The 2025 NFL Draft may still be months away, but it’s never too early to start projecting which top prospects could hear their names called in the first round. ESPN’s leading draft analysts, including Mel Kiper Jr., Matt Miller, Jordan Reid, and Field Yates, have already begun evaluating the upcoming class, providing a tantalizing glimpse at the potential stars of tomorrow.
Quarterbacks Dominate Early Mocks
As with most drafts, the quarterback position is garnering significant attention in early 2025 mock drafts. According to a consensus of ESPN’s experts, at least three signal-callers are projected to land in the top 10 picks:
- Devin Caldwell, Ohio State: Prototypical size, elite arm strength
- Jaxon Thorne, USC: Dynamic dual-threat with impressive accuracy
- Ethan Vasquez, Texas: Polished pocket passer with advanced processing skills
“In today’s NFL, teams are always searching for that franchise quarterback,” Kiper noted. “Caldwell, Thorne, and Vasquez each offer a unique skill set that could transform an offense from day one.”
Game-Changing Playmakers Abound
While the quarterbacks are generating buzz, the 2025 class also features a wealth of talent at the offensive skill positions. Wide receivers like Luther Burden III (Missouri), James Pearce Jr. (Clemson), and Kai Simpson (Alabama) possess the game-breaking speed and playmaking ability coveted by NFL offensive coordinators.
“Burden’s explosiveness jumps off the tape,” Yates said. “He has the potential to be a perennial Pro Bowler and the focal point of a passing attack.”
Not to be outdone, running backs like Shedeur Sanders (Colorado), Jack Tate (Georgia), and Tavion Brown (Oregon) have also caught the attention of scouts with their versatile skill sets and big-play ability.
Elite Defenders Anchor Draft’s Top 10
On the defensive side of the ball, pass-rushers and cover corners are expected to fly off the board early. Edge rushers like Will Johnson (Michigan) and Ryan Ellis (LSU) possess the length, explosiveness, and refined technique to terrorize opposing quarterbacks.
“Johnson’s bend and ability to convert speed to power is rare,” Miller raved. “He has the tools to be a double-digit sack artist early in his career.”
In the secondary, lockdown corners such as David Ortiz (Florida State) and Kayvon Williams (Ohio State) are expected to be highly coveted commodities, while do-it-all safeties like Elijah Bryant (Notre Dame) and Malik Ward (Penn State) provide the versatility to impact the game in a variety of ways.
Trades Could Shake Up Draft Order
As the draft approaches, the jockeying for position atop the draft board will intensify. Teams with glaring needs at quarterback or other premium positions could be tempted to package picks and players to move up and secure their desired target.
“Don’t be surprised if we see a blockbuster trade or two in the top five,” Reid predicted. “When a potential franchise quarterback is on the board, teams will do whatever it takes to land their guy.”
While much can change between now and draft night, one thing remains certain: the 2025 NFL Draft class is loaded with potential difference-makers who could shape the league for years to come. As the college football season unfolds and the pre-draft process kicks into high gear, NFL fans and analysts alike will be keeping a close eye on these rising stars, eager to see where their professional journeys will begin.
