Day 3: Wide Receivers, Running Backs, and Quarterbacks – Breaking Down the Key Performers
The third day of the 2025 NFL Draft combine brought together an exciting array of talent at the wide receiver, running back, and quarterback positions. These playmakers showcased their skills, helping solidify their positions as potential stars in the upcoming season. Among the standout players were Jordan Watkins, Tre Harris, Jaxson Dart, Antwane Wells Jr., Ulysses Bentley IV, and many others, all looking to impress NFL scouts and solidify their draft stock. Here’s a breakdown of their performances:
Wide Receivers
Jordan Watkins (WR)
Jordan Watkins is quickly emerging as one of the most versatile wide receivers in this draft class. Known for his sharp route running, great hands, and ability to make plays after the catch, Watkins has consistently proven his ability to create separation from defenders. Throughout Day 3 of the combine, Watkins showed his explosiveness in the 40-yard dash and caught nearly every ball thrown his way, displaying his smooth, efficient route-running technique.
One of his most impressive attributes is his ability to run crisp routes in the intermediate game. His sharp cuts and quick release off the line of scrimmage allow him to get open against even the toughest defenders. If he can continue this momentum, Watkins could find himself making an immediate impact in the NFL.
Tre Harris (WR)
Tre Harris, a physical and high-impact wide receiver, made waves on Day 3 of the combine with his excellent performance in both the drills and the 40-yard dash. Standing at 6’3″ and possessing solid muscle definition, Harris showed off his strength and ability to make contested catches. His ability to track the ball in the air and fight for the catch in high-pressure situations makes him a valuable prospect.
Harris has the potential to be a reliable, big-play receiver at the next level. His size and strength allow him to be an effective red-zone target, while his ability to adjust to off-target throws will make him a go-to option for quarterbacks who need a dependable target.
Jaxson Dart (WR)
Jaxson Dart’s combine performance also stood out on Day 3, showing off his athleticism and speed. A dynamic receiver with great separation speed, Dart impressed scouts with his fluidity in his routes and his ability to break free from defenders. While he’s known for his deep threat ability, Dart also demonstrated a strong understanding of how to work the intermediate and short routes.
His combination of speed and agility gives him an advantage in creating mismatches, making him a dangerous weapon for any offense looking for a versatile receiver who can stretch the field and make plays all over the field.
Running Backs
Antwane Wells Jr. (RB)
Antwane Wells Jr. is one of the most intriguing running back prospects in the 2025 draft class. Known for his explosive agility and ability to find holes, Wells demonstrated his unique combination of power and speed on Day 3. During drills, Wells showed his ability to shift gears quickly and accelerate into the open field, often leaving defenders in the dust.
What makes Wells even more valuable is his ability as a dual-threat back. He’s not only capable of making plays in the running game, but he can also be a receiving threat out of the backfield. Wells’ ability to contribute in multiple facets of the game makes him a very attractive option for NFL teams looking to add a versatile running back to their roster.
Ulysses Bentley IV (RB)
Ulysses Bentley IV turned heads during Day 3 with his impressive blend of speed and vision. At 5’9″ and 205 pounds, Bentley possesses an ideal size for an NFL running back and used that to his advantage in drills, displaying a low center of gravity and excellent balance through contact. He consistently showed his ability to hit the hole quickly and explode past defenders, making him a potential big-play threat every time he touches the ball.
Bentley’s agility is one of his strongest assets, as he’s able to make sharp cuts and change direction with ease. He also showed his hands in the passing drills, proving that he can be a threat out of the backfield as well. His well-rounded game could make him an excellent addition to a team looking for a reliable running back with good vision, elusiveness, and acceleration.
Quarterbacks
Ulysses Bentley IV (QB)
Ulysses Bentley IV, while known as a running back, also showcased his quarterback skills on Day 3, proving his dual-threat ability and further enhancing his draft stock. Bentley has exceptional vision and the ability to quickly read defenses, delivering precise throws even under pressure. His ability to keep defenses guessing by threatening both in the pocket and with his legs made him one of the more interesting prospects to watch.
In addition to his arm strength and accuracy, Bentley demonstrated impressive mechanics and showed that he can make throws from multiple platforms. He could potentially be used in creative ways at the NFL level, such as in RPO (Run-Pass Option) systems, where his dual-threat capability could be fully maximized.
Looking Ahead
As the draft process continues to unfold, these talented players are solidifying their spots as potential future stars. Whether it’s Jordan Watkins with his exceptional route running, Tre Harris with his size and strength, Jaxson Dart with his speed and deep-threat potential, Antwane Wells Jr. with his versatility in both the running and passing games, or Ulysses Bentley IV with his dual-threat skills, Day 3 has proven that these players have the talent to make a significant impact at the next level.
NFL teams will be keeping a close eye on these prospects as they prepare for their professional careers. The performances on Day 3 were just the beginning, and each of these players will look to build upon their momentum as the draft approaches. If their combine performances are any indication, we can expect to see them make significant contributions in the NFL for years to come.