2025 NFL Draft: Alabama, Auburn Stars Seek Their NFL Dreams

GREEN BAY, Wis. — The 2025 NFL Draft kicks off Thursday night, with several former Alabama and Auburn players eager to hear their names called. The first round will start off the three-day event, followed by second and third rounds on Friday, and the final four rounds on Saturday.

This year’s draft features intriguing prospects, with top quarterbacks and other high-end players hoping to secure NFL contracts. Alabama quarterback Jalen Milroe has emerged as a notable name. Although he didn’t lead the Tide to a national championship, Milroe ranks fifth in total yards and fourth in touchdowns in Alabama history. Cleveland Browns General Manager Andrew Berry has praised Milroe’s speed, comparing him to Lamar Jackson, raising expectations for the QB’s future.

Predictions place Milroe at Round 2, Pick No. 33 to the Cleveland Browns.

A former Alabama linebacker, Jihaad Campbell, is another key player to watch. He led the Tide in tackles and was ranked fifth in the SEC last season. Campbell aims to be the 2025 Defensive Rookie of the Year and was predicted to be selected 31st overall by the Eagles in the first round.

Tyler Booker, an Alabama offensive lineman and team captain, is expected to go 12th to the Dallas Cowboys, following a strong collegiate career.

Meanwhile, Jarquez Hunter, a standout running back for Auburn, amassed 3,371 rushing yards and 25 touchdowns in four seasons. His consistent performance, including a remarkable 278-yard game against Kentucky, has drawn attention ahead of the draft. He is projected to be a compensatory pick in Round 6, either with the Baltimore Ravens or the Kansas City Chiefs.

Eugene Asante, an Auburn linebacker and team captain, has been a vital defensive player for the Tigers. With 195 career tackles, including an impressive season in 2024, Asante is predicted to go in Round 6 to the Jacksonville Jaguars.

KeAndre Lambert-Smith, an Auburn wide receiver and former Penn State transfer, is anticipated to be drafted in Round 5, Pick No. 162 by the New York Jets after a strong 2024 season where he had eight touchdowns.

This year’s NFL Draft is expected to attract hundreds of thousands of fans to Green Bay, while millions more will tune in from home across the country.

“It’s a blessing to be here, and we’re finally here,” Lambert-Smith said, reflecting on the opportunity ahead.