The Southeastern Conference (SEC) has dominated the NFL draft in recent years, with its players consistently being selected in the first round. However, the 2025 NFL draft might see a disruption in this trend. Let’s dive into the possibilities.
Top SEC Prospects
Some of the top SEC players projected to be drafted in the first round include ¹:
– *Quarterbacks:*
– *Cam Ward*, Miami: A dual-threat quarterback with impressive productivity at Washington State and Miami.
– *Defensive Players:*
– *Travis Hunter*, Colorado (also played at Jackson State, an HBCU, but played SEC-like competition in high school): An elite talent at both cornerback and receiver with incredible athleticism and plus size.
– *Abdul Carter*, Penn State: A missile as a pass rusher with impressive skills.
– *Jalon Walker*, Georgia: An edge rusher with great speed and athleticism.
– *Mason Graham*, Michigan: A relentless defensive tackle with a non-stop motor.
– *Other Positions:*
– *Will Campbell*, LSU: A nasty blocker with short arms that may get him kicked inside to guard.
– *Ashton Jeanty*, Boise State: An explosive running back with impressive speed and athleticism, though not strictly an SEC player, often gets mentioned among SEC prospects due to his projected draft position.
Teams and Potential Picks
Here are some teams that might select SEC players in the first round:
– *Tennessee Titans:* Cam Ward is predicted to be the pick if they don’t sign Aaron Rodgers.
– *Cleveland Browns:* Travis Hunter or Abdul Carter could be the selection, depending on the team’s needs.
– *New York Giants:* Abdul Carter is predicted to be the pick, but Travis Hunter is also a possibility.
– *New England Patriots:* Will Campbell is projected to be the selection to address their miserable offensive line.
– *Carolina Panthers:* Jalon Walker or Mason Graham could be the pick, depending on the team’s needs.
Can the SEC Streak Continue?
Given the talent and depth of the SEC, it’s likely that several players from the conference will be selected in the first round. However, the unpredictability of the draft means that teams might opt for players from other conferences who better fit their needs. The 2025 NFL draft order, with teams like the Tennessee Titans, Cleveland Browns, and New York Giants picking early, will play a significant role in determining the fate of the SEC streak ².
Ultimately, the combination of team needs, player talent, and draft strategy will decide the outcome. Will the SEC maintain its dominance in the first round, or will other conferences break through? Only time will tell.
