As the 2025 NFL Draft draws near, the focus shifts to the next generation of talent poised to make an impact on the league. Among the most highly anticipated prospects is the crop of talented running backs, led by a trio of standout performers. Nick Singleton of Penn State, Domani Jackson of Southern Cal, and Rueben Owens of Louisville have emerged as the clear frontrunners, each possessing a unique skill set that has scouts and analysts buzzing with excitement. With their explosive speed, dynamic playmaking ability, and unwavering determination, these running backs are poised to dominate the draft and make an immediate impact in the NFL.
Leading the charge is Nick Singleton, a true workhorse running back who combines power and agility with uncanny vision and balance. Hailing from Governor Mifflin High School in Pennsylvania, Singleton burst onto the scene as a true freshman at Penn State, showcasing his exceptional blend of size, speed, and elusiveness. Averaging over 120 yards per game in his first season, Singleton has proven to be a consistent and reliable threat, displaying the ability to both grind out tough yards and break off explosive runs. His versatility as a runner, coupled with his impressive pass-catching skills, makes him a complete package that has NFL teams salivating.
Joining Singleton in the spotlight is Domani Jackson, a lightning-fast speedster who has taken the Pac-12 by storm. Originally a highly touted recruit out of Mater Dei High School in California, Jackson has lived up to the hype at Southern Cal, showcasing his blistering speed and electrifying playmaking ability. With his ability to accelerate through the smallest of holes and outrun defenders with ease, Jackson poses a constant threat to score from anywhere on the field. His shifty moves and elusive running style make him a nightmare for opposing tacklers, and his contributions as a return specialist add another dimension to his game. Jackson has the potential to be a game-changer at the next level, providing an explosive spark to any offense.
Risers and Fallers: Evaluating Draft Stock
The 2025 NFL Draft promises to be a captivating event, with a plethora of talented prospects showcasing their abilities. As the draft approaches, the evaluation process intensifies, leading to significant fluctuations in draft stock. Here, we delve into the key risers and fallers whose stock has experienced notable changes since the initial evaluations.
Risers
1. Zion Branch, DL, Ohio State
Branch’s relentless motor, impressive strength, and exceptional athleticism have propelled him up draft boards. He has shown a remarkable ability to penetrate offensive lines and generate pressure on quarterbacks. His versatility, enabling him to play both inside and outside the tackles, further enhances his draft value.
2. Shemar Stewart, LB, Texas
Stewart has emerged as a force in the Texas defense, captivating scouts with his instincts, speed, and tackling prowess. His ability to cover ground quickly and read plays effectively has elevated his stock. Teams seeking a dynamic linebacker to anchor their defense will likely consider Stewart in the early rounds.
3. Dasan McCullough, DL, Indiana
McCullough’s raw athleticism and potential have attracted significant attention. While he may lack the polish of some of the other top prospects, his size, speed, and power suggest a ceiling that is through the roof. Teams willing to invest in his development could reap substantial rewards down the road.
Prospect | Position | School | Initial Draft Projection | Updated Draft Projection |
---|---|---|---|---|
Zion Branch | DL | Ohio State | Mid-1st Round | Top-10 Pick |
Shemar Stewart | LB | Texas | 2nd Round | 1st Round |
Dasan McCullough | DL | Indiana | Late 1st Round | Mid-1st Round |
Potential Surprises
Despite clear-cut favorites at the top of the draft, a few under-the-radar prospects could shake up the order.
- Jalen Carter, DT, Georgia: The 6’4", 310-pound defensive tackle could be a steal if he falls outside the top 10.
- Julius Brents, CB, Kansas State: Brents has elite ball-hawking skills and could be a sleeper pick in the first round.
- Zach Charbonnet, RB, UCLA: The dynamic running back has been overshadowed by Bijan Robinson and Jahmyr Gibbs but possesses the talent to be a top-15 selection.
Trade Scenarios
With so much talent available, teams may look to make bold moves on draft day:
- Carolina Panthers trade up for C.J. Stroud: The Panthers desperately need a franchise quarterback and may be willing to part with multiple first-round picks to secure Stroud.
- Buffalo Bills trade down: The Bills could trade out of the top 10 to acquire more draft capital and still land a quality prospect like Anderson or Carter.
- Baltimore Ravens trade for a wide receiver: The Ravens have a glaring need at receiver and may be willing to trade up to secure a top pass-catcher like Quentin Johnston or Jalin Hyatt.
Trade Proposal: Indianapolis Colts trade for Bryce Young
Details:
- Colts receive: Bryce Young, QB (from Houston Texans)
- Texans receive: Colts’ 2023 first-round pick (No. 4), Colts’ 2024 first-round pick, Colts’ 2023 second-round pick (No. 35)
Analysis:
The Colts have a gaping hole at quarterback and could make a splash move by trading up for Young, a generational talent. The Texans, in need of draft capital, would likely accept a package that includes multiple first-round picks.
Breakout Candidates for the 2025 Draft
1. Quarterback: Dante Moore (Oregon)
Moore is a 5-star recruit and the No. 1 quarterback in the 2023 class. He has a strong arm, good mobility, and excellent decision-making skills. Moore is a potential Heisman Trophy candidate and could be a first-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft.
2. Running Back: Rueben Owens (Texas)
Owens is a 5-star recruit and the No. 1 running back in the 2023 class. He is a powerful runner with good speed and agility. Owens is a potential All-American and could be a top-10 pick in the 2025 NFL Draft.
3. Wide Receiver: Carnell Tate (Ohio State)
Tate is a 5-star recruit and the No. 1 wide receiver in the 2023 class. He is a big, physical receiver with good speed and athleticism. Tate is a potential Biletnikoff Award winner and could be a first-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft.
4. Defensive End: Shemar Stewart (Texas)
Stewart is a 5-star recruit and the No. 1 defensive end in the 2023 class. He is a long, athletic edge rusher with good strength and speed. Stewart is a potential All-American and could be a top-5 pick in the 2025 NFL Draft.
5. Linebacker: Harold Perkins (LSU)
Perkins is a 5-star recruit and the No. 1 linebacker in the 2023 class. He is a fast, physical linebacker with good instincts and tackling ability. Perkins is a potential Butkus Award winner and could be a first-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft.
6. Cornerback: Sonny Styles (Ohio State)
Styles is a 4-star recruit and the No. 1 cornerback in the 2023 class. He is a physical, athletic cornerback with good coverage skills and ball skills. Styles is a potential All-American and could be a first-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft.
7. Safety: Malachi Moore (Alabama)
Moore is a 5-star recruit and the No. 1 safety in the 2023 class. He is a fast, physical safety with good instincts and tackling ability. Moore is a potential All-American and could be a first-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft.
8. Offensive Tackle: Cade Klubnik (Clemson)
Klubnik is a 5-star recruit and the No. 1 offensive tackle in the 2023 class. He is a big, strong offensive tackle with good athleticism. Klubnik is a potential All-American and could be a first-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft.
9. Defensive Tackle: Kelvin Banks (Texas)
Banks is a 5-star recruit and the No. 1 defensive tackle in the 2023 class. He is a big, strong defensive tackle with good strength and quickness. Banks is a potential All-American and could be a first-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft.
10. Edge Rusher: Matayo Uiagalelei (Ohio State)
Uiagalelei is a 5-star recruit and the No. 1 edge rusher in the 2023 class. He is a long, athletic edge rusher with good speed and strength. Uiagalelei is a potential All-American and could be a first-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft.
Mock Drafts from Leading Analysts
As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, several leading analysts have released their mock drafts, projecting the likely destinations of top college prospects. Here’s a closer look at some of the key predictions:
No. 1 Overall: Bryce Young, QB, Alabama
The consensus top pick in most mock drafts, Young is a dynamic playmaker with outstanding arm strength and accuracy.
No. 2 Overall: C.J. Stroud, QB, Ohio State
Stroud’s impressive size, arm talent, and pocket presence make him another strong quarterback prospect.
No. 3 Overall: Jayden Daniels, QB, LSU
Daniels’ combination of athleticism and quarterbacking skills give him a unique blend of mobility and passing ability.
No. 4 Overall: Kelvin Banks, OT, Texas
Banks is a massive and athletic tackle who is expected to be a cornerstone left tackle in the NFL.
No. 5 Overall: Will Levis, QB, Kentucky
Levis’s strong arm and physical prowess make him a potential franchise quarterback with a high upside.
No. 6 Overall: Evan Stewart, WR, Texas A&M
Stewart is a speedy and explosive receiver who is considered to be one of the best playmakers in the draft.
No. 7 Overall: Oscar Delp, OT, Maryland
Delp’s quick feet and impressive length make him a versatile tackle who can play on either side.
No. 8 Overall: Anthony Richardson, QB, Florida
Exceptional Physical Attributes
Richardson is a powerfully-built quarterback with a combination of size (6’4″, 244 lbs) and athleticism that is rare at the position. His running ability and elusive nature make him a dangerous threat on designed runs.
Strong Arm and Raw Talent
Despite his physical gifts, Richardson’s passing skills are still developing. He possesses a live arm with good velocity and accuracy on short and intermediate throws. However, his deep passing needs refinement and consistency.
Developmental Potential
Richardson is a project quarterback with immense upside. His unique blend of athleticism and arm strength makes him a potentially exceptional talent. However, he will require significant time and development to reach his full potential.
Other Notable Picks
The remaining picks in the top 10 of most mock drafts include players such as:
Rank | Player | Position | Team |
---|---|---|---|
9 | Shemar Stewart | DL | Texas |
10 | Toriano Pride | LB | Clemson |
Impact of the 2025 Draft on the Bears’ Roster
9. Draft Picks Impact
The 2025 draft class is expected to be deep in talent, and the Bears are likely to have a number of opportunities to add impact players. Their current position in the draft order puts them in a good spot to land a franchise-changing player, and they could also use their picks to address some of their most pressing needs.
The Bears’ biggest need in the 2025 draft is at quarterback. After struggling with Justin Fields for the past few seasons, they need to find a long-term solution at the position. There are a number of talented quarterbacks expected to be available in the draft, and the Bears should be in a good position to land one of them.
In addition to quarterback, the Bears also need to address their defense. They have a number of holes in their secondary, and they could also use some help at linebacker. The draft is expected to be deep in defensive talent, so the Bears should be able to find some players who can help them improve on that side of the ball.
The Bears’ 2025 draft class could have a significant impact on the team’s future. If they can add some impact players, they could be a contender in the NFC North. However, if they miss on their picks, they could be in for another long season.
Bears 2025 Mock Draft
With the 2025 NFL Draft still a few years away, it’s never too early to start looking ahead at potential prospects. The Chicago Bears currently have a young roster with a number of promising players, but there are still some areas that need to be addressed. Here is a look at a potential mock draft for the Bears in 2025:
- Round 1, Pick 10: Bryce Young, QB, Alabama
- Round 1, Pick 20: Kelvin Banks, OT, Texas
- Round 2, Pick 40: Josh Conerly Jr., OT, Oregon
- Round 2, Pick 55: Julius Brents, CB, Kansas State
- Round 3, Pick 75: Jeremiah Alexander, EDGE, Alabama
- Round 3, Pick 80: JQ Hardaway, S, Cincinnati
- Round 4, Pick 100: Walter Nolen III, DL, Texas A&M
- Round 4, Pick 115: CJ Donaldson, RB, West Virginia
- Round 5, Pick 150: Nick Singleton, RB, Penn State
- Round 5, Pick 165: David Bailey Jr., OLB, Stanford
- Round 6, Pick 180: Jaheim Oatis, DL, Alabama
- Round 6, Pick 205: Will Mallory, TE, Miami
- Round 7, Pick 220: Jeremiah Criddell, S, Florida
People Also Ask About Bears 2025 Mock Draft
What are the Bears’ biggest needs in the 2025 NFL Draft?
The Bears have a number of needs, including quarterback, offensive tackle, and cornerback. They also need to add depth to their defensive line and secondary.
Who are some potential targets for the Bears in the 2025 NFL Draft?
Some potential targets for the Bears in the 2025 NFL Draft include Bryce Young, Kelvin Banks, Josh Conerly Jr., Julius Brents, Jeremiah Alexander, and JQ Hardaway.
What are the Bears’ strengths and weaknesses heading into the 2025 NFL Draft?
The Bears’ strengths include a young and talented roster with a number of promising players. Their weaknesses include a lack of depth at some positions, particularly on the offensive line and in the secondary.