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The 2025 NFL Draft class appears much stronger at the safety position compared to the weaker 2024 class. As we transition to the 2025 NFL Draft cycle, there is anticipation for an infusion of day one and day two potential at the safety position.
The upcoming class promises more top-50 potential, including versatile playmakers like Georgia's Malaki Starks and Iowa's Xavier Nwankpa and Kevin Winston Jr. from Penn State.
This detailed scouting analysis highlights the next wave of NFL-ready safeties, offering a comprehensive look at the players who could restore the safety position in the 2025 NFL Draft.
Here are the 15 safeties to know as we continue the summer scouting period for the 2025 NFL Draft.
MALAKI STARKS, GEORGIA
Ht: 6'1"
Wt: 205 lbs
Coverage Grade RK: 146
Pass Break Ups: 7
INTs: 3
Summary Analysis: Starks continued to impress in 2023, building on a strong freshman season. His playmaking instincts and physicality in coverage make him a standout prospect. Starks is highly regarded for his ability to cover ground and disrupt passing lanes and is projected as a first-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft.
SEBASTIAN CASTRO, IOWA
Ht: 5'11"
Wt: 205 lbs
Coverage Grade RK: 4
Pass Break Ups: 7
INTs: 3
Summary Analysis: Castro is a versatile nickel corner, excelling in both coverage and run defense. In 2023, he led Iowa's defense with 67 tackles, eight tackles for loss, and a sack. Known for his sharp instincts and route recognition, Castro consistently made plays on the ball, as evidenced by his three interceptions and seven pass breakups. His aggressive play style and reliability make him a top safety prospect.
HUNTER WOHLER, WISCONSIN
Ht: 6'0"
Wt: 205 lbs
Coverage Grade RK: 10
Pass Break Ups: 3
INTs: 2
Summary Analysis: Wohler was a key player in Wisconsin's secondary, known for his strong coverage skills and physicality. He recorded a near-elite coverage grade for safety in 2023, complemented by his high-level ability to defend vs. the run. With 11 tackles for loss or no gain, Wohler proved to be a force in the box and a reliable tackler, making him a standout safety in the 2025 draft class.
XAVIER NWANKPA, IOWA
Ht: 6'2"
Wt: 210 lbs
Coverage Grade RK: 20
Pass Break Ups: 2
INTs: 1
Summary Analysis: Nwankpa displayed exceptional versatility and athleticism in 2023, earning an 88.4 coverage grade. His ability to play multiple roles in the secondary, including a center-field role, made him invaluable to Iowa's defense. His size and range allow him to cover significant ground, making him a promising prospect for the NFL.
KEVIN WINSTON JR., PENN STATE
Ht: 6'0"
Wt: 205 lbs
Coverage Grade RK: 30
Pass Break Ups: 3
INTs: 1
Summary Analysis: Winston showcased his well-rounded skills in 2023, excelling in both coverage and run defense. His 86.8 coverage grade and 90.6 run-defense grade highlight his versatility. Known for his reliability, Winston's low missed-tackle rate and strong presence in the secondary make him a top safety prospect.
AUBREY BURKS, WEST VIRGINIA
Ht: 6'0"
Wt: 200 lbs
Coverage Grade RK: 64
Pass Break Ups: 4
INTs: 2
Summary Analysis: Burks emerged as one of the best cover safeties in the nation, posting an 83.6 coverage grade. His ability to make plays in the back end of the defense, combined with his strong tackling skills, made him a standout performer. However, improving his tackling consistency will be key for his transition to the NFL.
KEON SABB, ALABAMA
Ht: 6'1"
Wt: 200 lbs
Coverage Grade RK: 78
Pass Break Ups: 5
INTs: 2
Summary Analysis: Sabb made the most of his opportunities at Michigan, showcasing his skills in both coverage and run defense. His versatility and playmaking ability, including forcing eight incompletions in limited snaps, make him a promising safety prospect. His transfer to Alabama could further elevate his game.
MALACHI MOORE, ALABAMA
Ht: 6'0"
Wt: 190 lbs
Coverage Grade RK: 131
Pass Break Ups: 3
INTs: 1
Summary Analysis: Moore bounced back in 2023, earning a 79.0 coverage grade. His versatility in playing both the slot and box roles allows him to wear multiple hats in the defense. While he has shown promise, consistency will be key for Moore as he looks to establish himself as a top prospect.
JEREMIAH COOPER, IOWA STATE
Ht: 6'0"
Wt: 185 lbs
Coverage Grade RK: 113
Pass Break Ups: 10
INTs: 5
Summary Analysis: Cooper is a true playmaker in the secondary. In 2023, he posted five interceptions and 10 pass breakups. His explosive closing speed and physicality make him a natural in coverage, although his tackling technique needs refinement. Cooper's ball-hawking skills and instincts make him a top safety prospect.
BILLY BOWMAN JR., OKLAHOMA
Ht: 5'10"
Wt: 191 lbs
Coverage Grade RK: 339
Pass Break Ups: 2
INTs: 6
Summary Analysis: Bowman is a dynamic playmaker known for his ability to create turnovers. In 2023, he recorded six interceptions, three of which were returned for touchdowns. While undersized, Bowman's athleticism and knack for making big plays in coverage make him an intriguing prospect for NFL teams looking for a versatile defensive back.
ANDREW MUKUBA, CLEMSON
Ht: 5'11"
Wt: 185 lbs
Coverage Grade RK: 290
Pass Break Ups: 3
INTs: 0
Summary Analysis: Mukuba brings versatility to the Clemson secondary, capable of playing multiple positions. His agility and speed allow him to cover a wide range of passing windows, although he continues to refine his technique. Mukuba's potential in coverage, combined with his ability to contribute in various roles, makes him a versatile prospect.
JONAS SANKER, VIRGINIA
Ht: 6'1"
Wt: 210 lbs
Coverage Grade RK: 202
Pass Break Ups: 8
INTs: 0
Summary Analysis: Sanker is a physical safety with a nose for the ball, evident in his 107 tackles and 11 pass breakups in 2023. His ability to play both in the box and deep coverage adds to his versatility. Sanker needs to improve his tackling consistency, but his all-around game makes him a valuable safety prospect.
XAVIER WATTS, NOTRE DAME
Ht: 6'0"
Wt: 200 lbs
Coverage Grade RK: 217
Pass Break Ups: 3
INTs: 7
Summary Analysis: Watts had a breakout season in 2023, leading the FBS with seven interceptions and not allowing a touchdown into his coverage. Despite his success in coverage, Watts needs to improve in the run game and as a tackler. His playmaking ability, however, makes him a highly regarded prospect.
ROD MOORE, MICHIGAN
Ht: 6'0"
Wt: 185 lbs
Coverage Grade RK: 477
Pass Break Ups: 3
INTs: 2
Summary Analysis: Moore had a solid season in 2023, although his 2024 will be cut short or may not be played at all due to an ACL injury in the offseason, he is still a player that NFL teams will covet in the 2025 NFL Draft. Known for his football IQ and route recognition, Moore has been a key contributor to Michigan's defense. His recovery and return to form will be crucial for his draft stock, but his past performances highlight his potential.
SONNY STYLES, OHIO STATE
Ht: 6'4"
Wt: 230 lbs
Coverage Grade RK: 446
Pass Break Ups: 1
INTs: 0
Summary Analysis: Styles is a versatile defender with a unique blend of size and athleticism. At 6'4", 230 pounds, he excels as a run defender who can play in the box, showcasing his potential to play multiple roles. Styles' ability to contribute both in the box and in coverage makes him an intriguing prospect for the next level.
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