While the NFL playoffs are still underway, the pre-draft process for the 2025 NFL Draft is already heating up. Over the next few months, college prospects will have the chance to boost their draft stock and potentially rise up boards with strong performances at marquee events like the Senior Bowl and NFL Scouting Combine.
Every year, we see players who were flying under the radar suddenly skyrocket into early-round consideration after impressing scouts and executives during the pre-draft gauntlet. Whether it’s an overlooked small-school standout, a late-blooming senior, or even a player switching positions, the road to the draft is paved with opportunities for prospects to rise up the ranks.
10 Draft Prospects Primed to Rise
So which prospects in the 2025 class could be this year’s biggest risers? Here are 10 players to keep a close eye on as they navigate the Senior Bowl, combine, pro days and the rest of the pre-draft process:
Kyle McCord, QB, Syracuse
The Ohio State transfer was a revelation for the Orange, showing improved decisiveness and accuracy en route to leading the nation in passing yards. McCord could solidify himself as a Day 2 pick with a strong Senior Bowl week.
Devin Neal, RB, Kansas
A powerful runner with surprising receiving chops, Neal has a chance to rise from his current Round 4 grade if he shows out as a versatile weapon in Mobile. His vision and balance already impress.
Savion Williams, WR, TCU
A massive 6’5″ target who played RB and WR for the Horned Frogs, Williams is a rare chess piece. He could fly up boards with a strong combine, possibly even into Round 2 if he runs in the 4.4s.
Elijah Arroyo, TE, Miami
Finally healthy, Arroyo emerged as one of the most dynamic receiving tight ends in the country. His fluidity and route-running could make him a Senior Bowl standout after middling Day 3 grades from scouts so far.
Charles Grant, OT, William & Mary
This small-school blocker is generating buzz as a potential riser. Grant’s light feet and nasty streak are promising, but he needs to prove it against FBS competition during Senior Bowl week to boost his stock.
Omarr Norman-Lott, DT, Tennessee
After being stuck in a rotation, this explosive interior penetrator should have a chance to prove his value as more than a role player with a higher snap-count in Mobile. Norman-Lott’s quick first step is eye-catching.
Demetrius Knight Jr., LB, South Carolina
Knight will aim to answer questions about taking on blocks and continue showcasing his coverage prowess to potentially solidify himself as a Day 2 pick after a strong senior year at his third college stop.
Darien Porter, CB, Iowa State
This long, lean converted receiver could open eyes with his raw tools. Porter’s inexperience at the position may limit his Senior Bowl impact, but a potentially blazing sub-4.4 40-yard dash at the combine would surely boost his profile.
Azareye’h Thomas, CB, Florida State
The lanky press-man specialist needs to add strength, but his upside and technique could see Thomas sneak into Round 1 with a strong pre-draft showing against top competition.
Andrew Mukuba, S, Texas
A bounce-back senior year has Mukuba trending up again. If the versatile, hard-hitting safety proves he can hold up in man coverage during combine drills, he could solidify his place as a top-75 pick.
The next few months will be critical for all of these prospects as they aim to boost their draft capital. With strong performances when it matters most, any one of these players could be the next big riser flying up NFL draft boards come April.
