With the college football season nearing its end, all eyes are now on the upcoming 2025 NFL Draft, particularly on the prospects showcasing their skills during the bowl games and playoffs. The inaugural College Football Playoff has arrived, promising not only championship aspirations but also providing NFL scouts with invaluable insights on top talent. Among the teams competing, the Kansas City Chiefs are poised to monitor several prospects who may fit their strategic needs as they gear up for the draft.
The Chiefs are set to select no higher than the 24th pick, making the performances of players like Tyler Warren, Jalon Walker, Emeka Egbuka, and others pivotal. Here are some top NCAA prospects to watch carefully this postseason:
Tyler Warren, TE, Penn State
At 6-foot-6 and 260 pounds, Warren has established himself as one of the elite tight ends, earning the Mackey Award for his outstanding performance. His median pick range places him at number 23, showcasing his incredible versatility as both a receiver and blocker. Warren's ability to dominate as both a finesse route-runner and physical blocker would make him an ideal addition to the Chiefs, complementing stars like Travis Kelce.
Jalon Walker, LB/DE, Georgia
Walker, standing at 6-foot-2 and 245 pounds, has made quite the name for himself with his burst off the line and ability to play both off-ball and on the edge. He’s projected to land around the 24th pick and has potential comparisons to NFL standout Micah Parsons. The Chiefs need versatile players like Walker who can adapt to various roles on the defense.
Emeka Egbuka, WR, Ohio State
Egbuka, with his median pick range around 25, is often underrated among the first-round talents. His skill set includes elite route-running ability and superb blocking, which aligns perfectly with coach Andy Reid's preferences for well-rounded receivers. Egbuka's consistent production has positioned him as one of the more valuable wideouts entering the draft.
Isaiah Bond, WR, Texas
At Texas, Bond has showcased impressive speed, making him one of the top track stars in college football. Although dealing with injuries, his innate ability to create separation could make him valuable as the Chiefs look to bolster their explosive offense. He’s projected around the 39th pick, which may present him as a great value selection.
Benjamin Morrison, CB, Notre Dame
Morrison was expected to be a top pick, ranked as the best man coverage cornerback until suffering a season-ending hip injury. Prior to his injury, he displayed the physicality and skill demanded of Steve Spagnuolo’s cornerbacks. Even after his setback, Morrison's potential remains high, showing he could have landed around 30 if not for his injury.
Derrick Harmon, DT, Oregon
Harmon is catching the eyes of many NFL scouts due to his expected ability to dominate against the run and pass. Measured at 6-foot-5 and 310 pounds, he brings excellent size and strength. His stock is projected to land him around pick 43, but he could prove his worth with strong performances during the playoffs.
These players will be visible during bowl games, providing NFL teams, including the Chiefs, with the evidence needed to make enlightening draft decisions.
Among those competing, Ashton Jeanty, the running back from Boise State, has become widely recognized following his exceptional 2024 season, where he amassed 2,497 rushing yards and 29 touchdowns, putting him firmly on the radar for first-round consideration. He possesses elite vision and balance, illustrating qualities expected of top-tier NFL running backs. Jeanty's performance on football's biggest stages could solidify his status as the best overall player leading to the 2025 draft.
Comparative performances from other notable players, such as Abdul Carter from Penn State and Jordan James from Oregon, will equally play significant roles. Carter’s recent emergence as one of the top edge rushers, with outstanding sack numbers, has him projected as a top-five pick. Similarly, Jordan James continues to impact games, tallying impressive rushing numbers throughout the season.
The College Football Playoff will not only crown champions but will also act as the stage for rising candidates to showcase their athleticism and skillset. With the 2025 NFL Draft looming, the actions taken on the field could either solidify draft positions or see them soar even higher as the playoff competitions conclude.
With all these prospective stars competing, attention must remain on how these young athletes perform under pressure. Their potential new contracts as NFL professionals hinge on these impactful games, providing viewers—and scouts alike—with thrilling and engaging outcomes.