The anticipation surrounding the NFL Draft is palpable, as teams and fans alike prepare for what promises to be an exciting and pivotal event. As we inch closer to Round 1 on April 24, the excitement builds around the prospects who could transform franchises. The preparation for this draft is a labor of love, requiring intense study and analysis of an entire class of athletes. While it is certainly a grind, it is also one of the most rewarding times of the year for analysts and fans. This year, well highlight both the standout first-round prospects and a few lesser-known sleepers who might just surprise everyone.

This years prospect list begins with the quarterback expected to go first overall and ends with a safety who could see his name called later on Day 2. Ive aimed to capture a diverse range of talent to showcase the depth of this draft class. Lets dive into the players who have caught my eye.

First-rounders That I Love

1. Cam Ward, QB, Miami

Cam Wards journey to potential stardom is nothing short of extraordinary. This former zero-star recruit has made his way through various levels of college football, including stints at Incarnate Word and Washington State, before landing at Miami, where he truly shined. Last season, he threw for an impressive 4,313 yards and 39 touchdowns. His ascent is a testament to his determination and resilience in the face of challenges.

Wards combination of competitiveness, football IQ, and impressive physical skills make him a deserving candidate for the number one pick. His ability to command the line of scrimmage and recognize post-snap coverage rotations is remarkable. With a powerful right arm and a quick release, he is capable of making throws from various platforms and angles. At 6-foot-2 and 219 pounds, Ward is agile enough to extend plays and can effectively throw on the run, making him a dynamic threat on the field.

2. Ashton Jeanty, RB, Boise State

When you watch Ashton Jeanty play, think of a young Emmitt Smith infused with breakaway speed. Jeanty has an impressive skill set, showcasing great vision and instincts that help him navigate rushing lanes. At 5-foot-9 and 211 pounds, he possesses a low center of gravity, which allows him to break tackles with ease while demonstrating exceptional foot quickness and flexibility.

Jeanty is a big-play threat, having rushed for 2,601 yards and scored 29 touchdowns last season while forcing 126 missed tackles. He also caught 23 passes out of the backfield, proving his versatility as both a runner and a receiver. A perfect fit for teams like the Raiders, who struggled with their ground game last season, Jeanty could make a significant impact right away.

3. Travis Hunter, WR/CB, Colorado

Travis Hunter is arguably one of the most talented athletes to ever step onto a college football field, an assertion supported by his coach, Deion Sanders. In an astounding season, Hunter amassed 1,258 receiving yards and 15 touchdowns while also excelling defensively with four interceptions and ten pass breakups.

Hunter has the potential to be an elite cornerback in the NFL, but his natural abilities as a receiver are compelling as well. His smooth route-running and exceptional ball-tracking skills make him a formidable threat. At 6 feet and 188 pounds, he has impressive body control, which allows him to make difficult catches look routine. His competitiveness and desire to excel will serve him well in the professional ranks, making him a valuable asset for any team.

4. Will Campbell, OT, LSU

At 6-foot-6 and 319 pounds, Will Campbell possesses a rare combination of size and agility that is hard to find in offensive linemen. His smooth movement allows him to handle speed effectively, and he demonstrates quickness and fluidity that are impressive for a player of his stature. Despite concerns over his arm length, his strength and technique enable him to excel in both pass protection and the run game.

With 38 starts under his belt, Campbell is one of the top prospects in this draft. His ability to anchor against powerful pass rushers and dominate in the run game makes him a prime candidate for teams looking to bolster their offensive lines, particularly the New England Patriots at No. 4.

5. Abdul Carter, Edge, Penn State

Abdul Carters decision to transition to the edge position was a wise one, as evidenced by his remarkable performance last season, which included 12 sacks and 23.5 tackles for loss. His explosive quickness and bend as a rusher have made him a standout in the FBS.

Carters ability to rush the passer and set the edge against the run showcases his versatility. At 6-foot-3 and 250 pounds, he has the physical tools to make an impact in various defensive schemes, drawing comparisons to elite players like Micah Parsons. Teams looking for a dynamic pass-rusher could find a valuable asset in Carter.

Five Sleepers Outside Round 1

1. RJ Harvey, RB, UCF

Explosive and electrifying, RJ Harvey is a player who can change the game in an instant. Standing at 5-foot-8 and weighing 205 pounds, his speed is complemented by excellent vision and instincts. Last season, he tallied an impressive 1,577 rushing yards and 22 touchdowns, showcasing his ability to break away from defenders.

Harveys skills extend beyond running, as he demonstrates reliable hands as a receiver and the toughness to block for his teammates. He could be an impactful addition to any team looking to enhance their rushing attack, especially in the early rounds.

2. Isaac TeSlaa, WR, Arkansas

At 6-foot-3 and 214 pounds, Isaac TeSlaa presents a formidable challenge for defenders as a slot receiver. His speed and explosive movement traits create mismatches, allowing him to excel in various routes. Despite his solid production with 28 catches for 546 yards last season, his potential remains largely untapped due to his size and speed combination.

TeSlaas ability to separate from coverage and track deep balls makes him a valuable prospect. Hes a name to watch for teams looking for a versatile receiver who can contribute early in the league.

3. Harold Fannin Jr., TE, Bowling Green

Harold Fannin may not have the jaw-dropping physical stats, but his production speaks volumes. With 117 catches for 1,555 yards and 11 touchdowns last season, he demonstrated his ability to perform at a high level. His skills as a receiver and blocker position him well for a role in the NFL.

Fannins competitiveness and ability to gain yards after the catch make him an intriguing prospect who could make an impact in the right system.

4. Quincy Riley, CB, Louisville

With a knack for creating turnovers, Quincy Riley has proven himself a formidable cornerback throughout his college career. Recording 15 interceptions, 39 pass breakups, and a forced fumble, he showcases the skills necessary to succeed in the NFL.

His physicality in run support and ability to play various coverage schemes make him an appealing option for teams needing depth in their secondary.

5. Andrew Mukuba, S, Texas

Pound for pound, Andrew Mukuba is one of the toughest players in this draft class. His competitive spirit and hard-hitting style of play have made him a standout in college football. Mukuba possesses excellent cover skills and the instincts to make plays on the ball, as evidenced by his five interceptions last season.

While he may not have ideal size at 5-foot-11 and 186 pounds, Mukubas playmaking ability and toughness make him a solid late-round option for teams looking for a playmaker in the secondary.

The excitement surrounding the 2025 NFL Draft is building, and these prospects have the potential to make a significant impact on their respective teams. Whether they are household names or hidden gems, the journey of these athletes is sure to capture the attention of fans and analysts alike.