The 2025 NFL Draft may still be months away, but the intrigue is already building. As the college football season heads into its final stretches, pro scouts and analysts are forming early impressions on a draft class brimming with potential difference-makers, especially on the defensive side of the ball. While the 2024 class boasted historic quarterback talent, the 2025 group has more question marks under center but no shortage of dynamic playmakers poised to make an immediate NFL impact.
The Hunt for QB1
Though not as hyped as the 2024 passers, the 2025 quarterback crop still offers promise. Colorado’s Shedeur Sanders and Miami’s Cam Ward have separated themselves as the clear top two prospects, with both displaying polished pocket presence and playmaking ability. But neither is a lock to go first overall at this stage.
“It’s really a two-horse race right now between Sanders and Ward,” said one NFC scout. “Both have the tools, but consistency will be key. It’s a much thinner margin for error compared to last year.”
Other QBs like Alabama’s Jalen Milroe and Penn State’s Drew Allar could surge with strong pre-draft showings, but Sanders’ stellar transition to the Power 5 at Colorado has many pegging him as the current favorite to be the first passer off the board.
Travis Hunter: A Rare Breed
While the quarterbacks jockey for position, Colorado’s do-it-all weapon Travis Hunter has planted his flag as the 2025 class’s top overall prospect. The dynamic receiver/cornerback has dazzled on both sides of the ball, drawing lofty comparisons to Champ Bailey. Most project Hunter as a receiver in the pros, where his electric playmaking could transform an offense from day one.
“Hunter is just different, man. The things he can do – it’s a cheat code. He’s going to make some offensive coordinator very, very happy.”
– NFC Area Scout
If he does end up as a top-three pick, Hunter could become the highest-drafted primarily offensive player in the modern era to also contribute on defense as a rookie. His unique versatility adds to his allure as a potential generational talent.
Defense Dominates the Board
While the 2024 first round was historically loaded with offensive players, defense looks poised to dominate the top of the 2025 draft. As many as six defenders could crack the top 10, led by game-wrecking edge rushers like Penn State’s Abdul Carter and Tennessee’s James Pearce Jr. The cornerback position is also flush with first-round talent, headlined by Michigan’s Will Johnson.
“The pipeline of elite defensive prospects in this class is just absurd, especially off the edge. You could see three, even four edge guys go top 10. It’s going to be a feeding frenzy for pass rush.”
– AFC Personnel Executive
Teams like the New York Jets and Carolina Panthers, both likely picking in the top 10 and in need of defensive cornerstones, could be the biggest beneficiaries of 2025’s surplus of top-shelf defenders. Don’t be surprised if we see a run on that side of the ball early on draft night.
The Next Bijan? Breakthrough Backs
After Bijan Robinson went in the top 10 in 2023, could another running back follow suit in 2025? Boise State’s Ashton Jeanty has that kind of potential as a do-everything back with tremendous vision and contact balance. He could be an ideal fit for a RB-needy contender like the Dallas Cowboys.
The running back class has impressive depth as well, with scouts eyeing as many as 10 potential starters. It’s a good year to need a workhorse in the early-to-mid rounds.
Early Risers Turning Heads
As the pre-draft process ramps up, a few prospects are already generating buzz as potential combine risers:
- Mike Green, EDGE, Marshall: Explosion + production could equal a day two steal
- Jordan Burch, DL, Oregon: Freakish movement skills in a 300-pound frame
- Donovan Ezeiruaku, EDGE, Boston College: Multi-sack machine with exciting upside
- Shemar Stewart, EDGE, Texas A&M: Incredible physical traits, enormous potential
“Some of these guys, once they hit the workout circuit, their stocks are going to skyrocket. It happens every year but this class has some unique talents who I think will put on a show and really get people talking.”
– AFC College Scouting Director
Teams to Watch on Draft Day
While much will change between now and April, a few teams are already standing out as potential power players in the 2025 draft:
- Las Vegas Raiders: Armed with a high pick + ammo to trade up for a QB
- New England Patriots: Flexibility with a premium pick to move down and stockpile selections
- Jacksonville Jaguars: Could dictate the top 5 if they choose to auction No. 1 overall
In a draft class that seems primed to reward creatively and aggression, these are franchises in position to capitalize if the board falls their way. The Jaguars in particular could hold the keys to the kingdom if a quarterback-needy team gets desperate to jump up to No. 1.
As the NFL season barrels toward its conclusion and the college football calendar hits its crescendo, the 2025 draft picture will crystallize further. But even in this nascent stage, it’s clear that this class has the potential to leave a lasting impact on the league for years to come. From franchise-altering defenders to quarterback controversies to hidden gems turned household names, the 2025 NFL Draft promises no shortage of theater. The countdown to draft day is officially on.
