Prospects to Watch in the 2025 NFL Draft 🌟
As the excitement builds for the upcoming 2025 NFL Draft, which is just around the corner, we’re diving into some intriguing prospects who are making headlines. This year promises to bring unexpected turns and surprises, especially since the only certainty so far is Cam Ward expected to go No. 1 overall to the Tennessee Titans.
Understanding a prospect’s journey often requires looking beyond just their latest performances and considering their earlier seasons, where injuries and coaching changes can have significant impacts. Let's explore five standout players from the 2025 draft class whose best performances may have come prior to the 2024 season.
1. Will Johnson - CB, Michigan 🏈
Will Johnson has garnered attention as one of the top cornerbacks in the 2025 NFL Draft. However, he's faced some setbacks due to injuries, including turf toe and shoulder issues, which kept him off the field for most of the 2024 season. Despite this, his college career showcases impressive stats that make him a highly coveted player, likely to be picked within the top 15 selections.
Johnson’s freshman year in 2022 was remarkable, with an overall PFF grade of 88.2, ranking him 12th among 917 qualifying cornerbacks. During that season, he recorded three interceptions and committed only one penalty across 307 coverage snaps. His trajectory resembles that of Derek Stingley Jr., who also peaked early in his college career but was later drafted third overall by the Texans and has since excelled in the NFL.
Johnson aims to emulate that success as he prepares for the draft, hoping to find a team that values his immense potential.
2. Shemar Turner - DI, Texas A&M 💪
Next up is Shemar Turner, a dynamic defensive lineman from Texas A&M. Known for his versatility and determination, Turner averaged nearly 500 snaps per season over the last three years. While he may face some limitations regarding height and weight, his performance speaks volumes.
In 2023, Turner reached new heights, boasting a career-best PFF overall grade of 76.6, as well as strong marks in both pass-rushing (80.7) and run defense (68.9). Despite facing a tougher season in 2024, which saw a drop in overall productivity due to pressure generation and missed tackles, he remains highly regarded. Currently, he ranks 77th on various draft boards and is likely to be selected before the end of Day 2 of the draft.
3. Kevin Winston Jr. - S, Penn State 🔒
Penn State's Kevin Winston Jr. is another player to monitor as he stands out as one of the premier safeties in the 2025 NFL Draft. Although he has limited college experience due to injuries, he showcases exceptional skills that captivate NFL scouts. Having played only 694 defensive snaps in three years, Winston’s performance in 2023 was memorable. He set records as the only safety nationally to earn PFF grades exceeding 85.0 in both run defense and coverage, all while boasting perfect tackling metrics.
Winston's recovery from a partial ACL tear will be a critical element as teams evaluate his potential. Expectations are high, and it's unlikely he will slip past the second round if he demonstrates his readiness to compete.
4. Quinn Ewers - QB, Texas 📈
The former five-star recruit, Quinn Ewers, is another name stirring discussions ahead of the draft. Initially touted as a top prospect from the 2021 recruiting class, Ewers’ arm talent is undeniable. However, inconsistency in his downfield throws and aspects like pocket presence have raised questions about his draft positioning.
In 2023, he ranked among the top quarterbacks in college with a low turnover-worthy play rate of 1.7% and impressive yards per attempt. Despite these positives, pressure situations proved challenging for him, leading to an overall PFF passing grade of just 41.6. Ranked as the ninth quarterback in various projections, Ewers could benefit from a team that allows him to develop at a measured pace before taking a starting role.
5. Quincy Riley - CB, Louisville 🏃♂️
Last but not least, Quincy Riley from Louisville combines speed and skill, making him a standout cornerback in the 2025 NFL Draft. Despite his size, his quick movements and impressive college stats earn him a spot in discussions among top defensive back prospects. Over his career, he accumulated 2,720 defensive snaps, delivering a stellar 85.9 overall PFF grade in 2023, ranking him among the elite cornerbacks.
With 13 combined interceptions and pass breakups, Riley maintained discipline throughout the season, committing just one penalty. However, his tackling stats show room for improvement, as he missed a significant percentage of tackle attempts. As the draft approaches, teams will be keen to weigh his impressive ball skills against concerns about his physicality.
Final Thoughts and Draft Insights 🧐
As we gear up for the 2025 NFL Draft, these prospects exemplify the mixture of potential and uncertainty that comes with evaluating young talent. The unique stories of these athletes remind us that every drafted player has faced obstacles and challenges on their journey. With the draft looming closer, teams will weigh each athlete’s past performances alongside their health and readiness for the next level.
Stay tuned for more updates and insights as we count down the days to the draft! It’s set to be a thrilling event filled with hope and anticipation for teams and fans alike. Let the countdown begin! 🎉