The 2025 NFL Draft is shaping up to be a showcase of incredible talent across all positions. With the college football season underway, NFL teams and fans alike are keeping a close eye on the top prospects who could become franchise cornerstones. To get a pulse on the draft landscape, we turned to four renowned draft analysts—Mel Kiper Jr., Matt Miller, Jordan Reid, and Field Yates—for their expert insights.
Ranking Consensus: Travis Hunter Leads the Pack
In a rare display of unanimity, all four analysts have Colorado’s two-way star Travis Hunter as either their top overall prospect or top player at his position. The dynamic playmaker’s ability to impact the game as both a receiver and cornerback has drawn comparisons to Deion Sanders. As Kiper notes, “Hunter’s versatility and game-breaking skills make him a unique talent that NFL teams covet.”
Quarterback Battle: Shedeur Sanders vs. Cam Ward
The quarterback position always garners intense scrutiny, and this year is no different. Colorado’s Shedeur Sanders and Miami’s Cam Ward have emerged as the top two signal-callers, with each analyst slotting them either first or second. Reid praises Ward’s “incredible poise and ability to make plays under pressure,” while Yates highlights Sanders’ “natural leadership qualities and dynamic skill set.”
Dominant Defenders: Abdul Carter, Will Johnson Lead the Way
On the defensive side of the ball, Penn State’s edge rusher Abdul Carter and Michigan cornerback Will Johnson have captured the attention of the analysts. Miller raves about Carter’s “explosive first step and relentless motor,” while Reid notes Johnson’s “lockdown coverage skills and ball-hawking instincts.” Both project as immediate impact players at the next level.
The 2025 class is loaded with game-changers on both sides of the ball. It’s going to be a lot of fun to watch these guys develop into NFL stars.
– An anonymous NFL scout
Best of the Rest: Standouts at Every Position
While the top prospects garner the headlines, the depth of talent in this class is impressive. At wide receiver, Arizona’s Tetairoa McMillan and Missouri’s Luther Burden III are jockeying for the top spot. Michigan’s Colston Loveland leads a strong tight end group. In the trenches, Texas’ Kelvin Banks Jr. and Georgia’s Jared Wilson anchor the offensive line rankings, while Michigan’s Mason Graham and Georgia’s Malaki Starks are the cream of the crop on defense.
- Other names to watch:
- RB Quinshon Judkins, Ohio State
- Edge James Pearce Jr., Tennessee
- CB Benjamin Morrison, Notre Dame
- S Nick Emmanwori, South Carolina
As the college season unfolds, these rankings are sure to fluctuate. But one thing is certain: the 2025 NFL Draft class has the potential to be special. With difference-makers at every position, NFL teams will have the opportunity to bolster their rosters with exciting young talent. The countdown to draft day is on, and the football world will be watching these prospects closely.
