What a weekend of college football! The SEC witnessed some thrilling action as Mississippi delivered a stunning blow to the Georgia Bulldogs, keeping their playoff dreams alive. Meanwhile, Alabama showcased their prowess with a decisive victory over LSU, ensuring they remain in the postseason conversation. Not to be overlooked, Indiana continues to impress with an unbeaten record of 10-0 as they gear up to face Ohio State in two weeks.
2025 NFL Draft stock: Risers after Week 11 of college football
On the pro-prospect front, edge rushers had a standout weekend, particularly those expected to be selected on Days 2 and 3 of next year’s draft. Let’s dive into the players who are making waves and climbing the draft boards!
#1 Princely Umanmielen (Edge/Mississippi)
Umanmielen was a force to be reckoned with during Mississippi’s upset victory over Georgia, posting five tackles, two tackles for loss (TFLs), and two sacks. This performance was crucial for the Rebels as they fight for a playoff spot. With 9.5 sacks and 12 TFLs this season, he is certainly a player to watch.
Despite his impressive stats, Umanmielen’s draft stock is complicated. While he grades as a top-40 prospect based on his playing ability, concerns about his motor and character have raised red flags. Teams will scrutinize these issues during the postseason and at the combine, which could significantly impact his draft position.
#2 Oluwafemi Oladejo (Edge/UCLA)
After a shaky start in their inaugural Big Ten season, UCLA has turned things around, riding a three-game winning streak. Oladejo has emerged as a key player during this stretch, with standout performances including six tackles, four TFLs, and two sacks against Iowa. His versatility allows him to excel both as a pass rusher and in coverage, making him a valuable asset for any defense.
Standing at 6-foot-3 and weighing 255 pounds, Oladejo is agile and quick, showcasing his ability to defend against the run and rush the passer effectively. His performance has improved his draft stock, positioning him as a potential late second-day pick.
#3 Donovan Ezeiruaku (Edge/Boston College)
Ezeiruaku has quietly become one of the best pass rushers in the nation this season. With 59 tackles, 14 TFLs, and 11 sacks, he has been a disruptive force on the field. His explosive style of play, combined with strong fundamentals and a relentless motor, makes him a prime candidate to be selected in the first half of the draft’s final day.
At 6-foot-2.5 and 245 pounds, Ezeiruaku may not have the ideal size, but his intensity and skill set will certainly catch the attention of NFL scouts.
#4 Ahmed Hassanein (Edge/Boise State)
While Ashton Jeanty has garnered much of the attention for Boise State’s 8-1 record, Hassanein has been quietly impressive. With 9.5 TFLs and 7.5 sacks this season, he has shown his ability to bend the edge and disrupt plays. Although he needs to add strength to his game, his athleticism and quickness make him a rising Day 3 prospect.
Sleeper prospects in the 2025 NFL Draft class
#1 Nash Jones (G/Texas State)
Jones is the lone offensive prospect on this week’s risers list, and he has made a name for himself as a powerful lineman. Known for his ability to dominate defenders, Jones has quickly become a force in the trenches. His skill in one-on-one blocking and his ability to create running lanes have caught the attention of scouts.
While more information is needed to fully assess his potential, Jones looks poised to make an impact in the late rounds of the draft.
Small-school prospect in the 2025 NFL Draft class
#1 Bo Belquist (WR/North Dakota)
Belquist is making waves as one of the most productive receivers in the FCS. With 52 receptions for 794 yards and nine touchdowns this season, he continues to impress. Over the past four years, he has consistently recorded over 50 receptions, showcasing his reliability as a pass catcher.
Although he may not be the fastest player on the field, Belquist’s technical skills and knack for making clutch plays make him a candidate for the late rounds of the draft. If he can impress during predraft workouts, he could find himself on an NFL roster as a valuable depth receiver.
2025 NFL Draft stock: Sliders after Week 11 games
#1 Jasheen Davis (Edge/Wake Forest)
Davis faced a pivotal decision after a stellar 2023 season: return to Wake Forest or declare for the NFL Draft. He opted to return, but his performance this season has not lived up to expectations. With injuries limiting his play, he has struggled to replicate last year’s success, where he recorded 49 tackles, 17 TFLs, and 7.5 sacks.
Now, with significantly lower numbers, Davis’s draft stock has taken a hit. If he cannot bounce back, he may find himself slipping down the draft board, potentially landing as a late-round pick or even going undrafted.
As we look ahead to the remainder of the college football season, the excitement is palpable. With playoff implications on the line and NFL prospects emerging, fans have plenty to look forward to in the coming weeks!
