The 2025 NFL Scouting Combine has again turned the spotlight on the raw athletic prowess and strategic potential of top-tier college football talent. This year, the edge rushers took center stage with performances that not only dazzled scouts but also significantly reshaped draft boards. Here’s a closer look at the prospects who made waves and are now poised to make an impact in the NFL.
Explosive Performances and Future NFL Stars
James Pearce Jr. Sets the Pace
James Pearce Jr. from Tennessee delivered a stunning performance, recording a 4.47-second 40-yard dash coupled with impressive on-field drills. Standing 6-foot-5 and weighing 245 pounds, Pearce exhibited “typewriter” quick footwork, especially noted in the four-bag agility drill. His proficiency in changing direction and beating offensive tackles showcased his readiness for the professional level. With 10-inch hands complementing his speed, Pearce’s Combine showing firmly positions him as a likely early pick.
Donovan Ezeiruaku: Master of Agility
Skipping the 40-yard dash did nothing to diminish the shine on Donovan Ezeiruaku from Boston College. Ezeiruaku, with a standout 35.5-inch vertical and a broad jump just shy of 10 feet, topped all edge rushers in the agility drills. His record-setting 6.94-second three-cone drill was a clinic in fluid movement and explosive starts, signaling his potential to excel in pass rush situations at the next level.
Shemar Stewart’s Athletic Showcase
Texas A&M’s Shemar Stewart, previously speculated to transition to defensive tackle due to his weight, silenced doubters by weighing in at 267 pounds and showing off elite athleticism. Despite a hamstring tweak, his 40-inch vertical and 10-foot-11 broad jump—both tops for his weight class—underscored his raw power. Stewart’s ability to translate this explosive athleticism into effective edge rushing could see him climbing up draft boards.
Landon Jackson’s Stock Rises
Arkansas’ Landon Jackson, another standout, matched up closely with Stewart in explosive testing. Jackson’s 40.5-inch vertical and 10-foot-9 broad jump were not only impressive but also essential for his draft evaluation. His agility at 6-foot-6 and 264 pounds, coupled with smooth transitions in drills, likely secured his position as a high draft pick.
Jack Sawyer’s Technical Prowess
Ohio State’s Jack Sawyer may have opted out of the 40-yard dash, but his performance in the on-field drills was a textbook display of the technical skills necessary for success at the edge. Sawyer’s attention to detail, from hand placement to maintaining visual focus, demonstrated his disciplined approach and reinforced his value as a fundamentally sound player.
Quick Takes on Other Notable Performances
Several other athletes also made strong impressions at the Combine, showcasing a range of skills that could translate well to the NFL:
- Olwafemi Oladejo from UCLA dazzled with his linebacker-like agility and a notable 36.5-inch vertical jump, emphasizing his explosiveness and potential versatility on the defense.
- Nic Scourton of Texas A&M rebounded from a quieter season with impressive hip flexibility and quickness around the edge, which could enhance his draft stock.
- Princely Umanmielen from Ole Miss, despite some directional challenges, showed great straight-line explosiveness, essential for high-speed pursuits.
- David Walker, the compact powerhouse from Central Arkansas, demonstrated exceptional control and potential for specialized defensive roles.
- Ashton Gillotte from Louisville highlighted his endurance and strength, traits that could see him making significant impacts in physical matchups.
- Jordan Burch, despite being one of the heaviest in his group, moved with unexpected smoothness and speed, ensuring he remains a notable prospect.
As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, these athletes, having showcased their skills and potential at the Combine, await their next challenge. With their futures on the line, each hopes that their Combine performance will translate into a successful career in the NFL, making the leap from college stars to professional stalwarts.