Seventy underclassmen have officially declared for the 2025 NFL Draft, adding to an already loaded pool of talent. Among these players, 55 were granted special eligibility by meeting the NFL’s three-year rule, while 15 additional players earned eligibility by completing their degrees. The draft is scheduled for April 24-26 in Green Bay, Wisconsin, with several potential first-round picks already catching the attention of scouts and analysts.
A landmark year for early declarations
This year’s draft class is notable for the introduction of new declaration deadlines, designed to streamline the planning process for both players and event organizers. An early “soft” deadline of January 6 allowed 25 players to make their intentions known, while the traditional January 15 deadline saw an additional 30 players submitting petitions for special eligibility. For players participating in the College Football Playoff National Championship on January 20, a special “championship” deadline of January 24 was implemented.
Players who declared for the draft include top talents like Quinn Ewers, the highly touted quarterback from Texas, and Trevor Etienne, Georgia’s explosive running back. Both are expected to draw significant attention on draft day, with analysts projecting them as potential early-round selections.
Key prospects to watch
The list of 70 underclassmen includes several names that could significantly impact NFL rosters in the coming season. Penn State defensive end Abdul Carter, widely considered a top-five prospect, is among the headliners, showcasing elite pass-rushing ability and versatility. While Carter is unlikely to fall far in the draft, other players like Oregon offensive tackle Josh Conerly and Michigan defensive tackle Kenneth Grant are expected to be in play for teams drafting in the mid-to-late first round.
Another intriguing name is Boise State running back Ashton Jeanty, who delivered a record-breaking 2024 season with 2,601 rushing yards and 29 touchdowns. Although the San Francisco 49ers, for instance, may not need a running back with their No. 11 pick, Jeanty’s production and skill set are bound to make him an intriguing option for teams looking to bolster their backfield depth.
Other standout names
Several other players are creating buzz ahead of the draft. Texas A&M defensive end Nic Scourton, Tennessee defensive end James Pearce, and Michigan tight end Colston Loveland have all been frequently mentioned in early mock drafts. These players are expected to make a strong impression during the pre-draft process, including at the NFL Scouting Combine and pro days.
Teams with offensive line needs will also have their eyes on prospects like Emery Jones from LSU and Missouri’s Armand Membou. Both players have showcased the size, strength, and technique that NFL teams covet in tackles.
New eligibility rules bring clarity
The NFL’s updated rules for draft eligibility deadlines are being praised across the league. The early “soft” deadline, in particular, gives all-star game organizers and players additional time to prepare for critical events like the Senior Bowl and NFLPA Collegiate Bowl. Meanwhile, the “championship” deadline ensures that players competing in January 20’s College Football Playoff National Championship, such as those from Ohio State and Notre Dame, still have time to make their declarations.
These changes are expected to benefit both players and teams, allowing for better planning and evaluation processes throughout the pre-draft period.
What’s next?
With underclassmen declarations now finalized, the focus shifts to the NFL Scouting Combine, where many of these prospects will have the opportunity to solidify their draft stock. Team executives and scouts will also analyze game tape and conduct interviews to better assess each player’s potential fit at the next level.
The 2025 NFL Draft promises to be one of the most talent-rich classes in recent memory, with dynamic players at nearly every position. As teams prepare their draft boards, fans and analysts alike will be closely monitoring how these underclassmen perform in the lead-up to draft day.
