As the 2025 NFL Draft draws closer, the excitement surrounding this year’s crop of prospects is reaching a fever pitch. With the chance to become the next generational talent, the path to NFL stardom begins when players hear their names called. But as we wait, analysts and experts are drawing comparisons to current NFL stars to gauge the potential of these future stars.
In the latest episode of the With the First Pick podcast, former Tennessee Titans general manager Ran Carthon and host Ryan Wilson shared their favorite comparisons between the top prospects in the 2025 class and some of the NFL’s biggest names. From quarterbacks to wide receivers, let’s dive into some of their most intriguing pro comparisons for the upcoming draft.
Quarterbacks: From Explosive Talents to Pocket Passers
Jalen Milroe: Malik Willis and Taysom Hill
When it comes to comparing Jalen Milroe, Carthon has a two-pronged approach. As a pure quarterback, Carthon first draws a comparison to Malik Willis, the third-round pick for the Green Bay Packers. Both Milroe and Willis share similar deficiencies, particularly in terms of their processing in the pocket. However, Carthon notes Milroe’s explosive athleticism, which leads him to also compare him to Taysom Hill, the dynamic and versatile quarterback for the New Orleans Saints.
“In today’s game, you’re not going to let a guy with this type of ability just sit on the sideline,” Carthon says. He sees Milroe contributing as part of a quarterback room, with potential use in special packages rather than as a traditional starter. Both quarterbacks are capable of making big plays with the ball in their hands, making them useful in a variety of offensive roles.
Kyle McCord: Kirk Cousins vs. Jeff Driskel
When discussing Kyle McCord, the Ohio State quarterback, Wilson and Carthon offer two distinct perspectives. Wilson compares McCord to Kirk Cousins, the long-time NFL starter for the Minnesota Vikings. Wilson believes McCord’s growth and his ability to make precise throws are reminiscent of Cousins’ natural passing style.
However, Carthon disagrees, suggesting that McCord lacks the same quick release and natural rhythm of Cousins. Instead, Carthon leans toward a comparison with Jeff Driskel, a sixth-round pick who has bounced around the league since 2016. While McCord has shown growth, Carthon believes he still has a ways to go to reach the level of a quarterback like Cousins.
Running Backs: Power and Explosiveness on Display
TreVeyon Henderson: Chase Brown
Carthon sees a lot of potential in running back TreVeyon Henderson, drawing a comparison to Chase Brown of the Cincinnati Bengals. Both players excel in zone-running schemes, known for their decisiveness and explosive burst through the line. Wilson, however, believes Henderson will be one of the first running backs selected in this year’s draft due to his dynamic running style and ability to change the game.
Omarion Hampton: Joe Mixon
Wilson and Carthon both agree that Omarion Hampton has the physical traits to be one of the top picks at running back in the 2025 class. Carthon compares him to Joe Mixon, the star running back for the Houston Texans. Like Mixon, Hampton is a powerful runner who can take on defenders head-on, making him a challenge to bring down in the open field. Both players also excel in pass protection, which only adds to their value in the NFL.
Jaydon Blue: Jahmyr Gibbs vs. James Cook
Carthon compares Jaydon Blue to the explosive Jahmyr Gibbs, who was drafted by the Detroit Lions in the first round. Both Blue and Gibbs share similar skills—an ability to break tackles and make defenders miss in the open field. Blue has the potential to thrive in a third-down role, especially on offenses that utilize running backs in the passing game. Wilson, however, makes a different comparison, likening Blue’s smoothness and gliding running style to James Cook of the Buffalo Bills.
Wide Receivers: Speed and Agility on the Outside
Matthew Golden: Jordan Addison
When comparing wide receiver Matthew Golden, Wilson draws a parallel to Jordan Addison, a standout first-round pick for the Minnesota Vikings. Golden’s ability to stretch the field, paired with his elusiveness and playmaking skills, reminds Wilson of Addison’s game-breaking style.
Carthon, on the other hand, believes Golden has the potential to be a first-round pick, but he would prefer to see him in an offense that already has a number-one receiver. This would allow Golden to thrive as a secondary target while making plays on the outside.
Isaac TeSlaa: Cooper Kupp vs. Jauan Jennings
Isaac TeSlaa is another wide receiver who catches Wilson’s eye. Though Wilson doesn’t think TeSlaa will replicate Cooper Kupp’s exceptional success in the NFL, he notes the size and potential for big plays in the middle of the field. TeSlaa’s ability to be a reliable target, regardless of testing results, also reminded Wilson of Jauan Jennings, a wide receiver with the San Francisco 49ers.
Defensive Backs: Instincts and Playmaking Ability
Malachi Moore: Micah Hyde
In the secondary, Carthon sees safety Malachi Moore as a potential future Pro Bowler, drawing a comparison to Micah Hyde, a former fifth-round pick who played for the Buffalo Bills. Carthon believes both Moore and Hyde share instinctive playmaking ability, combined with above-average athleticism. Moore’s ability to read the game and react quickly puts him in the same category as the former Pro Bowl safety.
Jahdae Barron: Javon Bullard vs. Brian Branch
Wilson and Carthon both recognize the talents of defensive back Jahdae Barron, who Carthon sees as a “true matchup guy.” Wilson draws comparisons to Javon Bullard and Brian Branch, noting Barron’s enthusiasm and leadership on the field. Known for being a vocal presence in the locker room, Barron’s intelligence and versatility make him a strong prospect who could find himself in various defensive roles at the next level.
As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, it’s clear that there are numerous prospects primed for success in the NFL. From dynamic quarterbacks to explosive running backs and wide receivers, this draft class offers a wealth of talent across the board. As these players prepare to embark on their professional careers, the comparisons to established NFL stars provide a glimpse into the future of the league. Whether they’re the next Kirk Cousins or Joe Mixon, the stage is set for these young athletes to leave their mark on the NFL.