The 2024-25 college football campaign has wrapped up, but the excitement is far from over. NFL scouts are gearing up for the upcoming draft, and one of the most anticipated moments is the release of Mel Kiper Jr.’s latest NFL Big Board. On Tuesday, the renowned ESPN NFL draft analyst shared his top 25 prospects, giving fans and teams a glimpse into the future of football.
The NFL Draft: A Date to Remember
Mark your calendars! The NFL Draft is set to take place from April 24-26 at Lambeau Field in Green Bay, Wisconsin. With so many talented players vying for a spot in the league, the anticipation is palpable. Kiper’s rankings are not merely predictions of where players will land; instead, they reflect his personal evaluations of each athlete’s potential and skill set. As teams prepare their strategies, it will be fascinating to see how closely they align with Kiper’s insights.
Travis Hunter: The Heisman Winner
In a move that surprised no one, Travis Hunter has retained his No. 1 spot in Kiper’s rankings. The standout player was a force in college football this season, earning the prestigious Heisman Trophy for his remarkable performances. Hunter’s versatility is his biggest asset, as he has proven capable of making significant contributions on both offense and defense.
Kiper: “Hunter has a great feel for the game on offense and defense, and he played a whopping 1,458 snaps over 13 games this season. I really think he has a chance to play both sides of the ball early in his pro career and make an impact both ways. … Hunter has tremendous hand-eye coordination and elite ball skills. His physical traits and quickness are off the charts.”
Abdul Carter: The Prototype Linebacker
Coming in at No. 2 is Abdul Carter, a player who embodies the ideal NFL linebacker. Standing tall at 6-foot-3 and weighing 260 pounds, Carter not only has the size but also the skills to dominate on the field. In the 2024 season, he recorded an impressive 12 sacks, 61 pressures, and an NCAA-best 23.5 tackles for loss.
Kiper: “Carter is versatile and has plenty of experience effectively operating as an off-ball linebacker. … He is instinctive and fast flying to the football.”
Graham: The Defensive Dynamo
Next up is Graham, who stands at an imposing 6-foot-3 and weighs 320 pounds. This powerhouse racked up 52 tackles, 7.5 tackles for loss, and 3.5 sacks, showcasing his ability to disrupt opposing offenses. His technique is commendable, making him a nightmare for offensive linemen.
Kiper: “I love Graham’s technique. His leverage gives him an advantage at the point of attack, and interior offensive linemen struggle with his power and quickness.”
Shedeur Sanders: The Top Quarterback Prospect
At No. 4, Shedeur Sanders has emerged as the top quarterback prospect in Kiper’s eyes. His two seasons at Colorado were nothing short of spectacular, and this year alone, he amassed 4,134 passing yards and 37 touchdown passes while completing an impressive 74% of his attempts.
Kiper: “I’m always impressed watching him throw on the move, rolling either left or right. He is very accurate in those spots and has the arm to drive the ball.”
Cam Ward: Making Waves in Miami
Following closely at No. 5 is Cam Ward, who made headlines after transferring to Miami this offseason. He seized the opportunity, finishing the regular season with 4,123 passing yards and 36 touchdowns, leading the nation in scoring.
Kiper: “Ward has an unorthodox delivery, but he throws with accuracy and velocity from different arm angles. … I like his toughness, swagger, and confidence.”
Johnson: The Defensive Backbone
At No. 6, Johnson has been a cornerstone of the Wolverines’ secondary. Despite missing six games due to injury, he still managed to make an impact with 21 tackles, two interceptions, and two defensive touchdowns.
Kiper: “Johnson is so instinctive in coverage, and his ability to read quarterbacks jumps out when you watch him.”
Tetairoa McMillan: The Hidden Gem
Though he may not have received as much attention, Tetairoa McMillan is arguably one of the most talented receivers in this draft class. With a remarkable 84 catches for 1,319 yards and eight touchdowns, McMillan’s skills are undeniable.
Kiper: “McMillan is a big-bodied receiver who can be a mismatch for smaller corners. He can snatch the ball and make it look easy.”
Jalon Walker: The Fearless Defender
Jalon Walker, ranked No. 9, has established himself as one of the most feared defenders in college football. With 62 total tackles and 6.5 sacks, he has consistently disrupted opposing offenses.
Kiper: “Walker gets into the backfield as if he were shot out of a cannon, and his bend and explosion off the edge help him beat blockers.”
Ashton Jeanty: The All-Purpose Back
Ashton Jeanty, despite falling two spots to No. 7, remains a standout talent. He led the nation with 2,601 rushing yards and 29 touchdowns, showcasing his incredible skills and versatility.
Kiper: “Jeanty displays excellent contact balance and toughness, which help him skirt past the first line of defense.”
Kelvin Banks: The Secure Left Tackle
Finally, at No. 10, Kelvin Banks has proven to be a reliable left tackle for the Longhorns. Starting all 15 games, he allowed just one sack, showcasing his readiness for the NFL.
Kiper: “He has the mobility to quickly block off the edge and the frame and strength to take care of power rushers.”
Mel Kiper Jr.’s Big Board — Nos. 11-25
11. Will Campbell, OT, LSU
12. Mykel Williams, OLB, Georgia (+3)
13. Tyler Warren, TE, Penn State (-1)
14. Josh Simmons, OT, Ohio State (-1)
15. Colston Loveland, TE, Michigan (+1)
16. Malaki Starks, S, Georgia (-2)
17. Tyler Booker, OL, Alabama (NR)
18. Nick Emmanwori, S, South Carolina (NR)
19. Luther Burden III, WR, Missouri (+2)
20. Jihaad Campbell, LB, Alabama
21. Shemar Stewart, DE, Texas A&M (+2)
22. Shavon Revel Jr., CB, East Carolina (-5)
23. Benjamin Morrison, CB, Notre Dame (NR)
24. Emeka Egbuka, WR, Ohio State (NR)
25. Walter Nolen, DT, Ole Miss (-7)
As the NFL Draft approaches, the excitement surrounding these prospects continues to build. Who will rise to the occasion and make their mark in the league? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: the future of football is bright!
