The 2024-25 NFL season is officially in the books, and with Super Bowl LIX behind us, all eyes turn to the 2025 NFL Draft. This year’s class is shaping up to be one of the most intriguing in recent memory, with a deep pool of quarterback talent, defensive standouts, and potential trade drama that could shake up the first round.
Teams that struggled this past season, like the Tennessee Titans, New York Giants, and New England Patriots, hold valuable picks that could shape the league for years to come. With several franchises in need of a franchise quarterback, the battle for the No. 1 overall pick is already heating up.
Beyond the stars at the top, the 2025 draft is also loaded with hidden gems—players who may not be household names yet but could rise up the draft boards after strong performances at the NFL Combine and Pro Days.
So, who are the biggest names to watch? Could we see some blockbuster trades shake up the draft order? Whether you are looking to bet on the draft on NFL betting sites, keeping track of moves for fantasy football, or just following your team’s preseason, let’s take a look at what to expect on the 2025 NFL Draft.
Top Prospects to Watch
The 2025 NFL Draft class is stacked with high-end talent at multiple positions, but the quarterbacks and defensive playmakers headline this year’s group. Let’s break down the biggest names to watch heading into draft season.
Quarterbacks: The Future of the NFL
This year’s quarterback class has the potential to be one of the best in recent years, with several teams in desperate need of a franchise signal-caller. Here are the top QB prospects:
1. Shedeur Sanders (Colorado)
Why He Stands Out: Sanders, the son of NFL legend Deion Sanders, has shown elite poise, accuracy, and mobility in Colorado’s offense. His ability to extend plays and throw on the run makes him a modern NFL QB prototype.
Draft Projection: Likely Top-5 pick, with teams like the Giants and Patriots showing strong interest.
2. Cam Ward (Miami, FL)
Why He Stands Out: Transferring to Miami gave Ward a bigger spotlight, and he delivered. He has a big arm, quick release, and the athleticism to evade pressure - a must-have trait for today’s NFL QBs.
Draft Projection: Likely Top-10 pick, with potential to rise even higher after the Combine.
3. Quinn Ewers (Texas)
Why He Stands Out: Ewers has arguably the best arm talent in the class and improved his decision-making throughout the season. If he tests well at the Combine, he could jump into the Top 5 discussion.
Draft Projection: Mid-to-late first round, depending on team needs and his pre-draft workouts.
Defensive Standouts:
While quarterbacks will dominate the headlines, elite defenders could shape this draft just as much. These are the top defensive prospects to keep an eye on:
1. Abdul Carter (EDGE, Penn State)
Why He Stands Out: An explosive pass-rusher with an insane first step, Carter has drawn comparisons to Micah Parsons for his versatility and ability to wreck offenses.
Draft Projection: Top-3 pick, with teams in need of an elite EDGE rusher (Titans, Cardinals) ready to pounce.
2. Will Johnson (CB, Michigan)
Why He Stands Out: Johnson is a shutdown corner with elite size (6’3”) and fluid movement, making him a perfect fit for any team needing help in the secondary.
Draft Projection: Likely Top-10 pick, possibly the first defensive back off the board.
3. Mason Graham (DL, Michigan)
Why He Stands Out: A dominant interior force, Graham is a run-stuffing monster with pass-rush upside, making him a complete defensive tackle prospect.
Draft Projection: Top-15 pick, with teams prioritizing D-line help (like the Seahawks and Raiders) very interested.
Wide Receivers & Offensive Playmakers
Teams always look for explosive playmakers, and this year’s class delivers plenty of exciting options:
1. Travis Hunter (WR/CB, Colorado)
Why He Stands Out: A two-way player with elite speed and hands, Hunter is a rare talent who could play both offense and defense in the NFL.
Draft Projection: Likely Top-5 pick, but teams must decide which position they value him at most.
2. Emeka Egbuka (WR, Ohio State)
Why He Stands Out: Overshadowed by Marvin Harrison Jr. last year, Egbuka has elite route-running and YAC ability, making him a dangerous weapon.
Draft Projection: Mid-to-late first round, ideal for teams needing an explosive WR2.
3. Tetairoa McMillan (WR, Arizona)
Overview: McMillan offers a unique combination of size (6'5") and route-running precision, making him a formidable target downfield.
Draft Projection: Anticipated as a mid-to-late first-round pick, suitable for teams seeking a dynamic receiving threat.
Possible Surprises
Not every future star is a top-10 pick. Some of the best talent emerges from Day 2 and beyond, with players flying under the radar until they explode at the Combine, Pro Days, or in their rookie season. Here are some lesser-known but high-upside prospects in the 2025 draft class:
1. Jalen Milroe (QB, Alabama)
Why He’s a Sleeper: Milroe has a huge arm and elite athleticism, making him a dangerous dual-threat QB. He improved his decision-making late in the season, and a strong Combine showing could push him into first-round consideration.
Projected Range: Late first to early second round.
2. Denzel Burke (CB, Ohio State)
Why He’s a Sleeper: A lockdown corner with great instincts and physicality, Burke plays with the confidence needed for the NFL. He could rise up draft boards with strong testing numbers.
Projected Range: Late first to second round.
3. Donovan Jackson (OL, Ohio State)
Why He’s a Sleeper: Offensive linemen don’t always get the hype, but Jackson has the versatility to play guard or tackle at a high level. His size and technique make him a day-one starter candidate.
Projected Range: Late first to second round.
4. Malaki Starks (S, Georgia)
Why He’s a Sleeper: A rangy, hard-hitting safety who thrives in both deep coverage and run support. Teams looking for a defensive chess piece will love his upside.
Projected Range: Early to mid-second round.
Key Dates to Watch Before the Draft
NFL Scouting Combine – February 24 - March 3, 2025
College Pro Days – March-April 2025
NFL Free Agency Begins – March 12, 2025
Top 30 Visits & Private Workouts – March-April 2025
NFL Draft 2025 – April 24-26, 2025
