2025 NFL Draft: Top 50 Big Board Rankings — Who's Rising, Who's Falling?

As the college football season progresses, the latest 2025 NFL Draft Top 50 Big Board update reflects significant shifts at several positions. This analysis highlights the biggest risers, fallers, and new entrants into the rankings, offering a snapshot of how this year’s draft class is evolving.

Speaking of how this class is evolving, the 2025 NFL Draft will be a far more defense-heavy draft class. Our current top 10 rankings include six defenders plus Travis Hunter. Depending on what position you believe Travis Hunter should play in the NFL (cough cough, he should play DB), he could be the seventh defender listed in the top 10 of our current NFL Draft big board rankings.

Biggest Risers

The following players have seen the most significant jumps in the rankings, cementing themselves as premier NFL Draft prospects:

• Travis Hunter (ATH, Colorado) – From 2 to 1

• Ashton Jeanty (RB, Boise State) – From 16 to 4 (Jeanty is a can't miss prospect)

• Jalon Walker (LB, Georgia) – From Unranked to 10 (Walker's athleticism and versatility is elite)

• Will Campbell (OT, LSU) – From 6 to 9

• Shavon Revel (CB, ECU) – From Unranked to 13 (Tore his ACL, but after watching his tape, he is one of the top DBs in this cycle).

• Cam Ward (QB, Miami) – From 34 to 23

• Ashton Gillotte (EDGE, Louisville) – From Unranked to 41

• Garrett Nussmeier (QB, LSU) – From Unranked to 42

• Walter Nolen (IDL, Ole Miss) – From Unranked to 44

  
  

Biggest Fallers

While still talented prospects, the following players have dropped in the rankings, with some falling out of the Top 50 entirely:

• Noah Fifita (QB, Arizona) – From 36 to Unranked

• Quinshon Judkins (RB, Ole Miss) – From 44 to Unranked (Fell out because of higher priority positions gaining steam)

• Xavier Nwankpa (S, Iowa) – From 47 to Unranked

• Danny Stutsman (LB, Oklahoma) – From 48 to Unranked

• TreVeyon Henderson (RB, Ohio State) – From 43 to Unranked (Fell out because of higher priority positions gaining steam)

• Jaishawn Barham (LB, Michigan) – From 50 to Unranked

  
  

New Entrants

The following players have broken into the Top 50 rankings with standout performances this season:

• Jalon Walker (LB, Georgia) – Now ranked 10

• Shavon Revel (CB, ECU) – Now ranked 13

• Ashton Gillotte (EDGE, Louisville) – Now ranked 41

• Garrett Nussmeier (QB, LSU) – Now ranked 42 (He could elevate to QB1, but I am still on the fence. He shows some elite traits, but there are lapses in consistency and decision-making.).

• Walter Nolen (IDL, Ole Miss) – Now ranked 44

Position Analysis: Top 50 Breakdown

Key Observations

• Rising Positional Value: Linebackers and tight ends have seen significant gains, driven by versatile players like Jalon Walker (10) and Colston Loveland (14).

• Depth at Premium Positions: Offensive tackle and edge defender remain strong, with multiple new additions to the rankings.

• Quarterbacks Hold Steady: The QB group continues to show depth, with players like Cam Ward (23) and Garrett Nussmeier (42) solidifying their status.

2025 NFL Draft: Top 50 Big Board Rankings

1). Travis Hunter (ATH, Colorado)

Travis Hunter’s unique two-way skill set as a cornerback and wide receiver makes him one of the most versatile prospects in recent history. As a CB, Hunter has elite-level anticipation and ball skills that enable him to challenge WR1s effectively, especially in zone schemes where he can read and react. While his thin frame (185 lbs) impacts his physicality in press coverage, his recovery speed (reported 4.4 forty-yard dash) and route recognition help mitigate these issues. At WR, Hunter’s burst, elite ball tracking, and run-after-catch ability make him an explosive threat downfield. His dynamic playstyle suits a team open to leveraging him in specific, high-impact roles on both sides of the ball, potentially similar to Deion Sanders.

2). Will Johnson (CB, Michigan)

Will Johnson presents a dynamic blend of size, speed, and physicality that profiles him as a future No. 1 NFL cornerback. With elite-level coverage instincts, Johnson excels in both man and zone schemes, showing impressive route recognition and anticipation skills. His long frame (6’2”) and fluidity enable him to contest larger receivers effectively, while his quick-twitch athleticism supports top-level man coverage against speedier opponents. In run defense, Johnson is a willing and physical tackler, making him valuable in schemes demanding versatility and physicality. Projected as a shutdown corner capable of elevating an NFL secondary, Johnson’s skill set should allow for immediate impact and the potential for Pro Bowl-level contributions.

3). Mason Graham (IDL, Michigan)

Graham is a physical force on the interior defensive line, showcasing an exceptional blend of size, strength, and explosiveness that elevates him as a high-impact IDL prospect. He excels as a run-stopper with natural leverage, dominating gaps and setting a reliable anchor against double-teams. Graham’s hand usage, developed pass-rush moves, and lateral quickness allow him to consistently pressure the pocket. Best suited to play as a 1-tech or 3-tech in a four-man front, Graham could also perform in hybrid fronts as a versatile gap-control defender. His skill set projects as an immediate starter with potential for Pro Bowl contributions in the right defensive scheme.

4). Ashton Jeanty (RB, Boise State)

Jeanty’s combination of agility, vision, and compact power makes him a versatile offensive weapon, ideally suited for zone-blocking schemes, particularly those utilizing outside zone and pin/pull concepts. His ability to find lanes and cut back effectively showcases his fit in these systems. In the passing game, his dual-threat capability allows for deployment as a safety valve with dynamic after the catch ability.

5). Tetairoa McMillan (WR, Arizona)

McMillan is an enticing WR prospect who blends exceptional size and body control with the versatility to align at X, Z, or in the slot. At 6'5", McMillan combines a wide catch radius with a natural feel for leveraging his frame against defenders. While his speed is not elite, his smooth acceleration and hip fluidity enable him to separate and create mismatches. He is a strong fit for a vertically-oriented offensive scheme that can take full advantage of his downfield contested catch ability.

6). Mykel Williams (EDGE, Georgia)

Williams is an alignment-versatile edge rusher who has all the physical tools to develop into a premier player in the NFL. His ability to play various positions along the defensive front makes him a valuable asset in multiple schemes. Williams has been utilized as a stand-up edge rusher, head-up over the center in a 0-tech, and in other roles within Georgia’s complex defensive scheme. His best fit in the NFL would be as a 4-3 defensive end or a 3-4 outside linebacker, where his athleticism and versatility can be maximized.

7). Abdul Carter (EDGE, Penn State)

Carter's primary role at Penn State has been as a box linebacker, where he excels due to his remarkable physicality and agility. His quickness allows him to close space sideline to sideline effectively, making him a formidable force against the run. In 2023, Carter consistently aligned as an inside linebacker but also took over 100 snaps on the edge of the defense. These snaps included roles as a pass rusher and in coverage scenarios, demonstrating his versatility.

8). Malaki Starks (S, Georgia)

Starks exhibits a balanced skill set that suits both man and zone coverage, making him versatile as a safety. His ability to read the quarterback and diagnose plays quickly is notable. Starks has shown effectiveness in slot/nickel situations, suggesting he could fit well in schemes that value multidimensional defensive backs who can cover, tackle, and play the ball. His experience and growing knowledge of defensive schemes, coupled with physical and mental development, indicate a strong adaptability to various defensive schemes at the NFL level.

9). Will Campbell (OT, LSU)

Campbell is an athletic and powerful tackle prospect with strong positional versatility, having excelled at left tackle for LSU but projecting effectively to guard or center due to his skill set. His excellent balance, anchor strength, and quick hands make him reliable in both run and pass protection. In the NFL, Campbell may be best suited on the interior to maximize his strengths, where his power and efficient technique can shine against interior defenders. Ideal for both zone and power schemes, Campbell offers immediate impact with the potential for Pro Bowl-level performance as a guard or tackle.

10). Jalon Walker (LB, Georgia)

Walker is a highly versatile and explosive linebacker with natural pass-rush instincts and an ideal athletic profile for hybrid roles. He projects as a disruptive weapon on early downs as a run defender and as an edge rusher on passing downs. His ideal fit is in a system that maximizes linebacker versatility, with the flexibility to use him both in pass rush and coverage assignments. Although he lacks extensive off-ball linebacker experience, his range, burst, and strength make him an immediate contributor with Pro Bowl potential in the right scheme.

11). Kelvin Banks (OT, Texas)

Banks is a smooth, refined tackle with elite footwork and technique, excelling in pass protection. His lateral agility and strength make him equally effective in run blocking, fitting well in both zone and power schemes.

12). Nic Scourton (EDGE, Texas A&M)

Scourton is a powerful edge rusher with quick hands and impressive strength, excelling in collapsing pockets. His ability to rotate inside on passing downs adds versatility for hybrid defensive fronts.

13). Shavon Revel (CB, ECU)

Revel is a press-man corner with elite length, physicality, and fluid movement skills. He thrives in contested catch situations and is a disruptive presence at the line of scrimmage.

14). Colston Loveland (TE, Michigan)

Loveland is a dynamic tight end with a large catch radius and strong mismatch potential. His blend of speed and size makes him a reliable weapon in both traditional and spread offensive schemes.

15). Luther Burden (WR, Missouri)

Burden is an explosive slot receiver who excels in motion-based systems and yards after catch opportunities. His quickness and agility make him a dangerous playmaker in space.

16). Kenneth Grant (IDL, Michigan)

Grant is a versatile interior lineman who excels at controlling gaps and disrupting the pocket. His power and lateral quickness make him an ideal fit for both 3-4 and 4-3 defensive schemes.

17). James Pearce Jr. (EDGE, Tennessee)

Pearce is an agile edge rusher with exceptional first-step quickness and bend around the edge. His versatility makes him effective as both a stand-up rusher and a traditional defensive end.

18). LT Overton (EDGE, Alabama)

Overton is a rising edge prospect with a strong combination of size, length, and athleticism. He can fit seamlessly into both 4-3 and 3-4 schemes as a disruptive presence on the edge.

19). Shedeur Sanders (QB, Colorado)

Sanders is an accurate and poised quarterback who thrives in quick-passing systems. His pocket awareness and ability to extend plays add value to offenses emphasizing timing and rhythm.

20). Benjamin Morrison (CB, Notre Dame)

Morrison is a physical cornerback who excels in press and zone coverage. His football IQ and ability to anticipate routes make him a versatile defender in any scheme.

21). Shemar Stewart (EDGE, Texas A&M)

Stewart is a versatile edge defender with impressive power and quickness. He excels at setting the edge in the run game and providing consistent pressure as a pass rusher.

22). Derrick Harmon (IDL, Oregon)

Harmon is a strong interior lineman who excels against the run and in collapsing the pocket. His combination of power and quick hands makes him disruptive on early downs.

23). Cam Ward (QB, Miami)

Ward is an adaptable quarterback with elite arm talent and mobility, thriving in vertical passing schemes. His improvisational skills and downfield accuracy make him a dangerous playmaker.

24). Tyleik Williams (IDL, Ohio State)

Williams is a stout interior defender with excellent leverage and gap discipline. He thrives in two-gap systems and provides a strong anchor in run defense.

25). Deone Walker (IDL, Kentucky)

Walker is a massive, versatile lineman who dominates blockers with his raw strength. His ability to disrupt plays in various alignments makes him a valuable asset in multiple schemes.

26). Denzel Burke (CB, Ohio State)

Burke is a long, physical corner who excels in zone coverage and vertical routes. While not as effective in man-to-man situations, his physicality and ball skills make him a key defensive contributor.

27). Kevin Winston Jr. (S, Penn State)

Winston is a rangy safety with excellent ball skills and the ability to cover ground quickly. His versatility allows him to excel in both man and zone coverage schemes.

28). Tyler Warren (TE, Penn State)

Warren is a versatile tight end who thrives as a blocker and red-zone target. His ability to line up in multiple roles makes him an asset for offenses that value tight end versatility.

29). Cameron Williams (OT, Texas)

Williams is a physically dominant tackle excelling in both run blocking and pass protection. His size and strength make him an ideal fit for power-based offensive schemes.

30). Howard Cross III (IDL, Notre Dame)

Cross is a quick, disruptive interior lineman who excels in penetration schemes. His ability to generate backfield pressure makes him an effective weapon against the pass.

31). Elic Ayomanor (WR, Stanford)

Ayomanor is a physical X-receiver with excellent contested catch ability and deep threat potential. His combination of size and athleticism makes him a reliable target in critical situations.

32). Harold Fannin Jr. (TE, Bowling Green)

Fannin is a versatile tight end excelling as both a blocker and a receiving threat. His ability to create mismatches against smaller defenders adds value in modern offensive schemes.

33). Quinn Ewers (QB, Texas)

Ewers is a quick-release quarterback with excellent arm strength and deep-ball accuracy. His ability to operate in spread and RPO-based systems enhances his NFL potential.

34). Isaiah Bond (WR, Texas)

Bond is an explosive playmaker with elite speed and route-running ability. He thrives in vertically oriented schemes that emphasize stretching the field.

35). Jalen Milroe (QB, Alabama)

Milroe is a dual-threat quarterback with elite athleticism and arm strength. His ability to thrive in spread systems with zone-read and RPO elements makes him a high-upside prospect.

36). Aireontae Ersery (OT, Minnesota)

Ersery is a balanced and technically sound tackle excelling in both run and pass blocking. His consistent footwork and hand placement make him a reliable edge protector.

37). Donovan Ezeiruaku (EDGE, Boston College)

Ezeiruaku is an explosive pass rusher with active hands and the ability to disrupt the pocket. His quick first step and motor make him a consistent threat off the edge.

38). Emery Jones Jr. (OT, LSU)

Jones is a physically imposing tackle who excels in run-blocking schemes. His versatility and ability to hold his ground in pass protection make him a dependable option on the line.

39). Emeka Egbuka (WR, Ohio State)

Egbuka is an agile route-runner with reliable hands and the ability to create separation. His versatility as a slot and deep threat adds significant value to any offense.

40). Josh Simmons (OT, Ohio State)

Simmons is a powerful offensive lineman excelling in both power and zone-blocking schemes. His physicality and strong technique make him a key asset in the trenches.

41). Garrett Nussmeier (QB, LSU)

High-ceiling passer with strong pocket presence and above-average mobility, excelling in vertical offenses focused on big plays.

42). Josh Conerly Jr. (OT, Oregon)

Athletic tackle with excellent footwork and agility, excelling in pass protection and capable of holding his own against speed rushers.

43). Walter Nolen (IDL, Ole Miss)

Powerful and disruptive interior lineman, excelling at stopping the run and generating interior pressure.

44). Landon Jackson (EDGE, Arkansas)

Strong and versatile edge rusher capable of excelling in hybrid defensive schemes, with consistent ability to set the edge.

45). Josaiah Stewart (EDGE, Michigan)

Quick and agile edge rusher with excellent first-step explosiveness and effective hand technique to disrupt plays.

46). Carson Beck (QB, Georgia)

Pro-style passer with strong arm talent and sharp timing, thriving in rhythm-based offensive systems and play-action.

47). Evan Stewart (WR, Oregon)

Dynamic receiver with top-end speed and precise route-running ability, excelling as a deep threat and reliable target.

48). Jack Sawyer (EDGE, Ohio State)

High-energy rusher with strength and technique to pressure quarterbacks and defend the run effectively in various schemes.

49). Princely Umanmielen (EDGE, Ole Miss)

Versatile edge rusher excelling in both 4-3 and 3-4 alignments, with power and athleticism to disrupt backfields.

50). Josh Simmons (OT, Ohio State)

Physical and technically sound blocker, excelling in both power and zone schemes with a strong anchor in pass protection.