The 2025 NFL Draft: A Defensive Heavyweight Class with Rising Quarterback Stars
As we look ahead to the 2025 NFL Draft, the landscape is shaping up to be quite intriguing. While the class is predominantly defense-heavy, a wave of talented quarterback prospects is making a significant impact, with one even rising to the top of the list. Unlike last year, which saw six quarterbacks selected in the first round, this year’s draft may feature four signal-callers making the leap to the NFL’s elite level. Let’s dive into the standout prospects who are capturing attention as we approach the draft.
1. QB Cameron Ward (Miami)
Cameron Ward has long been recognized for his high-level NFL tools and playmaking ability. However, questions about his consistency within a structured offense lingered until his transfer to Miami. Now, as the leader of the undefeated Hurricanes, Ward has demonstrated an impressive ability to beat defenses in multiple ways. His development has been a key factor in Miami’s success, and he is now firmly in the conversation for the top overall pick.
2. WR/CB Travis Hunter (Colorado)
Travis Hunter is a unique talent who has taken the college football world by storm. Last season, he showcased his dual-threat capability by excelling as both a wide receiver and cornerback for Colorado. While his tape showed some inconsistencies, this year has been different. Hunter is averaging 95 receiving yards per game while allowing only 15 yards per game in coverage, according to Pro Football Focus (PFF). His versatility and elite performance on both sides of the ball make him a top prospect.
3. DT Mason Graham (Michigan)
Mason Graham is the prototypical three-down defensive tackle that NFL teams covet. His ability to line up anywhere between the tackles and make an impact is remarkable. After a year as a rotational player, Graham has stepped into a dominant role, averaging nearly 50 snaps per game this season. His relentless motor and ability to disrupt plays make him a valuable asset for any defense.
4. DE Abdul Carter (Penn State)
Abdul Carter’s transition from off-ball linebacker to edge rusher has been nothing short of impressive. After a slow start to the season, he has found his rhythm and is now wreaking havoc on opposing quarterbacks. With an elite combination of burst and bend, Carter poses a nightmare for offensive tackles. As he continues to refine his skills, his potential is sky-high.
5. CB Will Johnson (Michigan)
Will Johnson is a physical cornerback who has consistently held his own against some of the best wide receivers in college football. His ability to excel in both press coverage and off-coverage sets him apart. Despite some injury setbacks this season, his standout performance against USC, where he recorded an interception and a pass breakup, solidifies his status as a top-five player in this draft class.
6. OT Kelvin Banks Jr. (Texas)
Kelvin Banks Jr. has been a stalwart at left tackle for Texas since his freshman year. His combination of agility and power is impressive, allowing him to protect the quarterback effectively. With only three pressures allowed on 307 pass-blocking snaps this season, Banks has proven to be a reliable protector, making him a coveted prospect for NFL teams in need of offensive line help.
7. DE Nic Scourton (Texas A&M)
Nic Scourton is a powerful defensive end who can rush effectively from both the outside and inside. His recent performance against LSU, where he recorded seven pressures, showcased his ability to dominate against top-tier competition. Scourton’s versatility and strength make him a valuable addition to any defensive line.
8. WR Luther Burden III (Missouri)
Luther Burden III is a dynamic wide receiver known for his ability to create after the catch. His agility and quickness allow him to break tackles and leave defenders in the dust. With 19 broken tackles on just 40 receptions this season, Burden’s playmaking ability is undeniable, making him a top target for NFL teams looking for explosive offensive weapons.
9. DT Deone Walker (Kentucky)
Deone Walker is a unique prospect on the interior defensive line. Standing at 6-foot-6 and weighing 345 pounds, he possesses surprising agility for his size. Walker’s ability to win with both power and quickness makes him a disruptive force, particularly on third downs, where he can impact the game as a pass-rusher.
10. DE James Pearce Jr. (Tennessee)
James Pearce Jr. is an athletic edge rusher with a skill set that resembles that of a wide receiver. His first step and lateral agility make him a challenge for offensive linemen to handle. While he still needs to develop his speed-to-power transition, Pearce has all the tools necessary to become a formidable pass-rusher at the next level.
11. OT Will Campbell (LSU)
Will Campbell has been a reliable starter for LSU since his freshman year. Despite having a unique build for a tackle, he consistently gets the job done. His tenacity and physicality on the field are traits that NFL offensive line coaches will appreciate, making him a prospect to watch.
12. QB Shedeur Sanders (Colorado)
Shedeur Sanders has rebounded from early-season struggles to become a standout quarterback for Colorado. Averaging over 300 passing yards per game with 16 touchdowns in the last six games, Sanders has shown he can lead an offense effectively. His growth and performance have solidified his status as a top quarterback prospect.
13. CB Benjamin Morrison (Notre Dame)
Benjamin Morrison has been a standout cornerback since his freshman year, allowing a sub-50% completion rate throughout his career. Although his 2024 season was cut short due to injury, his track record of success and potential for recovery make him a likely first-round pick.
14. DE Mykel Williams (Georgia)
Mykel Williams is part of Georgia’s impressive lineage of defensive linemen. With his long arms and strong frame, he excels at controlling offensive linemen in the run game. Despite an early-season ankle injury, Williams is starting to regain his form and could be a significant contributor at the next level.
15. S Malaki Starks (Georgia)
Malaki Starks has been a reliable safety for Georgia since his freshman year. While he faced some challenges in a high-stakes game against Alabama, his overall performance this season has been stellar. Starks is known for his tackling ability and support in the secondary, making him a valuable asset for NFL teams.
16. WR Tetairoa McMillan (Arizona)
Tetairoa McMillan is a wide receiver with a massive catch radius and an innate ability to create after the catch. Standing at 6-foot-6 and weighing 212 pounds, he has already amassed 979 receiving yards in just eight games this season, showcasing his potential as a game-changing receiver.
17. DT Walter Nolen (Ole Miss)
Walter Nolen has made significant strides since transferring from Texas A&M. His five-star pedigree is evident in his ability to penetrate the backfield and disrupt plays. With a career-high 24 pressures already this season, Nolen is proving to be a force on the defensive line.
18. QB Drew Allar (Penn State)
Drew Allar has transformed under Andy Kotelnicki’s offensive scheme, showcasing his big-time arm talent and improved passing ability. His capacity to work the middle of the field has been particularly impressive, making him a quarterback to watch as the draft approaches.
19. RB Ashton Jeanty (Boise State)
Ashton Jeanty is a versatile running back with exceptional vision and contact balance. His dominance at Boise State is evident, as he has racked up 1,376 yards and 18 touchdowns in just seven games, averaging an impressive 8.7 yards per carry.
20. IOL Donovan Jackson (Ohio State)
Donovan Jackson is the top interior offensive line prospect in this draft class. His combination of power and agility allows him to mirror even the quickest defensive tackles. As a three-year starter, Jackson has consistently improved, making him a prime candidate for NFL teams seeking offensive line talent.
21. DE/LB Jalon Walker (Georgia)
Jalon Walker is an undersized edge-rusher who has excelled in both edge and off-ball roles. His ability to rush the passer is what will get him drafted, as he uses his natural leverage to overpower linemen and reach quarterbacks effectively.
22. DT Kenneth Grant (Michigan)
Kenneth Grant is another impressive defensive tackle prospect with the size and movement skills to make an impact at the next level. At 339 pounds, he can line up anywhere on the Michigan defensive line while still making plays, making him a valuable asset for NFL teams.
23. QB Garrett Nussmeier (LSU)
Garrett Nussmeier has emerged as a standout quarterback in his first season as a starter. His ability to handle pressure and limit sacks has drawn attention, and if he can reduce turnovers, he could find himself among the top picks in the draft.
24. DT Derrick Harmon (Oregon)
Derrick Harmon has made a name for himself after transferring from Michigan State to Oregon. His ability to two-gap in the run game while also penetrating the backfield makes him a versatile defensive tackle. With 32 pressures already this season, Harmon is a player to watch.
25. WR Isaiah Bond (Texas)
Isaiah Bond is a dynamic deep threat with the agility and explosiveness to stretch the field. While his numbers may not reflect his potential, his tape shows that he possesses the skills to thrive in the NFL.
26. DE Donovan Ezeiruaku (Boston College)
Donovan Ezeiruaku has emerged as one of the most polished pass-rushers in college football. With 34 pressures already this season, his ability to affect opposing quarterbacks makes him a player to keep an eye on as the draft approaches.
27. DT Tyleik Williams (Ohio State)
Tyleik Williams is a heavy-handed defensive tackle who excels at collapsing the pocket. His ability to take on double teams and hold the point makes him a valuable asset for any defensive scheme.
28. TE Colston Loveland (Michigan)
Colston Loveland is a versatile tight end who can line up in various formations. With 42 catches for 411 yards and four touchdowns this season, he has proven to be a reliable target in Michigan’s offense.
29. DT LT Overton (Alabama)
LT Overton is a versatile defensive lineman who can excel both inside and outside. His ability to shed blocks and make plays in the backfield makes him a valuable addition to any defensive front.
30. WR Emeka Egbuka (Ohio State)
Emeka Egbuka is a tough and savvy wide receiver known for his precise route-running. With 546 yards and six touchdowns this season, he has proven to be a reliable target for Ohio State’s offense.
31. CB Shavon Revel (East Carolina)
Shavon Revel was on a promising trajectory before a torn ACL cut his season short. His size and fluidity make him an intriguing prospect, and if he can recover fully, he has the potential to be a top cornerback in the draft.
32. IOL Jonah Savaiinaea (Arizona)
Jonah Savaiinaea has been a consistent starter throughout his collegiate career. His massive frame and excellent hand usage make him a strong candidate for the NFL, where he is likely to transition to guard.
33. CB Tacario Davis (Arizona)
Tacario Davis is a lengthy cornerback with a wingspan that makes him a valuable asset in press coverage. His unique size and skill set will attract teams looking for corners who can excel at the line of scrimmage.
34. DE Shemar Stewart (Texas A&M)
Shemar Stewart is a jumbo defensive end with the athleticism to succeed at the next level. While still a work in progress, his improvement over the years has made him a player to watch in the upcoming draft.
35. CB Will Lee III (Texas A&M)
Will Lee III is a tall cornerback with exceptional footwork. His ability to break on the football and impact the catch point has made him a standout player for Texas A&M this season.
36. DE David Walker (Central Arkansas)
David Walker’s dominance at Central Arkansas is evident on tape. His power and technique shine through, making him a prospect to watch as he transitions to a higher level of competition.
37. CB Jahdae Barron (Texas)
Jahdae Barron has shown versatility in both the slot and outside corner positions. His competitiveness and playmaking ability make him a valuable asset for any defense.
38. DT T.J. Sanders (South Carolina)
T.J. Sanders is a twitchy defensive tackle with the ability to shoot gaps and disrupt plays. His length and quickness make him a nightmare for opposing guards.
39. WR Tre Harris (Ole Miss)
Tre Harris has been the most productive wide receiver in college football this season. While his simplistic offensive scheme may limit his NFL translation, his athleticism and catch point ability are undeniable.
40. S Nick Emmanwori (South Carolina)
Nick Emmanwori is a physical safety with the ability to cover ground and make plays in the box. His four interceptions this season highlight his playmaking ability.
41. DT Zane Durant (Penn State)
Zane Durant is an undersized but ascending defensive tackle. His power and quickness allow him to penetrate the backfield and disrupt plays effectively.
42. LB Nick Martin (Oklahoma State)
Nick Martin may be undersized, but his physicality and tackling ability set him apart. His speed and instincts make him a valuable linebacker prospect.
43. DE Kyle Kennard (South Carolina)
Kyle Kennard has emerged as a standout player for South Carolina after transferring from Georgia Tech. His bend and agility make him a promising edge rusher.
44. OT Aireontae Ersery (Minnesota)
Aireontae Ersery is a powerful tackle with a strong pop in pass protection. His development over three years as a starter has made him a player to watch.
45. IOL Tyler Booker (Alabama)
Tyler Booker has been a consistent starter for Alabama, showcasing his strength and anchoring ability in pass protection. His lean frame and muscle make him an intriguing prospect.
46. TE Tyler Warren (Penn State)
Tyler Warren is a dynamic tight end with excellent body control. His ability to be a focal point in the Nittany Lions’ offense makes him a valuable asset.
47. DE Anthony Lucas (USC)
Anthony Lucas has emerged as a breakout player for USC this season. His explosiveness and array of pass-rushing moves make him a player to watch as he develops further.
48. DT Dontay Corleone (Cincinnati)
Dontay Corleone is a quintessential nose tackle who can hold the point of attack while also making plays sideline to sideline. His versatility makes him a valuable asset for any defense.
49. IOL Armand Membou (Missouri)
Armand Membou is an explosive right tackle with a classic guard build. His skills in pass protection are already impressive, making him a prospect to watch.
50. DE Josiah Stewart (Michigan)
Josiah Stewart is an undersized edge rusher who plays with tenacity and fearlessness. His ability to initiate contact and disrupt plays makes him an intriguing prospect for NFL teams looking for speed on the edge.
As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, these prospects will continue to rise and fall on boards as teams evaluate their potential. With a mix of defensive stalwarts and emerging quarterback talent, this draft class promises to be one of the most exciting in recent memory.