This weekend marks the start of the FBS college football playoffs, and NFL Draft fans have plenty of prospects to keep an eye on. In today’s NFL Draft Daily Dish, we highlight five players poised to make an impact, including one standout from the College Football Playoffs who could also hear his name called in the 2025 NFL Draft.
Five 2025 NFL Draft prospects to watch in CFP round 1
Dylan Sampson, RB, Tennessee
Heading into the season, NFL Mocks predicted a breakout year for Tennessee running back Dylan Sampson, and he exceeded those expectations in spectacular fashion. Named the SEC Offensive Player of the Year, Sampson set school records with 22 rushing touchdowns and 1,485 rushing yards. Impressively, he did much of his work after contact, with 62% of his rushing yards (927) coming post-contact, per Pro Football Focus. However, Sampson faces a formidable challenge on Saturday against one of the nation’s top rush defenses. The Buckeyes have been stellar against the run, allowing just 97 yards per game.
The best offensive player in the @SEC.
— Tennessee Football (@Vol_Football) December 11, 2024
End of discussion.
Congrats @dylans21527 on being named the @SEC Offensive Player of the Year by both the AP and the coaches!
📰 » https://t.co/SephP5VcEY#GBO pic.twitter.com/9bR4PrlrKE
Abdul Carter, DE, Penn State
The top NFL Draft prospects to watch today is Abdul Carter, Penn State's standout defensive end. Ranked as the top defensive end on NFL Draft Daily Dish’s board and the ninth best overall prospect, Carter faces a significant challenge in this game against SMU’s high-powered offense, which is averaging 37 points per game. His primary responsibility will be applying pressure to Mustangs quarterback Kevin Jennings. However, Carter is more than up to the task, thanks to his explosive speed off the edge and his impressive tally of 10 sacks this season.
Quinn Ewers, QB, Texas
Despite a somewhat inconsistent season, Texas quarterback Quinn Ewers continues to lead an offense that averages 281 passing yards per game, ranking 12th in the nation. He’ll face a tough challenge against Clemson’s talented but young secondary. If Ewers can perform well, Texas has a strong chance of winning, but any struggles could lead to a potential benching in favor of Arch Manning.
Barrett Carter, OLB, Clemson
Clemson outside linebacker Barrett Carter will play a key role in trying to neutralize Quinn Ewers and the Longhorns’ passing attack. A major part of his responsibility will be covering tight end Gunnar Helm, who leads Texas with 49 receptions. Carter has the speed and athleticism to match up with Helm, but he has struggled in coverage this season, allowing 68% of passes thrown his way to be completed.
Cam Miller, QB, North Dakota State
North Dakota State quarterback Cam Miller is a key player to watch in the FCS Championship semifinals as he takes on last year’s National Champion, South Dakota State. Miller has delivered an exceptional season, completing 73% of his passes for 2,873 yards and 28 touchdowns. As a pro prospect, Miller stands out as an accurate passer with notable athleticism for a pocket-style quarterback. He’s likely to draw strong consideration from NFL teams as a late-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft.