Top 2025 NFL Draft prospect performances Week 1: Tetairoa McMillan, Ashton Jeanty shine

In the opening week of the college football season, notable performances came from players like Tetairoa McMillan, who dazzled with a record-breaking 304 receiving yards, and Ashton Jeanty, who set a school record with 267 rushing yards and six touchdowns. Other standout athletes included Shedeur Sanders, who threw for 445 yards and four touchdowns, and Aaron Graves, who recorded three sacks in Iowa's season opener.

Top 10 prospects who shined in Week 1 of college football season

1. Tetairoa McMillan, WR, Arizona

Arizona’s wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan delivered one of the most remarkable performances in college football history against New Mexico State, hauling in 10 passes for 304 yards and four touchdowns. He became the first player since 2022 to surpass 300 receiving yards in a game and only the sixth receiver to do so in the past decade. McMillan’s ability to create yards after the catch was on full display, as he racked up 176 yards after receptions. Additionally, his impressive speed for a 6-5 wide receiver was evident in two long touchdown receptions of over 65 yards each. McMillan currently holds the second spot on my wide receiver rankings for the 2025 NFL Draft and carries a top-ten grade.

2. Ashton Jeanty, RB, Boise State

Boise State’s Ashton Jeanty had a record-breaking day, rushing for a school-record 267 yards and an eye-popping six touchdowns. His day was highlighted by a 77-yard touchdown run on his second carry, where he broke multiple tackles and showcased his excellent vision as a runner. Jeanty later added another long score, breaking off a 75-yard run in the fourth quarter. His performance demonstrated why I had him pegged as the running back I would stand on the table for. I currently have him graded as a day-two prospect.

"Obviously, it goes without saying, but Ashton Jeanty is the best player in the country. That was on full display tonight."

- Boise State head coach Spencer Danielson

3. Shedeur Sanders, QB, Colorado

Colorado quarterback Shedeur Sanders solidified his status as my top quarterback prospect in the 2025 NFL Draft with a stellar performance on Thursday night. In a hard-fought victory, Sanders threw for 445 yards and four touchdowns, showcasing elite accuracy by completing 26 of 34 passes. His improved pocket awareness was evident, as he took only one sack after being sacked 49 times last season. Sanders’ play reminded me of former Ohio State quarterback C.J. Stroud, who is now one of the top quarterbacks in NFL.

4. Aaron Graves, DT, Iowa

Iowa defensive tackle Aaron Graves boosted his draft stock with a dominant showing on Saturday, recording three sacks—the most by an Iowa player in a season opener in 32 years. His performance earned him an 84.3 pass-rushing grade from Pro Football Focus and tied him for the national lead in sacks. Graves’ relentless motor and ability to make plays throughout his career make him an intriguing prospect, currently viewed as a late-round pick with the potential to rise if he continues to perform at this level.

5. Jalon Walker, OLB, Georgia

This week’s Senior Bowl Defensive Player of the Week is Georgia linebacker Jalon Walker, who demonstrated his potential as an every-down defender after previously playing just 30% of Georgia’s defensive snaps last season, mainly in pass-rushing roles. On Saturday, Walker showcased impressive agility off the edge, recording 1.5 sacks and holding his ground against the run with six tackles. Currently projected as a third-round pick, Walker could elevate his draft stock to a late first-round selection if he continues to prove his versatility.

6. Cam Ward, QB, Miami

Amid a crowded quarterback transfer market this year, Miami’s Cam Ward proved himself as the top pick with a standout performance against Florida. Ward exhibited several NFL-caliber traits, including impressive arm strength that ranks among the best in the 2025 NFL Draft class. He made multiple plays outside the pocket, throwing for over 385 yards—the highest debut passing yardage for a Miami quarterback since at least 1980.

7. Travis Hunter, WR, Colorado

Travis Hunter, the second Colorado player to make this list, delivered an exceptional performance by playing every snap on both offense and defense for the Buffaloes. As a receiver, he made several big plays, hauling in seven catches for 132 yards and three touchdowns. Defensively, Hunter recorded three tackles and allowed just 14 receiving yards all night. His two-way dominance reinforced my prediction that he’ll be the first player from the Big 12 drafted this season.

8. Linus Zunk, DE, Vanderbilt

Vanderbilt defensive end Linus Zunk started the season as a fringe prospect, having recorded just seven tackles last year. However, his performance in the team's big upset win over Virginia Tech showcased his potential to be a late-round draft pick next April. Zunk made an impact with two sacks and three tackles for loss, demonstrating impressive agility for a defensive end standing 6-6 and weighing 263 pounds.

9. Damon Ward Jr., WR, North Texas

North Texas wide receiver Damon Ward made a strong case for NFL scouts to keep an eye on him this year. In Saturday's game against South Alabama, Ward caught 12 passes, all resulting in first downs, amassing 230 yards and two touchdowns. This standout performance marks a significant leap for a player who had just 39 receptions last season.

10. Malaki Starks, S, Georgia

The second Georgia Bulldog on this list is safety Malaki Starks, who delivered one of the weekend’s most memorable plays with a stunning fourth-quarter interception. Georgia head coach Kirby Smart even called it one of the best defensive plays he’s ever witnessed in person. Beyond that highlight, Starks demonstrated elite coverage skills throughout the game, earning an 80.3 coverage grade from Pro Football Focus and allowing just one reception all night.

Honorable Mention

Jahvaree Ritzie, DE, North Carolina

Marquez Cooper, RB, San Diego State

Terion Stewart, RB, Bowling Green

Brant Kuithe, TE, Utah

Jaxson Dart, QB, Ole Miss