With a plethora of highly touted prospects waiting in the wings, the 2025 NFL Draft is shaping up to be one of the most captivating in recent memory. From generational talents to under-the-radar gems, this class offers a tantalizing mix of athleticism, skill, and potential. As the countdown to the draft commences, football enthusiasts around the globe eagerly anticipate the emergence of the next wave of NFL superstars.
Among the top prospects to watch for is quarterback Dante Moore, a dynamic playmaker from Michigan who has drawn comparisons to Patrick Mahomes. Moore possesses an uncanny ability to extend plays and make pinpoint throws from any angle. Other highly regarded prospects include running back Rueben Owens, a physical specimen with exceptional vision and breakaway speed; wide receiver Carnell Tate, a towering target with elite leaping ability; and defensive end Shemar Stewart, a relentless pass rusher with a non-stop motor. With such an abundance of talent available, NFL teams are sure to have their work cut out for them when it comes to making their draft selections.
However, it is not just the elite prospects who are generating buzz. The 2025 NFL Draft class is also notable for its overall depth. There are dozens of talented players who are capable of making an immediate impact at the professional level. With so much potential waiting to be unlocked, this draft has the potential to be a defining moment for the future of the NFL.
Elite Quarterback Prospects
C.J. Stroud, Ohio State
C.J. Stroud is the cream of the crop in the 2025 quarterback class. The 6’3″, 215-pounder is a prototypical pocket passer with a strong arm, excellent accuracy, and a quick release. Stroud was one of the most impressive quarterbacks in the country as a true freshman in 2022, leading Ohio State to an 11-2 record and a College Football Playoff berth. He threw for 4,435 yards, 44 touchdowns, and only 6 interceptions. In 2023, Stroud is expected to be even better as he enters his sophomore season. He is the clear-cut number one quarterback prospect in the 2025 class and has the potential to be a franchise quarterback in the NFL.
Other Elite Quarterback Prospects
In addition to Stroud, there are several other elite quarterback prospects in the 2025 class. These players include:
Player | School |
---|---|
Arch Manning | Texas |
Dante Moore | Michigan |
Nick Singleton | Penn State |
Drew Allar | Penn State |
Top-Tier Defensive Linemen
The 2025 NFL Draft class is expected to be loaded with talented defensive linemen, including several potential game-changers. Here are three players who could be among the best in the league:
#1. Jordan Burch, DE, South Carolina
Burch is a 6’6″, 275-pound defensive end with an impressive blend of size, speed, and athleticism. He has NFL bloodlines, as his father, Jarvis, was a four-time Pro Bowl selection for the Carolina Panthers. Jordan Burch has been a standout performer for the Gamecocks since his freshman year, and he is widely considered the top defensive prospect in the 2025 draft class. He has prototypical length and strength, as well as the ability to generate pressure on opposing quarterbacks and stuff the run.
#2. Shemar Stewart, DT, Texas
Stewart is a 6’3″, 335-pound defensive tackle who is known for his dominant performance against the run. He is a physical specimen with exceptional strength and size, and he uses his size to his advantage by anchoring down the middle of the defensive line and clogging up running lanes. Stewart is also a versatile player who can rush the passer from the interior, and he has great instincts for finding the football. He has been a key cog in the Texas defense since his sophomore year, and he is expected to be one of the most coveted defensive linemen in the 2025 draft class.
Position | Player | College | Height | Weight | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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DE | Jordan Burch | South Carolina | 6’6″ | 275 lbs | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
DT | Shemar Stewart | Texas | 6’3″ | 335 lbs | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Player | College | Height | Weight |
---|---|---|---|
Connor Williams | Michigan | 6’4″ | 220 lbs |
Jeremiah Alexander | Georgia | 6’0″ | 190 lbs |
DeVonta Smith | Alabama | 6’1″ | 175 lbs |
Rising Star Running Backs
The 2025 NFL Draft class is shaping up to be one of the most talented in recent history. With a number of blue-chip prospects at every position, it’s sure to be a star-studded event.
One of the most anticipated positions in this year’s draft is running back. There are a number of talented runners who could make an immediate impact in the NFL. Here are a few of the top names to watch:
1. CJ Donaldson, Iowa State
Donaldson is a physical runner with a strong frame and good speed. He’s a downhill runner who loves to break tackles and get yards after contact. In 2023, he rushed for 1,884 yards and 19 touchdowns.
2. Domani Jackson, Southern California
Jackson is a speedy runner with a great burst of speed. He’s also a talented pass-catcher out of the backfield. In 2023, he rushed for 1,050 yards and 12 touchdowns while also catching 30 passes for 270 yards and three touchdowns.
3. George Pettaway, North Carolina
Pettaway is a powerful runner who is difficult to bring down. He’s a north-south runner who has a knack for finding the end zone. In 2023, he rushed for 1,290 yards and 14 touchdowns.
4. Richard Reese, Baylor
Reese is a highly versatile running back who can line up anywhere on the field and make plays. He’s a good runner, receiver, and returner. In 2023, he rushed for 1,347 yards and 19 touchdowns while also catching 29 passes for 230 yards and three touchdowns.
2025 NFL Rookie Draft Class: Top Running Backs | |||
---|---|---|---|
Player | Team | Position | Projected Round |
CJ Donaldson | Iowa State | RB | 1st |
Domani Jackson | Southern California | RB | 2nd |
George Pettaway | North Carolina | RB | 3rd |
Richard Reese | Baylor | RB | 2nd |
Promising Tight Ends
Cade Otton, Washington
Otton is a well-rounded tight end who excels in both blocking and receiving. He has good size and athleticism, and he is a reliable target for his quarterbacks. In 2022, he caught 32 passes for 446 yards and 3 touchdowns.
Darnell Washington, Georgia
Washington is a massive tight end with a unique skill set. He is a dominant blocker, and he also has the receiving skills to be a threat in the passing game. In 2022, he caught 28 passes for 411 yards and 2 touchdowns.
Jaleel Skinner, Miami (FL)
Skinner is a dynamic tight end who can make big plays in the passing game. He has good speed and athleticism, and he is a dangerous target in the red zone. In 2022, he caught 19 passes for 346 yards and 4 touchdowns.
Josh Conerly, Oregon
Conerly is a versatile offensive lineman who can play both tackle and guard. He is a strong blocker who can move well, and he is also a good pass protector. In 2022, he started all 13 games for Oregon at left tackle.
Luke Musgrave, Oregon State
Musgrave is a big, physical tight end who is a force in the running game. He is a good blocker who can also make plays in the passing game. In 2022, he caught 23 passes for 330 yards and 3 touchdowns.
Underrated Gems at Cornerback
While the 2025 rookie draft class is highlighted by several talented cornerbacks, there are a few who have flown under the radar and deserve recognition for their exceptional abilities.
Number 6: Dwayne Patterson
Hailing from the University of Tennessee, Dwayne Patterson is a physical specimen with elite athleticism and outstanding instincts. Standing at 6’2″ and weighing 195 pounds, he possesses exceptional size, speed, and leaping ability. Patterson has a knack for tracking the ball and disrupting passes.
His impressive 4.38-second 40-yard dash and 38-inch vertical jump showcase his exceptional agility and explosiveness. Patterson is also a physical tackler who is not afraid to engage in the run game. Despite his impressive qualities, Patterson has received less attention than other top cornerbacks in the class, making him a potential steal for teams looking for a dynamic playmaker on the defensive side of the ball.
Measurables | Value |
---|---|
Height | 6’2″ |
Weight | 195 lbs |
40-yard dash | 4.38 seconds |
Vertical jump | 38 inches |
Physicality at Linebacker
The linebacker position in American football demands immense physicality, as these players are responsible for tackling running backs, covering tight ends, and blitzing the quarterback. In the 2025 NFL draft class, several linebackers possess exceptional physical traits that make them potential impact players at the professional level.
Size and Strength
A linebacker’s size and strength are crucial for absorbing contact and making tackles. Several prospects in this draft class stand out in this area, including:
Prospect | Height | Weight |
---|---|---|
Donovan Green | 6’3″ | 245 lbs |
Jameson Williams | 6’1″ | 230 lbs |
Marcus Johnson | 6’4″ | 250 lbs |
Speed and Agility
Speed and agility are essential for linebackers to cover receivers, pursue ball carriers, and react quickly to plays. The following prospects showcase exceptional speed and agility:
Prospect | 40-Yard Dash | 3-Cone Drill |
---|---|---|
Donovan Green | 4.60 | 6.85 |
Jameson Williams | 4.55 | 6.70 |
Marcus Johnson | 4.70 | 6.90 |
Instinct and Awareness
Instinct and awareness are indispensable qualities for linebackers, as they enable them to anticipate plays, react quickly, and make the right decisions. Several prospects in this draft class have demonstrated a high level of instinct and awareness:
- Donovan Green: Possesses excellent football IQ and can read the opposing offense with ease.
- Jameson Williams: Has a knack for finding the football and making game-changing interceptions.
- Marcus Johnson: Exhibits a strong understanding of defensive schemes and can adjust his responsibilities accordingly.
The Sleeper Defensive Backs
The 2025 NFL Draft class is loaded with talent at the defensive back position. While there are a few surefire stars who are expected to go in the first round, there are also a number of sleeper prospects who could make a big impact at the next level.
Victor Jones, CB, Missouri
Jones is a 6’1″, 190-pound cornerback with excellent size and athleticism. He is a physical player who is not afraid to come up and tackle, and he also has good ball skills. Jones is still a bit raw, but he has the potential to be a very good NFL cornerback.
Andre Smith, S, Florida
Smith is a 6’0″, 200-pound safety with a well-rounded skillset. He is a good tackler, he can cover ground in the passing game, and he has a knack for making big plays. Smith is not the flashiest player, but he is a steady, reliable performer who could be a valuable asset to an NFL team.
Chris Johnson, CB, Alabama
Johnson is a 5’11”, 185-pound cornerback who is known for his speed and agility. He is a good cover corner who can stay with receivers stride-for-stride, and he also has the ability to make interceptions. Johnson is a bit undersized, but he makes up for it with his athleticism.
Mike Williams, S, USC
Williams is a 6’2″, 210-pound safety who is a physical presence in the defensive backfield. He is a good tackler, and he also has the size and strength to cover tight ends and running backs. Williams is not the fastest safety in the class, but he is a very good all-around player.
### Kevin Harris, CB, Ohio State
Harris is a 5’11”, 190-pound cornerback who is a jack-of-all-trades. He is a good tackler, he can cover, and he can also blitz. Harris is not a superstar, but he is a solid player who could be a valuable contributor to an NFL team.
Tyrell Foreman, S, Georgia
Foreman is a 6’1″, 205-pound safety who is a big hitter. He is a physical player who is not afraid to come up and tackle, and he also has good instincts. Foreman is not the fastest safety in the class, but he is a very good run defender.
Cameron Young, CB, LSU
Young is a 6’0″, 185-pound cornerback who is known for his ball skills. He is a good cover corner who can make interceptions, and he also has the ability to return punts and kicks. Young is a bit inconsistent, but he has the potential to be a very good NFL cornerback.
Antonio Jones, S, Clemson
International Prospects on the Rise
The 2025 NHL Draft class is expected to be one of the deepest and most talented in recent memory, with a number of highly skilled players from around the world. Here are some of the top international prospects to watch out for:
Finland
Finland has always been a hotbed of hockey talent, and this year’s draft is no exception. Some of the top Finnish prospects include:
- Aleksi Heimosalmi: A highly skilled centerman with excellent skating and puck-handling abilities.
- Joakim Kemell: A dynamic winger with a great shot and a knack for scoring goals.
- Konsta Kapanen: A strong and physical defenseman with a booming shot.
Sweden
Sweden is another country with a long history of producing elite hockey players. Some of the top Swedish prospects in this year’s draft include:
- Fabian Lysell: A highly skilled centerman with a great shot and excellent playmaking abilities.
- Calle Clang: A physical and aggressive winger with a knack for scoring goals.
- Noah Ostlund: A mobile and puck-moving defenseman with a good offensive upside.
Russia
Russia is always a major source of talent for the NHL, and this year’s draft is no exception. Some of the top Russian prospects include:
- Matvei Michkov: A dynamic winger with a great shot and a knack for scoring goals.
- Danila Yurov: A highly skilled centerman with excellent skating and puck-handling abilities.
- Ivan Miroshnichenko: A physically imposing winger with a great shot and a knack for scoring goals.
Canada
Canada is always a major source of talent for the NHL, and this year’s draft is no exception. Some of the top Canadian prospects include:
- Shane Wright: A highly skilled centerman with excellent skating and puck-handling abilities.
- Logan Cooley: A dynamic centerman with a great shot and excellent playmaking abilities.
- Brad Lambert: A physical and aggressive winger with a knack for scoring goals.
United States
The United States is another major source of talent for the NHL, and this year’s draft is no exception. Some of the top American prospects include:
- Connor Bedard: A highly skilled centerman with excellent skating and puck-handling abilities.
- Matvei Michkov: A dynamic winger with a great shot and a knack for scoring goals.
- Logan Cooley: A physical and aggressive winger with a knack for scoring goals.
Other Countries
In addition to the countries mentioned above, there are a number of other countries that are producing top-end talent for this year’s draft. Some of these players include:
- Juraj Slafkovsky (Slovakia)
- Simon Nemec (Slovakia)
- David Jiricek (Czech Republic)
- Jiří Kulich (Czech Republic)
- Patrik Bartosak (Czech Republic)
- Adam Raska (Czech Republic)
- Lukas Cormier (Czech Republic)
- Tomas Hamara (Czech Republic)
- Martin Rysavy (Czech Republic)
- Jan Bednar (Czech Republic)
- Daniel Dudas (Slovakia)
- Filip Mesar (Slovakia)
- Maxim Chistov (Russia)
- Danil Chayka (Russia)
- Arseni Korolev (Russia)
- Dmitri Buchelnikov (Russia)
- Eduard Sale (Russia)
- Nikita Chibrikov (Russia)
- Mikhail Gulyayev (Russia)
- Kirill Kirsanov (Russia)
- Bogdan Trineyev (Russia)
- Ilya Safonov (Russia)
- Andrei Svechnikov (Russia)
- Artemiy Knyazev (Russia)
- Daniil Gushchin (Russia)
- Ivan Miroshnichenko (Russia)
- Alexander Nikishin (Russia)
- Ivan Fedotov (Russia)
- Daniil Tarasov (Russia)
- Yegor Chinakhov (Russia)
- Valentin Zykov (Russia)
- Mikhail Vorobyev (Russia)
- Andrei Kuzmenko (Russia)
- Pavel Buchnevich (Russia)
- Nikita Gusev (Russia)
- Kirill Kaprizov (Russia)
- Valeri Nichushkin (Russia)
- Alexander Ovechkin (Russia)
- Evgeni Malkin (Russia)
- Sidney Crosby (Canada)
- Connor McDavid (Canada)
- Nathan MacKinnon (Canada)
- Auston Matthews (United States)
- Patrick Kane (United States)
- Steven Stamkos (Canada)
- Taylor Hall (Canada)
- John Tavares (Canada)
- Leon Draisaitl (Germany)
- Victor Hedman (Sweden)
- Erik Karlsson (Sweden)
- Nikita Kucherov (Russia)
- Artemi Panarin (Russia)
- Sebastian Aho (Finland)
- Elias Pettersson (Sweden)
- Elijah Brown: A dynamic quarterback who possesses a rare combination of size, athleticism, and arm strength.
- Chase Davis: A skilled running back with excellent vision, speed, and receiving ability.
- Anthony Edwards: A highly touted wide receiver with impressive size, speed, and leaping ability.
- Max Johnson: A versatile offensive lineman who can play either tackle or guard.
- Jake Thompson: A talented pass rusher with a long frame, quick first step, and exceptional strength.
Draft Day Surprises and Steals
Quarterbacks
The quarterback class of 2025 is considered one of the deepest in recent memory. Several players could go in the first round, including Arch Manning, Cade Klubnik, and Dante Moore. However, there are also a few sleepers who could surprise on draft day.
1. Drew Allar, QB, Penn State
Allar is a 6-foot-5, 240-pound quarterback with a strong arm and good mobility. He was one of the most impressive recruits in the 2022 class and is expected to start for Penn State as a true freshman. If he performs well in college, he could be a first-round pick in 2025.
Running Backs
The running back class of 2025 is also very talented. Several players could go in the first round, including Evan Stewart, Bijan Robinson, and Justice Haynes. However, there are also a few sleepers who could surprise on draft day.
1. Robby Ashford, RB, Auburn
Ashford is a 6-foot-3, 230-pound running back with good speed and power. He was a four-star recruit in the 2022 class and is expected to be a featured back for Auburn as a true freshman. If he performs well in college, he could be a first-round pick in 2025.
Wide Receivers
The wide receiver class of 2025 is loaded with talent. Several players could go in the first round, including Jadon Haselwood, Luther Burden, and Evan Stewart. However, there are also a few sleepers who could surprise on draft day.
Wide Receiver Sleeper Rankings
Rank | Player | School | Height/Weight |
---|---|---|---|
1 | Michael Trigg | USC | 6’2″, 195 lbs |
2 | Tyler Booker | Alabama | 6’3″, 210 lbs |
3 | Dasan McCullough | Indiana | 6’5″, 245 lbs |
1. Michael Trigg, WR, USC
Trigg is a 6-foot-2, 195-pound wide receiver with good speed and route-running ability. He was a three-star recruit in the 2022 class and is expected to be a starter for USC as a true freshman. If he performs well in college, he could be a first-round pick in 2025.
2025 Rookie Draft Class: A Star-Studded Affair
The 2025 rookie draft class is shaping up to be one of the most talented in recent memory. Several potential franchise-changing players are available, and teams will be eager to add them to their rosters. Here are some of the top prospects to watch for in the 2025 draft:
With such a wealth of talent available, the 2025 rookie draft is sure to be one to remember. Teams that are able to select these players will be well-positioned for success in the years to come.
People Also Ask About the 2025 Rookie Draft Class
When is the 2025 NFL Draft?
The 2025 NFL Draft will be held in April of 2025.
Where will the 2025 NFL Draft be held?
The location of the 2025 NFL Draft has not yet been announced.
Who is the best prospect in the 2025 NFL Draft?
Elijah Brown is considered to be the top prospect in the 2025 NFL Draft.
How many rounds are in the NFL Draft?
There are seven rounds in the NFL Draft.