Wed May 07 11:10:00 UTC 2025: ## College Coaches React to Surprising 2025 NFL Draft
**Green Bay, WI** – The 2025 NFL Draft concluded with several surprises, leaving college coaches buzzing with analysis and opinions on the selections and snubs. While the transfer portal added another layer of complexity, coaches across the Power 4 leagues offered ESPN their insights into the weekend’s events.
The biggest headline was the unexpected slide of Colorado quarterback Shedeur Sanders, who fell to the fifth round despite early top-five projections. Coaches attributed this to concerns about his fit in quarterback rooms with established starters, and the potential “noise” associated with a high-profile backup. While acknowledging his talent, several coaches questioned his consistency and ability to make crucial throws under pressure.
Conversely, Miami quarterback Cam Ward went as expected, a top-three pick, along with Colorado’s two-way star Travis Hunter and Penn State’s Abdul Carter. Hunter’s unique versatility impressed coaches, who anticipate a battle for his services between the Jaguars’ offensive and defensive staffs. Carter’s transition to defensive end was highlighted as a key factor in his success, making him a strong addition to the New York Giants’ 3-4 defense.
Other notable draft trends included the deep running back class, with 25 players selected, headlined by Heisman runner-up Ashton Jeanty. Debate surrounded the order of the next tier of running backs, with coaches pointing to different strengths for TreVeyon Henderson and Quinshon Judkins.
The quarterback position proved less deep, with Shedeur Sanders’ fall and the first-round selection of only one other quarterback besides Ward—Ole Miss’ Jaxson Dart—highlighting a lack of elite prospects. Alabama’s Jalen Milroe’s third-round selection surprised some, with coaches noting that his explosive abilities might be better utilized in a supporting role initially.
The draft also showcased a strong defensive talent pool, with a high number of defensive tackles, cornerbacks, edge rushers, linebackers, and safeties selected. The late selection of some highly decorated defensive players underscored the depth at those positions.
Several programs had standout performances. Ohio State led with 14 draft picks, including four first-rounders, while Texas’s 12 selections marked a remarkable turnaround under coach Steve Sarkisian. Alabama maintained its first-round streak, and Oregon also impressed with 10 selections, highlighting the success of their programs in developing NFL talent. Notre Dame, despite its championship run, only had six players drafted, suggesting future potential based on their recruiting. South Carolina’s five selections, including several in the top 50, showcased their growing strength. Finally, Maryland exceeded expectations with six picks, given their four-win season.
The 2025 NFL Draft ultimately highlighted the unpredictable nature of the process, the impact of the transfer portal, and the depth of talent across multiple positions in college football. The differing opinions of coaches underscore the complexities involved in evaluating college players for the professional level.
First Piper 