Quick Read
- James Pearce Jr. ranked No. 1 overall in the 2025 NFL Draft class.
- Jalen Milroe is QB2, praised for his athleticism and rushing ability.
- Wide receiver rankings feature surprises, including Luther Burden III and Tetairoa McMillan.
- Travis Hunter is a standout as a dual-position player (CB/WR).
- Positional value heavily influenced the rankings, with quarterbacks and edge rushers prioritized.
James Pearce Jr. Leads the 2025 NFL Draft Rankings
The 2025 NFL Draft class is shaping up to be one of the most intriguing in recent years, with James Pearce Jr., an edge rusher from Tennessee, taking the top spot. Pearce’s unique combination of size, athleticism, and disruptive potential makes him a coveted prospect for NFL teams. With room to add 10–15 pounds to his towering frame, Pearce is expected to be a game-changer at the professional level.
Travis Hunter, a dual-position player from Colorado, follows closely behind at No. 2. Hunter’s ability to excel as both a cornerback and wide receiver sets him apart as one of the most versatile players in the draft. Abdul Carter (Penn State, EDGE2), Mason Graham (Michigan, DL1), and Will Campbell (LSU, OT1) round out the top five, showcasing the depth of talent across multiple positions.
Jalen Milroe: The Athletic QB2
Jalen Milroe, the quarterback from Alabama, has secured the QB2 spot in the rankings, thanks to his unparalleled athleticism and rushing ability. Milroe is often compared to Lamar Jackson for his speed and agility, with some analysts even suggesting he might be the fastest quarterback to enter the NFL. Over the past two seasons, Milroe has scored 71 total touchdowns, 32 of which came on the ground, solidifying his reputation as a dual-threat quarterback.
Despite his rushing prowess, Milroe still has room to grow as a passer. His accuracy and pocket presence remain areas for improvement, but his physical gifts make him an enticing prospect for teams willing to build a system around his unique skill set.
Wide Receiver Surprises: Luther Burden III and Tetairoa McMillan
The wide receiver rankings for the 2025 draft feature some surprises, with Missouri’s Luther Burden III and Arizona’s Tetairoa McMillan standing out. Burden, ranked WR2, is known for his compact build, speed, and ability to gain yards after the catch. His natural hands and explosiveness make him a top-tier prospect.
McMillan, ranked WR3, offers a different skill set. At 6’4″, he combines size with impressive rebounding and run-after-catch abilities. While McMillan is slightly behind Burden in the rankings, his unique profile makes him a valuable asset for teams looking for a versatile receiver.
Travis Hunter: A Dual-Position Phenomenon
Travis Hunter’s ability to play at an elite level as both a cornerback and wide receiver is a rarity in modern football. As CB1/WR1, Hunter’s versatility allows him to impact games on both sides of the ball. His exceptional athleticism, ball skills, and football IQ make him a top prospect, regardless of the position he ultimately focuses on in the NFL.
Positional Value and Its Impact on Rankings
The rankings are heavily influenced by positional value, with quarterbacks, edge rushers, and offensive tackles prioritized. This approach reflects the supply-and-demand dynamics of the NFL, where positions like quarterback and edge rusher are considered more critical to team success.
For example, offensive tackles like Will Campbell (LSU, OT1) and Armand Membou (Missouri, OT2) are ranked highly due to their importance in protecting quarterbacks and anchoring offensive lines. Similarly, edge rushers like Abdul Carter and Mike Green (Marshall, EDGE3) are valued for their ability to disrupt opposing offenses.
Other Notable Prospects
Beyond the top 10, several other prospects stand out:
- Shavon Revel Jr. (CB2, East Carolina): Despite an ACL tear, Revel’s length, speed, and ball skills make him a promising cornerback.
- Nick Emmanwori (S1, South Carolina): Known for his explosiveness and ability to make plays downfield, Emmanwori is a standout safety.
- Ashton Jeanty (RB1, Boise State): As the top-ranked running back, Jeanty combines power and agility, making him a versatile offensive weapon.
The 2025 NFL Draft class is rich with talent across multiple positions. James Pearce Jr. leads the pack as the top overall prospect, while Jalen Milroe and Travis Hunter bring unique skill sets that could transform NFL teams. With surprises among wide receivers and a focus on positional value, this draft class promises to be one of the most exciting in recent memory. As the draft approaches, teams and analysts will continue to evaluate these prospects, balancing film study with analytics to make the best decisions for their organizations.