This year's defensive 2025 NFL Draft class is very deep and there are going to be some massive picks made on day two and three. Here is a look at some of the players to watch after day one.
Darius Alexander, DT, Toledo
Standing at 6’4” and 305 pounds, Darius Alexander is an amazing athlete for his size. He ran a 4.80 forty yard dash which is elite for a player over 300 pounds. He is a steady run stopper with ridiculous strength so he should be a useful player as early as his rookie year. If he can improve his pass rushing ability he has a chance to be a star at the next level.
Best Team Fit: Carolina Panthers
Kaimon Rucker, DE, North Carolina
Kaimon Rucker is a true pass rush specialist who has a combined 15 sacks over the last two seasons for the Tar Heels. While his ability to get to the quarterback is impressive, he has struggled against the run at times, which would make it difficult for him to carve out an every down role in the NFL. Despite that flaw, there are plenty of rotational pass rushers in the game today and Rucker could be an effective one.
Best Team Fit: Atlanta Falcons
Jay Higgins, LB, Iowa
Jay Higgins had a breakout 2023 with 171 tackles despite never having more than 50 in a season up to that point. In 2024, he continued to be a tackling machine but also added four interceptions showcasing impressive coverage skills. His versatility to play against the run and pass should translate and he can play a combination on middle and outside linebacker.
Best Team Fit: Cincinnati Bengals
Quincy Riley, CB, Louisville
Quincy Riley has a lot of traits that NFL scouts will fall in love with, but his biggest tool is that his skillset is versatile enough to play in any scheme. While he thrives in zone, he is excellent in man coverage as well. Riley also has 15 interceptions in his college career so any team that drafts him is getting a ball hawk.
Best Team Fit: Buffalo Bills
Billy Bowman Jr, S, Oklahoma
Billy Bowman Jr. has been an impact player on the Oklahoma defense for three years, and always seems to make big plays when needed. 2023 was his breakout year where he recorded six interceptions and ran half of them back for touchdowns. His big red flag is he is very undersized and struggles to tackle in the open field, but his knack to read quarterbacks and anticipate plays is NFL caliber.
Best Team Fit: Miami Dolphins