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The ACC went through significant changes in the offseason, with the conference expanding to 17 teams in 2024 following the additions of California, SMU, and Stanford. The ACC is loaded with premium offensive talent as a result of these changes.
The conference has a history of producing top-tier NFL talent, evidenced by the selection of North Carolina quarterback Drake Maye as the No. 3 overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft.
As the 2024 college football season approaches, we’ve identified the top 10 ACC prospects to watch. Each player has the potential to lead their respective teams to success while enhancing their draft profiles for the 2025 NFL Draft.
Top 10 ACC Draft Prospects to Watch This Season
1. Barrett Carter, LB, Clemson
Barrett Carter has the potential to be LB1 in the 2025 NFL Draft. His electric athleticism allows him to be a versatile force on the field, excelling in blitzes, gap penetration, and coverage. With improvements in his down-to-down consistency, Carter could solidify his status as an elite linebacker prospect.
2. Omarion Hampton, RB, North Carolina
Omarion Hampton is a complete ball carrier who blends speed and power effectively. At 6’0” and 220 pounds, Hampton rushed for 1,504 yards and 15 touchdowns in 2023, earning Doak Walker Award finalist honors. Another strong season could cement his status as one of the top running backs in the 2025 draft.
3. Patrick Payton, EDGE, Florida State
Patrick Payton possesses a rare combination of burst, bend, and length, making him one of the most physically gifted edge rushers in the 2025 class. After recording seven sacks, 14.5 tackles for loss, and 10 pass breakups in 2023, Payton is primed to elevate his draft stock further.
4. Cameron Ward, QB, Miami (FL)
Cameron Ward is one of the most compelling passers in the 2025 draft due to his physical talent and playmaking ability. While he still needs to refine his discipline and consistency, Ward’s upside is immense, making him a player to watch closely this season.
5. Oronde Gadsden II, TE/WR, Syracuse
Despite a Lisfranc injury that limited his 2023 season, Oronde Gadsden II remains a high-end prospect for the 2025 NFL Draft. At 6’5” and 223 pounds, Gadsden blurs the line between tight end and wide receiver, with the athleticism and footwork to separate from defenders.
6. Elic Ayomanor, WR, Stanford
Elic Ayomanor is a dynamic receiver with a rare blend of size and speed. Standing at 6’2” and 210 pounds, Ayomanor turned heads with his 294-yard performance against Colorado in 2023. His ability to stretch the field vertically and make plays after the catch makes him a top prospect.
7. DJ Uiagalelei, QB, Florida State
DJ Uiagalelei enters his final collegiate season with plenty to prove. The former five-star recruit has the physical tools and arm strength to succeed at the next level, but he needs to improve his accuracy and consistency. A strong season at Florida State could boost his draft stock significantly.
8. Ashton Gillotte, EDGE, Louisville
Ashton Gillotte is an explosive and powerful edge rusher who can sustain acceleration around the arc while powering through contact. At 6’3” and 275 pounds, Gillotte has the tools to follow in the footsteps of former Louisville standout YaYa Diaby as a Day 2 draft pick.
9. Bryson Nesbit, TE, North Carolina
Bryson Nesbit has been a reliable target for Drake Maye, amassing 76 catches, 1,092 yards, and nine touchdowns over the past two seasons. At 6’5” and 230 pounds, Nesbit’s speed, bend, and body control make him a dangerous weapon in the passing game.
10. Damien Martinez, RB, Miami (FL)
Damien Martinez brings an uncommon combination of size and agility to the running back position. At 6’0” and nearly 240 pounds, Martinez rushed for 1,185 yards and nine touchdowns at Oregon State before transferring to Miami. His ability to make swift cuts despite his size makes him a unique prospect.