Bernie Wilson
Updated on: October 13, 2024 3:52 am GMT
As college football enters Week 4, eyes are locked on the rising stars of the 2025 NFL Draft. With critical games on the horizon, several top prospects have a chance to showcase their skills and potentially elevate their draft stock. Among these athletes, standout performances could make all the difference in a highly competitive draft class.
Top Prospects to Watch
This week, a selection of players are generating buzz as they prepare for crucial matchups. Notable names include Miami quarterback Cam Ward, cornerback Tommi Hill from Nebraska, Ohio State offensive lineman Matt Simmons, and Utah linebacker Lander Barton. Each of these athletes is in a position to impact both their team’s success and their draft prospects.
- Cam Ward (Quarterback, Miami)
Currently enjoying the best start of his college career, Cam Ward has thrown 11 touchdowns in just a few games and boasts a remarkable 83.2% adjusted completion percentage. Ward’s accuracy and decision-making have been impressive, highlighted by only one turnover-worthy play so far this season.
This weekend, his team faces South Florida’s defense, which ranks 47th in the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) with a 77.4 grade for team coverage. Another standout performance could solidify Ward’s position as a top quarterback prospect for the upcoming draft.
- Tommi Hill (Cornerback, Nebraska)
Hill is drawing attention for his solid performances in the secondary. The former wide receiver has transitioned well to cornerback, earning an impressive 83.5 PFF (Pro Football Focus) coverage grade. This week, he faces off against Illinois’ talented receivers, including Pat Bryant and Zakhari Franklin. These matchups will be crucial for Hill to demonstrate his skills against different receiving styles.
- Matt Simmons (Offensive Lineman, Ohio State)
As a two-year starter, Simmons has achieved the highest pass-blocking grade on the Buckeyes’ offensive line this season. With zero pressures allowed over 61 pass-blocking snaps, he looks to maintain that clean record against Marshall’s top pass rusher, Mike Green, who has also been impressive with a 21.7% pass-rush win rate.
- Lander Barton (Linebacker, Utah)
Barton has had a slower start this season, evident from his lower PFF overall grade of 66.1. He’s set to face Oklahoma State’s Ollie Gordon II, known for his explosive running ability. Barton will need a strong showing to regain momentum in his pursuit of draft recognition.
Notable Matchups Beyond SEC Showdowns
While these are just a few names to keep an eye on, various other matchups could prove crucial in determining which players rise in the draft rankings.
James Pearce Jr. (Pass Rusher, Tennessee)
Anticipation grows as Tennessee faces Oklahoma in a highly publicized game. Pearce has emerged as an elite edge rusher and is touted to be one of the best in college football. His performance in this high-stakes showdown could significantly elevate his draft projection.
Mason Graham (Defensive Lineman, Michigan)
Graham played a key role in Michigan’s national title run last season and is a do-it-all lineman with substantial potential. A pivotal performance against USC would be essential for him to bounce back from a previous disappointing outing this season.
Travis Hunter (Two-Way Player, Colorado)
Perhaps one of the most exciting prospects on the list is Travis Hunter, who shines as both a receiver and cornerback. After an impressive game against Colorado State, where he excelled on both sides of the ball, Hunter’s ability could intrigue NFL scouts, making him a player to watch closely in upcoming contests.
The Future of the NFL Draft
As the college football season unfolds, the 2025 NFL Draft is set to feature a wealth of talent. With the stakes rising, these prospects are eager to make their mark. This week’s games are not just crucial for their teams but also pivotal for each athlete’s future at the next level.
Fans and scouts alike will be tracking performances closely, as a strong showing can change a player’s trajectory heading into the draft. For the teams involved, the outcomes may shape their recruiting, roster decisions, and overall future strategy.
Conclusion
In Week 4 of college football, players have a great chance to show what they can do. From quarterbacks to linemen, everyone is eager to impress both scouts and fans. When the games start, everyone will be watching to see if these players can turn their potential into real success on the field. The future of the NFL is at stake, and it’s up to these athletes to shape their own destinies.
