Senior Bowl 2025 Preview: Media’s Players to Watch
The Senior Bowl is one of the most anticipated events in the NFL draft process. This prestigious game, which features the top senior college football players in the country, provides NFL scouts, coaches, and media members a valuable opportunity to evaluate prospects up close in a competitive, all-star setting. The 2025 Senior Bowl, set to take place in Mobile, Alabama, is shaping up to be another exciting showcase of talent, with a group of dynamic prospects vying for attention ahead of the upcoming NFL Draft.
This year, the media’s players to watch have been identified based on their impressive college careers, potential to rise up draft boards, and their performances in practice leading up to the game. With scouts, coaches, and general managers closely observing every move, the players highlighted here are poised to make a significant impression in Mobile.
1. Drake Maye (QB, North Carolina)
Drake Maye, the star quarterback for the North Carolina Tar Heels, has been on the NFL radar for quite some time. After a stellar college career, where he demonstrated poise, accuracy, and the ability to lead his team under pressure, Maye has positioned himself as one of the top quarterbacks in the 2025 draft class. His arm strength, mobility, and football IQ make him an exciting prospect for teams in need of a future franchise quarterback.
The Senior Bowl will give Maye a chance to show off his skills in a more controlled environment. Expect NFL scouts to keep a close eye on his decision-making, timing, and leadership. Maye’s performance in the game could determine whether he’s selected in the top five or slips further down the draft board. The Senior Bowl will be an opportunity for him to solidify his status as a potential first-round pick.
2. Jaxon Smith-Njigba (WR, Ohio State)
Jaxon Smith-Njigba has been a standout wide receiver at Ohio State, where he has showcased exceptional route-running ability, hands, and a deep understanding of the game. Despite battling some injury setbacks during the 2024 season, he is still considered one of the top wideouts in this class. Known for his precise routes and ability to gain separation, Smith-Njigba is expected to have a strong week of practices and shine in the Senior Bowl game.
His versatility—able to play inside or outside—gives him a valuable skill set that NFL teams will be looking to tap into. If Smith-Njigba can prove that he is fully recovered from his injuries and show out during the Senior Bowl week, he could firmly secure his position as one of the top receivers in the 2025 draft class.
3. BJ Ojulari (EDGE, LSU)
A pass-rushing machine, BJ Ojulari from LSU has built a reputation as one of the best edge rushers in college football. With a relentless motor, quick first step, and the ability to disrupt quarterbacks from both sides of the line, Ojulari has all the traits that NFL teams covet in an edge rusher. His ability to bend around the edge and generate pressure on quarterbacks makes him a high-value prospect for teams looking to improve their pass-rush.
The Senior Bowl will give Ojulari a chance to face off against some of the best offensive linemen in the country, which will be a key test of his abilities to transition to the NFL. If he can consistently get to the quarterback in practices and the game itself, his draft stock will soar, possibly making him a first-round pick in April.
4. Isaiah Foskey (EDGE, Notre Dame)
Another standout edge rusher, Isaiah Foskey from Notre Dame, has shown great promise as a physical, high-energy player. Standing at 6’5″ and weighing over 260 pounds, Foskey has the physical traits to dominate at the next level. His combination of speed, strength, and football intelligence has made him one of the most highly regarded pass-rushers in this draft class.
Foskey will be looking to showcase his ability to get to the quarterback and handle the different offensive line techniques he’ll face at the Senior Bowl. His size and explosive movements will certainly be a point of focus for NFL scouts. A standout performance in Mobile could elevate him into the conversation for one of the top defensive players in the draft.
5. Jalin Hyatt (WR, Tennessee)
Jalin Hyatt was one of the most explosive receivers in college football during the 2024 season, posting big numbers and making critical plays for the Tennessee Volunteers. With his incredible speed and ability to stretch the field, Hyatt is a deep threat who has the ability to change the course of a game with one big play. His combination of size and acceleration has made him one of the most intriguing wide receiver prospects of the 2025 draft class.
At the Senior Bowl, Hyatt will be under intense scrutiny as scouts want to see if his college production can translate to a more refined game against top-tier competition. If Hyatt can show he’s more than just a deep-threat player and demonstrate his ability to run a diverse set of routes, he could make a strong push for a higher draft position.
6. Tyler Steen (OT, Alabama)
The Alabama Crimson Tide consistently produces top-tier NFL talent, and Tyler Steen is no exception. A versatile offensive tackle with impressive physical traits, Steen is a player who can start immediately at the next level. His ability to play both tackle spots and excel in both the running and passing game makes him an attractive option for NFL teams looking to fortify their offensive lines.
Steen’s performance in the Senior Bowl will be vital, as he’ll get to showcase his ability to protect the quarterback and block in various run schemes. His potential to start from day one and his experience in one of the most competitive conferences in college football make him a player to watch closely during Senior Bowl week.
7. Jordan Addison (WR, USC)
A former Pittsburgh Panther who transferred to USC, Jordan Addison has proven himself to be one of the top wide receivers in the country. Known for his impressive catch radius, route-running precision, and ability to make plays after the catch, Addison is considered one of the most polished receivers in the 2025 class. His ability to make an impact in both the short and deep passing game will make him an appealing option for NFL teams.
At the Senior Bowl, Addison’s challenge will be to prove his physicality against NFL-caliber defenders. With his precise route running and strong hands, Addison has the potential to elevate his draft stock with a strong showing in Mobile. If he can showcase his versatility and improve his ability to separate from physical defenders, he could end up as one of the top receivers selected in April’s draft.
8. Cam Smith (CB, South Carolina)
A standout defensive back for South Carolina, Cam Smith is a ball hawk with excellent instincts, solid technique, and a knack for making big plays. His ability to cover wide receivers in man-to-man situations and his physicality in the run game make him one of the top cornerback prospects in this draft. Smith’s playmaking ability will be under the spotlight at the Senior Bowl, where he’ll face off against some of the best wide receivers in the country.
Scouts will be paying close attention to how Smith handles the challenges of covering elite competition in one-on-one situations. His ability to shadow receivers, anticipate routes, and make key interceptions could elevate his status in the draft. A standout week could push Smith into first-round territory as one of the top cornerbacks in the class.
9. Zach Charbonnet (RB, UCLA)
Zach Charbonnet has been one of the most consistent and productive running backs in college football. Playing for UCLA, Charbonnet’s combination of size, speed, and vision has made him one of the top backs available in the 2025 draft class. He excels in all phases of the game, whether it’s as a ball-carrier, pass-catcher, or protector in the backfield.
Charbonnet’s skills will be put to the test in Mobile, as he’ll face off against some of the best defensive talent in the country. His ability to run with power and agility, while also being a reliable target in the passing game, will be key for Charbonnet to improve his draft position. If he can showcase his versatility and elusiveness at the Senior Bowl, he could be in for a significant draft boost.
10. Drew Sanders (LB, Arkansas)
Drew Sanders is a dynamic linebacker with the ability to impact the game both in the run game and as a pass rusher. Known for his explosive athleticism and versatility, Sanders has the potential to become a key piece for an NFL defense. Whether he’s rushing the quarterback or covering in space, Sanders has shown the ability to be a game-changer on defense.
At the Senior Bowl, Sanders will look to prove that he can handle NFL-caliber offensive linemen and running backs, as well as continue to showcase his pass-rushing skills. A solid week of practices and a dominant game performance could elevate Sanders into the conversation as one of the top linebackers in the draft.