The NFL Combine 2025: A Mixed Bag of Winners and Losers
The 2025 NFL Combine, held in Indianapolis, saw a significant shift in dynamics as several top prospects, including Shedeur Sanders, Cam Ward, Ashton Jeanty, and Tetairoa McMillan, opted out of running or working out. Despite these absences, the event provided valuable insights into the stock of various players ahead of the NFL Draft. Here’s a breakdown of the best and worst developments from the latest round of pre-draft information gathering.
Cam Ward: A Rising Star
Cam Ward, often compared to Jayden Daniels, emerged as the standout quarterback prospect. His deliberate college journey through Incarnate Word, Washington State, and Miami has been seen as an asset, complementing his exceptional arm accuracy and athleticism. Ward reportedly impressed teams with his interviews and knowledge of multiple offenses, solidifying his position as the top QB prospect. His combination of experience and talent sets him apart, making him the frontrunner in the quarterback class.
Shedeur Sanders: A Questionable Decision
Shedeur Sanders, on the other hand, decided not to compete with the other non-Ward quarterbacks, a move that raises eyebrows. While his confidence is admirable, this decision has opened the door for a potential fall in his draft status. Sanders, who is known for his quiet cockiness, might have been better served by showcasing his skills at the combine. With rising prospects like Jaxson Dart pushing for higher positions, Sanders’ absence could prove costly.
Jack Bech: Emerging as a Top Receiver
Jack Bech, a wide receiver from TCU, was the standout performer on the field. He dominated both Senior Bowl practices and the combine, cementing his position in the second-round conversation. Bech’s 6-1, 214-pound frame, coupled with his quickness, route-running, and reliable hands, makes him a strong candidate to be a long-term, dependable NFL starter. His consistent performance has come at a crucial time, as other receivers are fading in the draft landscape.
Emeka Egbuka: A Missed Opportunity
Emeka Egbuka, who sat out of the workouts, missed a significant opportunity to solidify his position as the No. 2 receiver behind Tetairoa McMillan. Had he participated, Egbuka could have benefitted from working with former Ohio State quarterbacks Will Howard, Kyle McCord, and Quinn Ewers during the combine. This decision to sit out may have cost him a chance to lock down a higher draft position.
Matthew Golden: A Big-Play Threat
Matthew Golden, a big-play receiver from Texas, continues to impress with his complete skill set. His 4.29-second 40-yard dash, just slightly behind his former teammate Xavier Worthy’s record 4.21, highlights his speed and explosiveness. Golden’s consistent performance has him closing in on a draft position ahead of McMillan and Egbuka, solidifying his status as a first-round contender.
Edge Rushers: Shemar Stewart Rises, Abdul Carter Falls
Shemar Stewart, an edge rusher from Texas A&M, blew up his workouts, confirming his position as a first-round pick. His performance, alongside fellow A&M teammate Nic Scourton, has him potentially being the second edge rusher drafted. Stewart’s dynamic showing sets him apart in a group of otherwise average performances.
Conversely, Abdul Carter, a Penn State edge rusher, faces a durability concern after his medical evaluation discovered a manageable foot issue. His quick decision to postpone surgery, while responsible, raises questions about his long-term health. The Titans, who are considering Carter as the No. 1 overall pick, will need to weigh this against his potential impact on the team.
Kenneth Grant: A Hamstring Setback
Kenneth Grant, the massive and athletically gifted Michigan defensive tackle, measured well but suffered a hamstring strain. Despite his desire to impress, he was advised not to push through the drills. Grant, however, is expected to regain his form by his March 21 pro day, where he can still showcase his ability to blow up the drills.
Mason Graham: Questionable Power and Strength
Mason Graham, a compact and quick inside pass rusher from Michigan, left some questions unanswered with his measurements. His decision to skip workouts due to non-injury reasons has kept him from locking down a top-10 overall spot. Graham’s performance will be crucial in his upcoming pro day to address these concerns.
James Pearce Jr.: A Rising Prospect
James Pearce Jr., an edge pass rusher, has been a polarizing prospect due to the melding of his potential with his drive. His freakish workout results, including a 4.47 40-yard dash at 6-5, 245 pounds, have caught the attention of many. His athletic upside could see him drafted earlier than expected, potentially up there with Stewart in the first round.
Jack Emmanwori: A Freakish Performer
Nick Emmanwori, a safety from South Carolina, lived up to his freakish expectations. His outstanding performance in Indianapolis, stuffing the stat sheet in college, has put him back in the conversation for a borderline first-round pick. Emmanwori’s consistency and athleticism are hard to ignore, making him a valuable addition to any team.
Tennessee Titans: Strategic Gains
The Titans stand to benefit from Ward’s strong interviews and the mystique surrounding Abdul Carter and Travis Hunter, a versatile cornerback/wide receiver from Colorado. The team could take advantage of a scenario where another team is willing to trade up for any of these top prospects, allowing the Titans to stockpile more high draft capital out of the No. 1 overall pick.
Pro Days vs. Combine: A Shift in Focus
With marquee prospects like Ward and Sanders opting out of the combine, the focus is shifting towards pro days. These events, where players return to their college campuses for workouts, are becoming increasingly important in draft evaluations. The combine, while still a significant event, risks losing its punch as a premier offseason attraction without the top star power. The NFL must reflect on how to maintain the combine’s relevance and excitement for both teams and fans.
The 2025 NFL Combine, despite its setbacks, provided valuable insights and set the stage for the upcoming NFL Draft. As teams and players prepare for pro days and the draft itself, the landscape continues to evolve, with new stars rising and others facing scrutiny.
