2025 NFL Scouting Combine: 32 Takeaways From Indianapolis

The 2025 NFL Scouting Combine has concluded, leaving us with a multitude of insights into the incoming rookie class. While this year’s draft might lack a clear-cut, undisputed superstar, the talent pool is brimming with potential difference-makers poised to infuse the league with fresh energy and diverse skill sets. Not all prospects participated in the on-field drills at Lucas Oil Stadium, a strategic decision for some who prioritize pro day workouts or team interviews. Here’s a breakdown of 32 key observations from the combine:

1. The Elusive Number One: The combine failed to definitively identify the top prospect in the 2025 NFL Draft. Penn State edge rusher Abdul Carter (hampered by injury), Colorado two-way phenom Travis Hunter, Miami quarterback Cam Ward, and Colorado quarterback Shedeur Sanders all attended but refrained from working out. These players remain among the frontrunners to be selected first overall in Green Bay next month.

2. Ward’s Impressive Interviews: Quarterback Cam Ward excelled in his media session, showcasing impressive poise and communication skills. He reportedly replicated this performance in private interviews with teams potentially interested in drafting him, including the Tennessee Titans, Cleveland Browns, New York Giants, Las Vegas Raiders, and New York Jets.

3. Titans’ Top Pick for Sale? Rookie General Manager Mike Borgonzi hinted at the possibility of trading the Titans’ number one overall pick, stating that there "seems to be" interest from other teams. This could significantly alter the draft landscape.

4. Bond’s Near Miss: Texas wide receiver Isaiah Bond posted a respectable 40-yard dash time, falling short of his bold prediction to break the combine record with a sub-4.20 run.

5. Golden’s Looming Impact: While Bond’s speed is undeniable, his Longhorns teammate, Matthew Golden, appears poised for greater NFL success. Golden is considered a more productive and polished receiver, and he outpaced Bond in the 40-yard dash with a blazing 4.29 seconds.

6. Running Back Renaissance: Amidst a renewed appreciation for the running back position, spearheaded by Saquon Barkley’s move to Philadelphia, the 2025 draft class boasts impressive talent. Boise State’s Ashton Jeanty headlines the group and could warrant a top-10 selection. Multiple running backs could be drafted in the first round for the third time in the past five years. Virginia Tech’s Bhayshul Tuten led the position with a 4.32 40 time. The group’s average 40-time was the fastest in over two decades.

7. Defensive Line Dominance: The strength and depth of the 2025 draft class lie primarily on the defensive line. A significant number of defensive linemen could be selected in the first round based on their merits, potentially impacting the draft positions of players at other positions.

8. Wolverine Presence: While Michigan had fewer players invited to the combine compared to the previous year, up to four Wolverines – defensive tackles Mason Graham and Kenneth Grant, cornerback Will Johnson, and tight end Colston Loveland – are projected as first-round picks.

9. Michigan Domination: Across the past two combines, a staggering 26 players from Michigan have been invited.

10. Loveland’s Backup Plan: If football doesn’t work out, tight end Colston Loveland could consider a career as a rodeo clown.

11. Inspirational Quote: Notre Dame quarterback Riley Leonard shared an impactful quote: "Never let your circumstances change your standard, let your standard change your circumstances."

12. Indy Dining Recommendations: Beyond the typical steakhouses, Indianapolis’ Massachusetts Avenue offers a diverse culinary scene. Bodhi, a Thai restaurant, is highly recommended.

13. Chiefs Dynasty Continues: The Kansas City Chiefs, version 13.0, are underway as Andy Reid enters his 13th season as head coach. The team has already made significant moves, including Travis Kelce’s return and franchising Trey Smith.

14. Felton’s Athletic Prowess: Maryland’s Tai Felton, assigned number 14 at the combine, displayed exceptional athleticism outside of football-related drills.

15. Buckeye Representation: Ohio State led all schools with 15 players invited to the combine. There were also 15 quarterbacks invited.

16. Speedy Receivers: This year’s wide receiver class may not match the star power of the previous year, but the group showcased impressive speed, with 10 receivers running sub-4.4 40-yard dashes.

17. Receiver to Root For: Texas Christian’s Jack Bech, who has impressed at both the Senior Bowl and combine, is an easy receiver to support. He has overcome personal tragedy while honoring his late brother.

18. Hotel Warning: A suspiciously low hotel rate during the combine is usually a red flag.

19. Unexpected Strength: Alabama tight end CJ Dippre and Oklahoma edge rusher Ethan Downs tied for the most bench press reps.

20. QB Workout Preferences: Cam Ward and Shedeur Sanders opted to skip throwing at the combine, a common practice among top quarterback prospects who prefer pro day workouts.

20a. QB Showcase: Riley Leonard, Jaxson Dart, Quinn Ewers, Will Howard, and Jalen Milroe impressed with their arm talent during Saturday’s throwing drills.

21. Hunter’s Hesitation: Travis Hunter’s reluctance to work out at receiver or cornerback, and his apparent disinterest in returning kicks, was somewhat disappointing.

22. Workout Warrior: With many top prospects sitting out drills, South Carolina safety Nick Emmanwori stole the show with exceptional vertical and broad jumps.

23. Coffee Strategy: The Starbucks at the Hyatt Regency is recommended over the JW Marriott location.

24. Stafford’s Impact: Matthew Stafford’s decision to stay with the Rams will ripple through the draft, potentially forcing teams like the Giants and Raiders to adjust their quarterback plans.

25. Darnold’s Fate: Sam Darnold’s future with the Minnesota Vikings is uncertain, with options including a franchise tag for retention, a tag for trade, or letting him walk in free agency.

26. Combine Airtime Challenges: Filling hours of combine coverage can be challenging, but networks should avoid detracting from the players’ accomplishments with unnecessary celebrity appearances.

26a. Impersonator’s Pro Day: Joey Mulinaro’s impressions showed promise.

27. Garrett’s Potential Departure: Browns edge rusher Myles Garrett, the reigning Defensive Player of the Year, could potentially seek a trade to pursue a Super Bowl ring.

28. Roseman’s Pursuit: Eagles GM Howie Roseman may try to acquire Garrett to bolster the Eagles’ Super Bowl chances.

29. Tush Push Debate: Instead of penalizing the Eagles’ successful "Tush Push" play, other teams should focus on perfecting it or developing effective countermeasures.

30. Offseason Action: The NFL offseason is just beginning, with franchise tag deadlines and free agency approaching.

31. 49ers’ Trade: The 49ers’ trade of Deebo Samuel to the Commanders for a fifth-round pick highlights the Eagles’ ability to make timely decisions with star players.

31a. Kupp’s Departure: Cooper Kupp is apparently on his way out of Los Angeles.

32. First-Round Participation: All 32 teams currently hold their first-round draft pick. However, since the league expanded to 32 teams, there has never been a draft where every team makes a selection in the first round.