As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, LSU football fans are buzzing with anticipation about the potential for several of their standout players to hear their names called in the first round. With a long history of producing NFL talent, LSU’s football program has become one of the most successful in developing players who excel at the next level. From the iconic days of players like Patrick Peterson and Tyrann Mathieu to more recent stars such as Ja’Marr Chase and Joe Burrow, LSU has continually provided the NFL with elite talent.
Heading into the 2025 draft, LSU has a number of potential first-round prospects. Some are household names with established collegiate careers, while others are emerging stars whose potential is just beginning to be recognized. In this article, we will take a closer look at the LSU Tigers who could end up in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft, their playing styles, and what makes them unique in a deep and talented class.
1. Malik Nabers – Wide Receiver
Malik Nabers, one of the most electric and dynamic playmakers in college football, is expected to be one of the top wide receivers in the 2025 NFL Draft. A key part of LSU’s explosive offense, Nabers has been a standout player since his freshman season. With his quickness, route-running ability, and ability to make defenders miss in the open field, he has all the tools to be a top-tier wide receiver at the next level.
Nabers finished the 2024 season with impressive numbers, showcasing his ability to stretch the field and serve as a reliable target for the quarterback. With a reported 4.3-second 40-yard dash time and a 6’0″, 200-pound frame, Nabers combines speed with physicality. His ability to create separation and make spectacular catches has drawn comparisons to some of the NFL’s top receivers. His ability to contribute on special teams, particularly in the return game, only adds to his appeal for NFL teams looking for a versatile and explosive playmaker.
In the 2025 draft, Nabers is expected to be one of the first wide receivers off the board. Teams that need a dynamic weapon on the outside could see Nabers as an immediate impact player. He has already shown his ability to thrive in high-pressure situations, and with continued development, he could quickly become one of the most dangerous wideouts in the NFL.
2. Jarell Cherry – Linebacker
One of LSU’s top defensive players, Jarell Cherry has all the traits that NFL teams look for in a linebacker. Standing at 6’2″ and 240 pounds, Cherry possesses the size and athleticism to be an every-down linebacker in the NFL. His ability to read plays, diagnose offensive schemes, and make plays sideline-to-sideline has earned him recognition as one of the top defensive players in college football.
Cherry has the versatility to play in both 3-4 and 4-3 defensive schemes, making him an appealing option for a variety of NFL teams. His speed and coverage ability set him apart from many other linebackers, allowing him to excel in both run defense and pass coverage. With his instinctual playmaking ability, Cherry has become one of LSU’s most important defensive players and could easily find himself selected in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft.
His leadership on the field and his ability to step up in big moments further cement his place as a potential first-rounder. With the NFL increasingly valuing hybrid linebacker skills—players who can cover tight ends, rush the passer, and stuff the run—Cherry fits the modern mold of the ideal linebacker.
3. Maason Smith – Defensive Tackle
Maason Smith, one of LSU’s most highly-touted defensive linemen, is another potential first-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. The 6’5″, 320-pound defensive tackle has the size, power, and explosiveness to dominate in both the run game and as a pass rusher. Smith has been an integral part of LSU’s defense, earning praise for his ability to disrupt plays in the backfield, collapse the pocket, and plug up running lanes.
Smith’s combination of size and athleticism makes him an intriguing prospect for NFL teams, especially those looking for a versatile defensive tackle who can contribute in multiple facets. He has a quick first step and exceptional strength, allowing him to push offensive linemen back and create pressure on quarterbacks. His ability to anchor against the run while still being able to generate a pass rush has drawn comparisons to some of the top defensive tackles in recent NFL history.
After a breakout sophomore season, Smith is positioned to be one of the top defensive line prospects in the 2025 draft. If he continues to show his dominance and versatility in his final season at LSU, it’s likely that Smith will hear his name called early in the first round.
4. Greg Brooks Jr. – Cornerback
LSU’s Greg Brooks Jr. is one of the most well-rounded cornerbacks in college football. With his ability to lock down wide receivers, his physical style of play, and his exceptional ball skills, Brooks has shown that he has the traits to thrive at the next level. At 6’1″ and 190 pounds, he has the size and speed to cover NFL receivers, and his quickness and ability to read the quarterback’s eyes have made him one of the top cornerbacks in the SEC.
Brooks’ ability to make plays on the ball is one of his strongest traits. Whether it’s breaking up passes or coming away with interceptions, Brooks is constantly in the right place at the right time. His skills as a cover corner, coupled with his willingness to come up and make tackles in run support, make him an ideal fit for NFL teams looking for a complete player in their secondary.
After consistently producing at LSU and showcasing his skills in some of the nation’s toughest games, Brooks is expected to be one of the top cornerbacks in the 2025 NFL Draft. His combination of physicality, technique, and football IQ should make him a first-round candidate when the draft rolls around.
5. Emery Jones – Offensive Tackle
Emery Jones, one of the top offensive tackle prospects in college football, has all the traits that NFL teams covet in a player at his position. Standing at 6’6″ and weighing in at 330 pounds, Jones has the size and strength to handle some of the most dominant pass rushers in the league. He has been a key part of LSU’s offensive line and is widely regarded as one of the top offensive linemen in the 2025 draft class.
Jones has shown the ability to dominate in both the run and pass games, using his immense strength to create space for running backs while protecting the quarterback from opposing defenses. His footwork, while still a work in progress, has shown significant improvement, and his balance and punch have made him a difficult player to get around on the edge.
As teams continue to prioritize offensive line play, Jones’ combination of size, athleticism, and technique make him an appealing option in the first round. NFL teams in need of a franchise tackle will likely be keeping a close eye on Jones throughout the 2024 season. If he continues to develop and showcase his skills, Jones could be one of the first offensive tackles selected in the draft.
6. Harold Perkins Jr. – Linebacker
Harold Perkins Jr. is one of the most explosive and versatile players in college football. As a linebacker, Perkins is known for his speed, agility, and ability to make plays all over the field. At 6’1″ and 220 pounds, he has the size to take on blockers but the speed to track down ball carriers and cover wide receivers in the open field. Perkins’ ability to impact the game both as a pass rusher and in pass coverage has made him one of the most exciting defensive prospects in recent memory.
Perkins’ ability to line up at multiple spots in LSU’s defense—whether as an off-ball linebacker or a pass-rusher—makes him one of the most valuable players in the 2025 draft class. His relentless motor and high football IQ set him apart from other players at his position, and he could be an ideal fit for NFL teams looking for a versatile linebacker capable of making plays in a variety of situations.
While he may need to continue refining his coverage skills, Perkins has the raw talent to be one of the first linebackers off the board in the 2025 NFL Draft. With his potential to be an every-down player at the next level, it’s likely that Perkins will be one of LSU’s first-round draft picks.
7. Jayden Daniels – Quarterback
Jayden Daniels, LSU’s starting quarterback, is one of the most electrifying players in college football. Daniels’ ability to make plays both through the air and on the ground has made him one of the top quarterbacks in the 2025 NFL Draft class. Standing at 6’4″ and weighing 220 pounds, Daniels has the size and athleticism to thrive in the NFL.
Daniels possesses a strong arm and impressive accuracy, particularly on deep throws. His ability to read defenses and make quick decisions under pressure is also a key strength. In addition to his passing ability, Daniels is a dual-threat quarterback who can escape the pocket and make plays with his legs, adding a dynamic element to any offense.
As the NFL continues to value mobile quarterbacks who can make plays both in the pocket and on the move, Daniels has a chance to be selected in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft. His development over the next season will determine how high he can go, but if he continues to show improvement, he could be a top pick for teams in need of a franchise quarterback.
A Bright Future for LSU Players
LSU continues to be a powerhouse in developing top-tier talent for the NFL, and the 2025 draft class is no exception. With multiple players projected to be first-round picks, LSU is poised to continue its legacy of producing elite athletes who thrive at the next level. From explosive playmakers like Malik Nabers and Harold Perkins Jr. to defensive stalwarts like Maason Smith and Jarell Cherry, LSU is well-represented in the 2025 draft. As these players continue to develop and perform, their futures in the NFL look brighter than ever.