The 2024 college football season has reached its midpoint, giving talent evaluators ample opportunities to assess the top prospects for the upcoming 2025 NFL Draft. As the draft landscape begins to crystallize, ESPN’s renowned draft analyst Mel Kiper Jr. has released his updated Big Board rankings, highlighting the 25 best players in the class.
Kiper’s Top 25 Prospects for the 2025 NFL Draft
In his latest Big Board, Kiper ranks the cream of the crop based on his personal evaluations, rather than projecting where each prospect will ultimately be selected. While quarterbacks often dominate draft discussions, Kiper’s top prospect for 2025 is a rare two-way talent.
1. Travis Hunter, WR/CB, Colorado
Hunter, a dynamic playmaker on both sides of the ball, headlines Kiper’s Big Board. In seven games this season, the versatile star has amassed 51 receptions for 604 yards and six touchdowns as a receiver, while also contributing 19 tackles, three pass breakups, two interceptions, and a forced fumble on defense. According to Kiper, Hunter’s unique skill set could allow him to make an immediate impact in the NFL on offense and defense.
Other Notables in the Top 10
Rounding out Kiper’s top 10 are several prospects who have been turning heads with their performances this season:
- Will Johnson, CB, Michigan
- Abdul Carter, OLB, Penn State
- Mykel Williams, OLB, Georgia
- Mason Graham, DT, Michigan
- Kelvin Banks Jr., OT, Texas
- Nic Scourton, DE, Texas A&M
- Malaki Starks, S, Georgia
- Ashton Jeanty, RB, Boise State
- Jalon Walker, LB, Georgia
Quarterbacks: Sanders Leads the Pack
Colorado’s Shedeur Sanders sits atop Kiper’s quarterback rankings, thanks to his toughness, resiliency, and ability to make plays both in and out of the pocket. Miami’s Cam Ward, a transfer from Washington State, comes in at No. 2, impressing with his unorthodox but effective throwing mechanics and knack for extending plays.
Position-by-Position Rankings
In addition to his Big Board, Kiper provides in-depth rankings for every position, from quarterback to punter. Some notable prospects leading their respective positions include:
- Running Back: Boise State’s Ashton Jeanty, a powerful runner with excellent contact balance
- Wide Receiver: Arizona’s Tetairoa McMillan, a physically imposing target with tremendous body control
- Tight End: Penn State’s Tyler Warren, a versatile weapon who can line up all over the field
- Offensive Tackle: Texas’ Kelvin Banks Jr., a rock-solid blindside protector
- Edge Rusher: Penn State’s Abdul Carter, a disruptive force with experience both on and off the line
- Linebacker: Georgia’s Jalon Walker, an explosive sideline-to-sideline playmaker
- Cornerback: Michigan’s Will Johnson, an instinctive ballhawk with elite quickness
- Safety: Georgia’s Malaki Starks, a rangy defender who excels against both the run and pass
As the 2024 college football season progresses and more prospects emerge, Kiper will continue to update his rankings, providing valuable insight into the upcoming draft class. While much can change between now and April 2025, one thing remains certain: the 2025 NFL Draft promises to be brimming with talent, offering hope and excitement to franchises looking to bolster their rosters with the stars of tomorrow.
