The 2025 NFL Draft is just around the corner, and anticipation is building as college football's brightest stars prepare to make the leap to the professional level. Among these prospects is Virginia Tech running back Bhayshul Tuten, who has garnered significant attention for his explosive speed and versatility on the field. Tuten has been actively engaging with multiple NFL teams, having visited with the Cleveland Browns, Dallas Cowboys, and Pittsburgh Steelers, among others.
According to Andy Bitter of VirginiaTech.com, Tuten has also had discussions with the Cincinnati Bengals, done film work with the Los Angeles Rams, and participated in the Philadelphia Eagles’ local prospect day. He estimates that he has met with 20 of the league’s 32 teams, including private workouts with the Buffalo Bills and Washington Commanders. Tuten, 23, transferred to Virginia Tech from North Carolina A&T, where he made a name for himself as a dynamic playmaker.
During his two seasons with the Hokies, Tuten showcased his skills in 24 games, rushing 356 times for a staggering 2,022 yards with an impressive average of 5.7 yards per carry, along with 25 touchdowns. He also caught 50 passes for 320 yards, averaging 6.4 yards per catch and adding four more touchdowns to his resume. His performance earned him Second Team All-ACC honors in both 2023 and 2024.
Lance Zierlein of NFL.com has drawn comparisons between Tuten and Kansas City Chiefs running back Isiah Pacheco, suggesting that Tuten has the potential to evolve into a three-down starter in the NFL. As the draft approaches, Tuten's stock continues to rise, and he could be one of the first running backs off the board.
Meanwhile, the NFL Draft itself is set to take place from April 24 to 26, 2025, in Green Bay, Wisconsin. This year's event promises to be exciting, with a host of talented players vying for their chance to shine at the next level. Among the highly anticipated names are Penn State edge rusher Abdul Carter, Colorado standout Travis Hunter, and his college quarterback, Shedeur Sanders, whose future remains a hot topic of debate.
Fans and analysts alike are buzzing with questions: Will the Tennessee Titans, who hold the first overall pick, make the expected choice? How early will Hunter be selected? And where will Sanders land, especially with quarterback-needy teams hesitating to fully commit to him as their franchise face? All these answers will unfold soon.
The draft kicks off on Thursday, April 24, at 8 p.m. Eastern with Round 1. Rounds 2 and 3 will follow on Friday, April 25, starting at 7 p.m. Eastern, and the final rounds (4 to 7) will commence on Saturday, April 26, at 12 p.m. Eastern. Fans can catch all the action live on ESPN, ABC, and the NFL Network. For those looking for additional coverage, CBS Sports HQ will provide real-time analysis throughout the event.
As the draft approaches, teams are finalizing their strategies and determining their needs. The Titans, for instance, are looking to fill several key positions, including EDGE, QB, WR, LB, TE, DL, and S. The Cleveland Browns, who hold the second pick, are eyeing a new QB, RB, OT, LB, WR, DL, TE, and EDGE. The New York Giants, with the third pick, are also in the market for a QB, IOL, OT, LB, DL, CB, and EDGE.
With a total of 32 teams making their selections, the draft order is crucial. The New England Patriots, Jacksonville Jaguars, and Las Vegas Raiders round out the top six picks, each with their own list of team needs. The draft will be a pivotal moment for many franchises, as they seek to build their rosters for the upcoming season.
In addition to Tuten, another player making waves is Tennessee running back Dylan Sampson, who is also on the verge of entering the NFL. After a record-shattering 2024 season in Knoxville, where he rushed for 1,491 yards and scored 22 touchdowns, Sampson has become a sought-after talent. Although he opted out of the 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine, his agility and footwork impressed scouts during drills, solidifying his status as a top running back prospect.
As Sampson's name rises on draft boards, analysts are evaluating the best fits for him in the NFL. The Dallas Cowboys, for instance, are seen as an ideal landing spot due to their need for a running back following Tony Pollard's departure last year. Sampson's speed and decisiveness would align perfectly with Dallas's zone-blocking scheme, allowing him to make an immediate impact.
Similarly, the Miami Dolphins, under head coach Mike McDaniel, could benefit from Sampson's explosive playing style. Miami's offensive scheme thrives on speed and motion, making it a suitable environment for Sampson to excel. The Los Angeles Chargers also present an appealing opportunity, as they are shifting towards a more physical, run-first identity under new head coach Jim Harbaugh.
Sampson may not be the first running back selected in the 2025 NFL Draft, but his versatility and readiness to contribute immediately make him a compelling option for teams looking to bolster their backfield. With his combination of speed, agility, and red zone effectiveness, Sampson has the potential to develop into a star in the league.
As the excitement builds for the 2025 NFL Draft, all eyes will be on these promising prospects, including Bhayshul Tuten and Dylan Sampson. With their unique skill sets and potential for success, they are poised to make their mark in the NFL and contribute to their new teams' aspirations.
