Each week, Yardbarker provides updates on the 2025 NFL Draft, set to take place from April 24-26 in Green Bay. Highlighting some of the top talent available, they track standout players from across college football. Here are five notable prospects making headlines:
Dillon Gabriel, QB, Oregon
Dillon Gabriel is emerging as a potential standout in the draft. The Oregon quarterback, who recently accepted an invitation to the Senior Bowl, has impressed scouts with his career-best performance this season. Completing 73.2% of his passes for 3,558 yards and 28 touchdowns over 13 games, Gabriel has also achieved the second-highest QBR (86.5) in the FBS. His leadership has propelled the Ducks to an undefeated 13-0 record and the No. 1 seed in the College Football Playoff. Despite questions about his size (6-foot, 200 pounds), his ability to guide Oregon to its first national championship could solidify his draft stock.
Will Johnson, CB, Michigan
Michigan’s Will Johnson declared for the draft, despite being limited to six games this season due to injuries. Scouts remain high on his potential, with ESPN’s Mel Kiper Jr. ranking him as the No. 5 prospect in the 2025 class. Known for his instincts and quickness in coverage, Johnson recorded nine interceptions in three seasons, three of which he returned for touchdowns. His ball-hawking skills could make him an attractive pick, with Tankathon projecting the Jacksonville Jaguars to select him at No. 5 overall.
Tez Johnson, WR, Oregon
Tez Johnson’s explosiveness makes him a sleeper in the draft. During the Big Ten Championship, Johnson tallied 181 receiving yards and a touchdown, showcasing his ability to thrive in high-pressure games. Although his smaller frame (5-foot-10, 165 pounds) might keep him out of the first round, his after-the-catch ability—ranked sixth in the FBS—could make him a valuable Day 2 selection. Teams like the Philadelphia Eagles may look to him to revitalize their passing attack.
Shemar Stewart, DL, Texas A&M
Shemar Stewart’s elite physical tools could make him a first-round pick, despite modest sack numbers (1.5 this season). Scouts highlight his combination of power, agility, and length as assets that may shine during the NFL Combine. With an elite 89.7 run-defense grade from Pro Football Focus, Stewart’s versatility could attract teams looking for a strong run-stopper, such as the Atlanta Falcons, who are projected to select him at No. 17.
Will Campbell, LT, LSU
Will Campbell is positioning himself as the top left tackle in the draft. The LSU lineman allowed just one sack across 557 pass-blocking snaps in 12 games this season. Opting out of LSU’s bowl game to focus on training, Campbell aims to become a cornerstone for whichever team selects him. Projected as the No. 6 pick by CBS Sports, he could help teams like the Tennessee Titans address critical offensive line issues.
These players represent a range of talent poised to make an impact in the 2025 NFL Draft.
