A College Football Fan’s Perspective on The 2025 NFL Draft

Published: Thursday, April 10, 2025

by Kyle Ferreira

The 2025 NFL Draft is almost here, and the excitement surrounding the newest class of players entering the league is electric. From scouting prospects to building mock drafts, fans are eager to see who their teams will select.

For college football fans, many of the names called on draft night are already familiar. They’ve watched these players develop, showcasing their talent, strength, speed, and football IQ. The research, the analysis, and everything tied to a player’s college career has already been logged and debated.

So, as someone who loves the version of football played on Saturdays, what are my thoughts on this year’s draft?

The Quarterback Class Is Not Bad 

One thing that has bothered me is the coverage of this year’s quarterback class. Aside from Miami’s Cam Ward and Colorado’s Shedeur Sanders, most analysts say the class lacks depth. While I agree last year’s group was stronger, I still believe this year’s class features several strong prospects.

Alabama’s Jalen Milroe, Texas’ Quinn Ewers, and Ole Miss’ Jaxson Dart all had impressive college careers. But whether due to coaching changes, injuries, or inconsistencies, scouts haven’t been sold.

Not every prospect will succeed in the NFL, but these young quarterbacks have the talent to thrive. I just wish they received more recognition from scouts across the league. Oregon’s Dillon Gabriel and Syracuse’s Kyle McCord also deserve more respect ... but that’s just me.

Ashton Jeanty: What’s The Best Situation For Him? 

After a historic season at Boise State this past fall, Jeanty is entering the league at a promising time for running backs. With Derrick Henry and now Super Bowl winner Saquon Barkley revitalizing the importance of the position in 2024, Jeanty has reason to be excited.

But will the hype he received during his Heisman run change depending on the team that drafts him?

Many mock drafts project either Dallas or Las Vegas as potential landing spots for the dynamic running back. But given the reputations of those franchises, will he face backlash if either team finds success with him? Jeanty is a likable guy, and it would be great to see him become a franchise cornerstone.

However, fans often criticize elite players on polarizing teams, no matter how likable they are. Time will tell.

The Defensive Line is Stacked With Talent 

Executives, scouts and analysts are raving about the edge rushers and defensive tackles in this year’s draft — and I agree, having watched many of these players throughout the fall.

From Penn State’s Abdul Carter to Georgia’s Mykel Williams, this year’s edge group is loaded with talent. Before this past season, Tennessee’s James Pearce Jr. was even projected as a potential No. 1 overall pick. I’d love to see these players carry their success into the NFL, where they could quickly emerge as premier defensive talents.

Shifting inside the trenches, the defensive tackle group is equally impressive. Michigan’s Kenneth Grant and Mason Graham were nearly impossible to block during their college careers. Ole Miss’ Walter Nolen and Texas A&M’s Shemar Stewart also stood out as dominant forces in the SEC.

One name to keep an eye on is Oregon’s Derrick Harmon. He was a key contributor for the Ducks last season and played a significant role at Michigan State from 2021 to 2023. In an offensive-minded league, defensive talents like Harmon should be a treat for NFL fans to watch starting next season.

Of course, much of this year’s draft coverage has centered around who will be taken with the first three picks. Another major storyline is Colorado’s Travis Hunter and what position he’ll be selected and play at the next level.

In my opinion, Hunter has a legitimate chance to play both ways. However, the physical demands and longer NFL season may eventually push him to focus on one position to protect his health. That said, he’s more than capable of doing it at the pro level.

As it stands, these are my top three picks as of April 10: 

1. Tennessee Titans: Cam Ward, QB — Miami (FL)
2. Cleveland Browns: Shedeur Sanders, QB — Colorado
3. New York Giants: Travis Hunter, WR/CB — Colorado

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