2025 Senior Bowl: Early Roster Takeaways and Top Prospects to Watch

With the 2025 Senior Bowl roster officially revealed, the countdown to the NFL Draft—now just a few months away—has kicked into high gear.

As the nation’s premier college all-star event, the Senior Bowl once again converges on Mobile, Alabama, to offer NFL scouts, coaches, and media a critical peek at how top prospects fare in a highly competitive environment. From position battles to personal interviews, every day in Mobile can dramatically influence a player’s trajectory come draft night.

Why the Senior Bowl Matters

The Senior Bowl has long been hailed as a vital stepping stone in the NFL Draft process. Usually reserved for college seniors, the game began allowing select underclassmen in 2024, widening the talent pool. As a result, front offices now gather in even greater numbers to watch prospects up close—not just on game day, but throughout the week’s practices.

The Most Talented Senior Bowl Ever?

For the second year in a row, underclassmen are eligible to attend, and many analysts are already calling this the deepest Senior Bowl roster in the event’s history. Headlined by a quarterback group that combines productivity and upside—featuring Jalen Milroe (Alabama), Dillon Gabriel (Oregon), Will Howard (Ohio State), Riley Leonard (Notre Dame), and Jaxson Dart (Ole Miss)—the 2025 class is brimming with intrigue.

Beyond the quarterbacks, established talents like Josh Conerly Jr. (Oregon OT), Shemar Stewart (Texas A&M EDGE), and Nic Scourton (Texas A&M EDGE) bring extra star power. It’s a testament to Senior Bowl Executive Director Jim Nagy and his staff, who’ve capitalized on the new rules to assemble what could be one of the game’s best rosters ever.

2025 Senior Bowl: Early Roster Takeaways

The Trenches

When building an NFL roster, executives routinely emphasize dominating the line of scrimmage. This year’s Senior Bowl features an abundance of high-upside linemen on both sides of the ball, with several projected as potential first-round picks.

Offensive Linemen of Note

Josh Conerly Jr. (Oregon)

Conerly is already viewed by many as a top-15 talent. He pairs a silky-smooth kick-slide with the anchor strength to withstand power rushes, making him a near-lock to handle left tackle duties in the pros.

Aireontae Ersery (Minnesota)

Standing 6-foot-6 and tipping the scales at 330 pounds, Ersery wows scouts with his light feet and mauling demeanor in the run game. Though he’s still polishing his hand placement, his imposing frame and natural power suggest a sky-high ceiling.

Armand Membou (Missouri) & Wyatt Milum (West Virginia)

Both blockers boast positional flexibility—capable of kicking inside or staying at tackle. Membou flashes strong inside hand usage and a nasty streak, while Milum’s footwork and reactive athleticism in pass protection have placed him on early-round radars.

Pass Rushers to Watch

Shemar Stewart (Texas A&M)

At 6-foot-6, 290 pounds, Stewart stands out for his blend of length, explosiveness, and power. He sets a firm edge with his hands and flashes the ability to collapse the pocket from the interior, putting him in the conversation for the top 10.

Nic Scourton (Texas A&M)

A transfer who thrived in the SEC, Scourton’s blend of size (285 pounds), spin-move prowess, and bull-rush power makes him a headache for offensive tackles. His versatility against the run adds to his high draft value.

Mike Green (Marshall)

The FBS leader in sacks (17) last season, Green exhibits elite burst and a sophisticated pass-rush repertoire. Scouts are eager to see how his speed and counters translate against the Senior Bowl’s deep O-line class.

Donovan Ezeiruaku (Boston College)

A smaller, twitchy EDGE who racked up 16.5 sacks, Ezeiruaku compensates for a lack of bulk with terrific lateral agility and textbook run defense. His quick get-off and refined hand technique could earn him serious buzz in Mobile.

Josaiah Stewart (EDGE, Michigan)

Stewart blends speed, bend, and closing burst to consistently pressure quarterbacks. He’s shown flashes of dominance against the run, but scouts want to see him maintain balance against bigger tackles. A strong showing in Mobile could firmly plant Stewart on Day 2 radars—and possibly higher.

Running Backs: The 2025 NFL Draft RB Class Is Deep

With Boise State’s Ashton Jeanty widely regarded as the top running back in this class, the race to become RB2 is heating up. Several contenders will use the Senior Bowl spotlight to show they can be complete backs at the next level—capable of handling inside runs, picking up blitzes, and contributing as receivers.

Ollie Gordon II (Oklahoma State)

Gordon pairs top-end speed with a solid 211-pound frame that can absorb contact. Though he’s displayed flashes of three-down potential, scouts want to see more consistency in pass protection and route running. A strong performance in Mobile could cement him as a Day 2 lock.

RJ Harvey (UCF)

Compact and explosive, Harvey tallied nearly 3,000 rushing yards and over 40 total touchdowns in his last two seasons. His burst in open space and knack for making defenders miss make him a dynamic threat, but proving he can pick up NFL-level pressures in pass protection will be key for his draft stock.

Damien Martinez (Miami), Jarquez Hunter (Auburn), and Devin Neal (Kansas)

This trio offers a blend of short-yardage power, pass-catching ability, and solid vision between the tackles. Each prospect will look to shine in the Senior Bowl’s drills and team scrimmages, where demonstrating versatility—whether in blitz pickup or flexing out wide—can transform them from mid-round options into firm Day 2 candidates.

Players With the Most to Prove That Could Elevate Their Stock

Andrew Mukuba, S, Texas

There’s no denying Mukuba’s electric athleticism and nose for the ball. Despite being slightly undersized (around 190 pounds), he flashes terrific range as both a single-high safety and a box defender. His willingness to tackle in run support—where he wraps up opponents with good technique at the ankles—could go a long way in dispelling concerns about his size. Teams that prioritize quick-twitch defensive backs who can excel in multiple coverages will be watching closely to see how Mukuba handles bigger, more physical wideouts and tight ends in Mobile.

Gunnar Helm, TE, Texas

A late riser in the 2024 season, Helm caught 60 passes for 786 yards and seven touchdowns, emerging as a reliable target in key moments. At 6-foot-5 and 250 pounds, his length and catch radius stand out on tape, making him a potential seam-stretching threat at the next level. Though he displays effort as a blocker, Helm’s technique needs polishing, particularly when it comes to leverage and hand placement.

Jaxon Dart, QB, Mississippi

A transfer from USC before landing at Ole Miss, Dart has flashed brilliance in Lane Kiffin’s offense. He’s poised, athletic, and can deliver throws on the move—traits that intrigue NFL evaluators. However, he has also put forth inconsistent performances that raise questions about his decision-making and pocket presence. A strong showing in Mobile could elevate him from a surefire Day 2 pick into the earlier stages of the first round, especially if he outperforms the other QBs on the roster.

Jalen Milroe, QB, Alabama

Milroe might be the ultimate boom-or-bust prospect in the 2025 quarterback class. His highlight reel is dotted with explosive runs and jaw-dropping downfield passes, yet questions persist about his consistency, mechanics, and occasional lapses in judgment. If Milroe can showcase refined footwork and better control of his progressions, he could lock up a first-round grade in April.

Carson Schwesinger, LB, UCLA

A rangy off-ball linebacker with impressive athleticism, Schwesinger excels in pursuit and can drop into coverage when called upon. Though he flashes sideline-to-sideline speed and a nose for the ball, teams want to see him take on blocks more consistently and improve his angles against the run. If he can handle top-tier running backs and tight ends during Senior Bowl practices, Schwesinger could vault into strong Day 2 consideration.

Top 10 Senior Bowl Prospects

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

   A 285-pound force off the edge, Scourton transferred from Purdue to the SEC and immediately excelled. He brings a lethal combination of spin-move prowess, bull-rush power, and stout run defense—making him one of the most complete edge prospects in this class.

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

   At 6-foot-6, 290 pounds, Stewart showcases size, strength, and an explosive first step reminiscent of former No. 1 overall pick Travon Walker. He’s already capable of collapsing the pocket, and if he continues to refine his pass-rush repertoire, Stewart could secure a top-10 selection.

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

   No longer a sleeper at the tight end position, Fannin boasts intriguing size and playmaking skills. He has shown the ability to split out wide, run crisp routes, and make contested catches. Scouts will monitor whether he can hold up as a blocker against elite edge talent in Mobile, which could vault him into Day 2 conversations.

4. Mike Green (EDGE, Marshall)

   The small-school standout led the nation with 17 sacks, flashing elite burst, and a deep pass-rush toolbox. Having already proven himself against bigger programs, Green will look to solidify a potential first-round grade by dominating top-tier offensive tackles during Senior Bowl practices.

5. Elic Ayomanor (WR, Stanford)

   An explosive outside receiver with a keen ability to win 50-50 battles, Ayomanor turned heads throughout the 2024 season. His strong hands and body control make him a threat on contested catches, while his route-running improvement could be the key to a draft-day rise.

6. Xavier Watts (S, Notre Dame)

   A prolific ball hawk who logged consecutive seasons with high interception totals, Watts is quickly becoming one of the nation’s most complete safeties. He can patrol center field, fill run lanes effectively, and thrive in man coverage. A standout week in Mobile could push him firmly into Round 1 discussions.

7. Landon Jackson (EDGE, Arkansas)

   Sporting a tall, rangy frame, Jackson marries length with a quick get-off that can overwhelm offensive tackles. His motor runs hot, and he showcases the flexibility to dip around the corner. Improving his counter moves and hand usage will be his top priority to secure a higher draft grade.

8. Jalen Milroe (QB, Alabama)

   Perhaps the biggest boom-or-bust candidate in the quarterback class, Milroe marries a cannon arm with game-breaking running ability. He improved his timing and decision-making in 2024 but still must iron out mechanical inconsistencies. A sharp Senior Bowl performance could propel him into the early first-round conversation.

9. Walter Nolen (DL, Ole Miss)

   A dominant downhill rusher, Nolen improved his pad level and hand usage in 2024. Though not the most agile defender, he compensates with raw power and a disruptive first step. If he continues to refine his technique, Nolen can be a top-tier interior presence at the next level.

10. Josaiah Stewart (EDGE, Michigan)

    Stewart blends speed, bend, and closing burst to consistently pressure quarterbacks. He’s shown flashes of dominance against the run, but scouts want to see him maintain balance against bigger tackles. A strong showing in Mobile could firmly plant Stewart on Day 2 radars—and possibly higher.

    
    

Final Thoughts: The Road to The 2025 NFL Draft Starts in Mobile

The 2025 NFL Draft will be held over three days in Green Bay, marking the first time the draft heads to Wisconsin. With so many top prospects—and quite a few under-the-radar gems—already converging in Mobile, the Senior Bowl is poised to be the biggest domino yet in the pre-draft process. Practices and interviews can drastically alter perceptions, potentially vaulting lesser-known names into the spotlight or exposing weaknesses in presumed day one & two prospects.

From quarterbacks on the bubble to established pass rushers looking to justify early-round hype, the 2025 Senior Bowl will shape how teams stack their boards in the weeks leading up to the Combine, pro days, and final top-30 visits. Expect rumors and reports to swirl, mock drafts to shift, and a handful of prospects to emerge as consensus favorites before long.

If past history is any indicator, at least a few players who shine in Mobile will walk across the stage in the first round—and possibly become immediate impact rookies in the NFL. The countdown is on. Let the final sprint to draft day begin.

2025 Senior Bowl Participants

Quarterbacks

• Jaxson Dart, Mississippi

• Dillon Gabriel, Oregon

• Will Howard, Ohio State

• Riley Leonard, Notre Dame

• Jalen Milroe, Alabama

• Tyler Shough, Louisville

  
  

Running Backs

• Donovan Edwards, Michigan

• Ollie Gordon II, Oklahoma State

• RJ Harvey, UCF

• Jarquez Hunter, Auburn

• Woody Marks, USC

• Damien Martinez, Miami

• Kalel Mullings, Michigan

• Devin Neal, Kansas

• Brashard Smith, SMU

• Bhayshul Tuten, Virginia Tech

• Marcus Yarns, Delaware

  
  

Wide Receivers

• Elic Ayomanor, Stanford

• Jack Bech, TCU

• Pat Bryant, Illinois

• Chimere Dike, Florida

• Da’Quan Felton, Virginia Tech

• Tai Felton, Maryland

• Jayden Higgins, Iowa State

• Tez Johnson, Oregon

• Jaylin Lane, Virginia Tech

• Jaylin Noel, Iowa State

• Xavier Restrepo, Miami

• Jalen Royals, Utah State

• Arian Smith, Georgia

• Kyle Williams, Washington State

  
  

Tight Ends

• Elijah Arroyo, Miami

• Gavin Bartholomew, Pittsburgh

• Jake Briningstool, Clemson

• CJ Dippre, Alabama

• Harold Fannin Jr., Bowling Green

• Terrance Ferguson, Oregon

• Jackson Hawes, Georgia Tech

• Gunnar Helm, Texas

• Moliki Matavao, UCLA

• Mason Taylor, LSU

  
  

Offensive Linemen

• Anthony Belton, N.C. State

• Logan Brown, Kansas

• Josh Conerly Jr., Oregon

• Ajani Cornelius, Oregon

• Garrett Dellinger, LSU

• Aireontae Ersery, Minnesota

• Miles Frazier, LSU

• Emery Jones Jr., LSU

• Marcus Mbow, Purdue

• Armand Membou, Missouri

• Wyatt Milum, West Virginia

• Jonah Monheim, USC

• Jack Nelson, Wisconsin

• Tate Ratledge, Georgia

• Jalen Rivers, Miami

• Caleb Rogers, Texas Tech

• Jonah Savaiinaea, Arizona

• Jackson Slater, Sacramento State

• Ozzy Trapilo, Boston College

• Jalen Travis, Iowa State

• Carson Vinson, Alabama A&M

• Jared Wilson, Georgia

• Grey Zabel, North Dakota State

  
  

Interior Defensive Linemen

• Darius Alexander, Toledo

• Yahya Black, Iowa

• Jamaree Caldwell, Oregon

• Alfred Collins, Texas

• Joshua Farmer, Florida State

• Ty Hamilton, Ohio State

• Cam Jackson, Florida

• Walter Nolen, Mississippi

• Omarr Norman-Lott, Tennessee

• Aeneas Peebles, Virginia Tech

• Shemar Turner, Texas A&M

• Deone Walker, Kentucky

  
  

Edge Rushers

• Vernon Broughton, Texas

• Jordan Burch, Oregon

• Donovan Ezeiruaku, Boston College

• Mike Green, Marshall

• Tyrion Ingram-Dawkins, Georgia

• Jared Ivey, Mississippi

• Landon Jackson, Arkansas

• Sai’vion Jones, LSU

• Jah Joyner, Minnesota

• Kyle Kennard, South Carolina

• Oluwafemi Oladejo, UCLA

• Ty Robinson, Nebraska

• T.J. Sanders, South Carolina

• Nic Scourton, Texas A&M

• Barryn Sorrell, Texas

• Josaiah Stewart, Michigan

• Shemar Stewart, Texas A&M

• Princely Umanmielen, Mississippi

• David Walker, Central Arkansas

  
  

Linebackers

• Eugene Asante, Auburn

• Jeffrey Bassa, Oregon

• Shemar James, Florida

• Demetrius Knight Jr., South Carolina

• Cody Lindenberg, Minnesota

• Nick Martin, Oklahoma State

• Jalen McLeod, Auburn

• Smael Mondon Jr., Georgia

• Collin Oliver, Oklahoma State

• Tyreem Powell, Rutgers

• Karene Reid, Utah

• Carson Schwesinger, UCLA

  
  

Cornerbacks

• BJ Adams, UCF

• Trey Amos, Mississippi

• Maxwell Hairston, Kentucky

• Tommi Hill, Nebraska

• Bilhal Kone, Western Michigan

• Mac McWilliams, UCF

• Jacob Parrish, Kansas State

• Darien Porter, Iowa State

• Quincy Riley, Louisville

• Jaylin Smith, USC

• Upton Stout, Western Kentucky

• Dorian Strong, Virginia Tech

• Azareye’h Thomas, Florida State

  
  

Safeties

• Billy Bowman Jr., Oklahoma

• Sebastian Castro, Iowa

• Maxen Hook, Toledo

• Rayuan Lane III, Navy

• Andrew Mukuba, Texas

• Caleb Ransaw, Tulane

• Lathan Ransom, Ohio State

• Jonas Sanker, Virginia

• Dante Trader Jr., Maryland

• Malik Verdon, Iowa State

• Hunter Wohler, Wisconsin

  
  

Specialists

• Austin Brinkman, West Virginia (LS)

• James Burnip, Alabama (P)

• Jeremy Crawshaw, Florida (P)

• Ryan Fitzgerald, Florida State (K)

• Caden Davis, Mississippi (K)

• William Wagner, Michigan (LS)