With conference title games heating up and the College Football Playoff looming, the college football world is buzzing with speculation about underclassmen’s futures. Will they declare for the NFL Draft or choose to stay in school? Two teams at the forefront of this discussion are Texas and Michigan, both with significant player movements expected as they look toward their futures.
Texas players expected to declare for the 2025 NFL Draft
The Texas Longhorns are making headlines as several players are poised to enter the 2025 NFL Draft. Among them is Cameron Williams, the formidable right tackle who has garnered attention for his impressive size and skill on the field. Standing at 6 feet 5 inches and weighing around 330 pounds, Williams is a force to be reckoned with. He has been known to dominate opponents at the point of attack, although he shows some limitations in blocking on the move compared to his teammate, Kelvin Banks Jr., who is also expected to declare.
Williams has been a standout player, often appearing in the first round of mock drafts. However, I currently grade him as a potential second-round pick. His ability to annihilate defenders makes him a valuable asset for any NFL team looking to bolster their offensive line.
Cameron Williams: A closer look
Williams is not just a mountain of a man; he plays with the agility and technique that make him a coveted prospect. His performance this season has solidified his standing among scouts, and as he prepares for the draft, many are eager to see how he will fare against the competition.
Other Longhorns eyeing the draft
In addition to Williams, receiver Matthew Golden and linebacker Trey Moore are also leaning toward declaring for the draft. Golden has enjoyed a breakout season, racking up 39 receptions for 576 yards and eight touchdowns. His combination of size and speed makes him a deep threat, capable of turning any play into a big gain.
Moore, a transfer from UTSA, has also made a name for himself this season. Known for his explosiveness and athleticism, he excels at both blitzing and pursuing the ball carrier. Currently, he holds a third-round grade on my draft board, but his stock could rise with a strong performance in the coming weeks.
Michigan players expected to declare for the 2025 NFL Draft
On the other side of the landscape, the Michigan Wolverines are also dealing with draft declarations. Just under two weeks ago, I reported that standout players Will Johnson, Mason Graham, Kenneth Grant, and Colston Loveland are all projected to enter the draft. These athletes are now making final preparations to train in Arizona, gearing up for the combine and pro day.
Injury concerns for Wolverines
Despite their talent, the Wolverines face challenges as they approach bowl season. With a record of 7-5, they are likely headed to a second-tier bowl game, possibly the Music City Bowl. However, it would be surprising if key players like Johnson, Graham, and Loveland participated in the game due to ongoing injury concerns.
Johnson has been sidelined for over two months, with his last appearance against Washington on October 5. Loveland has battled a shoulder injury throughout the season and did not play in the crucial game against Ohio State. Graham, on the other hand, is projected as a top-12 selection in the draft and might still take the field in the bowl game, depending on his recovery.
What’s next for Michigan’s stars?
As these players prepare for the next steps in their careers, the anticipation surrounding their decisions is palpable. Will they risk injury in a bowl game, or will they focus on their preparation for the NFL? The decisions they make will not only impact their futures but also the trajectory of the Michigan football program.
The impact of draft declarations on college football
The trend of underclassmen declaring for the draft is becoming increasingly common in college football. This phenomenon raises questions about the future of college football as players weigh their options. With the stakes higher than ever, many are opting to pursue professional careers rather than risk injury in bowl games or their final college seasons.
As the landscape of college football continues to evolve, teams must adapt to the realities of player movement and draft declarations. The decisions made by players like Williams, Golden, Johnson, and Loveland will shape not only their futures but also the programs they leave behind.
In the coming weeks, expect a flurry of announcements as more players finalize their decisions. The excitement surrounding the NFL Draft is building, and college football fans are eager to see where their favorite players will land. Whether it’s Texas chasing a national title or Michigan navigating injury challenges, the drama of college football is far from over.
