NFL Draft 2025: Shedeur Sanders Among Talented Players Still Available After Round 1
GREEN BAY, Wis. — The first round of the 2025 NFL Draft concluded Thursday night in Green Bay,Wisconsin,leaving a multitude of highly touted prospects still awaiting their names to be called. While the initial 32 picks saw several marquee players find their NFL homes, a number of athletes with perceived first-round potential remain on the board as teams prepare for Day 2.
The most notable name among those still available is Colorado quarterback Shedeur Sanders, whose draft stock saw a surprising dip. Joining Sanders are Michigan cornerback Will Johnson and marshall edge rusher Mike Green, both of whom were widely projected as potential first-round selections.
Here’s a breakdown of some of the top players still up for grabs as the draft progresses, based on USA TODAY Sports’ pre-draft rankings:
6. Will Johnson, CB, Michigan
Johnson, 6-foot-2 and 194 pounds, has drawn comparisons to Denver Broncos cornerback and reigning NFL defensive Player of the Year Pat Surtain II, praise that underscores his potential.Johnson possesses the size, fluidity and instincts necessary to excel in any coverage scheme. Though not a speed burner, Johnson’s ability to stick to receivers and generate turnovers makes him an attractive prospect. A toe injury impacted his 2024 season, but his overall body of work suggests a future as a top-tier cornerback.
13. Mike Green, DE/OLB, Marshall
Green led the Football Bowl Subdivision with 17 sacks in 2024, showcasing his disruptive potential as a pass rusher. At 6-3 and 251 pounds, Green employs a physical style that belies his size. while he may need to add bulk to his frame, his relentless approach and ability to bend around offensive tackles should translate into consistent pressure in the NFL.
22.Donovan Ezeiruaku, DE/OLB, Boston College
Ezeiruaku, who amassed 16.5 sacks last season, boasts an advanced understanding of pass-rushing techniques. At 6-3 and 248 pounds, Ezeiruaku compensates for any perceived size limitations with his length, agility and football intelligence. While he may struggle against larger offensive linemen in the run game, his pass-rushing prowess makes him a valuable asset.
25. Shavon Revel Jr., CB, East Carolina
Revel Jr.’s draft stock could have been considerably higher if not for a torn anterior cruciate ligament suffered in September. the 6-2, 194-pound cornerback combines a competitive nature at the line of scrimmage with extraordinary recovery speed and improving ball skills. His health will be a key factor in his evaluation, but if he can regain his form, Revel Jr. has the potential to become a highly productive starter. However, his aggressive style may lead to early penalties as he adjusts to the NFL.
28. Shedeur Sanders, QB, Colorado
Sanders, despite the intense spotlight surrounding him, exceeded expectations by proving to be a precise and poised quarterback. The son of Pro Football Hall of Famer Deion sanders, Shedeur Sanders’ ability to handle pressure at the next level will determine his career trajectory. Though, he has the potential to be a reliable starter for an offense that emphasizes efficient execution over improvisation.
30. luther Burden III, WR, Missouri
Burden III’s 2024 season did not meet expectations, with the dynamic slot receiver averaging just 11.1 yards per reception. to thrive in the NFL, Burden III will need to expand his route tree and become a more versatile target. While he may require some manufactured touches early in his career, Burden III’s potential remains high.
Other notable players still available:
36. Nick Emmanwori, S, South Carolina: A 6-3, 220-pound safety with cornerback-like speed, Emmanwori is well-suited to match up against tight ends and bigger receivers.
37. Landon Jackson, DE, Arkansas: A 6-6, 264-pound LSU transfer with the length and pass-rush moves to trouble offensive tackles.
38. Trey amos, CB, Mississippi: A 6-1, 195-pound cornerback who excels in zone coverage and demonstrates the potential to develop in press coverage.
39. TreVeyon Henderson, RB, Ohio State: A 5-10, 202-pound running back with breakaway speed and the ability to contribute as a pass protector and receiver. 40. Azareye’h Thomas, CB, Florida State: A 6-2, 197-pound cornerback known for his physicality and ability to disrupt receivers at the line of scrimmage.
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NFL Draft 2025: Archyde Interviews Draft Expert, Analyzing Day 1 Surprises and Top Remaining Prospects
Interview Introduction
Welcome, Archyde readers, to a deep dive into the thrilling first round of the 2025 NFL Draft. Joining us today to break down the surprises and analyze the top remaining prospects is none other than Ms. Evelyn Reed, a seasoned draft analyst at “Gridiron Insights.” Ms. Reed, welcome to Archyde.
Analyzing the First-Round Shocks
Archyde: Ms. Reed, the first round certainly delivered some unexpected turns. Which pick or player’s fall surprised you the most, and why?
Evelyn Reed: Thank you for having me. Absolutely,the draft always has its share of surprises. for me, the biggest shock was seeing Shedeur Sanders still on the board. I think many expected him to go top 15, due to the intense spotlight and the potential the son of a Hall of Famer possesses. His poise and accuracy at Colorado were remarkable, so his fall suggests teams may have concerns about the overall supporting cast he worked with. The mental makeup of Shedeur Sanders will make or break him.
Key Prospects Still Available
Archyde: Let’s dive into the remaining players. Will Johnson from Michigan and Mike Green from Marshall were highly touted. What makes them such valuable assets, and what teams might be looking at them?
Evelyn Reed: Both Will Johnson and Mike Green offer immediate impact potential.Johnson, with his size and fluidity, is a scheme-versatile cornerback, drawing comparisons to a player like Pat Surtain II indicates a high ceiling. Teams needing cornerback upgrades, maybe those who missed out in the first round, should be eyeing him. Green’s relentless pass-rushing ability, if he’s able to bulk a little bit, could immediately improve a defensive front and is the kind of player every team needs. He is a scheme fit for any defense
Under-the-Radar players to Watch
Archyde: Are there any players outside the top tier—the ones maybe in the second or third rounds—that you feel have the potential to become real steals?
Evelyn Reed: Absolutely. Keep an eye on Donovan Ezeiruaku from Boston Collage. His pass-rushing expertise is top-notch, even if he lacks ideal size. Also, don’t discount Shavon Revel Jr., if his knee is healthy. Recovering well from a notable injury is key, of course, but his competitive nature and solid game should make him a Day 2 pick worth monitoring. His ceiling is very high. Nick Emmanwori from South Carolina is a safety with both size and speed, great if you have a physical defense already.
Shedeur Sanders’ Future
Archyde: The big question mark remains Shedeur Sanders. What’s his ceiling, and what kind of situation is ideal for him to finally get drafted?
Evelyn Reed: Sanders’ ceiling is incredibly high if he lands with a team that has patience and a strong offensive coaching staff . He doesn’t need to be asked to improvise.A team that can focus on building the right system will allow him to improve. The key is that he can execute well. The situation also needs a good supporting cast around him. That includes strong receiving threats, a good o-line, and a running game, and his ability to handle pressure is the defining factor based on the position he plays.
Final Thoughts and Fan Engagement
Archyde: ms. Reed, thank you for your insightful analysis. Any final thoughts for our Archyde readers about the remaining draft days?
Evelyn Reed: The draft is far from over! Day 2 and 3 always bring exciting developments. Teams will be looking to find value and fill key needs. For the fans, engage in the debates, anticipate the trades, and enjoy the process. Let’s see which teams make the best moves.
Archyde: Thank you, Ms. Reed. And to our readers: what are your boldest predictions for Day 2 and 3 of the draft? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
