2025 NFL Draft: Top Prospects Highlight Scouting Combine

INDIANAPOLIS — As teams prepare for the 2025 NFL Draft, which takes place from April 24-26 in Green Bay, Wisconsin, many prospects showcased their skills during the NFL Scouting Combine held this week at Lucas Oil Stadium. Prospects like Abdul Carter and Mykel Williams, among others, are jockeying for position as the draft approaches.

Carter, a defensive end from Penn State, stated his intent clearly: “I feel like I’m the best player in the country, and the best player should be selected No. 1.” The Tennessee Titans hold the first pick in the draft, and Carter is keen on being that selection. Coming off a stellar college season with 12 sacks, he has generated significant buzz as a potential top overall pick.

While nursing a shoulder injury, Carter was unable to participate in this week’s workouts but mentioned he expects to be back to full strength by Penn State’s pro day on March 28. “I think I’m about 90 percent right now,” said Carter. “In the next month, it’s going to be really close to 100.”

Penn State head coach James Franklin has praised Carter’s versatility and skill set, suggesting he can play various positions along the defensive front. Carter himself echoed this sentiment, noting, “Definitely defensive end or edge rusher, but I feel like I could play wherever my coaches need.”

Another prospect making waves is Mykel Williams from Georgia, who is looking to solidify his status as a hybrid defender. Williams, who has played both outside linebacker and defensive end, emphasized his adaptability: “I feel like I’m better at being that chess piece. Playing multiple positions increases my value to a team.”

Several teams, including the Dallas Cowboys, expressed interest in Williams, who is set to wait until Georgia’s pro day to showcase his abilities after dealing with an ankle injury last season. “I loved that meeting with the Cowboys,” Williams said. “They appreciate my toughness on the field.”

In a stacked defensive line class, Michigan‘s mammoth defensive tackle, Grant, aims to display his speed during drills, targeting a surprise 40-yard dash time in the low fours. Grant, standing at 6-3 and weighing in at 332 pounds, aspires to differentiate himself at the Combine. “Trying to get in that 4.9s or 4.8s, somewhere around there,” Grant said.

The pressure is also on Alabama linebacker, Campbell, who is carving out a niche for himself as a versatile player, dubbing himself “Mr. Can Do It All.” Campbell’s ability to adapt places him in high demand, showcasing skills in rushing the passer alongside coverage challenges. “I could blitz through the A-gap or drop in coverage, whatever you want me to do,” stated Campbell.

As prospects make their mark at the Combine, the countdown to the NFL Draft intensifies. Teams will continue evaluating player performances and determining which of these talented individuals will fill crucial roles for their franchises in the upcoming season.