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As it has often been in recent years, the Big Ten is expected to be a treasure trove of talent in the 2025 NFL Draft. With the addition of powerhouse programs like Oregon and Washington, the conference has never been more competitive or more stacked with NFL-caliber talent.
Schools like Michigan and Ohio State continue to churn out first-round picks, but now they’re joined by a host of other teams with elite prospects. As the 2024 college football season approaches, here’s a closer look at ten of the top Big Ten prospects who could hear their names called early in the 2025 NFL Draft.
10 2025 NFL Draft Big Ten Draft Prospects to Watch This Season
1. Will Johnson, CB, Michigan
Will Johnson is an elite shutdown cornerback and a lock to be drafted in the top ten of the 2025 NFL Draft. Standing at 6’2” and 202 pounds, Johnson possesses the size, speed, and ball skills that NFL teams covet. After a breakout 2023 season where he allowed just 14 receptions with zero touchdowns while recording four interceptions.
2. Mason Graham, DT, Michigan
Mason Graham anchors the interior of Michigan’s defensive line with a combination of power, agility, and relentless motor. At 6’3” and 318 pounds, Graham moves with the ease of a much lighter player, consistently disrupting opposing offenses. His ability to generate backfield penetration and collapse the pocket makes him one of the top defensive tackle prospects in the country.
3. Abdul Carter, EDGE, Penn State
Abdul Carter has made the transition from linebacker to edge rusher, and the move has only enhanced his draft stock. At 6’3” and 250 pounds, Carter’s blend of speed, length, and explosiveness makes him a nightmare for offensive linemen. With his game-breaking ability and high ceiling, Carter could become one of the premier pass rushers in the 2025 NFL Draft.
4. Emeka Egbuka, WR, Ohio State
Emeka Egbuka remains one of the most dynamic wide receivers in the country despite an injury-riddled 2023 season. The 6’1”, 205-pound playmaker is a three-level threat with exceptional route-running skills, strong hands, and the ability to create yards after the catch. With Marvin Harrison Jr. off to the NFL, Egbuka is now the focal point of Ohio State’s passing attack and is poised for a massive season.
5. Denzel Burke, CB, Ohio State
Denzel Burke is a long, explosive cornerback with the ball skills and physicality that NFL teams love. After an impressive return to form in 2023, where he recorded nine pass breakups, Burke is ready to solidify his status as a first-round prospect. At 6’1” and 193 pounds, Burke’s ability to thrive in both press-man and off-coverage schemes makes him a versatile defensive weapon.
6. Quinshon Judkins, RB, Ohio State
Quinshon Judkins transferred to Ohio State for the 2024 season after an electric career at Ole Miss. At 5’11” and over 210 pounds, Judkins is a dynamic runner with impressive short-area quickness, a searing burst, and the power to break tackles. With Ohio State’s potent offense, Judkins is set to build on his 2,725 rushing yards and 31 touchdowns from his time in the SEC, making him a top running back prospect in 2025.
7. Colston Loveland, TE, Michigan
Colston Loveland has established himself as one of the top tight end prospects in the nation. The 6’5”, 245-pound playmaker combines size, athleticism, and fluidity, making him a dangerous weapon in the passing game. Loveland’s ability to create separation and generate yards after the catch could make him the first tight end off the board in the 2025 NFL Draft.
8. Tyleik Williams, DT, Ohio State
Tyleik Williams is one of the most experienced defensive tackles in college football, with the versatility to play across the defensive line. At 6’3” and 320 pounds, Williams combines power with quickness, allowing him to be disruptive both against the run and as a pass rusher. With a career-high 10 tackles for loss in 2023, Williams is ready to take his game to the next level.
9. Kenneth Grant, DT, Michigan
Kenneth Grant is a freakish athlete at nose tackle, with a rumored sub-5.0-second 40-yard dash at 6’3” and 339 pounds. Grant is a force in the middle of Michigan’s defense, capable of holding the point and absorbing double-teams while also being surprisingly nimble as a pass rusher. His combination of size, strength, and athleticism makes him a high-upside prospect in the 2025 NFL Draft.
10. Drew Allar, QB, Penn State
Drew Allar is still developing, but his raw arm talent at 6’5” and 240 pounds is undeniable. He showed flashes of brilliance in 2023 and has the tools to be a top-tier quarterback prospect. With another year of experience, Allar could rise significantly up draft boards in 2025.