seasons as a wide receiver, Porter has seamlessly transitioned to defensive back. His developmental trajectory and potential upside suggest that a team will take a chance on one of the conference’s top cornerbacks.
Trade: The Jaguars received pick 54 from the Packers. Green Bay received picks 69 and 88.
Josh Conerly Jr. is far from perfect, but his athletic gifts and flashes of brilliance in the run game should give teams more than enough evidence to gamble on his long-term development.
Conerly’s Ohio State game was teach tape in the run game. He consistently got the better of the Buckeyes’ right defensive ends, opening up rushing lanes large enough for a new Hummer to roll through. However, Conerly’s lackluster core strength and underwhelming strike timing and placement make him more of a long-term project than a Day 1 starter.
Trade: Chargers received pick 14 from the Colts. Indianapolis received picks 22 and 55.
There’s no denying that the NFL caters to burst, agility, and route running. However, it’s become increasingly clear that there’s a limit to how lean you can be and still thrive.
It’s also more important than ever for slot players to be able to bring anything as a blocker in the run game — which makes Tez Johnson’s projection a bit muddier.
But, by golly, can he get open? If you don’t catch a piece of him at the line, you’re going to be playing tag with a ghost. Johnson is the quintessential third-down assassin but with the juice to consistently threaten as a slot fade or seam target.
Trade: The Texans received pick 56 from the Bills. Buffalo received picks 58 and 167.
Deone Walker’s game is peculiar. He’s conspicuously tall, and his pad level often swells to display his height during reps. One would expect a player his size to be a brick-wall nose tackle, but Walker’s forte is as an interior pass rusher, not a traditional gap-plugging nose.
Walker holds up well to contact even with his pad-level issues despite noticeably missing some sand in his pants. And despite lacking the outrageous burst of the Jordan Davis types, he possesses hands and reckless abandon that make him legitimately dangerous as a pass rusher.
However, there are too many examples of Walker taking reps and even series off defensively, which likely won’t enthuse NFL staffs.
No player has stumbled more in the top 100 rankings. Isaiah Bond dropped 29 spots since November, and anybody who’s watched him since October should understand why.
Maybe the nagging ankle injury is more serious than we originally thought. However, it’s not just his athletic performance that suffered. Ewers and head coach Steve Sarkisian made Bond an afterthought, appearing to not trust him as anything more than a decoy.
The best way to look at Bond might be as a blend of Alabama’s DeVonta Smith and Jaylen Waddle. He doesn’t have Waddle’s high-end post-catch ability or Smith’s consistent route-running detail, but Bond approaches both, which is something nobody else in this class can claim.
Bond’s natural flexibility, agility, and explosiveness make him a difficult player to mirror, even without refinement. However, he’s grown since his days at Alabama in the finer details of being a professional route runner. Although he’s not as fast as Xavier Worthy, Bond should still run faster than a 4.40, and he’s definitely more laterally agile.
When healthy, the physical tools and natural separation ability made him a Biletnikoff contender in the preseason, especially considering he was (presumably) taking over Worthy’s role in the offense. None of that happened, his injury slowed him down, and so has his NFL Draft-worthiness.
Still, there’s a ton of potential, which means an NFL team is very likely going to take a chance on him on the first two days of the Draft.
Trade: The Texans received pick 56 from the Bills. Buffalo received picks 58 and 167.
Dorian Strong might have the second-best zone eyes in the class. He connects quickly to match in-breaking routes from Cover 3 leverage while understanding what threats come at different depths. He’s situationally intelligent and boasts impressive freedom to snap off routes to make plays on a different receiver.
Strong’s also not a liability playing at the line of scrimmage, but he’s definitely weaker when his focus is on the receiver and is playing with his back to the ball.
Trade: The Ravens received pick 18 from the Seahawks. Seattle received picks 27 and 59.
Arguably, no player is more polarizing than Donovan Ezeiruaku. Opinions vary from first-round pick to Day 3 talent, and it’s easy to see why.
The pass rusher is sawed-off but has the sort of density and length to live as a consistent edge setter at the NFL level physically. Ezeiruaku boasts a more diverse pass-rushing arsenal than any player in the country, and his swim move is a devastating go-to as an inside counter and when used as a B-gap blitzer or looper.
However, he hasn’t consistently flashed against the better tackles on his schedule. Ezeiruaku’s run game processor and peripheral vision are inconsistent at best, and while he has burst and bend, neither is to the level of Pearce, Carter, or Umanmielen.
If we act like the regular-season game against Oregon doesn’t exist, Denzel Burke might still be a top-50 draft pick in April. But because we don’t have memory-erasing pen-shaped devices, that’s not possible.
Burke has consistently flashed impressive play for long stretches only to blow up and forget how to survive on the field for other stretches. The Oregon game was an abject disaster for Burke, who allowed Johnson and Evan Stewart to run by him like he was stuck in the mud.
Still, Burke has naturally loose hips and impressive bursts when he’s playing with any semblance of confidence. However, his long speed is only average at best, which leaves him in the dust if he’s late to transition vertically versus speedy receivers in Ohio State’s zone-heavy scheme.
Barrett Carter has been in the NFL Draft scope for a long time. That longevity brings more eyeballs on a more consistent basis, which in turn brings more opportunity for both praise and scrutiny.
The issue is that no player is perfect. New names from nowhere often get highlighted only by their draft-eligible campaign, and draftniks may only watch three games of their entire college career.
At this point, most draftniks have probably evaluated closer to 10 on Carter’s résumé. He’s still a compact, explosive mover with an impressive finish rate in the open field despite his lackluster height. Additionally, he sets an awfully firm edge, considering how much length he’s giving up there.
Unfortunately, Carter’s height is an issue. He’s anatomically unable to consistently find windows to the backfield, and he’s often caught out of position because of it. A SAM role at the NFL level could suffice, because he’s proven he can rush the passer a bit as well as survive in coverage.
Andrew Mukuba left the slot at Clemson for a role on the back end of the Texas Longhorns’ defense, and everyone forgot he existed because nobody watches safeties. Mukuba never stopped being a talented player, though, and his versatile background makes him a valuable player at the next level.
Mukuba is darty and detailed as a zone defender with impressive range via physical speed and instinctual prowess.
Mukuba’s outrageous thirst for violence after joining the Longhorns has excited scouts most. Although undersized, he’s played like a heat-seeking missile in Texas’ secondary.
Like a painter slapping ink on canvas at a speed the untrained eye can’t even process, Kaleb Johnson’s feet do the same to find the perfect avenue of approach when operating in Iowa’s predominantly wide-zone rushing attack.
There’s an uncanny fluidity and effortlessness to Johnson’s footwork as he finds creases, and his flexibility allows him to consistently get his body pointed where his feet are telling him to go.
Johnson doesn’t quite have the high-end explosiveness that other backs in the class boast, but his incredible vision and second-level manipulation free him up to create explosive runs at a rate higher than any other back.
The only things keeping Johnson grounded in the rankings are his lack of pass-catching opportunities and his somewhat underwhelming pass-protection habits.
Matthew Golden, like Egbuka, is a professional route runner. Golden doesn’t have quite the same frame density and play strength as his Ohio State counterpart, but he might be a tick more explosive overall through the course of his route stem.
Golden’s ability to improve his hands at the line of scrimmage will ultimately dictate how consistently he produces at the next level. He’s savvy but must improve his ability to skirt more technically proficient press coverage defenders.
Nevertheless, there’s a reason Golden became Quinn Ewers’ preferred target down the stretch. His nuanced route running and consistently impressive ability to finish make him a reliable target for quarterbacks, no matter the situation.
He tracks the ball incredibly well in the air, which was evidenced against Georgia and Arizona State. Golden’s ability to contort his frame mid-air and finish with an eye on the sideline further proves his prowess as a pass catcher.
Trade: The Giants received pick 50 from the Seahawks. Seattle received picks 65, 104, and 155 from the Giants.
Marcus Mbow is a powerful and athletic offensive tackle with the tools to excel in both pass protection and run blocking. He showcases strong hands and a sturdy base, allowing him to anchor effectively against power rushers, while his quick footwork helps him handle speed off the edge.
In the run game, Mbow’s physicality and ability to generate push at the line of scrimmage stand out, as does his ability to climb to the second level and engage linebackers. Refining his technique, particularly his hand placement and consistency in maintaining leverage would elevate his already impressive skill set.
Dylan Fairchild is a dominant force in the run game. He’s a natural mauler who thrives in creating movement at the line of scrimmage.
Fairchild’s ability to pull and locate defenders at the second level sets him apart, showcasing impressive athleticism for his size. His physicality and football IQ allow him to excel in downhill schemes and pick up complex assignments, making him a reliable blocker in Georgia’s powerful rushing attack.
While he could improve block consistency, Fairchild’s blend of strength and mobility makes him an interesting NFL prospect.
As the archetype suggests, Mason Taylor has the skill set to move about the formation and offer versatility as a blocker and pass catcher.
Although his role in LSU’s offense was slightly underwhelming, Taylor’s ball-skill flashes are consistent, his burst and fluidity in space make him dangerous after the catch, and his tenacity and technique as a blocker make up for size lost to bigger, stronger pass rushers and run defenders.
Quinshon Judkins feels a lot like the RB version of Tuimoloau. He’s got some wiggle and natural creativity, but his ankles are a bit tight. There’s some explosiveness there, but Judkins clearly doesn’t have the horsepower of his backfield mate, Henderson.
He can fall forward and push a pile, but Judkins lacks the contact balance of top backs, and his vision remains inconsistent. He also catches the ball out of the backfield but wouldn’t be regarded as dynamic there, and he’s an underwhelming pass protector.
Trade: The Seahawks received pick 69 from the Patriots. New England received pick 82 and Seattle’s 2026 third-round pick.
Jaxson Dart is a natural leader and playmaker. He is known for elevating his team with pinpoint passes, sharp reads, and trust in his receivers. He excels at exploiting man coverage, finding matchups, and winning 50-50 plays.
While his game has a few flaws, he sometimes locks in downfield too long, risking ball security. Those daring throws into tight coverage might not always succeed against NFL corners, but with his full skill set, Dart has the tools to thrive at the next level.
Trade: The Jaguars received pick 54 from the Packers. Green Bay received picks 69 and 88.
Savion Williams is a physical and athletic wide receiver with the ability to make contested catches and create mismatches against defenders. He uses his size and strong hands to win at the catch point, excelling in jump-ball situations and red-zone opportunities. Williams runs crisp routes and shows good body control, allowing him to adjust to off-target throws.
His physicality also makes him a tough assignment for defenders after the catch, as he fights through tackles for extra yardage. While adding more consistency to his releases and route tree would enhance his impact, Williams is a reliable and dynamic playmaker.
Tate Ratledge was one of the few consistent forces on Georgia’s offensive line in 2024, sans for the weeks he missed after undergoing tightrope surgery on his ankle.
Ratledge won’t wow you with conspicuous play strength or explosiveness. However, despite his tall, lean frame, there are no issues with leverage on the interior because of his impressive knee bend.
The Bulldogs’ right guard lacks versatility, considering he only played on the right side in college. However, any team looking for an RG will get an experienced blocker who consistently maintains impressive positional leverage in the run game while boasting impressive core strength and mirroring ability as a pass protector.
Aireontae Ersery is one of only a few blockers in the 2025 NFL Draft class with legitimate OT tools. His size, length, and movement skills scream blindside blocker, but the consistency and detail necessary to protect franchise passers haven’t manifested yet.
Still, Ersery’s snappy horizontal burst off the line makes him a priority project for teams that implement wide-zone schemes at a high rate.
Trade: Chargers received pick 73 from the Raiders. Las Vegas received picks 86 and 124.
T.J. Sanders has emerged as a disruptive force on the interior. Sanders combines impressive size with quickness, allowing him to penetrate gaps and collapse the pocket effectively.
His explosive first step and strong hands make him difficult to handle in one-on-one matchups, while his ability to shed blocks adds value against the run. Sanders is particularly effective in creating backfield disruption, consistently generating pressure, and forcing offenses off schedule.
With further refinement in his pad level and technique, Sanders has the tools to become a highly impactful defensive lineman.
The Nittany Lions’ safety hardly played after suffering a season-ending injury in the second week of the season. Despite that, Kevin Winston Jr. should hear his name called on Day 2 so as long as his medical examination comes back clean in Indianapolis.
Built like a Jim Boeheim wing, the lengthy safety might be one of the most sure tacklers the position has seen. Even when caught out of position or entirely overmatched by a larger ball carrier, Winston’s length and determination find a way to finish the ball carrier on the ground.
He’s lean like a cornerback and possesses the smooth swivel and vertical speed to turn and burn with receivers from his split-safety alignment. Winston is a safe coverage player who maintains downfield positional leverage to keep everything in front of him. However, the rangy safety’s playmaking prowess is confined to the run game.
Maybe more on-field experience or a different coverage role will sharpen his trigger and processing speed in coverage, but Winston is raw in that area now. At safety, the 4.4 athlete is slower than the 4.8 athlete if it takes them an extra half-second to process the picture in front of them.
Jayden Higgins is a polished wide receiver known for his route-running precision and reliable hands. He uses his quickness and agility to create separation, consistently making himself a dependable target in critical situations.
Higgins excels at finding soft spots in zone coverage and has the body control to make tough catches along the sideline. His ability after the catch adds an extra dimension, as he uses his vision and elusiveness to gain additional yardage.
While improving his release against press coverage would enhance his game, Higgins’ consistency and playmaking ability make him a valuable weapon in any offensive system.
All Armand Membou did in 2024 was face some of the best pass rushers in this class, only to best them in battle at right tackle. However, despite his accolades, Membou’s also receiving the tackle-to-guard treatment, but we’re putting my foot down on this one.
Membou possesses more than enough length and mobility not only to survive but to thrive on the outside. He was on Bruce Feldman’s “Freaks List,” and what issues do arise on tape would be magnified, not mitigated, by a move inside (underwhelming core strength/anchor specifically versus sturdier rushers).
Shemar Turner is a versatile and disruptive presence on the Aggies’ defensive line. Turner combines size, strength, and athleticism, making him effective both as a run defender and a pass rusher.
His quick first step and powerful hands allow him to penetrate gaps and control blockers at the point of attack. Turner’s versatility enables him to play multiple positions along the defensive front, giving him added value in various schemes.
With continued development in his technique and consistency, Turner has the potential to thrive as an NFL-caliber defensive lineman.
Jalen Royals doesn’t have the top-tier athleticism that suggests his ceiling is very high, but he’s a pass catcher who is good at just about everything.
Royals was stuck catching screens and finding space inside of five yards in 2024 because that’s all the Utah State passing attack does, but his 2023 film showed almost consistently that he was the best player on the field in the Mountain West.
Royals has a bit of post-catch vision, wiggle, and contact balance to boot.
Much like Harris at Ole Miss, Kyren Lacy won’t wow observers with even above-average athleticism. However, he makes up for that with the same kind of snazzy release repertoire Harris shows.
Lacy doesn’t naturally separate the same way Harris can, but his on-field rapport with Garrett Nussmeier was palpable. He lacks the upside of many others later on this list, but Lacy possesses NFL physicality at the catch point and provides a reliable target for quarterbacks who are willing to test tighter windows.
Chris Paul is a versatile linebacker with the speed and instincts to impact all phases of the game. At 6’1”, 235 pounds, he combines sideline-to-sideline range with exceptional tackling and strong hand usage. His natural feel for spacing helps him disrupt passing lanes, while his precise angles and sure tackling make him a reliable defender in pursuit.
Ajani Cornelius combines size, athleticism, and versatility to anchor the Ducks’ offensive line. He boasts the ideal frame with strong hands and excellent lateral quickness, excelling in pass protection against both speed and power rushers.
In the run game, Cornelius creates movement with his physicality and leverage, while his ability to reach the second level adds value in zone schemes. Though refining hand placement and pad level would enhance his consistency, Cornelius’s blend of tools and football IQ make him a high-upside NFL prospect with the potential to be a dependable starter.
Trade: The Seahawks received pick 69 from the Patriots. The Patriots received pick 82 and Seattle’s 2026 third-round pick. New England then traded pick 82 to the Rams. In return, the Patriots received pick 90 and the Rams’ 2026 fourth-round pick.
Daylen Everette was a rising star in the Bulldogs’ secondary, showcasing a blend of size, athleticism, and instincts.
Everette’s length and physicality make him effective in press coverage, while his quickness and fluid hips allow him to stay in phase with receivers downfield. He excels at reading routes and breaking on the ball, showing solid instincts in coverage.
Everette’s willingness to contribute in run support adds to his versatility. With continued development in technique and ball skills, he has the potential to become a dynamic playmaker at the next level.
Omarr Norman-Lott brings a combination of power and quickness to the Volunteers’ defensive front. He excels at controlling the line of scrimmage, using his strong hands and low pad level to shed blocks and disrupt the backfield.
Norman-Lott’s quick first step makes him a threat as both a run defender and interior pass rusher, while his high motor allows him to pursue plays beyond the line.
With continued development in technique and consistency, Norman-Lott has the tools to be a versatile and disruptive force at the next level.
Trade: The Lions received pick 84 from the Buccaneers. Tampa Bay received pick 101 and the Lions’ 2026 fourth-round pick.
David Walker is a dynamic edge rusher known for his explosive first step and relentless motor. He excels at generating pressure off the edge, using a combination of speed, agility, and effective hand techniques to beat blockers.
Walker’s ability to bend around the edge and close on quarterbacks makes him a consistent pass-rushing threat, while his strength and leverage allow him to set the edge against the run.
His versatility enables him to contribute to multiple defensive schemes. With continued refinement in counter moves and consistency, Walker has the potential to make an impact as a disruptive playmaker.
Azareye’h Thomas will be one of the more polarizing players in the 2025 NFL Draft class. The Seminoles’ CB has the length, physicality, and speed to be a dominant press-man coverage player. He’s patient at the line of scrimmage, and his press technique is impressive. However, too much of his game is predicated on winning early.
It makes Thomas a menace near the goal line. However, he’s hopelessly impatient in trail technique, and there’s a bit of natural stiffness and indecision when mirroring route runners at the top of intermediate routes. More seasoning and less trail technique could quell all these concerns, but his college tape was far from perfect.
However, Thomas brings the requisite physicality to thrive as a run defender on the outside. The fact that he exhibited that in an entirely lost Florida State season speaks to his on-field character. He never quit. Teams that run a lot of Cover 1 and Cover 3 will likely fall in love with his frame. He’s proven adept as a Cover 3 defender playing from depth.
Trade: Chargers received pick 73 from the Raiders. Las Vegas received picks 86 and 124.
Quinn Ewers commands the field with exceptional arm talent and the ability to dissect defenses under any conditions. He thrives under pressure, attacks every level of the field, and plays with a gritty, leave-it-all-on-the-field mentality that NFL fans will love.
While injury concerns and boundary consistency remain areas for growth, these are minor nitpicks. Ewers’ potential shines, and staying healthy through a full season is the key to solidifying his NFL readiness.
Josaiah Stewart is a high-energy edge rusher with excellent burst and the ability to create consistent backfield disruption. His quick first step and refined hand techniques make him a difficult matchup for offensive tackles, allowing him to generate pressure from a variety of alignments.
Stewart’s agility and balance enable him to bend around the edge effectively, while his strength and effort make him a reliable run defender. He shows excellent instincts in diagnosing plays and pursuing the ball with relentless effort.
With improved consistency in counter moves, Stewart has the tools to be a highly impactful pass rusher in any defensive scheme.
Trade: The Jaguars received pick 54 from the Packers. Green Bay received picks 69 and 88.
Zy Alexander is a long, wiry cornerback with the athleticism and fluidity to develop into a Day 2 draft pick.
The LSU defender shows solid movement skills and flashes upside in coverage, but refining his press technique and maximizing his length will be key to boosting his stock. With improved consistency, he has the tools to rise up draft boards.
Trey Wedig is a strong and technically sound offensive tackle known for his consistency and versatility. He excels in pass protection, showcasing a solid anchor and smooth footwork that allows him to handle both speed and power rushers effectively.
Wedig’s ability to maintain balance and use his length to control defenders makes him reliable on the edge.
In the run game, he displays strength and leverage, creating movement at the line of scrimmage and opening lanes for ball carriers. While continued development in hand placement and agility would enhance his game, Wedig’s discipline and effort make him a dependable blocker.
New England traded pick 82 to the Rams. In return, the Patriots received pick 90 and the Rams’ 2026 fourth-round pick.
Jaylen Reed is a versatile safety with a strong blend of athleticism, instincts, and physicality. He excels in coverage, showcasing the ability to read quarterbacks, break on the ball, and disrupt passing lanes.
Reed’s speed and fluidity allow him to match up with receivers and tight ends, while his physicality shines in run support and tackling. He has a natural feel for the game, often positioning himself to make key plays.
With improved consistency in his angles and refining his technique in man coverage, Reed possesses the skill set to be a dependable playmaker in a variety of defensive schemes.
Tory Horton is a dynamic wide receiver with excellent route-running ability and natural playmaking skills. He combines quickness and fluidity to consistently create separation, making him a reliable target in all areas of the field.
Horton’s strong hands and body control allow him to make tough catches, even in contested situations. He excels after the catch, using his vision and agility to maximize yardage.
His versatility enables him to line up across different positions and contribute to various offensive schemes. By refining his release technique against press coverage, Horton can further elevate his impact as a consistent offensive weapon.
Trade: The Chiefs received pick 92 from the Jets. New York received picks 96 and 169.
Alfred Collins is, quite simply, the most gifted natural run defender we’ve seen in a long time. The fifth-year senior has verifiable 35-inch arms and nearly an 83-inch wingspan, and he knows how to maximize every inch of that length to his advantage on the interior.
Collins’ antics on the field include routinely tossing SEC interior offensive linemen to the ground like he’s a bouncer at a club. However, physical dominance plays a small role in run defense.
Collins’ spatial awareness and quick wit in understanding and reacting to different blocking concepts and backfield flow make him special. He graded very high because of his outstanding run defense, and he should test relatively well at the NFL Combine.
That’s what makes Collins Piccolo. The Z Fighter is a brilliant tactician with extendable arms. However, his all-around repertoire doesn’t quite stack up to the Saiyans.
Collins is similarly “flawed.” He likely won’t sniff this draft capital come April. Unfortunately, his nonexistent pass-rushing repertoire makes him a likely two-down player at the NFL level, lessening his value significantly in the league’s eyes.
Some of that could be a deployment issue. Collins consistently plays through the chest of linemen as a two-gap defender. However, we’ve seen little rushing upside even when he’s able to pin his ears back, and his former running mates at Texas (T’Vondre Sweat and Byron Murphy II) never lacked rushing flashes.
Lathan Ransom is a versatile safety known for his instincts, physicality, and football IQ. He thrives in both coverage and run support, displaying excellent range and awareness in the secondary. Ransom has a natural ability to read plays, allowing him to break on the ball effectively and disrupt passing lanes.
His tackling is reliable and aggressive, making him a key contributor against the run. Whether covering tight ends, providing over-the-top support, or blitzing, he brings versatility to any defensive scheme.
With continued refinement in man-to-man coverage, Ransom has the potential to be an impact player.
Cam Skattebo’s story from Sacramento as an unheralded recruit to earning Heisman Trophy votes is incredible in and of itself. However, Skattebo’s legend shall only grow after his outrageous performance against Texas in the College Football Playoff.
But even before that moment, Skattebo had established himself as a legitimate NFL Draft prospect. The burly back has a knack for stringing together broken tackles and fighting for every single available yard. He proved as much as he pushed through a stout Texas defense while appearing as if barely able to stand up after being seen vomiting on the sideline.
Heroics aside, Skattebo is explosive in a phone booth and possesses impressive duo eyes. Additionally, he possesses three-down traits because of his impressive pass-catching prowess and endless physicality as a pass protector.
Skattebo won’t knock your socks off with home-run speed, but he sets defenders up well in the open field to make them miss. However, his undying desire to remain upright is reminiscent of James Connor and David Montgomery.
Rod Moore is a highly instinctive safety who combines intelligence, athleticism, and versatility to impact all facets of the game. He excels in coverage, reading the quarterback’s intentions and reacting quickly to disrupt passing lanes.
Moore’s range allows him to play effectively in both single-high and split-safety looks, while his physicality and sure tackling make him a strong presence in run support. His ability to anticipate routes and take efficient angles to the ball showcases his football IQ.
By sharpening his man-coverage technique, Moore can further elevate his role as a dependable and dynamic playmaker.
Trade: The Chiefs received pick 92 from the Jets. New York received picks 96 and 169.
Hollin Pierce is a powerful and dependable offensive tackle known for his strength and physicality in the trenches. He excels in run blocking, using his size and leverage to create movement at the line of scrimmage and open lanes for ball carriers.
In pass protection, Pierce showcases a solid anchor and the ability to handle power rushers, though refining his footwork will improve his effectiveness against speed off the edge.
His high motor and competitiveness are evident on every snap, and his ability to maintain balance and sustain blocks makes him a key asset in both run and pass schemes.
Garrett Dellinger is a versatile and technically sound offensive guard who excels in both pass protection and run blocking. His strong hands and balanced footwork allow him to anchor effectively against power rushers, while his agility makes him reliable when pulling or working in space.
Dellinger’s ability to maintain leverage and sustain blocks showcases his football IQ and disciplined technique. He is a physical run blocker who drives defenders off the ball and creates lanes for his running backs.
To become a cornerstone on an NFL offensive line, Dellinger will need more development around hand placement and consistency in pass sets.
Trade: The Dolphins received pick 39 from the Bears. Chicago received picks 48 and 98 from the Dolphins.
Sebastian Castro is a physical and instinctive safety who thrives in run support and brings a hard-nosed mentality to the secondary. His ability to diagnose plays quickly allows him to react decisively, taking efficient angles to the ball and delivering strong, reliable tackles.
Castro’s versatility enables him to contribute in various roles, whether playing in the box, covering tight ends, or providing zone coverage. His high football IQ and effort stand out, consistently putting him in the right position to make plays.
Refining his range and coverage technique will further enhance his ability to impact games in multiple facets.
Earnest Greene III is a powerful and technically sound offensive tackle who excels in both pass protection and run blocking. His strong base and quick footwork allow him to handle a variety of pass-rushing moves while maintaining excellent balance.
Greene’s physicality shines in the run game, where he uses his strength and leverage to drive defenders off the ball and create running lanes. His hand placement and ability to sustain blocks are advanced for his position, showcasing his attention to detail.
Greene has the tools to be a consistent and dominant force on the offensive line but will need to improve his lateral quickness.
Will Howard has showcased NFL potential at Kansas State, despite a late misstep against Oregon. His high football IQ and ability to make “NFL throws” set him apart.
While he’s not yet a talent-elevator, which may limit his immediate NFL prospects, he has the tools to transition smoothly to the pros. With grit and strong leadership, Howard’s path to becoming an NFL starter will depend on how he performs when it matters most.
Trade: The Lions received pick 84 from the Buccaneers. Tampa Bay received pick 101 and the Lions’ 2026 fourth-round pick.
Few CFB players have been more underwhelming relative to expectations than Ollie Gordon II in 2024. After creating explosive run after explosive run in 2023, the Oklahoma State Cowboys’ back struggled to find any space to create this season. Additionally, he looks a tad heavier and conspicuously less explosive than a season ago.
Gordon still possesses incredibly impressive eyes and the feet to manipulate second-level defenders, but his lackluster contact balance makes him a boom-or-bust runner.
102) Tennessee Titans
Ricky White, WR | UNLV
103) Cleveland Browns
Kaden Prather, WR | Maryland
104) Seattle Seahawks (via Giants)
Billy Bowman, S | Oklahoma
Trade: The Giants received pick 50 from the Seahawks. Seattle received picks 65, 104, and 155 from the Giants.
105) New England Patriots
Gunnar Helm, TE | Texas
106) Jacksonville Jaguars
Luke Kandra, OG | Cincinnati
107) Las Vegas Raiders
Jay Higgins, LB | Iowa
108) Buffalo Bills
Cobee Bryant, CB | Kansas
109) New York Jets
Ashton Gillotte, EDGE | Louisville
110) Carolina Panthers
Quincy Riley, CB | Louisville
111) New Orleans Saints
Howard Cross III, DT | Notre Dame
112) San Francisco 49ers
Davison Igbinosun, CB | Ohio State
113) Carolina Panthers
Lander Barton, LB | Utah
114) Arizona Cardinals
Jaeden Roberts, OG | Alabama
115) Miami Dolphins
Grey Zabel, OT | North Dakota State
116) Indianapolis Colts
Elijah Arroyo, TE | Miami (FL)
117) Atlanta Falcons
Jared Wilson, OC | Georgia
118) Cincinnati Bengals
Tyler Baron, EDGE | Miami (FL)
119) Tennessee Titans
Tai Felton, WR | Maryland
120) Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Jordan Hancock, CB | Ohio State
121) Denver Broncos
DJ Giddens, RB | Kansas State
122) Pittsburgh Steelers
Smael Mondon Jr., LB | Georgia
123) Green Bay Packers
Jonah Monheim, OC | USC
124) Las Vegas Raiders (via Chargers)
Mitchell Evans, TE | Notre Dame
Trade: Chargers received pick 71 from the Raiders. Las Vegas received picks 86 and 124.
125) Jacksonville Jaguars
Bradyn Swinson, EDGE | LSU
126) Los Angeles Rams
Carson Schwesinger, LB | UCLA
127) Houston Texans
Terrance Ferguson, TE | Oregon
128) Baltimore Ravens
Danny Stutsman, LB | Oklahoma
129) Philadelphia Eagles
Bhayshul Tuten, RB | Virginia Tech
130) New Orleans Saints
Oronde Gadsden II, WR | Syracuse
131) Buffalo Bills
Jackson Woodard, LB | UNLV
132) Detroit Lions
Antwane Wells Jr., WR | Ole Miss
133) Tennessee Titans
Anthony Belton, OT | NC State
134) New York Giants
Jared Ivey, EDGE | Ole Miss
135) Miami Dolphins
Dillon Gabriel, QB | Oregon
136) Baltimore Ravens
Tyler Cooper, OG | Minnesota
137) Seattle Seahawks
Fadil Diggs, EDGE | Syracuse
138) San Francisco 49ers
Miles Frazier, OG | LSU
139) San Francisco 49ers
Nick Nash, WR | San Jose State
140) Minnesota Vikings
Kyle McCord, QB | Syracuse
141) Carolina Panthers
Chase Lundt, OT | UConn
142) Tennessee Titans
Elijah Roberts, DT | SMU
143) Dallas Cowboys (via Jaguars)
Jack Bech, WR | TCU
Trade: The Cowboys received pick 143 from the Jaguars. Jacksonville received picks 150 and 211.
144) Las Vegas Raiders
Dylan Sampson, RB | Tennessee
145) New England Patriots
Theo Wease Jr., WR | Missouri
146) New York Jets
Luke Lachey, TE | Iowa
147) Carolina Panthers
Jabbar Muhammad, CB | Oregon
148) Washington Commanders
Jordan Phillips, DT | Maryland
149) Chicago Bears
Jordan Burch, EDGE | Oregon
150) Jacksonville Jaguars (via Cowboys)
Ozzy Trapilo, OT | Boston College
Trade: The Cowboys received pick 143 from the Jaguars. Jacksonville received picks 150 and 211.
151) Miami Dolphins
Clay Webb, OG | Jacksonville State
152) Indianapolis Colts
Malachi Moore, S | Alabama
153) Arizona Cardinals
Connor Golby, OG | Iowa
154) Cincinnati Bengals
Aeneas Peebles, DT | Virginia Tech
155) Seattle Seahawks (via Giants)
Jamaree Caldwell, DT | Oregon
Trade: The Giants received pick 50 from the Seahawks. Seattle received picks 65, 104, and 155 from the Giants.
156) Miami Dolphins
Phil Mafah, RB | Clemson
157) New York Jets
Kyle Monangai, RB | Rutgers
158) Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Jacob Gideon, OC | Western Michigan
159) Los Angeles Chargers
Brandon Crenshaw-Dixon, OT | Florida
160) Green Bay Packers
Jermari Harris, CB | Iowa
161) Minnesota Vikings
Brashard Smith, RB | SMU
162) Philadelphia Eagles
Charles Grant, OT | William & Mary
163) Pittsburgh Steelers
Jarquez Hunter, RB | Auburn
164) Dallas Cowboys (via Panthers)
Ty Robinson, DT | Nebraska
Trade: Cowboys received pick 164 from the Panthers. Carolina received picks 170 and 250.
165) Cleveland Browns
Kurtis Rourke, QB | Ohio
166) Philadelphia Eagles
Jeffrey Bassa, LB | Oregon
167) Buffalo Bills (via Texans)
Mello Dotson, CB | Kansas
Trade: The Texans received pick 56 from the Bills. Buffalo received picks 58 and 167.
168) Arizona Cardinals
Jaylin Noel, WR | Iowa State
169) New York Jets (via Chiefs)
Kamren Fabiculanan, S | Washington
Trade: The Chiefs received pick 92 from the Jets. New York received picks 96 and 169.
170) Carolina Panthers (via Cowboys)
Bryce Anderson, S | Texas A&M
Trade: Cowboys received pick 164 from the Panthers. Carolina received picks 170 and 250.
171) Buffalo Bills
Corey Thornton, CB | Louisville
172) Dallas Cowboys
Raheim Sanders, RB | South Carolina
173) Seattle Seahawks
Antwuan Powell-Ryland, EDGE | Virginia Tech
174) Dallas Cowboys
Jordan James, RB | Oregon
175) Buffalo Bills
Austin Barber, OT | Florida
176) Baltimore Ravens
Corey Kiner, RB | Cincinnati
177) Los Angeles Chargers
Jake Majors, C | Texas
178) Baltimore Ravens
Tahj Brooks, RB | Texas Tech
179) Buffalo Bills
Justin Walley, CB | Minnesota
180) Tennessee Titans
Jack Nelson, OT | Wisconsin
181) Buffalo Bills
RJ Harvey, RB | UCF
182) Las Vegas Raiders
Kalel Mullings, RB | Michigan
183) Los Angeles Chargers
Devin Neal, RB | Kansas
184) Jacksonville Jaguars
Cooper Mays, OG | Tennessee
185) Baltimore Ravens
Jason Marshall Jr., CB | Florida
186) New Orleans Saints
Johnny Walker, EDGE | Missouri
187) Seattle Seahawks
Trey Moore, EDGE | Texas
188) Green Bay Packers (via Jets)
Ty Hamilton, DT | Ohio State
Trade: Packers received pick 188 from the Jets. New York received picks 200 and 239.
189) San Francisco 49ers
Isas Waxter, CB | Villanova
190) Dallas Cowboys
Jo’Quavious Marks, RB | USC
191) Indianapolis Colts
Demetrius Knight Jr., LB | South Carolina
192) Los Angeles Rams
Cody Simon, LB | Ohio State
193) Denver Broncos
Jack Kiser, LB | Notre Dame
194) Cleveland Browns
Kameryn Alexander, CB | Oregon
195) Cincinnati Bengals
Jake Briningstool, TE | Clemson
196) Seattle Seahawks
Hunter Wohler, S | Wisconsin
197) Washington Commanders
Gerard Christian-Lichtenhan, OT | Oregon State
198) Detroit Lions
Tonka Hemingway, DT | South Carolina
199) Denver Broncos
Kobe Hudson, WR | UCF
200) New York Jets (via Packers)
Rayuan Lane III, S | Navy
Trade: Packers received pick 188 from the Jets. New York received picks 200 and 239.
201) Atlanta Falcons
Pat Bryant, WR | Illinois
202) Cleveland Browns
RJ Oben, EDGE | Notre Dame
203) Los Angeles Rams
Deion Burks, WR | Oklahoma
204) Chicago Bears
Seth McLaughlin, C | Ohio State
205) Baltimore Ravens
Elijah Badger, WR | Florida
206) Cleveland Browns
Dalton Cooper, OT | Oklahoma State
207) Washington Commanders
Jackson Hawes, TE | Georgia Tech
208) Buffalo Bills
Willie Lampkin, OG | North Carolina
209) Denver Broncos
Joshua Gray, OG | Oregon State
210) New York Jets
Joshua Farmer, DT | Florida State
211) Jacksonville Jaguars (via Cowboys)
Zah Frazier, CB | UTSA
Trade: The Cowboys received pick 143 from the Jaguars. Jacksonville received picks 150 and 211.
212) Seattle Seahawks
Tyler Batty, EDGE | BYU
213) Baltimore Ravens
Patrick Jenkins, DT | Tulane
214) Las Vegas Raiders
Joey Slackman, DT | Florida
215) Los Angeles Chargers
LaJohntay Wester, WR | Colorado
216) Cleveland Browns
Trevor Etienne, RB | Georgia
217) Cleveland Browns
Teddye Buchanan, LB | California
218) Las Vegas Raiders
Brady Cook, QB | Missouri
219) New England Patriots
Nohl Williams, CB | California
220) Los Angeles Chargers
Will Sheppard, WR | Colorado
221) New York Giants
DeMonte Capeheart, DT | Clemson
222) New England Patriots
Tommi Hill, CB | Nebraska
223) Jacksonville Jaguars
Craig Woodson, S | California
224) Las Vegas Raiders
Damien Martinez, RB | Miami (FL)
225) Pittsburgh Steelers
Collin Oliver, LB | Oklahoma State
226) Miami Dolphins
Jacob Parrish, CB | Kansas State
227) Arizona Cardinals
Ja’Corey Brooks, WR | Louisville
228) San Francisco 49ers
Jalen Rivers, OT | Miami (FL)
229) Carolina Panthers
Shilo Sanders, S | Colorado
230) Detroit Lions
Thor Griffith, DT | Louisville
231) Washington Commanders
Jaylin Smith, CB | USC
232) Kansas City Chiefs
De’Rickey Wright, S | Vanderbilt
233) Miami Dolphins
Brant Kuithe, TE | Utah
234) Indianapolis Colts
Adin Huntington, DT | Tulane
235) Chicago Bears
Kaimon Rucker, EDGE | North Carolina
236) Seattle Seahawks
Barryn Sorrell, EDGE | Texas
237) Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Jamon Dumas-Johnson, LB | Kentucky
238) Pittsburgh Steelers
Donovan McMillon, S | Pittsburgh
239) New York Jets (via Packers)
Duce Chestnut, CB | Syracuse
Trade: Packers received pick 188 from the Jets. New York received picks 200 and 239.
240) New England Patriots
CJ West, DT | Indiana
241) Tennessee Titans
Tyler Shough, QB | Louisville
242) Chicago Bears
Xavier Truss, OG | Georgia
243) Houston Texans
Andrew Armstrong, WR | Arkansas
244) Atlanta Falcons
Fentrell Cypress III, CB | Florida State
245) Baltimore Ravens
Addison West, OG | Western Michigan
246) Detroit Lions
Jamoi Mayes, WR | Cincinnati
247) Pittsburgh Steelers
Glendon Miller, S | Maryland
248) New York Giants
Riley Leonard, QB | Notre Dame
249) New Orleans Saints
Marcus Tate, OG | Clemson
250) Carolina Panthers (via Cowboys)
J.J. Pegues, DT | Ole Miss
Trade: Cowboys received pick 164 from the Panthers. Carolina received picks 170 and 250.
251) Green Bay Packers
Gus Hartwig, OC | Purdue
252) Miami Dolphins
Malik Verdon, S | Iowa State
253) Los Angeles Chargers
LeQuint Allen, RB | Syracuse
254) New Orleans Saints
R Mason Thomas, EDGE | Oklahoma
255) San Francisco 49ers
Jailin Walker, LB | Indiana
256) Kansas City Chiefs
Jah Joyner, EDGE | Minnesota
257) Cleveland Browns
Woodi Washington, CB | Oklahoma
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