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As we approach the 2025 Reese’s Senior Bowl, East-West Shrine Bowl, and other pre-draft events, the updated NFL Draft Big Board reflects some of the recent changes I have made. One part that remains consistent is that this year’s draft is shaping up to be one of the deepest defensive classes in recent memory, with depth across multiple positions and star power at the top. Below, I break down my thoughts on the key position groups based on the sample of my top 50 players.
As Always, the Debate About the Top QBs Will Take Center Stage
As always, the quarterback discussion generates all the buzz, but opinions on this group vary widely. While Cam Ward has edged out Shedeur Sanders as my QB1, neither has solidified themselves as top-five prospects in my eyes. Ultimately, I believe teams picking in the top five must focus on the best-available talent, where players like Mason Graham, Abdul Carter, Will Johnson, and Travis Hunter stand out as surefire impact players.
This Could Be the Best RB Class Since 2017
This could be the best running back class since the 2017 group, which featured stars like Christian McCaffrey, Alvin Kamara, Joe Mixon, and Austin Ekeler. The 2025 class is led by Boise State’s Ashton Jeanty, who I have in my top 10 and could be one of a select few running backs drafted in the top 15 picks in recent years. As the NFL adjusts defensively with more two-high safety variations to counter explosive passing offenses, the value of running backs is rising. I expect at least three or four names from this class to come off the board in the first two rounds.
The WR Class Is Starting to Take Shape
The wide receiver class is gaining momentum as we move closer to the draft. Arizona’s Tetairoa McMillan headlines this group with his size, body control, and ability to win contested catches. Luther Burden and Emeka Egbuka are strong first-round candidates, while Texas’ Matthew Golden is rising into Day 1 consideration. If you include a part-time Travis Hunter as a wide receiver, this group could feature two top-10 players. Stanford’s Elic Ayomanor is another name to monitor through the NFL Combine circuit, and I expect this class to produce four to five first-rounders.
The TE Class is Deep and Talented
This tight end class might be the deepest in NFL Draft history. Michigan’s Colston Loveland sits at the top of my board, with Penn State’s Tyler Warren not far behind. Both players project as top-20 picks, with the potential to crack the top 15. Loveland’s versatility and ability to stretch the field vertically make him a dangerous weapon, while Warren’s combination of size, athleticism, and blocking ability gives him a complete skill set. In a weaker wide receiver class, these tight ends could be pivotal offensive playmakers for NFL teams.
The OL Class Is One Of The More most versatile I Have Ever Evaluated
The offensive tackle group is led by LSU’s Will Campbell and Texas’ Kelvin Banks Jr., both of whom have elite potential. Campbell’s versatility and power make him a candidate to play multiple positions along the offensive line, while Banks’ refined technique and athleticism project him as a high-impact starter at left tackle. Beyond these two, Ohio State’s Josh Simmons and Missouri’s Armond Membou are rising prospects with Day 1 potential.
The Defensive Line Class Has Unreal Depth, and It Is Led By Michigan's Mason Graham
The defensive line group is headlined by Michigan’s Mason Graham, who I believe could be the next Aaron Donald. Graham’s dominance on the interior, combined with his versatility to disrupt both the run and pass, sets him apart as one of the most impactful players in this class. Alongside Graham, the class boasts a wealth of talent on the interior and edge, with Abdul Carter from Penn State emerging as an elite edge rusher. Carter’s transition to a full-time defensive end role has elevated his stock, and he could be the first overall pick in the draft.
The Cornerback Class Is Very Talented, with Elite Options at The Top
This year’s cornerback class is led by Michigan’s Will Johnson and Colorado’s Travis Hunter. Johnson profiles as a prototypical No. 1 cornerback, blending size, speed, and coverage instincts. Hunter, listed as an athlete on my board, is a rare two-way talent. If he were a full-time wide receiver, he could be the WR1 in this class; as a cornerback, he’d rank as CB2 behind Johnson. Regardless of where Hunter ultimately lines up in the NFL, he is a dynamic playmaker who will be a top-five consideration for many teams.
2025 NFL Draft - Here are the updated top 50 rankings.
1). Mason Graham, IDL, Michigan
Height: 6-3 | Weight: 318
Mason Graham is a physical force on the interior defensive line, showcasing an exceptional blend of size, strength, and explosiveness. His dominance as a run-stopper, combined with natural leverage and refined hand technique, makes him a disruptive presence. Graham’s ability to pressure the pocket and handle double-teams projects him as an instant starter with All-Pro upside. Best suited for a 1-tech or 3-tech role in a four-man front, Graham could anchor a defense for years to come.
2). Will Johnson, CB, Michigan
Height: 6-2 | Weight: 205
Will Johnson possesses prototypical size, speed, and physicality for a lockdown NFL cornerback. His elite instincts and ability to excel in both man and zone coverage make him a scheme-versatile player. Johnson’s route recognition and anticipation skills stand out, and he consistently limits big plays. With his long frame and fluid athleticism, Johnson projects as a shutdown corner capable of making an immediate impact as a team’s No. 1 option.
3). Travis Hunter, ATH, Colorado
Height: 6-1 | Weight: 185
Travis Hunter is the most versatile prospect in this draft. As a cornerback, he displays elite anticipation, recovery speed, and ball skills, while as a wide receiver, his burst and ability to make contested catches make him a dynamic playmaker. Hunter’s thin frame limits his physicality at times, but his overall athleticism and two-way potential make him a rare talent. Whether used as a corner, receiver, or hybrid player, Hunter is a top-five talent with immense upside.
4). Abdul Carter, EDGE, Penn State
Height: 6-3 | Weight: 259
Abdul Carter’s transition to a full-time edge rusher has elevated his stock significantly. The junior logged 61 pressures and 12 sacks, with an 18.5% pressure rate that ranks among the best in the nation. His speed off the edge, coupled with powerful hands and improving technique, makes him a dynamic pass rusher. With his ability to disrupt the pocket and play the run effectively, Carter profiles as an instant-impact starter with Pro Bowl potential.
5). Ashton Jeanty, RB, Boise State
Height: 5-9 | Weight: 210
Jeanty is a compact and powerful runner with elite vision, agility, and contact balance. The nation’s leading rusher with 2,601 yards and 29 touchdowns, Jeanty thrives in zone-blocking schemes where his ability to cut back and find lanes is showcased. His breakaway speed and elusiveness in space add to his value, while his role in the passing game remains underdeveloped. Jeanty has the skill set to be a rare first-round running back and a Day 1 starter.
6). Tetairoa McMillan, WR, Arizona
Height: 6-5 | Weight: 212
McMillan is a towering receiver with exceptional body control and hands, making him a dangerous red-zone target. His ability to win contested catches and leverage his frame against defenders creates mismatches. While he lacks elite speed, his smooth acceleration and hip fluidity help him separate from defenders. McMillan is an ideal fit for vertically oriented offenses that can maximize his size and playmaking ability.
7). Will Campbell, OT, LSU
Height: 6-6 | Weight: 323
Will Campbell’s athleticism and power make him a standout offensive line prospect. A versatile player, Campbell projects as a guard or tackle in the NFL, with his balance, quick feet, and strong anchor standing out in both run and pass protection. Some scouts see his best fit at guard due to arm length concerns, but his skill set ensures he’ll thrive regardless of position. Campbell projects as a Pro Bowl-caliber starter early in his career.
8). Jahdae Barron, CB, Texas
Height: 5-11 | Weight: 192
Barron is an instinctive and versatile cornerback who excelled in Texas’ secondary, allowing only 20 receptions on 51 targets with five interceptions. His ability to diagnose plays and react quickly makes him a perfect fit for zone-heavy schemes, though his physicality supports man coverage as well. Barron’s performance in 2024 has solidified him as a Round 1 talent with the ability to make an immediate impact at the next level.
9). Kelvin Banks Jr., OT, Texas
Height: 6-4 | Weight: 320
Banks is one of the most polished offensive linemen in this class, combining smooth footwork with refined hand placement and power. Despite battling an ankle injury, he allowed just one sack all season and remains a top tackle prospect. His lateral agility and technical skill make him an excellent pass protector, while his run-blocking ability suits zone and gap schemes. Banks projects as a Day 1 starter with All-Pro potential.
10). Colston Loveland, TE, Michigan
Height: 6-5 | Weight: 245
Loveland is a versatile tight end with a rare blend of size, speed, and athleticism. He thrives in multiple roles, aligning in the slot, backfield, or traditional in-line positions. Loveland’s ability to separate from defenders and attack contested catches makes him a reliable receiving threat. While he needs to refine his blocking consistency, Loveland projects as a high-upside player who can be a focal point in both traditional and spread offenses.
11). Tyler Warren, TE, Penn State
Warren is a versatile tight end suitable for various offensive schemes. He excels as a blocker and a reliable red-zone receiving target, with the ability to align in multiple positions, making him a valuable asset.
12). Mike Green, EDGE, Marshall
Green is a dynamic edge rusher with explosive first-step quickness and the versatility to disrupt both in run defense and as a pass rusher. His relentless motor and ability to bend the edge make him a rising prospect.
13). Malaki Starks, S, Georgia
Starks is a versatile safety with a balanced skill set for man and zone coverage. His instincts and play-recognition skills allow him to excel in both coverage and run support, making him a reliable all-around defender.
14). Kenneth Grant, IDL, Michigan
Grant is a powerful interior defensive lineman who excels in stopping the run and disrupting the pocket. His ability to play multiple alignments makes him a great fit for both 4-3 and 3-4 schemes.
15). Benjamin Morrison, CB, Notre Dame
Morrison thrives as an outside corner in man and press coverage, with the agility and instincts to transition seamlessly into zone schemes. His technique and physicality make him a lockdown option on the perimeter.
16). James Pearce Jr., EDGE, Tennessee
Pearce is a versatile edge rusher with elite first-step quickness and the ability to play multiple roles. His speed and agility allow him to win on the outside, while his counter moves make him disruptive in pass rush.
17). Mykel Williams, EDGE, Georgia
Williams is an alignment-versatile edge rusher who can thrive in various defensive schemes. His combination of athleticism and physical tools makes him a potential star as a 4-3 end or 3-4 outside linebacker.
18). Shemar Stewart, EDGE, Texas A&M
Stewart is a powerful edge defender with great size and length. His ability to set the edge against the run and generate pressure in pass-rushing situations makes him a valuable piece for any defensive front.
19). Jalon Walker, LB, Georgia
Walker is an explosive linebacker with natural pass-rush ability and the versatility to impact both as a run defender and in coverage. His athletic profile and hybrid skill set give him Pro Bowl potential.
20). Shavon Revel, CB, ECU
Revel is a long, physical cornerback who excels in press coverage. Despite an ACL injury in 2024, his movement skills and ability to disrupt at the line make him an ideal fit for press-man schemes.
21). Josh Simmons, OT, Ohio State
Simmons is an athletic offensive tackle with quick feet and strong hands, making him an ideal fit for zone-blocking schemes. His ability to protect the edge against speed rushers enhances his value in pass-heavy offenses.
22). Tyleik Williams, IDL, Ohio State
Williams is a powerful nose tackle who thrives in two-gap systems. With strong anchor ability, heavy hands, and disciplined run fits, he is an effective run defender. While his pass-rushing repertoire is limited, he offers consistent pocket disruption with a reliable bull rush.
23). Matthew Golden, WR, Texas
Golden is a smooth route-runner with excellent hands and ball-tracking ability. His ability to separate at all levels of the field makes him a valuable asset for teams seeking a reliable and dynamic outside receiver.
24). Nic Scourton, EDGE, Texas A&M
Scourton is a versatile edge rusher with the strength to set the edge and collapse the pocket. His quick hands and ability to rotate inside on passing downs make him a perfect fit for hybrid defensive schemes that value power-based rushers.
25). Cam Ward, QB, Miami
Ward is a talented quarterback who excels in pro-style and West Coast offenses that emphasize quick decisions and downfield accuracy. Known for his improvisational skills, he thrives in vertical passing schemes and excels at pre-snap adjustments.
26). Emeka Egbuka, WR, Ohio State
Egbuka is a versatile receiver with elite speed, precise route running, and playmaking ability after the catch. His effectiveness in both the slot and outside makes him a valuable weapon in spread offenses that emphasize his dynamic skill set.
27). Jack Sawyer, EDGE, Ohio State
Sawyer is a high-motor edge rusher with strong run-stopping ability and a quick first step. His strength as a bull rusher and ability to chase mobile quarterbacks make him a solid fit for versatile defensive schemes.
28). Luther Burden, WR, Missouri
Burden is a dynamic slot receiver with explosive after-the-catch ability. His agility and burst make him a weapon in motion-based systems that prioritize quick passes, screens, and opportunities to maximize his YAC potential.
29). Shedeur Sanders, QB, Colorado
Sanders excels in systems that focus on short-to-intermediate throws and leverage his ability to process defenses. His accuracy, decision-making, and mobility make him a fit for West Coast and spread offenses, though he could benefit from mechanical refinement.
30). Armand Membou, OT, Missouri
Membou is a strong, technically sound offensive tackle with great balance and agility. His ability to hold his ground in pass protection and create lanes in the run game makes him an asset for power or zone-blocking schemes.
31). Trey Amos, CB, Mississippi
Amos is a long, athletic cornerback with fluid movement skills and the ability to play effectively in both man and zone coverage. His instincts and length make him a valuable perimeter defender.
32). Tyler Booker, IOL, Alabama
Booker is a powerful and athletic interior lineman who excels in both run blocking and pass protection. His quick feet and strong hands make him a great fit for power-blocking schemes.
33). Xavier Watts, S, Notre Dame
Watts is a versatile safety with excellent range and ball skills. His ability to read and react quickly in coverage, combined with his physicality in run support, makes him a complete defensive back.
34). Elic Ayomanor, WR, Stanford
Ayomanor fits well as an outside X-receiver in both spread and pro-style offenses. His ability to stretch the field with speed and make contested catches makes him a reliable deep threat and a key target in critical situations.
35). Donovan Jackson, IOL, Ohio State
Jackson is a versatile interior lineman with strong footwork and mobility, excelling in both zone- and power-blocking schemes. His ability to sustain blocks and reach the second level makes him a valuable asset for any offense.
36). Omarion Hampton, RB, North Carolina
Hampton is a powerful and versatile running back with three-down ability. His speed, vision, and power make him effective in both power and zone-blocking schemes, with room to grow as a receiver.
37). Derrick Harmon, IDL, Oregon
Harmon is a disruptive interior defensive lineman with great size and power. His ability to collapse the pocket and anchor against the run makes him an intriguing prospect for teams needing a versatile defensive tackle.
38). Donovan Ezeiruaku, EDGE, Boston College
Ezeiruaku is a high-energy edge rusher with quickness and relentless pursuit. His ability to disrupt passing plays and set the edge against the run makes him an ideal fit for hybrid defensive schemes.
39). Josh Conerly Jr., OT, Oregon
Conerly is an athletic and technically sound offensive tackle who excels in pass protection. His ability to handle speed rushers and his fluid footwork make him an excellent fit for zone-blocking schemes.
40). Aireontae Ersery, OT, Minnesota
Ersery is a towering tackle with great power and balance. His ability to generate movement in the run game and hold his ground in pass protection makes him a strong fit for power-running offenses.
41). Harold Fannin Jr., TE, Bowling Green
Fannin is a versatile tight end who thrives both as a blocker and a receiver. His strength and reliable hands make him a valuable target in short-to-intermediate routes, while his ability to create mismatches enhances his utility in modern offensive schemes.
42). Wyatt Milum, OT, West Virginia
Milum is a technically sound offensive tackle with excellent size and strength. His ability to protect the quarterback and drive defenders in the run game makes him a consistent performer, especially in power-blocking schemes.
43). Princely Umanmielen, EDGE, Ole Miss
Umanmielen’s versatility allows him to thrive in both 3-4 and 4-3 defensive schemes. His ability to play as a stand-up rusher or with his hand in the dirt makes him an asset for hybrid defenses looking to maximize alignment flexibility.
44). Landon Jackson, EDGE, Arkansas
Jackson is a towering edge rusher with great length and strength. His ability to set the edge in run defense and generate pressure as a pass rusher makes him a valuable addition to any defensive front.
45). T.J. Sanders, IDL, South Carolina
Sanders is a disruptive interior defensive lineman with the quickness and strength to excel in both pass rushing and run stopping. His versatility across multiple alignments makes him an excellent fit for modern NFL defenses.
46). TreVeyon Henderson, RB, Ohio State
Henderson is a dynamic dual-threat running back who excels as a runner and a receiver. His twitch, vision, and ability to create momentum make him a perfect fit for modern offenses that emphasize versatility in their running backs.
47). Omarr Norman-Lott, IDL, Tennessee
Norman-Lott is a strong and versatile interior defender who can anchor against the run and provide pocket disruption as a pass rusher. His strength and quickness make him an effective player in both 4-3 and 3-4 schemes.
48). Jonah Savaiinaea, OT, Arizona
Savaiinaea is a massive offensive lineman with the versatility to play tackle or guard. His strength and ability to move defenders off the ball make him an asset in power-running schemes, though he must refine his agility to handle speed rushers consistently.
49). Xavier Restrepo, WR, Miami
Restrepo is a shifty and reliable slot receiver who excels in short and intermediate routes. His quickness, hands, and ability to find soft spots in coverage make him an ideal fit for spread offenses that prioritize slot production.
50). Walter Nolen, IDL, Ole Miss
Nolen is a powerful and disruptive interior defensive lineman with excellent run-stopping ability and the potential to develop as a pass rusher. His versatility and physical tools make him a high-upside prospect for teams needing an anchor in the trenches.