As the college football season comes to a close, the focus shifts to the 2025 NFL Draft. Underclassmen face a pivotal choice regarding their futures in the sport. They must decide whether to enter the professional ranks or return to college for further development.
Players had until January 6, 2025, to submit their declaration forms for special eligibility. For those participating in the College Football Playoff National Championship, a different deadline applies, set for January 24.
The NFL will distribute a complete list of declared underclassmen to all 32 teams on January 25. Players will have until January 27 to reconsider their decisions and withdraw their names from the draft.
Eligibility for the draft requires that a player is at least three years removed from high school graduation. This year’s draft will be held from April 24 to 26 in Green Bay.
A range of notable players has announced their intention to enter the draft.
Syracuse running back LeQuint Allen is among the intriguing prospects. Miami tight end Elijah Arroyo also aims for a professional career. Stanford wide receiver Elic Ayomanor has put his name in the mix.
Texas offensive tackle Kelvin Banks and Mississippi State linebacker Stone Blanton add to the list of emerging talents. Texas boasts multiple draft-bound players including running back Jaydon Blue, wide receiver Isaiah Bond, and linebacker Tyler Booker.
High-impact defenders include Alabama’s Jihaad Campbell and edge rusher Abdul Carter from Penn State. Several offensive linemen are drawing attention, including Oregon’s Josh Conerly, Jr. and Georgia’s Quinn Ewers, a quarterback with a dynamic skill set.
Other notable names include Missouri wide receiver Luther Burden III and South Carolina safety Nick Emmanwori. Each player brings unique attributes that could impact NFL rosters next season.
The draft is shaping up to be filled with promise. Many players have opted to take the leap, creating excitement around potential future stars. As the January deadlines approach, the decisions made by these underclassmen will significantly influence the 2025 draft landscape.
The anticipation grows as teams prepare to evaluate this year’s crop of talent, eyeing the next generation of NFL stars.