Legwold’s Top 100 NFL Draft Prospects: A Deep Dive into the 2025 Class

Legwold’s Top 100 NFL Draft Prospects: A Deep Dive into the 2025 Class

Welcome to the annual spectacle that is the NFL Draft, where dreams are made, and futures are forged. This year, the 2025 NFL Draft class presents a unique challenge for talent evaluators. The lingering effects of COVID-19 seasons, the rise of mid-20s prospects, the impact of transfers, and the influence of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals have all combined to create a complex landscape for scouts to navigate.

As one seasoned AFC scout put it, “Maybe this is how it’s going to look [from now on], but this year feels different. [It’s] pretty thin on top [of the board], thick in the middle, and NIL probably carved out the back end [of Day 3].” This sentiment captures the essence of the 2025 draft class, which features fewer players with first-round grades than usual. However, it also boasts one of the most unique prospects of the modern era: Colorado’s Travis Hunter, who is ranked as the No. 1 player at two different positions by much of the league.

Hunter, a standout wide receiver and cornerback, is a rare talent. Standing at 6-foot-1 and weighing 188 pounds, he didn’t run the 40-yard dash, but his on-field performance speaks volumes. The 2024 Heisman winner recorded 96 receptions for 1,258 yards and 15 touchdowns, along with four interceptions. The challenge for any team drafting him will be finding the right balance between his roles on offense and defense to maximize his impact.

Meanwhile, the quarterback class is generating plenty of buzz, with Miami’s Cam Ward expected to be the first overall pick. Ward’s pocket awareness and smooth short-area movements make him a coveted prospect, though he must address accuracy issues and footwork when he’s in “sling-it” mode. Following Ward are Shedeur Sanders from Colorado and Jaxson Dart from Ole Miss, both of whom have sparked varied reactions from decision-makers.

With these factors in mind, here’s my annual top-100 list heading into the draft, which kicks off Thursday at 8 p.m. ET in Green Bay, Wisconsin (ESPN, ABC, and the ESPN App). This list is based on grades, not position value, and is not intended to be a mock draft. It’s a pure ranking of the top prospects, thanks to the insights from those around the league who took the time to chat and answer piles of questions for this annual project.

Note: Listed 40 times are best verified or electronically timed.

• 1. Travis Hunter, CB/WR, Colorado
• 2. Abdul Carter, Edge, Penn State
• 3. Ashton Jeanty, RB, Boise State
• 4. Tyler Warren, TE, Penn State
• 5. Walter Nolen, DT, Ole Miss
• 6. Will Campbell, OT, LSU
• 7. Mason Graham, DT, Michigan
• 8. Jahdae Barron, CB, Texas
• 9. Colston Loveland, TE, Michigan
• 10. Armand Membou, OT, Missouri

These top prospects are just the beginning of a list that delves deep into the talent pool of the 2025 draft class. Each player brings a unique set of skills and potential to the table, making this year’s draft an exciting event for teams and fans alike.

As we look forward to the draft, it’s important to remember that the journey to the NFL is just beginning for these young athletes. The draft is a stepping stone, a moment of celebration, and a testament to their hard work and dedication. Whether they become household names or unsung heroes, each player on this list has the potential to make a significant impact in the league.

So, as the clock ticks down to the first pick, let’s celebrate the talent, the stories, and the dreams that make the NFL Draft a truly special event. Here’s to the future stars of the NFL and the excitement they bring to the game we love.