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The Mid-American Conference (MAC) will expand to 13 programs in 2025 with the addition of UMass. The 2024 campaign marks the final season with 12 teams, and the conference has done away with divisions, meaning the MAC Championship Game will now feature the teams with the best conference records.
In the 2024 NFL Draft, the MAC produced two elite draft picks: Toledo cornerback Quinyon Mitchell (22nd overall) and Western Michigan defensive end Marshawn Kneeland (56th overall).
The MAC continues to produce NFL talent at a high level, and as the 2024 college football season approaches, new talents are ready to emerge. Here’s a look at the top 10 MAC prospects to watch for the 2025 NFL Draft.
10 MAC Draft Prospects to Watch This Season
1. Harold Fannin Jr., TE, Bowling Green
Harold Fannin Jr. is a top MAC prospect with the potential to be one of the better tight ends in the 2025 NFL Draft. A former receiver, Fannin brings exceptional motion, spatial awareness, and body control to the receiving game, logging 44 catches for 623 yards and six touchdowns in 2023. Despite being lighter at 6’4", 230 pounds, he blocks with urgency and sound technique, making him a complete player.
2. Antario Brown, RB, Northern Illinois
Antario Brown is a powerful and productive running back who earned All-MAC First Team honors in 2023 with 1,296 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns. Brown has the potential to be the next lower-conference volume back to make an impact at the NFL level.
3. Brett Gabbert, QB, Miami (OH)
Brett Gabbert, the younger brother of NFL veteran Blaine Gabbert, is poised for a big season after missing much of 2023 with a leg injury. When healthy, Gabbert has proven to be a productive and flashy passer, with the potential to lead Miami (OH) to success.
4. Maxen Hook, S, Toledo
Maxen Hook has been a starter for Toledo since 2021 and is now a do-it-all safety for the Rockets. Hook’s physicality and instincts make him one of the top defensive players in the MAC, with a career that includes 245 tackles, 16 pass breakups, and five interceptions.
5. Jerjuan Newton, WR, Toledo
Jerjuan Newton, the older brother of Washington Commanders rookie Johnny Newton, is a standout receiver for Toledo. Newton’s big-play ability and reliability as a target make him one of the most exciting offensive prospects in the conference.
6. Donte Kent, S/CB, Central Michigan
Donte Kent’s versatility as both a safety and cornerback makes him a valuable asset to Central Michigan’s defense. With 37 pass breakups in three seasons, Kent’s ball-hawking ability could lead to him becoming the next Chippewa to be drafted.
7. Matt Salopek, LB, Miami (OH)
Matt Salopek is a seasoned linebacker with a chance to make history in 2024. Salopek has recorded over 100 tackles in each of the past three seasons, and with a strong senior year, he could solidify his status as a top MAC linebacker.
8. CJ Nunnally IV, EDGE, Akron
CJ Nunnally IV had a breakout 2023 season with 15.5 tackles for loss and seven sacks after transferring from Independence Community College. His speed and athleticism off the edge make him one of the top pass rushers in the MAC.
9. Marion Lukes, RB, Central Michigan
Marion Lukes is a dynamic running back with full-field vision and high-level instincts. At 5’9", 210 pounds, Lukes combines speed, bend, and impressive spatial awareness to consistently carve out big gains.
10. Jacob Gideon, C, Western Michigan
Jacob Gideon is Pro Football Focus’ top-ranked center in the MAC, anchoring Western Michigan’s offensive line. His role in clearing paths for a 1,000-yard rusher and facilitating a productive passing game makes him a key player to watch in 2024.
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