2025 NFL Draft Prospects to Watch in This Year’s College Football Season

The 2025 NFL Draft is already generating buzz, with college football stars showcasing their talent in a season full of excitement. This year promises a crop of prospects poised to shape the league’s future, from game-changing quarterbacks to dynamic defensive powerhouses. 

As teams scout for the next franchise players, fans are treated to an incredible display of skill, determination, and potential every weekend. Whether you’re eyeing breakout stars or proven performers, this season offers a glimpse at the next generation of NFL greats. Let’s explore the top prospects making waves and why they’re must-watch players in the 2025 draft race.

DE, JT Tuimoloau, Notre Dame

Ohio State’s JT Tuimoloau is a name every NFL scout is circling as one of the top defensive end prospects for the 2025 NFL Draft. Standing 6-foot-5 and weighing 269 pounds, Tuimoloau is a well-rounded player who excels against both the run and the pass. 

His ability to set a strong edge in the ground game and disrupt plays as a power rusher makes him a valuable asset for any defensive scheme. He also showcases impressive athleticism, often batting down passes or creating turnovers with his awareness.

Tuimoloau’s lack of elite first-step quickness could limit his ceiling as a pass rusher despite his strengths. Developing a more diverse set of moves would enhance his versatility against skilled offensive tackles. Scouts believe he has a high floor, meaning he’s NFL-ready and can make an immediate impact, particularly on early downs or strategic passing situations.

Watching how Tuimoloau influences Ohio State’s defense this season is critical for those tracking prospects and game performances. Whether he can stop the run or pressure quarterbacks, his performance will likely affect Vegas line projections, especially in key matchups. His development could also solidify him as a first-round pick in the draft.

WR, Emeka Egbuka, Ohio State

Emeka Egbuka, a 6’1″, 205-pound wide receiver from Ohio State, is a standout 2025 NFL Draft prospect known for his refined route-running and versatility in the slot. 

A natural at creating separation, he excels in timing-based offenses with his fluid movements, precise breaks, and ability to manipulate defenders. His punt-return background enhances his skill weaving through traffic and gaining yards after the catch. Egbuka’s strong ball-tracking skills and maximum-effort blocking add value to his overall profile.

However, his limited catch radius and challenges against physical defenders may restrict his impact outside the slot. Health concerns, including past knee and ankle injuries, and a predominantly slot-based college role could shape his draft projection. 

Despite these drawbacks, Egbuka is an intelligent, consistent playmaker who thrives in short to intermediate routes, making him a reliable option for quick-passing NFL offenses.

DT, Tyleik Williams, Ohio State

Ohio State defensive tackle Tyleik Williams is a strong prospect for the Minnesota Vikings in the 2025 NFL Draft, particularly for improving their run defense. 

At 6-foot-3 and 327 pounds, Williams earned an elite 88.6 run defense grade from Pro Football Focus (PFF) during his final collegiate season, with 24 tackles and 22 defensive stops. His ability to disrupt the run game addresses a critical need for the Vikings, whose defensive line struggled in 2024.

While not a top-tier pass rusher—his PFF pass-rush grade dropped to 61.3 in 2024—Williams showed potential as a freshman with an 84.0 grade in 2021. 

His size, strength, and consistent impact against the run make him an appealing late first-round pick for Minnesota, especially as they look to bolster their thinning defensive line. Adding Williams could provide much-needed stability and complement veteran Harrison Phillips on the interior.

FS, Xavier Watts, Notre Dame

Notre Dame safety Xavier Watts has solidified his legacy as a two-time consensus All-American. He became the first Irish player to achieve this honor since Aaron Taylor in 1993 and the first defensive back since Todd Lyght in 1990. 

A key figure in Notre Dame’s success, Watts has demonstrated exceptional playmaking abilities this season, recording five interceptions, nine passes defended, 49 tackles, one forced fumble, and one fumble recovery.

His consistent impact on defense has been instrumental for the Irish as they prepare to face Indiana in the College Football Playoff. With the NFL on the horizon, Watts is poised for a promising professional career. 

However, before he transitions to the pros, he hopes to cap his college journey with a standout performance in what will likely be his final game at Notre Dame Stadium. Watts exemplifies the caliber of talent essential to elevating a college football team’s success.

CB, Jordan Clark, Notre Dame

Graduate transfer Jordan Clark brings tenacity, intelligence, and versatility to Notre Dame’s defense as a sixth-year player. 

Standing at 5’10” and 185 pounds, the former Arizona State defensive back excelled as a nickelback, showcasing strong man-coverage skills, exceptional short-area quickness, and instincts in zone coverage. 

Over his college career, Clark accumulated 139 tackles, 6.5 tackles for loss, 3 interceptions, and 17 pass breakups, making him a reliable and experienced presence on the field.

Clark’s scrappy playstyle and sharp football IQ allow him to excel in both pass coverage and run support, defying expectations for his size. 

His ability to read offenses and close passing windows suits him perfectly for Notre Dame’s Nickelback role, left vacant by Thomas Harper. While primarily suited for the slot, Clark’s versatility allows him to contribute at safety when needed, adding depth and reliability to Notre Dame’s defense for the 2024 season.

Conclusion

The 2025 NFL Draft class is packed with talent, offering a glimpse of the future stars set to define the league. This season, from dynamic playmakers to defensive anchors, showcases athletes ready to excel at the next level. With so much promise on display, these prospects will make headlines come draft day.