NFL Draft Notebook: 5 bold predictions for 2025; Arch Manning leads 2026 Draft Class

As 2024 draws to a close, it's time to look ahead to 2025 and anticipate what the year may bring. In this week’s edition of NFL Draft Notebook, we dive into five bold predictions, including identifying the 2026 NFL Draft prospect likely to top draft boards heading into next season and predicting the upcoming winners of the College Football National Championship and the Super Bowl.

In addition to these forecasts, this week’s NFL Draft Notebook highlights the top five cornerbacks in the 2025 NFL Draft, featuring one underrated prospect who deserves more attention. The article wraps up by showcasing a small-school sleeper with the potential to start in the NFL this time next year.

5 bold predictions for 2025

1. Arch Manning will enter the 2025 season as the top-rated player 

Arch Manning is poised to enter the 2025 season as the top-rated player, despite having thrown just 95 career passes. While it may seem unusual for someone with limited experience to be considered a leading prospect for the 2026 NFL Draft, Manning's potential as a Texas quarterback makes this projection understandable. Expected to become the Longhorns' full-time starter next year, Manning demonstrates a remarkable football IQ and the ability to anticipate plays—impressive traits for someone with so few snaps. His mobility, accuracy, and legendary football lineage further solidify his status as a top prospect. Additionally, he’ll benefit from playing under Steve Sarkisian, one of college football’s premier offensive minds.

2. Oregon will win the National Championship

At the start of the season, NFL Draft Notebook predicted Oregon would win the Big Ten, and the Ducks achieved that milestone. Now in the playoffs, Oregon is NDN's pick to claim the National Championship. The team's well-rounded nature is its greatest strength. Offensively, NFL Draft prospects Dillon Gabriel, Jordan James, and Tez Johnson lead the charge. Meanwhile, the defense is formidable, allowing just 18.1 points per game—a figure that ranks among the top ten in college football.

3. Shedeur Sanders will be the top pick in the 2025 NFL Draft

In Saturday’s edition of NFL Draft Notebook, the New York Giants are projected to select Shedeur Sanders with the first overall pick. Even if the Giants don't land the top spot, Sanders is expected to be the first player off the board. His ability to excel in a traditional passing game gives him an edge over competitors like Miami’s Cam Ward. Additionally, quarterback-needy teams at the top of the draft are likely to prioritize him over other top-ranked prospects like Travis Hunter.

4. The Baltimore Ravens will win the Super Bowl

The Baltimore Ravens are NFL Draft Notebook’s pick to win the Super Bowl, thanks to their lack of significant weaknesses. Offensively, they’re led by Lamar Jackson, a top contender for MVP, and running back Derrick Henry, who’s having his best season since rushing for 2,027 yards in 2020. On defense, the team has seen marked improvement, particularly after shifting Kyle Hamilton to free safety, solidifying their status as championship favorites.

5. Ben Johnson will be the man tasked with turning around Caleb William’s career

One of the most appealing NFL head coaching positions this year is with the Chicago Bears, primarily due to the potential of quarterback Caleb Williams. Despite a challenging season, Williams possesses all the tools needed to become a franchise quarterback. Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson, known for running one of the NFL’s most innovative offenses, will be tasked with helping Williams live up to that potential.

Top cornerback prospects for the 2025 NFL Draft

1. Will Johnson, Michigan

Despite missing most of the season due to turf toe, Michigan's Will Johnson remains the top cornerback in the 2025 NFL Draft. What sets Johnson apart is his exceptional movement for a 6’2”, 202-pound frame. He possesses fluid hips that allow him to mirror even the quickest wide receivers and displays strong ball skills. Johnson intercepted two passes this season, returning both for touchdowns. A potential landing spot for Johnson is Jacksonville, where he could help solidify one of the NFL's weakest secondaries.

2. Benjamin Morrison, Notre Dame

Notre Dame’s Benjamin Morrison also had a shortened 2024 season, missing all but six games due to a hip injury. However, when healthy, Morrison has proven himself as a lockdown corner. During his college career, he allowed opponents to complete just 49% of passes thrown his way. Over the 2022 and 2023 seasons, he earned an 86.8 single-coverage grade, the highest among returning Power Five cornerbacks in 2024, according to Pro Football Focus. Morrison also has nine career interceptions. The Washington Commanders are a team that may closely evaluate Morrison for a first-round selection.

3. Shavon Revel, East Carolina

Shavon Revel's path to the NFL Draft is unique, starting at Louisburg College before transferring to East Carolina in 2022. At 6’3” and 193 pounds with 4.4 speed, Revel has the physical tools to excel as an NFL cornerback. However, he faces concerns about durability after a torn ACL limited him to just three games in 2024. Despite this setback, Revel remains the top Group of Five prospect in the draft. The Los Angeles Rams could be a team interested in adding his skillset to their defense.

4. Darien Porter, Iowa State

Iowa State’s Darien Porter saw his draft stock soar in 2024 after transitioning from wide receiver to cornerback. In just his second year at the position, Porter allowed only five receptions while recording three interceptions. His combination of size (6’4”, 200 pounds) and elite speed—evidenced by his 46.99-second 400-meter dash in high school—makes him an intriguing prospect. The Baltimore Ravens may consider selecting Porter late in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft.

5. Dorian Strong, Virginia Tech

Virginia Tech’s Dorian Strong is a prospect that NFL Draft Notebook views more favorably than many others. While he is widely projected as a Day 3 pick, NDN has him graded as a second-round talent due to his ideal length and press-man coverage ability. In 2023, Strong led all FBS cornerbacks in completion rate allowed (27.3%) and yards allowed per coverage snap (0.24), while ranking second in passer rating allowed (11.8), per Pro Football Focus. The Arizona Cardinals may target Strong to boost their secondary.

NFL Draft news and notes

Beck done for the year: Georgia quarterback Carson Beck's season officially concludes with a tough ending that capped a campaign below expectations. Beck experienced a dip in both passing yards and completion percentage, while his interceptions doubled compared to last year. The abrupt halt came after Beck underwent surgery to repair a torn ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) in his right arm, sustained during the SEC Championship game. Despite the setbacks, Beck has declared for the 2025 NFL Draft. Currently projected as a second-round prospect on NFL Draft Notebook’s draft board, he retains potential to climb into the late first round with a strong NFL Combine performance. How he handles the pre-draft process and his recovery will be key to determining his draft position.

Most productive tight end ever: Bowling Green tight end Harold Fannin Jr. finished his career with the most impressive game of his life—and one of the best ever by a tight end. In the 68 Ventures Bowl against Arkansas State, he tied an FBS record for receptions in a game by a tight end with 17 catches for 213 yards and a touchdown. This incredible performance helped Fannin set FBS records for career receptions (117) and receiving yards (1,555) by a tight end. His elite production, soft hands with just a 2.2% drop rate, and ability to pick up yards after the catch are among the reasons he carries a second-round grade on NFL Draft Notebook’s draft board.

Ballhawk: Texas cornerback Jahdae Barron just missed the top five cornerback rankings, but his impressive season speaks for itself. Barron led the SEC with five interceptions, demonstrating his knack for making game-changing plays. He also locked down opposing quarterbacks, allowing an astonishingly low passer rating of 27.8. These accomplishments earned him the Jim Thorpe Award, a testament to his elite performance. Known for his versatility, Barron has excelled at cornerback, nickel, and safety for the Longhorns, making him an appealing prospect for NFL teams. Expect to hear his name called on Day 2 of the draft.

Sleeper of the Week: Montana State offensive guard Marcus Wehr is this week’s NFL Draft Notebook Sleeper of the Week. Wehr has been instrumental in the Bobcats’ success, helping lead the team to the FCS Championship game on January 6. Montana State boasts the top-scoring offense in the FCS, averaging an impressive 41.3 points per game, thanks in no small part to Wehr's stellar play. Originally a defensive end, Wehr transitioned to the offensive line in 2022 and has started for three years without allowing a single sack. Over that span, he’s surrendered only seven pressures, showcasing his remarkable consistency and skill in pass protection. As a pro prospect, Wehr stands out for his aggressive playing style. He fires off the ball with authority and possesses the power to dominate defenders at the point of attack. Additionally, his versatility to play both guard and center makes him an attractive option for NFL teams. Wehr is projected as a third-day draft pick, and his combination of toughness, strength, and versatility makes him a name to watch.

2026 NFL Draft prospect to watch:  Ohio State has been highly active in the transfer portal this year, and they recently secured a standout player who is sure to draw attention from NFL scouts in 2026. That player is Ethan Onianwa, an offensive tackle from Rice, who is expected to enter next season with a late first-round grade. Standing 6-foot-6 and weighing 345 pounds, Onianwa allowed just two pressures all season. He could be the ideal replacement for Josh Simmons, who is projected to be a top-50 pick in the upcoming NFL Draft this April.