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Best Value Picks of the 2025 NFL Draft (Based on Our Grade Projections) The 2025 NFL Draft delivered no shortage of drama — from high-profile trades inside the top 10 to Shedeur Sanders’ surprising Day 3 slide. But beyond the headline moments, a handful of teams quietly walked away with elite value by selecting players who dramatically outperformed their draft slot. Using our Football Scout 365 grading model — which factors in positional value, scheme fit, athletic profile, and long-term ceiling — we’ve identified the top value picks of this year’s draft. These prospects fell due to injuries, depth at their position, or simply being overlooked in a deep class, but they project as high-impact contributors with strong long-term upside. Here are some of the biggest value steals of the 2025 NFL Draft, complete with their grade tier, projected draft range, and round selected. Round 2 – Pick 47). Arizona Cardinals: CB Will Johnson, Michigan 📊 Grade: Elite📈 Projected Draft Range: Top 5–10 (1st Round) An absolute heist for Arizona in Round 2. Johnson was our No. 5 overall player — a silky smooth boundary corner with CB1 traits, All-Pro potential, and elite ball skills. Concerns over a past medical procedure caused a drop, but make no mistake: if healthy, Johnson is an immediate difference-maker. Round 2 – Pick 50). Baltimore Ravens: EDGE Mike Green, Marshall 📊 Grade: Near Elite📈 Projected Draft Range: Mid-to-Late 1st Round Green was one of the most disruptive edge defenders in this class — an explosive, twitchy pass rusher with elite burst and refined hand usage. Despite grading as a top-10 prospect, Green slid into the second round. Baltimore lands a future three-down impact player for its multiple front scheme. Round 5 – Pick 144). Cleveland Browns: QB Shedeur Sanders, Colorado 📊 Grade: Mid-Level Starter Potential 📈 Projected Draft Range: 4th–5th Round Sanders' slide into Round 5 might go down as one of the wildest stories of the draft. While our board reflected a 4th–5th round grade, his leadership, poise, and touch made him a Day 2-caliber talent when factoring positional value. The Browns may have landed a developmental starter behind Deshaun Watson. Round 1 – Pick 27). Baltimore Ravens: S Malaki Starks, Georgia 📊 Grade: Near Elite📈 Projected Draft Range: Mid-to-Late 1st Round The Ravens did what smart teams do — let the board fall to them. Starks, the No. 12 player on our board, gives them a perfect complement to Kyle Hamilton. His range, instincts, and tackling efficiency make him a rare late-Round 1 value with Pro Bowl potential. Round 2 – Pick 53). Tampa Bay Buccaneers: CB Benjamin Morrison, Notre Dame 📊 Grade: Near Elite 📈 Projected Draft Range: Mid-to-Late 1st Round A sticky man-coverage specialist with zone versatility, Morrison was ranked 18th overall by our staff. Tampa Bay grabbed a plug-and-play starter with elite instincts and technique for a fraction of the cost of a top-20 pick. Round 3 – Pick 76). Dallas Cowboys: CB Shavon Revel, East Carolina 📊 Grade: Near Elite📈 Projected Draft Range: Mid-to-Late 1st Round Revel’s ACL tear dropped his stock, but he’s a top-20 talent when healthy. A long, aggressive press corner with fluid hips and advanced ball skills, Revel could emerge as one of the top value picks in the draft if he returns to form in 2025. Round 4 – Pick 123). Pittsburgh Steelers: EDGE Jack Sawyer, Ohio State 📊 Grade: High-End Starter Potential 📈 Projected Draft Range: 2nd–3rd Round Pittsburgh stays true to its identity with a physical, high-motor edge rusher who was a Round 2 value on our board. Sawyer’s blend of power, effort, and scheme versatility makes him an ideal rotational piece with long-term starting potential. Round 4 – Pick 136). Los Angeles Rams: LB Chris Paul Jr., Ole Miss 📊 Grade: High-End Starter Potential 📈 Projected Draft Range: 2nd–3rd Round Paul Jr. is a heat-seeking WILL linebacker with sideline-to-sideline range, explosive blitzing upside, and coverage traits to stay on the field all three downs. While undersized, he’s a modern linebacker who thrives in space and should immediately compete for snaps in L.A.’s front seven. Round 4 – Pick 140). Tennessee Titans: WR Elic Ayomanor, Stanford 📊 Grade: High-End Starter Potential 📈 Projected Draft Range: 2nd–3rd Round Ayomanor brings size, strength, and physicality to Tennessee’s receiving corps. A true alpha X receiver with strong hands and vertical skills, Ayomanor was a fringe Day 2 grade on our board. If he continues refining his route tree, he could be a breakout rookie contributor in 2025. Round 4 – Pick 142). Kansas City Chiefs: LB Jeffrey Bassa, Oregon 📊 Grade: High-End Starter Potential 📈 Projected Draft Range: 2nd–3rd Round Bassa is a former safety turned hybrid linebacker with elite movement skills in coverage. His ability to mirror tight ends and running backs makes him an ideal fit in Kansas City’s sub-package heavy defense. He’ll compete early in nickel/dime looks and could grow into an every-down WILL. Round 5 – Pick 152). Kansas City Chiefs: WR Jalen Royals, Utah State 📊 Grade: High-End Starter Potential 📈 Projected Draft Range: 2nd–3rd Round Royals is a crafty separator with a natural feel for leverage and route tempo. He wins underneath and in space, making him a seamless fit in Kansas City’s timing-based spread attack. Despite lacking elite top speed, his short-area quickness and zone-beating prowess make him a sleeper to watch in 2025.

NFL DRAFT HUB Track predictive mock drafts, big board rankings, and team needs analysis in one interactive NFL Draft Hub built on film, data, and scheme fit. Launch Draft Hub 2027 NFL Draft Hub: Big Board, Team Needs, Predictive Mock Draft & Prospect Rankings < Back Jayce Brown LSU HT: 6000 WT: 179 YR: SR POS: WR OVR RK 42 POS RK CEILING POTENTIAL WR8 High-End Starter Potential PLAYSTYLE & SCHEME FIT Jayce Brown is a polished slot/Z receiver whose grade is built on route tempo, short-area separation, reliable hands, and YAC value. He fits best in a spread or motion-heavy offense that lets him work option routes, quick game, crossers, RPO access throws, and intermediate spacing concepts. The starting pathway is there because he separates with discipline and has a strong multi-year production profile, but the next-tier jump depends on proving he can handle SEC physicality, add more vertical threat value, and hold up through contact at LSU. CEILING GRADE ANALYSIS High-End Starter Potential (65-69) A player expected to become a top-tier starter within their first few years. They possess strong physical tools and good technical skills but may have some limitations in their game. With development, they can reach near-elite levels and provide consistent impact at their position. Primary scout: Brandon Lundberg KEY STRENGTHS Route discipline Reliable production profile YAC and toughness for size KEY WEAKNESSES Frame and play strength Not an elite separator Role-dependent ceiling CLICK HERE TO GO DEEPER WITH NFL DRAFT HUB

2025 NFL Draft: 15 Tight Ends You Should Know Ahead of the 2024 College Football Season The 2024 NFL Draft showcased exceptional talent among tight ends, headlined by the generational standout Brock Bowers, who was taken by the Las Vegas Raiders with the 13th overall pick. Following him, Ben Sinnott from Kansas State was the next tight end selected, going in the second round. Over the subsequent days of the draft, ten additional tight ends were chosen. Looking ahead to the 2025 NFL Draft, while it may lack a singular generational talent, it features a deep and talented pool ready to bolster the NFL ranks. Today's analysis will spotlight 15 tight ends to keep an eye on during the 2024 college football season. We've ranked them based on their Expected Points Added (EPA) from the 2023 season. Understanding Expected Points Added (EPA) for Tight Ends EPA is a critical statistical measure in football that assesses the impact of each play on a team's scoring potential. This metric is particularly valuable in evaluating tight ends, as it quantifies how their actions on the field contribute to the team's ability to score and ultimately succeed. The Significance of EPA in Football Analytics EPA directly correlates with a team's success by linking tight end performance to scoring outcomes. Tight ends with high EPA values are often key players in executing successful plays that enhance the team's chances of scoring and winning. This makes EPA an increasingly popular metric in both NFL and college football analytics, providing deeper insights than traditional statistics such as total yards or touchdowns. By leveraging EPA, analysts, coaches, and fans can gain a more nuanced understanding of how strategic play-calling and individual player performances influence the overall game beyond mere statistical outputs. 15 2025 NFL Draft Prospects To Watch Ranked By 2023 Total EPA HAROLD FANNIN JR., BOWLING GREEN EPA: 33.88 (2nd) Summary Analysis: Harold Fannin Jr. had an impressive 2023 season, leading all MAC tight ends with 44 receptions and 623 yards, generating an EPA of 33.88, which ranks him 2nd among tight ends. His efficiency is underscored by a 73.3% catch rate and 2.9 yards per route run. Notably, Fannin did not drop a single pass, highlighting his sure-handedness. As a first-team All-Conference and CFN third-team All-America selection, he is poised to be a key player for Bowling Green in 2024. TERRANCE FERGUSON, OREGON EPA: 28.51 (4th) Summary Analysis: Terrance Ferguson showcased his talent in 2023 with 42 receptions for 414 yards and six touchdowns, generating an EPA of 28.51, ranking 4th among tight ends. His reliability is reflected in an 82.4% catch rate and 1.6 yards per route run. Ferguson's ability to consistently get open and make plays makes him a crucial part of Oregon's offense. With high praise from offensive coordinator Will Stein, Ferguson is expected to have an even more impactful 2024 season. COLSTON LOVELAND, MICHIGAN EPA: 26.86 (7th) Summary Analysis: Colston Loveland emerged as one of the best tight ends in college football during his sophomore year, generating an EPA of 26.86, ranking him 7th among tight ends. He accumulated 649 receiving yards on 65 targets with a 69.2% catch rate. His athleticism makes him nearly unguardable, and his 2.6 yards per route run reflects his effectiveness in the passing game. Loveland’s contributions are essential for Michigan’s offensive success. TYLER WARREN, PENN STATE EPA: 25.15 (8th) Summary Analysis: Tyler Warren was a pivotal player for Penn State in 2023, generating an EPA of 25.15, ranking 8th among tight ends. He led the team with 34 receptions, 422 receiving yards, and seven touchdown catches. His 64.2% catch rate and 1.7 yards per route run highlight his role as a reliable target in the passing game. Warren’s ability to convert opportunities, with a 73.5% first-down rate, makes him an essential part of Penn State's offense. BRYSON NESBIT, NORTH CAROLINA EPA: 24.19 (10th) Summary Analysis: Bryson Nesbit has been a reliable target for North Carolina, generating an EPA of 24.19, ranking 10th among tight ends. He caught 66.1% of his targets and averaged 2.1 yards per route run. His 91.7% on-target catch rate and ability to stretch the field with 14.3 yards per reception make him a significant offensive weapon. Nesbit's contributions are essential for North Carolina's passing attack, making him a prospect to watch for the 2025 NFL Draft. JACK VELLING, OREGON STATE EPA: 23.5 (11th) Summary Analysis: Jack Velling tied for the national lead with eight receiving touchdowns in 2023, generating an EPA of 23.5, ranking 11th among tight ends. His 1.7 yards per route run and 79.3% first-down rate highlight his efficiency in Oregon State’s offense. Velling’s athleticism and ability to find the end zone make him a top tight end prospect for the 2025 NFL Draft. AMARI NIBLACK, TEXAS EPA: 16.28 (24th) Summary Analysis: Amari Niblack showcased his athletic prowess during the 2023 season at Alabama, averaging 16.4 yards per reception and achieving an EPA of 16.28, which placed him 24th among tight ends. While Niblack should work on maintaining consistency, his knack for explosive plays makes him a promising prospect. Following his transfer to the Texas Longhorns, he is anticipated to play a significant role in their offense during the 2024 college football season. MITCHELL EVANS, NOTRE DAME EPA: 15.91 (26th) Summary Analysis: Mitchell Evans was playing like one of the best tight ends in the country before his season-ending injury in 2023, generating an EPA of 15.91, ranking 26th among tight ends. His 69% catch rate and 2.7 yards per route run demonstrate his impact on the field. Evans' ability to force missed tackles and find soft spots in coverage make him a valuable asset for Notre Dame. OSCAR DELP, GEORGIA EPA: 8.88 (68th) Summary Analysis: Oscar Delp's athleticism was on display in 2023, generating an EPA of 8.88, ranking 68th among tight ends. He caught 80% of his targets with a 2.3 yards per route run average. His ability to get open and make plays in the passing game is a significant asset for Georgia, and he is expected to take on a larger role in the upcoming season. GAVIN BARTHOLOMEW, PITTSBURGH EPA: 9.88 (89th) Summary Analysis: Gavin Bartholomew had a solid 2023 season with 18 receptions for 326 yards, generating an EPA of 9.88, ranking 61st among tight ends. His 62.1% catch rate and 1.7 yards per route run highlight his ability to make plays despite inconsistent quarterback play. Bartholomew's potential makes him a key player for Pittsburgh’s offense in 2024. BRANT KUITHE, UTAH EPA: 6.65 (87th) (2022 EPA) Summary Analysis: Despite missing the 2023 season, Brant Kuithe remains a top prospect due to his previous performance, generating an EPA of 6.65 in 2022, ranking 87th among the 2023 tight ends. His past achievements, including leading all FBS tight ends with 31 forced missed tackles from 2019-2021, showcase his playmaking ability. Kuithe is expected to make a strong return in 2024. LUKE LACHEY, IOWA EPA: 5.59 (101st) Summary Analysis: Luke Lachey’s 2023 season was cut short due to an ankle injury, generating an EPA of 5.59, ranking 101st among tight ends. Despite limited play, his previous performances, including a 77.7 receiving grade in 2022, highlight his potential. Lachey is expected to bounce back in 2024 and continue the tradition of elite Iowa tight ends. BENJAMIN YUROSEK, GEORGIA EPA: 1.75 (125th) Summary Analysis: Benjamin Yurosek had a challenging 2023 season at Stanford, generating an EPA of 1.75, ranking 125th among tight ends. Despite this, his previous achievements, including leading all returning tight ends with 1,300+ receiving yards since 2021, underscore his potential for a bounce-back year. Yurosek’s ability to create yards after the catch makes him a valuable asset for Georgia’s offense. JAKE BRININGSTOOL, CLEMSON EPA: -1.65 (150th) Summary Analysis: Jake Briningstool struggled in 2023, generating an EPA of -1.65, ranking 150th among tight ends. Despite these challenges, he has shown promise over the last two seasons, racking up 783 yards and nine touchdowns. Briningstool is poised to rebound in 2024 and solidify his role in Clemson’s offense.

2026 NFL Mock Draft: Senior Bowl Edition We are in the midst of the all-star circuit as the Shrine Bowl wraps up, the Senior Bowl gets underway, and NFL Draft season is officially in full swing. With the NFL Combine right around the corner, things will begin to move quickly as we approach the 2026 NFL Draft, with Day 1 kicking off in Pittsburgh on April 23. With that in mind, it felt like the right time to release an updated NFL Mock Draft. A lot has changed since my last mock two months ago, most notably Dante Moore’s decision to stay at Oregon, which narrows the Day 1 quarterback pool to Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza and Alabama’s Ty Simpson. We also had to wait on several top underclassmen to finalize their draft decisions, which further shaped the board. This draft class is going to lean heavily toward the defensive side of the ball. I watched more defensive film this season than in any of the past few years, particularly at linebacker — a position that continues to evolve at the college level. The rise of hybrid defenders is evident, highlighted by Ohio State’s do-everything linebacker tandem of Arvell Reese and Sonny Styles. Another key name in this class is Ohio State safety Caleb Downs, whom I currently have graded as the top overall prospect. Downs is a true positionless chess piece and, in my view, warrants top-five consideration, especially in what is shaping up to be a lighter quarterback class at the top. Overall, this class is deeper than it’s often given credit for. I’d argue some of the skepticism comes from the fantasy football community, as this group isn’t as quarterback-driven as the 2024 class or the projected 2027 class. However, the wide receiver depth is real. I currently have at least four first-round wideouts, with a realistic path for five or even six to come off the board on Day 1. That group is led by Ohio State’s Carnell Tate, Arizona State’s Jordyn Tyson, and USC’s Makai Lemon. Other notes to consider: The Super Bowl will finalize picks 31 and 32. The all-star circuit is just getting started, and performances at the Senior Bowl and Shrine Bowl will impact draft stock. The NFL Combine will inevitably push some players up or down boards, so there’s still plenty of movement ahead. 2026 NFL Mock Draft (Senior Bowl Edition) 1. Las Vegas Raiders - Fernando Mendoza, QB, Indiana The Raiders reset at quarterback, selecting Heisman Trophy winner Fernando Mendoza after a historic season at Indiana. Mendoza clearly separated himself from the class, finishing with a 90.7 passing grade and elite red-zone efficiency (39 TDs, 0 INTs since 2024). His size, processing, and poise give the Raiders a true franchise-caliber QB to build around. 2. New York Jets - Rueben Bain Jr., EDGE, Miami With no quarterback worth forcing at No. 2, the Jets add the most dominant defensive edge player in the class. Bain posted a 92.8 PFF grade in 2025, ranking second among Power Four edge defenders and anchoring Miami’s playoff run. He gives New York a tone-setting pass rusher to headline a full defensive rebuild. 3. Arizona Cardinals - Spencer Fano, OT, Utah Arizona opts for stability up front, selecting one of the draft's cleanest offensive line prospects. Fano’s versatility across four OL spots and consistent run-blocking dominance make him a plug-and-play starter. With Kyler Murray’s future uncertain, protecting whoever plays quarterback becomes a priority. 4. Tennessee Titans - David Bailey, EDGE, Texas Tech Tennessee adds pure explosiveness off the edge to complement its interior defensive strength. Bailey’s first-step burst, bend, and finishing ability give the Titans a true difference-maker on passing downs. He fits cleanly as a hybrid EDGE who can tilt protections and close games late. 5. New York Giants - Arvell Reese, LB, Ohio State The Giants add a versatile front-seven chess piece in new head coach John Harbaugh's first season. Reese’s size, power, and versatility give New York a modern-day Swiss Army Knife linebacker who can align anywhere, rush the passer, set an edge, and disrupt pass protections. 6. Cleveland Browns - Caleb Downs, S, Ohio State Cleveland stays true to best player available, landing the most complete defensive back in the class. Downs owns 85.0+ PFF grades in all three collegiate seasons and brings elite instincts, processing, and versatility to a Browns defense that needs stability on the back end. He immediately elevates coverage integrity while giving Cleveland a movable chess piece to disguise looks. 7. Washington Commanders - Carnell Tate, WR, Ohio State Washington gives Jayden Daniels a high-efficiency, quarterback-friendly target to stabilize the offense. Tate turned 61 targets into 51 receptions for 875 yards and nine touchdowns in 2025. He’s a polished route-running technician who consistently creates natural separation and can win in contested-catch situations. Tate profiles as a reliable chain-mover with legitimate WR1 upside as the offense matures. 8. New Orleans Saints - Mansoor Delane, CB, LSU The Saints reinforce the secondary with one of the most scheme-diverse corners in the draft. Delane’s ability to thrive in press-man, match quarters, and off coverage gives New Orleans flexibility. He projects as a high ceiling Day 1 starter. 9. Kansas City Chiefs - Francis Mauigoa, OT, Miami Kansas City invests up front to help extend the Patrick Mahomes window. Mauigoa allowed just two total hits/sacks across 500+ pass-blocking snaps during the 2025 season, pairing elite movement skills with power and balance. He gives the Chiefs a long-term cornerstone who fits both zone and gap concepts. 10. Cincinnati Bengals - Sonny Styles, LB, Ohio State Cincinnati adds a true front-seven multiplier to a defense that lacked speed and flexibility in 2025. Styles’ transition from safety shows up in his range, coverage instincts, and ability to carry routes, while his size allows him to play downhill, blitz through interior gaps, and set edges when needed. He profiles as a true “joker” defender who lets the Bengals stay in nickel and dime without sacrificing run integrity. 11. Miami Dolphins - Jermod McCoy, CB, Tennessee Miami targets a true CB1 to fit Jeff Hafley’s aggressive coverage philosophy. McCoy’s press-man discipline, recovery speed, and ball skills give the Dolphins a corner who can challenge receivers at the line and finish plays on the ball. If medicals check out, he brings immediate starter value to a secondary in need. 12. Dallas Cowboys - Makai Lemon, WR, USC Dallas adds a high-IQ slot separator to its embarrassment of offensive riches while insulating itself against future turnover at receiver. Lemon’s short-area quickness, route pacing, and big-play after-catch ability make him a natural fit alongside CeeDee Lamb and George Pickens. 13. Los Angeles Rams (via ATL) - Colton Hood, CB, Tennessee The Rams reload the secondary with a physical, scheme-versatile corner as multiple starters near free agency. Hood’s speed, length, and route recognition allow him to hold up in press-man while still fitting zone-match principles. He projects as an immediate rotational contributor with long-term starting upside. 14. Baltimore Ravens - Kayden McDonald, IDL, Ohio State Baltimore reinforces its defense with the best interior run defender in the class. McDonald led all interior defenders with a 91.2 run-defense grade and 30 run stops, giving the Ravens a true early-down anchor. He fits cleanly as a nose or shaded interior defender who occupies doubles and frees linebackers to flow cleanly and make plays. 15. Tampa Bay Buccaneers - Cashius Howell, EDGE, Texas A&M Tampa Bay addresses its pass-rush issues by adding one of the most productive edge defenders in the SEC. Howell posted a 90.0+ PFF pass-rush grade in three straight seasons and led the conference with 12 sacks in 2025, pairing production with a relentless motor. 16. New York Jets (via IND) - Avieon Terrell, CB, Clemson After landing Rueben Bain Jr., the Jets continue to rebuild the defense with a competitive, scheme-ready boundary corner. Terrell’s quick feet, fluid hips, and physical run defense give New York a reliable outside CB who can hold up in press-man and zone-match. He brings immediate starter traits to a secondary that still lacks long-term stability. 17. Detroit Lions - Caleb Lomu, OT, Utah Left tackle Taylor Decker could be on the way out this offseason. Even if Decker returns for another year, Detroit benefits from adding a clear succession plan. Utah’s Caleb Lomu brings balance, recovery athleticism, and pass-protection consistency, projecting as a high-floor tackle with the versatility to kick inside if needed. 18. Minnesota Vikings - Jeremiyah Love, RB, Notre Dame Minnesota adds an explosive offensive weapon to help out a young J.J. McCarthy. Love’s burst, vision, and receiving ability give the Vikings a true three-down back who thrives in wide-zone concepts. He immediately raises the ceiling of the offense while reducing pressure on the passing game. 19. Carolina Panthers - Jordyn Tyson, WR, Arizona State Carolina completes its receiver room by adding a true vertical separator with WR1 traits. Tyson’s ability to win off the line, stretch the field, and finish through contact gives Bryce Young another reliable target alongside Tetairoa McMillan. 20. Dallas Cowboys (via GB) - Akheem Mesidor, EDGE, Miami After addressing wide receiver earlier, Dallas capitalizes here by bolstering it's defensive pass rush. Mesidor’s burst, hand usage, and alignment flexibility give the Cowboys an immediate third-down disruptor with high level upside. He fits cleanly in multiple fronts and helps offset long-term uncertainty along the defensive line. 21. Steelers - Ty Simpson, QB, Alabama Pittsburgh finally invests in a long-term answer at quarterback, with Simpson fitting a developmental timeline if Aaron Rodgers returns for one more season under new head coach Mike McCarthy. Simpson’s 81.4 PFF passing grade and FBS-leading 30 big-time throws highlight his ability to operate efficiently within structure. 22. Chargers - Olaivavega Ioane, IOL, Penn State With Joe Alt and Rashawn Slater locked in on the edges, the Chargers stabilize the interior with a plug-and-play guard. Ioane posted an 80.0 PFF grade and did not allow a sack over the past two seasons, offering immediate pass-protection reliability. His power, anchor strength, and experience at both guard spots fit exactly what the Chargers need. 23. Eagles - Dillon Thieneman, S, Oregon Philadelphia adds a high-IQ safety capable of playing single-high or rotating post-snap. Thieneman brings elite tackling production, range, and ball skills, with over 300 career tackles and 8 interceptions in his three years at both Purdue and Oregon. His versatility allows Vic Fangio to disguise coverage while maintaining discipline against explosive plays. 24. Browns (via JAX) - Denzel Boston, WR, Washington Cleveland adds size and red-zone reliability to a receiver room that needs perimeter presence. Boston’s 6’4” frame gives the Browns a true boundary target who can win above the rim and expand the strike zone for their quarterback. He fits best in a play-action-based offense that leverages size mismatches and intermediate windows. 25. Bears - Emmanuel McNeil-Warren, S, Toledo Chicago targets an ascending safety with size, range, and explosive playmaking ability. McNeil-Warren brings downhill physicality and ball production, offering flexibility as a box defender or interchangeable safety in sub-packages. 26. Bills - C.J. Allen, LB, Georgia Buffalo addresses linebacker with Matt Milano and Shaq Thompson headed for free agency after a season in which the defense ranked 28th against the run. Allen brings the range, trigger speed, and physicality to immediately upgrade the second level. He can run and hit, but also offers the instincts and leadership profile to anchor the defense as a three-down MIKE/WILL in nickel-heavy looks. 27. 49ers - Kenyon Sadiq, TE, Oregon San Francisco reloads its offensive core with a true hybrid weapon built for Kyle Shanahan’s system. Sadiq’s elite burst, competitive blocking, and alignment versatility allow him to function as a Kittle–Juszczyk chess piece across formations. He gives the 49ers mismatch flexibility as they prepare for turnover at receiver. 28. Texans - Kadyn Proctor, OT, Alabama Houston continues to rebuild the offensive line with a mammoth blindside presence in Kadyn Proctor. The 6’7”, 360-pound tackle ranked fourth among qualified FBS tackles in PFF grading in 2025 and was one of just seven linemen to earn high-level grades as both a pass protector and run blocker. Proctor’s size, anchor strength, and improving footwork give the Texans a long-term left tackle option capable of stabilizing a unit that struggled throughout the season. 29. Rams - Monroe Freeling, OT, Georgia Georgia’s Monroe Freeling has climbed draft boards after a significant leap in pass protection grading in 2025, where he was charted as only giving up three sacks on the season. At 6’7”, 315 pounds, his length, movement skills, and improving anchor give him prototype left tackle tools, even if his technique remains inconsistent. He profiles as a high-ceiling developmental starter. 30. Broncos - Keldric Faulk, EDGE, Auburn Denver snags an interior disruptor in Clemson’s Peter Woods. At roughly 6’3”, 310–315 pounds, Woods brings elite first-step explosiveness, violent hands, and functional power, giving the Broncos high-level interior depth with long-term upside. While he experienced a down season in 2025, he earned PFF grades above 83.0 in each of the two prior years, reinforcing that his evaluation is trait- and impact-driven rather than box-score dependent. 31. New England Patriots - T.J. Parker, EDGE, Clemson New England lands a tone-setting edge defender who plays with the violence and effort profile they’ve historically valued. Parker hit a down year in 2025 (five sacks) along with much of Clemson’s defense, but his three-year body of work is the separator — 24 sacks over the past three seasons with PFF grades of 80.0+ in each of the last two. He wins with power, heavy hands, and finishing ability, projecting as an early-down edge who can grow into a primary closer as his pass-rush plan tightens up. 32. Seattle Seahawks - Brandon Cisse, CB, South Carolina Seattle closes the first round by betting on traits at cornerback with Brandon Cisse, a high-end athlete who fits the Seahawks’ man-coverage profile. At 6’0”, 190 pounds, Cisse brings elite speed, fluid hips, and press-man ability, and he’s expected to test extremely well during the pre-draft process. With potential turnover looming in the secondary, Cisse offers a long, athletic outside corner who can compete early while refining his zone awareness and tackling consistency.

Overall, Max Melton has shown the potential to be a significant contributor at the NFL level. His combine performance solidified his standing as a top defensive back prospect. His speed, explosiveness, and ability in pass coverage make him a valuable asset. He would fit well in schemes that utilize his press coverage skills and can contribute immediately on special teams. With further development and coaching, Melton has the potential to become a high-level starter in the NFL. NFL DRAFT HUB Track predictive mock drafts, big board rankings, and team needs analysis in one interactive NFL Draft Hub built on film, data, and scheme fit. Launch Draft Hub 2027 NFL Draft Hub: Big Board, Team Needs, Predictive Mock Draft & Prospect Rankings < Back Max Melton Rutgers HT: 5110 WT: 187 YR: JR POS: CB OVR RK 61 POS RK CEILING POTENTIAL 9 PLAYSTYLE & SCHEME FIT Max Melton is a physical, agile cornerback who thrives in man-to-man coverage but also has the versatility to fit into zone schemes. His speed and explosiveness make him an excellent candidate for press coverage, and he has the ability to disrupt receivers at the line. Melton's run support is solid, making him a well-rounded prospect for teams looking for a cornerback who can contribute in various aspects of the game. CEILING GRADE ANALYSIS High-End Starter Potential (65-69) A player expected to become a top-tier starter within their first few years. They possess strong physical tools and good technical skills but may have some limitations in their game. With development, they can reach near-elite levels and provide consistent impact at their position. Primary scout: Brandon Lundberg KEY STRENGTHS Elite Speed Explosive Athlete Good Man to Man KEY WEAKNESSES Run Angles More Zone Experience Reactionary Speed CLICK HERE TO GO DEEPER WITH NFL DRAFT HUB

NFL Draft Grades: How Shedeur Sanders, Cam Ward, and the 2025 Class Compare to Past Classes Featuring Caleb Williams, Trevor Lawrence, and Bryce Young About Our NFL Draft Grade Process At Football Scout 365, we meticulously evaluate NFL Draft prospects using our internal evaluation grade scale, a system refined since the 2021 NFL Draft. Our grading process blends film study and advanced analytics, assessing players year-round—from the prior season’s tape to summer scouting, in-season evaluations, and key pre-draft events like the Senior Bowl and NFL Combine. This comprehensive approach ensures every data point is accounted for, allowing us to accurately assess each prospect’s NFL potential. 👉 Click here to learn more about our NFL Draft grade scale For the 2025 NFL Draft, we’re incorporating graded comparisons to top quarterbacks from previous draft classes. This process helps us identify anomalies and ensure our grades remain consistent and accurate by evaluating this year’s prospects alongside past evaluations. Our methodology follows BLESTO and NFL scouting department grading models, providing a data-driven approach to quarterback rankings. How We Grade Quarterbacks Scouting the quarterback position is one of the most complex evaluations in football. As the leader of the offense, a quarterback’s success often determines a team’s ceiling. Given the position’s importance, NFL teams invest anywhere from 6% to 25% of their salary cap in a franchise QB, a number that continues to rise. At Football Scout 365, we use a detailed grading system that evaluates quarterbacks across multiple key traits. Each QB receives a 1-9 grade in the following categories, leading to an overall draft grade and a ceiling grade projecting long-term potential. Key Traits We Evaluate in Quarterbacks Arm Talent – Accuracy, velocity, and ability to throw at all levels. Decision-Making – Processing speed, defensive recognition, and turnover avoidance. Mobility – Play-extending ability, pocket movement, and effectiveness throwing on the run. 👉 Click here to see our full QB evaluation process A successful evaluation requires analyzing a QB’s on-field performance, leadership, and football intelligence, while also considering how their skill set fits within an offensive system. Scheme adaptability and long-term development potential are key factors in projecting NFL success. Overview of the 2025 NFL Draft QB Class Several NFL franchises lack a long-term answer at quarterback and enter the offseason looking for upgrades. While scouts consider this a weaker class in terms of top-end talent, multiple quarterbacks are still expected to be first-round selections. Additionally, several intriguing mid-to-late-round prospects have caught the attention of NFL evaluators. QB Rankings: How This Year’s Class Stacks Up In evaluating the 2025 NFL Draft quarterback class, we compare each prospect to the top-tier QBs from previous draft classes, placing them within our NFL Draft grade scale. This system categorizes quarterbacks into four key tiers: Elite Tier Near Elite Tier High-End Starter Potential Mid-Level Starter Potential Elite Tier (Generational/Franchise QB) 1). Caleb Williams (2024, USC) 2). Trevor Lawrence (2021, Clemson) *There are zero Elite QB grades in the 2025 NFL Draft class. Near Elite Tier (High-End Starter With Pro Bowl Upside) 3). Bryce Young (2023 NFL Draft, Alabama) 4). C.J. Stroud (2023 NFL Draft, Ohio State) *There are zero Near Elite QB grades in the 2025 NFL Draft class. High-End Starter Potential (Capable Long-Term Starter) 5). Jayden Daniels (2024, LSU) 6). J.J. McCarthy (2024, Michigan) 7). Drake Maye (2024, North Carolina) 8). Michael Penix Jr. (2024, Washington) 9). Shedeur Sanders (2025, Colorado) A precision passer with excellent poise under pressure, Sanders excels in rhythm-based offenses. His accuracy and decision-making are NFL-ready. 10). Cam Ward (2025, Miami) An aggressive passer with elite arm talent, Ward thrives in vertical passing schemes. His mechanics need refinement, but his ability to extend plays and push the ball downfield makes him one of the most exciting prospects in this class. 11). Justin Fields (2021, Ohio State) 12). Anthony Richardson (2023, Florida) Mid-Level Starter Potential (Developmental Starter With Upside) 13). Bo Nix (2024, Oregon) 14). Zach Wilson (2021, BYU) 15). Quinn Ewers (2025, Texas) A high IQ passer with a quick release and excellent pocket presence, Ewers thrives in spread or West Coast schemes that emphasize RPOs and quick passing concepts. His deep-ball accuracy is a strength, but he must improve footwork and consistency under pressure to maximize his upside. 16). Jalen Milroe (2025, Alabama) An elite dual-threat quarterback with a strong arm, Milroe fits best in a spread-based offense that utilizes RPOs and designed quarterback runs. His mobility and deep-ball ability are major assets, but he must refine his accuracy and decision-making in the intermediate passing game. 17). Will Levis (2023, Kentucky) 18). Kyle McCord (2025, Syracuse) A pocket passer with strong arm talent and solid accuracy, McCord fits best in a play-action-heavy system that allows him to leverage timing throws and structured reads. His ability to make downfield throws when given a clean pocket is a plus, but he must improve handling pressure. 19). Mac Jones (2021, Alabama) 20). Jaxson Dart (2025, Ole Miss) A strong-armed, athletic quarterback, Dart thrives in RPO-heavy and vertical passing schemes. His ability to make off-platform throws and extend plays is a plus, but he must refine his mechanics under pressure to transition smoothly into a pro-style system. 21). Will Howard (2025, Ohio State) A big-bodied, strong-armed quarterback with solid mobility, Howard fits best in a vertical play-action offense. His deep-ball accuracy and poise in high-pressure situations stand out, but his lower-body mechanics and processing against complex defenses need refinement. 22). Dillon Gabriel (2025, Oregon) A rhythm-based passer with strong football IQ and accuracy in the short-to-intermediate game, Gabriel thrives in quick-hitting offenses that emphasize timing and RPOs. His lack of elite size and arm strength limit his upside, but his decision-making makes him a solid developmental option.

2025 NFL Draft Cheat Sheet: Big Board Rankings, Mock Drafts, Final Predictions Your Ultimate Guide to Round 1: Big Board, Top QBs, Mock Draft Links & What to Expect The wait is over. The 2025 NFL Draft kicks off tomorrow night at Lambeau Field in Green Bay, Wisconsin — and if you're trying to keep up with the latest player rankings, mock drafts, value picks, and day two steals, you have come to the right place. 🏟️ Draft Attendees: Who Will Walk the Stage Tonight? Sixteen top prospects will be in the building: Mason Graham (DT, Michigan) Abdul Carter (EDGE, Penn State) Travis Hunter (ATH, Colorado) Cam Ward (QB, Miami) Will Johnson (CB, Michigan) Colston Loveland (TE, Michigan) Tetairoa McMillan (WR, Arizona) Ashton Jeanty (RB, Boise State) Mike Green (EDGE, Marshall) Will Campbell (OT, LSU) Tyler Booker (IOL, Alabama) Jihaad Campbell (LB, Alabama) Jalen Milroe (QB, Alabama) Josh Simmons (OT, Ohio State) Malaki Starks (S, Georgia) Shemar Stewart (EDGE, Texas A&M) 🔢 Draft Order: Top 10 Picks Set to Shake Up the Board There are 257 picks in this year’s draft. The Titans own the top pick, while the Chiefs will close out Day 3 with Mr. Irrelevant. 🔟 Top 10 Picks Tennessee Titans Cleveland Browns New York Giants New England Patriots Jacksonville Jaguars Las Vegas Raiders New York Jets Carolina Panthers New Orleans Saints Chicago Bears Football Scout 365: Top 10 Prospects for the 2025 NFL Draft With the 2025 NFL Draft just hours away, here are the final Top 10 overall prospects according to the Football Scout 365 Big Board — a ranking built on film evaluation, advanced analytics, and positional value. 1. Mason Graham | IDL | Michigan The most disruptive interior lineman in the class, Graham wins with elite leverage, heavy hands, and nonstop motor. He projects as a day-one anchor in both even and odd fronts. 2. Abdul Carter | EDGE | Penn State A versatile pass rusher with freaky athletic traits and violent hands. Carter’s first-step explosion and ability to bend through contact make him a future Pro Bowl-caliber edge in the right scheme. 3. Travis Hunter | ATH (WR/CB) | Colorado Hunter is one of the rarest two-way prospects we’ve ever graded. He could be a WR1 or CB1 in the NFL — or both. His ball skills, route tempo, and instincts on either side of the ball are elite. 4. Ashton Jeanty | RB | Boise State Jeanty is the most complete back in this class: elite vision, low-center power, and pass-catching versatility. He’s a modern, three-down workhorse with explosive lateral cuts and contact balance. 5. Will Johnson | CB | Michigan A long, fluid cover corner with NFL bloodlines and elite instincts in zone. Johnson thrives in top-down coverage and shows the tools to mirror receivers in man. Day-one starter potential. 6. Mike Green | EDGE | Marshall This year’s top Group of Five riser. Green led the FBS in sacks and has the athletic profile to match. Don’t be shocked if he’s the most productive rookie edge defender in this class. 7. Will Campbell | OT | LSU Campbell combines SEC-tested strength with strong footwork and hand timing. He’s scheme-versatile and projects as a long-term LT or RT, depending on team needs and depth. 8. Jahdae Barron | CB | Texas An instinctive playmaker who can play outside or in the nickel. Barron is one of the most physical corners in the class and is a true tone-setter against the run. 9. Cam Ward | QB | Miami Ward is our QB1 — a creative, fearless thrower with off-platform ability and elite arm angles. He elevated Miami’s offense in 2024 and brings starter-level traits into a league desperate for QB upside. 10. Colston Loveland | TE | Michigan Loveland is a fluid route runner with the size, speed, and catch radius to be a matchup nightmare. He's a modern vertical tight end with red-zone dominance written all over his game. 📎 Click here to view the full Football Scout 365 Top 100 Big Board Top 3 Quarterbacks in the Class 1) Cam Ward | Miami | 6'2", 220 lbs Player Comp: Justin Fields meets Josh Allen Projection: 1st overall Titans Ward is the top off-script creator in this class with elite velocity, pocket poise, and a scheme-diverse skill set. He enters draft night as the consensus QB1. 2) Shedeur Sanders | Colorado | 6'2", 215 lbs Player Comp: Joe Burrow ceiling, Andy Dalton floor Projection: Day One A surgical rhythm passer with clean mechanics and elite anticipation. Some question his sack avoidance and ability to create late in downs, but the floor is high. 3) Tyler Shough | Louisville | 6'5", 225 lbs Player Comparison: NA Projection: Early Day 2 Shough is a physically gifted passer with play-action comfort and RPO polish. Medical history is the red flag, but the upside is undeniable in the right system. 📎 Full QB Rankings & Positional Grades Latest Mock Drafts We’ve tracked trends, evaluated tape, and adjusted with insider intel. Mock Draft 6.0 (Final Round 1 Projection) Mock Draft 5.0 (Post-Free Agency Adjustments) Each pick features full analysis of scheme fit, draft capital value, and how front offices are approaching positional needs. 📎 View All Mocks Here 📊 How the 2025 NFL Draft Class Stacks Up 🧱 Trenches Rule Round 1: 11 Defensive Linemen Projected This year’s draft is defined by elite talent up front. In our final mock, 11 defensive linemen are selected in Round 1 — including seven edge rushers and four interior defenders — making this one of the deepest front-line groups in recent memory. Dynamic pass rushers like Abdul Carter, James Pearce Jr., and Mike Green headline the edge class, while Mason Graham and Walter Nolen anchor a dominant interior group. These are plug-and-play impact players with high ceilings and scheme versatility. 🎯 Skill Positions Bring Value Beyond the Top 10: The intrigue at QB, RB, and WR lies mostly outside the top tier — but don’t mistake that for a lack of talent. We’ve consistently projected just two quarterbacks in Round 1: Cam Ward (Miami) – QB1 with elite off-script traits Shedeur Sanders (Colorado) – Clean processor, NFL pedigree Some mocks have floated Jaxson Dart or Jalen Milroe into the late first, but we view both as high-upside Day 2 picks. Dart, in particular, has a real shot to crack the top 32 for teams chasing the fifth-year option. And don’t forget about Tyler Shough, a legit sleeper with tools and pro experience. 💥 Running Back Depth Mirrors the 2017 Class This RB group is as deep as we've seen in years. Ashton Jeanty (Boise State) and Omarion Hampton (UNC) are locked into Round 1 on our board. Both offer elite contact balance, burst, and three-down value. TreVeyon Henderson (Ohio State) remains a wild card — he’s a home-run hitter with receiving ability who could sneak into Round 1. Even if he slides, he brings Day 1 impact potential. We’ve graded 25+ RBs with draftable grades, and expect 3–5 more backs to come off the board in Round 2. Day 3 will offer starter-level talent — and this is the kind of class where an undrafted RB could make serious noise as a rookie. 🧭 QB Landing Spots to Watch Titans (No. 1): Locked on Cam Ward Steelers (No. 21): Top Shedeur destination Saints (No. 9): Wild card with Derek Carr injury. Shedeur Sanders and Jaxson Dart are heavily connected. Giants: Trade-up potential for Jaxson Dart, Jalen Milroe, or Shedeur Sanders. They could trade back into the back of round one for a QB. Dark horse late day one, early day two risers: Jaxson Dart, Tyler Shough, Kyle McCord, Will Howard 💎 Best Value: 5 Day 1 Steals in the 2025 NFL Draft Late Round 1, Early Round 2 Prospects with First-Round Impact The 2025 NFL Draft class may not be top-heavy, but there’s real gold to be found in the back half of Round 1 and early Round 2. In under four minutes, we spotlight five players with legitimate Day 1 impact potential — each carrying first-round traits at a discount. TreVeyon Henderson | RB | Ohio State Henderson’s tape shows a home-run hitter with elite acceleration, short-area burst, and big-play instincts. When healthy, he's the most dangerous open-field threat in the class. Though running back value has pushed him down boards, his ability to flip the field on any touch is unmatched. James Pearce Jr. | EDGE | Tennessee One of the most explosive edge defenders in the draft, Pearce offers elite first-step quickness, flexibility, and pass-rush counters. His tape screams top-10 talent, but questions about consistency and size have kept him just outside the top tier. He’s a prime candidate to outplay his draft slot. Donovan Ezeiruaku | EDGE | Boston College Ezeiruaku doesn’t have the freaky traits of others in this class, but his technical polish, hand usage, and play recognition make him one of the most pro-ready edge rushers on the board. He wins with leverage, motor, and intelligence — traits that translate quickly to the NFL. 🧩 Favorite Day Two Prospects with Round 1 Traits These aren’t just Day Two picks — they’re potential franchise cornerstones with Day One ceilings. Whether it’s injury history, positional value bias, or under-the-radar production, these are the types of prospects who can define a draft class. Each one flashes traits that belong in the first round — and all three could become major steals on Friday night. Tyler Shough | QB | Louisville At 6’5”, 225 lbs, Shough checks every box for a modern NFL quarterback — size, arm strength, mobility, and play-action efficiency. He thrived in Louisville’s RPO and boot-action concepts, delivering the ball with velocity and timing. If not for injury concerns, we’re likely talking about a top-20 pick. In the right situation, Shough has the tools to be a multi-year starter and potential long-term answer at QB. Quinshon Judkins | RB | Ohio State Judkins is a violent, downhill runner with elite vision, power through contact, and pass-catching upside. After transferring to Ohio State, he proved he can carry the load against top-tier defenses. He brings three-down versatility and a physical edge that will immediately elevate any backfield. Jaylin Noel | WR | Iowa State Noel is a twitchy, explosive YAC weapon with the kind of short-area burst and route nuance that translates quickly to the NFL. He’s electric after the catch, and his ability to separate on underneath and intermediate routes gives him instant slot value. 🔮 Final Bold Predictions for the 2025 NFL Draft Only Two Quarterbacks Go Round 1 Just Cam Ward and Shedeur Sanders hear their names called on Day One. Despite late buzz around Jaxson Dart and Jalen Milroe, the board holds steady. Three Running Backs in Round 1 Ashton Jeanty, Omarion Hampton, and TreVeyon Henderson all crack the first round — the most Day One RBs we’ve seen since 2018. Two Tight Ends in the Top 12 Both Colston Loveland and Tyler Warren are selected within the first 12 picks — a rare occurrence at the TE position and a testament to this class's elite traits. Only Two Wide Receivers Go Round 1 Expect a quieter WR market up top. Tetairoa McMillan leads the way, and the second spot comes down to Luther Burden III, Emeka Egbuka, or Matthew Golden — we project one sneaks into the back end of Day One. Ashton Jeanty Cracks the Top 5 Jeanty’s stock surges late. He doesn’t land where people expect — instead, watch for the Patriots or Jaguars to shock the board early and secure a top-tier offensive weapon. Mason Graham Falls to Back End of Top 10 Our top overall player, Michigan DT Mason Graham, surprisingly slips to the 8–10 range. Carolina or Chicago are the likely beneficiaries. Will Johnson Slides to Pick 22 The draft's top cornerback, Will Johnson, unexpectedly falls out of the top 10 and into the lap of the Los Angeles Chargers at No. 22 overall. QB Run Kicks Off Early on Day Two Day Two starts fast as teams target value and upside at quarterback. Expect a flurry of picks between picks 33–50 with Jaxson Dart, Tyler Shough, and Jalen Milroe headlining the scramble.

2025 NFL Draft: Carl Smith, Robert Morris WR & Former Lafayette Team Captain A Potential Hidden Gem Each year, the NFL Draft shines a spotlight on players whose journeys epitomize resilience, determination, and the ability to seize opportunities. Carl Smith, a wide receiver from Robert Morris University, is no exception. Known for his elite route-running ability, football IQ, and contagious competitive spirit, Smith is emerging as one of the most intriguing small-school prospects in the 2025 NFL Draft. With standout performances at the FCS Bowl and Tropical Bowl, Smith has caught the attention of scouts, solidifying himself as a player to watch. High School and Recruiting Background Hailing from Darby Township, Pennsylvania, Carl Smith excelled at West Philadelphia Catholic High School, where he earned All-Catholic League First-Team honors as a wide receiver and Second-Team honors as a defensive back. Known for his versatility, Smith recorded 40 receptions for 756 yards and 11 touchdowns in his senior year while contributing 68 tackles and seven interceptions on defense. His athletic pedigree is further emphasized by his sister Faith Ross, a three-time First Team All-American track star at the University of Kentucky, who was also an SEC Champion and NCAA Championship finalist. “All I need is an opportunity… I’ll be sure to make the most of it.” - Carl Smith Despite his impressive production, Smith was listed as a zero-star recruit by 247Sports. He committed to Virginia Tech as part of the Class of 2020 but transferred to Lafayette College after his freshman year. At Lafayette, Smith’s leadership blossomed, earning him team captaincy during the Leopards’ historic 2023 season, where they won their first Patriot League Championship and made their inaugural FCS playoff appearance. College Football and Academic Background Smith’s collegiate journey took him from Virginia Tech to Lafayette College, where he emerged as a team leader, and finally to Robert Morris University, where he showcased his polished skill set and earned attention from NFL scouts. At Lafayette, Smith’s role steadily grew over three seasons (2021-2023). He played in 21 games, recording 12 catches for 145 yards and two touchdowns. Smith’s versatility was evident in his kick-return contributions, with seven attempts for 143 yards, averaging 20.4 yards per return. “The hardest moment I’ve faced was tearing my groin in 2023. I worked my way back to inspire my team, and we made history. That showed me nothing can stop what God has planned for you.” — Carl Smith As a senior in 2023, he served as team captain and led Lafayette to its first Patriot League Championship and FCS playoff appearance in school history. Despite a torn groin suffered in Week 3, Smith returned to inspire his team, highlighting his resilience and “We>Me” mindset. In 2024, Smith transferred to Robert Morris University, where he excelled in the passing game. Over 10 games, he tallied 15 receptions for 277 yards and two touchdowns, averaging an impressive 18.5 yards per catch. He also demonstrated his ability in the run game, contributing 31 yards on one rushing attempt, further emphasizing his versatility. FCS and Tropical Bowl Standout Smith’s performances at the FCS Bowl and Tropical Bowl were pivotal in elevating his draft stock. His ability to consistently create separation, make contested catches, and showcase his football IQ drew praise from scouts and analysts. CBS Sports listed Smith as a standout performer in their coverage of both events, further solidifying his status as a draftable prospect. At the Tropical Bowl, Smith’s ability to thrive in one-on-one matchups and his polished skill set were on full display. Scouts noted his smooth route running, quick releases, and ability to adjust to different coverage schemes. Smith himself commented on his performances, saying, “All I need is an opportunity… I’ll be sure to make the most of it.” 2025 NFL Draft Scouting Report “My attention to detail as a route runner separates me from a lot of receivers in the 2025 NFL Draft.” — Carl Smith (Draft Diamonds Interview) Strengths Route Running: Smith’s attention to detail in his routes sets him apart. He uses tempo, fast releases, and clean breaks to create separation, excelling in timing-based offenses. Football IQ: A student of the game, Smith’s understanding of defensive schemes and coverages is exceptional. His experience in a West Coast offense prepared him for NFL-level complexity. Versatility: Smith’s inside-outside flexibility allows him to thrive as both a slot and outside receiver. His willingness to block for the run game further demonstrates his unselfishness. Playmaking Ability: Quickness and craftiness after the catch make Smith a threat in open space, while his reliable hands allow him to secure difficult receptions. Competitiveness: Smith’s energy and “iron sharpens iron” mentality inspire teammates and elevate his play in critical moments. Weaknesses Size Concerns: At 5’11” and 176 pounds, Smith may face challenges against larger NFL defensive backs. However, his technique and quickness help mitigate these disadvantages. Play Strength: While effective at the college level, adding functional strength will improve his ability to handle physical defenders and enhance his blocking. NFL Style Comparison Jarvis Landry (New Orleans Saints): Smith’s game resembles (not a direct comparison) Landry’s in terms of route-running precision and his willingness to block in the run game. NFL Draft Projection Projected Round: Undrafted Free Agent, Practice Squad, UFL Potential Best Scheme Fit: West Coast or Spread Offense, where his quickness and route-running can thrive in timing-based concepts. Summary Carl Smith is a highly competitive and polished wide receiver prospect whose technical expertise, versatility, and leadership qualities make him an ideal candidate for teams seeking a dependable receiver. Standing at 5’11” and 176 pounds, Smith compensates for his size with quickness, precise route running, and soft hands. His ability to impact the game as both a receiver and blocker showcases his team-first mentality, making him a valuable asset in multiple roles. "Since the age of 4, I have given this game all my heart, mind, and spirit. I am so hungry for success in this sport and for the opportunity to keep proving to the world that I can compete with the best. I would love to use this sport to change my family’s living situation and to be a role model for kids like me all across the world. My passion for this sport has inspired many others, and I want to keep this journey going!" - Carl Smith While projected as an undrafted free agent, Smith’s strong work ethic, football IQ, and passion for the game give him significant upside as a developmental player. Teams looking for a polished, high-character receiver with a chip on his shoulder would be wise to take a chance on this small-school standout.

NFL DRAFT HUB Track predictive mock drafts, big board rankings, and team needs analysis in one interactive NFL Draft Hub built on film, data, and scheme fit. Launch Draft Hub 2027 NFL Draft Hub: Big Board, Team Needs, Predictive Mock Draft & Prospect Rankings < Back Jimmy Horn Jr. Colorado HT: 5100 WT: 170 YR: SR POS: WR OVR RK 96 POS RK CEILING POTENTIAL 13 PLAYSTYLE & SCHEME FIT Jimmy Horn Jr. is an electric slot receiver and return specialist with elite speed, quick twitch athleticism, and strong route-running skills. His ability to create separation makes him an intriguing option in space, but his small frame, struggles with contested catches, and inconsistency with drops limit his upside as a full-time starter. Best fit as a rotational slot receiver and special teams weapon in a spread or West Coast offense. CEILING GRADE ANALYSIS Mid-Level Starter Potential (60-64) A solid, dependable starter with the potential to exceed expectations. They have good athleticism and tools but may lack elite traits. While they show flashes of high-level play, they also have some notable weaknesses that must be developed. These players often need 2-3 years to establish themselves. Primary scout: Brandon Lundberg KEY STRENGTHS Elite Speed & Quickness Explosive Release Ball Tracking & Deep Threat Ability KEY WEAKNESSES Lack of Functional Strength & Physicality Struggles in Contested Catch Situations Drop Issues & Concentration Lapses CLICK HERE TO GO DEEPER WITH NFL DRAFT HUB

2026 NFL Combine: Taylen Green, Jeremiyah Love & Jeff Caldwell Showcase Elite Speed and Explosion The 2026 NFL Scouting Combine shifts to the offensive skill positions — quarterbacks, running backs, and wide receivers — where verified speed, acceleration, and lower-body explosion directly shape modern NFL spacing and explosive-play creation. For running backs and wide receivers, testing data has consistently shown strong translation to NFL production. Sub-4.40 speed forces defensive leverage adjustments, while sub-1.50 10-yard splits correlate with early-phase separation and gap acceleration. Vertical jumps north of 40 inches reflect lower-body power that shows up at the catch point and through contact. The historical ceilings remain elite: Chris Johnson’s 4.24 and 1.40 split at running back, Xavier Worthy’s 4.21 at wide receiver, and 1.43 splits from Henry Ruggs III and Malcolm Mitchell establish the benchmark for rare acceleration and runway speed. Quarterback testing, however, requires context. The position is not defined by straight-line speed but by functional mobility, platform balance, and short-area escape ability. A strong 10-yard split and fluid movement in drills matter more than a headline 40 time. Lower-body explosion can translate to torque generation and off-platform velocity, but the throwing session ultimately carries greater evaluative weight than the stopwatch. Running Back Historical Context Running back testing is driven by launch and acceleration. The true separator is how quickly a back reaches top gear through the first 10 yards. Chris Johnson still holds both the fastest 40 (4.24) and fastest 10-yard split (1.40), a pairing that reflects explosive-play translation. The elite speed band for modern backs lives in the 4.30–4.40 range (Achane 4.32, Gibbs 4.36, Walker 4.38), while verticals of 40”+ consistently signal contact power and lower-body pop. Wide Receiver Historical Context Wide receiver remains the fastest position group historically. Worthy’s 4.21 and John Ross’ 4.22 represent rare top-end speed, but the 10-yard split often proves more predictive for early separation, with elite marks clustering between 1.43–1.46. Explosion also matters — vertical ceilings reach 45.0 inches (Chris Conley), reinforcing the link between lower-body power and catch-point dominance. As numbers finalize for 2026, the evaluation won’t center on who simply ran fast. It will focus on which prospects demonstrated translatable burst, separation acceleration, and size-adjusted explosion that align with modern offensive demands. 2026 NFL Combine Running Back Standouts Jeremiyah Love | RB | Notre Dame | 6’0” | 212 lbs Jeremiyah Love confirmed his elite projection with a 4.36 40-yard dash and a 1.48-second 10-yard split — a rare acceleration profile at 212 pounds. The 1.48 split places him squarely in the modern explosive-launch tier alongside Justice Hill (1.48), Pierre Strong (1.50), Ezekiel Elliott (1.50), and Zamir White (1.50) — backs whose early-phase burst translated quickly to NFL production. While no one is touching Chris Johnson’s historic 1.40, Love’s first-three-step acceleration firmly lives inside the feature-back band. The 4.36 40 reinforces that he’s not just quick — he carries true runway speed. That mark aligns with Jahmyr Gibbs (4.36), Anthony Alridge (4.36), and C.J. Spiller (4.37) — verified explosive-play threats capable of flipping the field. At 212 pounds, pairing sub-4.40 long speed with sub-1.50 launch acceleration confirms legitimate three-down, home-run upside. The testing validates what the production already suggested: Love possesses the acceleration profile of a modern NFL feature back with true explosive-play equity. Mike Washington Jr. | RB | Arkansas | 6’1” | 223 lbs Mike Washington delivered one of the most impressive size-speed profiles in the class. His 4.33 40-yard dash places him alongside Isaac Guerendo (4.33) and Darren McFadden (4.33), just a tick behind De’Von Achane (4.32). At 223 pounds, that’s rare mass-adjusted runway speed — a legitimate outlier blend of frame and top-end acceleration. His 1.51-second 10-yard split doesn’t enter the 1.48–1.49 elite launch tier, but it confirms strong early-phase acceleration for a back with his build. He gets up to speed efficiently and carries it with stride length once he clears the second level. The 39-inch vertical reinforces lower-body power, landing just below the 40”+ explosion threshold occupied by backs like Saquon Barkley (41”), Christine Michael (43”), and Ameer Abdullah (42.5”). That vertical supports contact balance and red-zone translation, even if it doesn’t reach elite explosiveness territory. The overall athletic profile confirms legitimate starter traits. If decisiveness and downhill urgency continue to develop, Washington has the size-speed foundation of a modern NFL feature back rather than just a rotational piece. Demond Claiborne | RB | Wake Forest | 5’10” | 188 lbs Demond Claiborne posted a 4.37 40-yard dash, placing him in the same verified speed tier as Isiah Pacheco, Pierre Strong, and T.J. Logan — legitimate NFL-caliber breakaway runners. The long speed is real, and once he opens his stride, he can stress pursuit angles and create explosive gains. The separator, however, is the 1.59-second 10-yard split. That number places him outside the elite acceleration cluster, which historically lives in the 1.46–1.49 range (Chris Johnson 1.40, Jonathan Taylor 1.46, Tarik Cohen 1.47). Claiborne’s testing profile suggests build-up acceleration rather than immediate launch burst — he reaches top gear quickly enough, but he doesn’t explode through the first three steps at a feature-back level. The data aligns with the tape. Claiborne is most dangerous in space, where lateral twitch and open-field speed can take over. His projection fits as a change-of-pace weapon and explosive-play complement rather than a downhill, gap-pressing power accelerator. Jam Miller | RB | Alabama | 5’10” | 209 lbs Jam Miller ran 4.42 in the 40 with a 1.53-second 10-yard split, placing him firmly in the functional NFL acceleration band but outside the true separator tier. The 1.53 split mirrors backs like Mike Washington Jr. in this class — respectable early burst, but not the 1.48–1.49 acceleration cluster that historically correlates with explosive feature-back translation. Where Miller’s profile begins to flatten is in the explosion metrics. His 30.5-inch vertical and 9’7” broad jump fall well below the 40”+ elite lower-body power threshold and sit significantly under the modern explosive-starter baseline. For comparison, top-tier NFL-caliber backs routinely post 40-inch verticals and 10’5”+ broad jumps, signaling contact pop and red-zone power production. The overall athletic profile confirms rotational viability but does not elevate his ceiling into feature-back territory. The testing aligns with a depth projection rather than a three-down impact role. 2026 RB Class Context The 2026 running back group averaged: 4.46 in the 40 1.54 in the 10-yard split 36.4” vertical For context: The elite 40 tier remains 4.24–4.36 The elite split tier remains 1.40–1.49 The elite explosion marker remains 40”+ vertical The defining theme: Acceleration and translatable burst over track-only speed. Love validated elite three-down projection. Washington validated rare size-speed upside. Claiborne confirmed open-field juice. 2026 NFL Combine Quarterback Standouts Taylen Green | QB | Arkansas | 6’6” | 227 lbs Taylen Green delivered one of the most historically rare quarterback testing profiles in Combine history. His 4.37 40-yard dash ranks second all-time at the position behind only Reggie McNeal’s 4.35, immediately placing him in elite athletic territory. More importantly, his 1.52-second 10-yard split lands squarely inside the premium acceleration tier occupied by Robert Griffin III, Anthony Richardson, and Jalen Hurts — the range that most directly translates to pocket escape and designed-run viability. What truly separates Green, however, is the explosion. His 43.5-inch vertical is the highest ever recorded for a quarterback, surpassing Anthony Richardson’s 40.5 and Robert Griffin III’s 39. At 6’6” and 227 pounds with nearly 35-inch arms, that combination of size, stride length, and lower-body power is historically rare. The testing confirms elite dual-threat athletic upside and schematic flexibility. The evaluation hinge remains passing consistency. His elongated delivery, processing variance, and ball security under pressure must stabilize for his ceiling to be realized. But from a pure athletic standpoint, Green validated rare traits that significantly expand offensive design options at the next level. Cole Payton | QB | North Dakota State | 6’3” | 232 lbs Cole Payton delivered a strong size-adjusted athletic profile, running 4.56 in the 40 with a 1.55-second 10-yard split, along with a 40-inch vertical and 10’10” broad jump. The 4.56 places him firmly in the functional dual-threat tier at quarterback — comparable to players like Dorian Thompson-Robinson (4.56) and just behind Russell Wilson (4.55). It’s not rare speed for the position, but at 232 pounds, it confirms legitimate build-up mobility and designed-run viability. His 1.55 split lands in the same acceleration range as Brock Purdy (1.55) and Drew Lock (1.55), signaling adequate short-area burst without entering the elite 1.51–1.53 escape band occupied by Malik Cunningham (1.51), Anthony Richardson (1.53), and Jalen Hurts (1.53). The testing suggests functional pocket movement rather than twitch-driven escapability. The athletic testing confirms legitimate schematic utility in movement-based offenses. The projection, however, remains tied to mechanical refinement and velocity development. Payton profiles as a developmental QB3 with short-yardage and package-play value until his passing consistency stabilizes. 2026 NFL Combine Wide Receiver Standouts Brenen Thompson | WR | Mississippi State | 5’9” | 164 lbs Brenen Thompson delivered the fastest times in the draft cycle, blazing a 4.26 40-yard dash with a 1.48-second 10-yard split, immediately placing himself in rare-speed territory. The 4.26 sits just behind Xavier Worthy (4.21) and John Ross (4.22), aligning with the elite vertical-speed band that includes Henry Ruggs III (4.27) and Marquise Goodwin (4.27). That’s legitimate, defense-altering runway speed. The more translatable metric may be the 1.48 split, which lands inside the premium WR acceleration cluster alongside Deebo Samuel (1.48), Mecole Hardman (1.48), and Will Fuller (1.47). The testing confirms true launch burst, not just build-up speed. At 164 pounds, the projection is specialized. Without verified explosion numbers, his profile leans heavily on vertical stress and acceleration rather than size-adjusted power. The testing reinforces a pure field-stretch weapon whose ceiling hinges on durability and route diversification. Zavion Thomas | WR | LSU | 5’10” | 190 lbs Thomas posted a 4.28 40-yard dash with a 1.51-second 10-yard split, placing him firmly inside the rare-speed band for this class. The 4.28 aligns with vertical threats such as Tyquan Thornton (4.28) and J.J. Nelson (4.28), confirming legitimate runway speed capable of stressing coverage. His 1.51 split lands just outside the elite 1.43–1.48 acceleration tier but still reflects strong early-phase burst. The 36-inch vertical supports functional lower-body pop, though it falls short of the 40”+ explosive threshold that typically signals above-the-rim dominance. The testing validates a vertical and return-game weapon with true field-stretch ability. The projection remains role-specific — speed, space, and manufactured touches — rather than a high-volume separator or contested-catch specialist. Bryce Lance | WR | North Dakota State | 6’3” | 204 lbs Lance delivered one of the most impressive size-adjusted profiles in the receiver group, running a 4.34 40-yard dash with a 1.51-second split, along with a 41.5-inch vertical and 11’1” broad jump. The 4.34 places him in the verified vertical-speed band alongside players like DK Metcalf (4.33) and Brandin Cooks (4.33), confirming legitimate runway speed for a 6’3” boundary target. His 1.51 split sits just outside the elite 1.43–1.48 acceleration tier but reflects strong early-phase burst for his frame. Where Lance separates is explosion. The 41.5-inch vertical places him inside the 40”+ explosive threshold, aligning with players such as Rashee Rice (41”) and Bryce Ford-Wheaton (41”). The 11’1” broad reinforces lower-body power and horizontal drive. The testing confirms a vertical boundary weapon with above-the-rim traits and real size-speed upside. The projection hinges on route refinement and short-area polish, but the athletic ceiling is starter-caliber if development continues. Deion Burks | WR | Oklahoma | 5’10” | 180 lbs Burks posted one of the more explosive testing profiles in the class: 4.33 in the 40, 1.51-second 10-yard split, 42.5-inch vertical, and 10’11” broad jump. The 4.33 places him alongside verified vertical threats such as DK Metcalf (4.33), Brandin Cooks (4.33), and Phillip Dorsett (4.33) — legitimate NFL-caliber long speed. His 1.51 split sits just outside the elite 1.43–1.46 tier (Ruggs 1.43, Metcalf 1.45), but it confirms strong early-phase acceleration that translates to slot separation and jet-sweep burst. Where Burks truly separates is explosion. The 42.5-inch vertical places him just below the all-time WR ceiling of Chris Conley (45”) and in the same rare air as Donovan Peoples-Jones (44.5”) and Miles Boykin (43.5”). That lower-body pop shows up in short-area route breaks and catch-point elevation. The question remains play-speed consistency. The testing confirms explosive traits; the projection hinges on vertical route nuance and tempo control. Jeff Caldwell | WR | Cincinnati | 6’5” | 216 lbs Caldwell delivered arguably the most impressive size-adjusted profile in the receiver group: 4.32 in the 40, 1.53 split, 42-inch vertical, and 11’2” broad jump. The 4.32 places him inside the rare-speed band occupied by Will Fuller (4.32) and Calvin Austin (4.32) — but at 6’5”, 216 pounds, that’s a dramatically different body type. His profile more closely resembles a vertical mismatch archetype. The 42-inch vertical puts him alongside elite explosive testers such as Henry Ruggs (42”) and Josh Doctson (41”), reinforcing above-the-rim dominance potential. The 11’2” broad confirms horizontal power to complement stride-based separation. The athletic ceiling is undeniable. The evaluation hinge remains route refinement and contested-catch aggression. If technical development catches up to the traits, this is starter-caliber vertical “Z” upside. Zachariah Branch | WR | Georgia | 5’9” | 177 lbs Branch tested at 4.36 in the 40 with a 1.52 split, confirming legitimate field-stretch speed. His time places him in the same verified range as Jahmyr Gibbs (4.36 as RB) and C.J. Spiller (4.37) in terms of open-field carry speed — but at receiver, that band reflects true slot stress ability. The 1.52 split confirms strong acceleration, even if it doesn’t enter the 1.43–1.46 elite WR launch tier. His 38-inch vertical reflects solid but not rare explosion relative to the class. The testing validates what the tape shows: instant-access speed, YAC burst, and return-game utility. His projection is as a movement-based slot weapon with vertical flexibility rather than a boundary alpha. Chris Brazzell II | WR | Tennessee | 6’4” | 198 lbs Brazzell posted a 4.37 40-yard dash, reinforcing legitimate build-up speed for a 6’4” receiver. That mark aligns with vertical threats such as Isiah Pacheco (RB 4.37), Pierre Strong (RB 4.37) — confirming runway speed for a tall-strider archetype. The 1.54 split suggests build-up acceleration rather than immediate launch burst. His testing supports stride-length separation rather than sudden twitch wins. The profile aligns with his tape: vertical “Z” receiver with above-the-rim control. The evaluation question remains physicality against press and intermediate consistency. Malik Benson | WR | Oregon | 6’0” | 189 lbs Benson’s 4.38 40 confirms legitimate deep-threat speed, landing in the same band as Kenneth Walker (RB 4.38) and Ty Chandler (RB 4.38) in pure runway terms. His 1.54 split reflects solid but not elite launch acceleration. Where his profile flattens is explosion — 32.5-inch vertical and 10’2” broad sit below the 40”+ explosive WR tier. That supports a projection built primarily on vertical speed rather than catch-point dominance or contact pop. He remains a field-stretch specialist whose value hinges on defensive leverage stress. Skyler Bell | WR | Connecticut | 6’0” | 192 lbs Bell posted a balanced, starter-caliber profile: 4.40 40, 1.51 split, 41-inch vertical, and 11’1” broad. The 1.51 split places him just outside the elite launch band but firmly inside strong early-phase acceleration territory. His 41-inch vertical puts him in the explosive tier alongside Rashee Rice (41”) and Bryce Ford-Wheaton (41”). The testing confirms what the production suggests: three-level speed with legitimate lower-body pop. Bell’s profile projects as an inside/outside contributor with vertical stress ability and YAC potential. Omar Cooper Jr. | WR | Indiana | 6’0” | 199 lbs Omar Cooper Jr. posted a 4.43 40-yard dash with a 1.54-second 10-yard split and a 37-inch vertical, confirming solid NFL-caliber athleticism but not rare explosiveness. The 4.43 places him in the functional vertical-speed band — fast enough to threaten leverage but outside the 4.32–4.36 rare-speed tier occupied by true runway separators. His 1.54 split reflects adequate early acceleration, though it falls short of the elite 1.43–1.48 launch cluster that typically signals immediate separation ability off the line. Where Cooper’s profile diverges from pure speed receivers is play strength and contact balance. His 37-inch vertical confirms respectable lower-body explosion, even if it doesn’t enter the 40”+ explosive tier. The testing aligns closely with the tape: he wins more with build-up speed, frame strength, and post-catch violence than with sudden twitch or vertical stack speed. Cooper profiles as a physical slot or inside/outside hybrid who can generate yards after contact and stress defensive backs through body control rather than pure athletic separation. The Combine numbers reinforce a high-floor, Day 2-caliber projection built on translatable play strength rather than rare traits. 2026 WR Class Context The 2026 wide receiver group averaged: 4.44 in the 40 1.56 in the 10-yard split 36.9” vertical For context: The elite 40 tier remains 4.21–4.33 The elite split tier remains 1.43–1.48 The elite explosion marker remains 40”+ vertical The defining theme: Top-end speed depth with a smaller true launch-acceleration cluster. Thompson and Thomas validated rare vertical speed. Caldwell and Lance confirmed size-speed explosion profiles. Burks delivered elite lower-body pop. The class shows strong overall movement traits, but the true separators remain the prospects who paired runway speed with premium first-three-step acceleration or 40”+ catch-point explosion. force defensive cushion, threaten vertically, and convert acceleration into separation.

How We Scout The Offensive Tackle Position | NFL Draft | Football Scouting and Analytics Scouting the tackle position in the NFL requires evaluating a player's size, athleticism, technique, and versatility. Below is a list of critical components we use to grade the OT position during the NFL Draft process. Every OT receives a grade on a scale of 1-10 for each of the below components during the scouting process. Once each player component is graded, we attach a final grade to indicate where the player stands before entering the NFL Draft, and then we attach a ceiling grade based on future potential. Here are some key factors to consider when scouting a tackle: Size and Strength: A tackle must have the strength to hold their ground against powerful defensive linemen. This includes their ability to generate power at the point of attack, maintain leverage, and finish blocks. Athleticism: A tackle needs to be athletic enough to move well and adjust to the speed and quickness of pass rushers. This includes their ability to move laterally, recover quickly, and execute proper footwork and hand placement. Pass Protection: A tackle needs to be able to pass protect effectively. This includes their ability to anchor against bull rushes, slide their feet to maintain balance, and use their hands and arms to keep defenders away from the quarterback. Run Blocking: A tackle needs to be able to execute a variety of run-blocking techniques, including drive blocking, zone blocking, and pulling. This includes their ability to identify their blocking assignments, maintain proper pad level, and create running lanes for the ball carrier. Versatility: A tackle needs to be versatile enough to play on either side of the offensive line and in different offensive systems and schemes. This includes their ability to execute different blocking techniques, adjust to different quarterback cadences, and work effectively with different offensive linemen. Football IQ: A tackle's football intelligence is important to make quick decisions and adjustments on the field. This includes recognizing defensive fronts, communicating with their teammates, and adjusting their blocking assignments as necessary. Durability: A tackle's durability is essential, as they will be taking a lot of hits on the field. This includes their ability to stay healthy and recover quickly from injuries. When scouting a tackle, it's important to evaluate all of these factors and the player's overall performance on the field. It's also important to consider the team's specific needs and whether the tackle's skills and attributes match the team's offensive system and style of play. Additionally, it's important to consider the tackle's penalties and mental mistakes, as these can be a liability for the offense.

2027 NFL Draft LB Rankings: Kyngstonn Viliamu-Asa, Rasheem Biles Lead Summer Board The 2027 NFL Draft LB rankings entering summer scouting are led by Notre Dame’s Kyngstonn Viliamu-Asa, Texas linebacker Rasheem Biles, and Clemson standout Sammy Brown, giving the class a strong mix of three-down MIKE profiles, coverage linebackers, and hybrid pressure pieces. Georgia’s Chris Cole and Florida’s Myles Graham round out the early Football Scout 365 summer board as athletic second-level defenders with clear 2026 stock-up potential. This is an early checkpoint before the 2026 college football season, not a final linebacker board. The goal is to establish which 2027 NFL Draft linebacker prospects already have translatable traits, role clarity, and starter-level pathways before live fall scouting reshapes the class. How does Football Scout 365 grade linebackers for the 2027 NFL Draft? Football Scout 365 grades linebackers through a role-based model built around processing, run-fit discipline, tackling reliability, coverage ability, block deconstruction, range, pursuit, blitz value, and alignment versatility. Modern LB value is not only about tackle volume. Three-down MIKE linebackers, coverage WILL profiles, SAM/EDGE hybrids, big nickel/rover defenders, and front-seven chess pieces are graded based on how their traits translate to an NFL role and scheme fit. Football Scout 365 NFL Draft Hub Preview The 2027 NFL Draft Hub is an all-in-one tool built around the Big Board, team needs analysis, and an early predictive mock draft. The Big Board adds a deeper scouting layer, including player grades, in-depth player comparisons, film-room-style video analysis, video profiles, and scheme-fit projections for top 2027 NFL Draft prospects. More Early 2027 NFL Draft Positional Rankings The 2027 NFL Draft position rankings organize the class by position, grade tier, scheme fit, and NFL projection. 2027 NFL Draft QB Rankings 2027 NFL Draft RB Rankings 2027 NFL Draft WR Rankings 2027 NFL Draft TE Rankings 2027 NFL Draft OL Rankings 2027 NFL Draft DL Rankings 2027 NFL Draft LB Rankings 2027 NFL Draft DB Rankings 2027 NFL Draft LB Rankings 1). Kyngstonn Viliamu-Asa | LB | Notre Dame Grade Tier: High-End Starter Potential LB Type: Three-Down MIKE Scouting Analysis: Kyngstonn Viliamu-Asa is a three-down MIKE with run-fit instincts, pursuit range, and pressure value in a multiple-front defense. Notre Dame’s 2025 production supports the profile, with 48 tackles, 7.5 TFL, three sacks, one interception, two pass breakups, and five quarterback hurries. 2). Rasheem Biles | LB | Texas Grade Tier: High-End Starter Potential LB Type: Coverage WILL Scouting Analysis: Rasheem Biles is a twitchy coverage WILL with range, splash-play production, and sub-package value after transferring from Pitt to Texas. His 2025 profile was built on 101 tackles, 17 TFL, 4.5 sacks, six pass breakups, two pick-sixes, two forced fumbles, and one recovery. 3). Sammy Brown | LB | Clemson Grade Tier: High-End Starter Potential LB Type: Three-Down MIKE / Blitz LB Scouting Analysis: Sammy Brown has the strongest LB1 case in this group because of his rare production-athleticism combination. At 6’2”, 235 pounds, he brings downhill trigger speed, blitz value, coverage range, and the play strength to lead the middle of Clemson’s defense. 4). Chris Cole | LB | Georgia Grade Tier: High-End Starter Potential LB Type: Front-Seven Chess Piece / SAM-MIKE Hybrid Scouting Analysis: Chris Cole is a hybrid second-level defender with the size, burst, and alignment versatility to play inside, mug gaps, rush selectively, and drop into coverage. Georgia’s 2025 production supports the upside, with 59 tackles, seven TFL, 4.5 sacks, and two pass breakups in a rotational-to-expanding role. 5). Myles Graham | LB | Florida Grade Tier: Mid-Level Starter Potential LB Type: Coverage WILL / Sub-Package LB Scouting Analysis: Myles Graham is a compact, instinctive inside linebacker with tackle volume, pursuit range, and enough coverage value to project as a WILL or nickel linebacker. Florida credited him with 76 tackles, seven TFL, two sacks, eight quarterback hurries, and four pass breakups in 2025. 2027 NFL Draft LB Rankings Questions Who are the top linebacker prospects in the 2027 NFL Draft? The early 2027 NFL Draft LB rankings are led by Kyngstonn Viliamu-Asa, Rasheem Biles, and Sammy Brown entering summer scouting. Chris Cole and Myles Graham also fit inside the early top five because of their athletic profiles, production, and role versatility. Is Kyngstonn Viliamu-Asa a first-round linebacker prospect? Kyngstonn Viliamu-Asa has a first-round pathway if he stays healthy and proves his functional strength holds up through the 2026 season. His instincts, range, pressure value, and three-down MIKE profile give him one of the cleanest NFL projections in the class. Why is Rasheem Biles ranked near the top of the 2027 NFL Draft LB class? Rasheem Biles ranks near the top because of his coverage range, pursuit speed, splash-play production, and sub-package versatility. His projection depends on whether he adds enough strength to handle box traffic, stack blocks, and finish consistently against NFL size. Can Sammy Brown become LB1 in the 2027 NFL Draft? Sammy Brown can absolutely push for LB1 in the 2027 NFL Draft because of his rare production, athleticism, downhill trigger, blitz value, and leadership profile. The next step is proving his coverage recognition and block deconstruction are consistent enough to match the first-round athletic profile. What makes Chris Cole a 2027 NFL Draft riser? Chris Cole is a riser because he has the size, burst, length, and hybrid usage profile NFL teams value in modern linebackers. If he becomes more consistent with run fits, tackling angles, and full-time processing, he has the traits to climb into the Day 1 or early Day 2 conversation. What does Myles Graham need to improve for the 2027 NFL Draft? Myles Graham needs to prove he can hold up physically in the box while maintaining his range and coverage value. His instincts, tackle production, and space-play ability are strong, but size, block deconstruction, and play strength will determine whether he becomes a true starter projection or a sub-package linebacker.