Journey to Greatness or a Squid Game Scenario
The upcoming NFL Draft of 2025 is generating buzz comparable to the debut of Marvel’s first superhero family on the big screen. College football stars such as Shedeur Sanders, Travis Hunter, and Abdul Carter are capturing headlines as potential game-changers poised to make their mark in the NFL. However, before these athletes can embark on their professional careers, they face a formidable obstacle: the NFL Combine. This event serves as a crucial checkpoint where prospects undergo intense scrutiny, from exhaustive physical tests like the 40-yard dash to thorough medical evaluations that rival hospital visits. For some players, navigating this process becomes particularly challenging due to lingering injuries sustained during their college careers. As teams carefully assess these prospects, the stakes are high, with the potential for some to rise like LeBron in the playoffs or fall faster than a Game of Thrones character at a wedding. Let’s delve into the details.
Major Prospects with Injury Concerns
OT Josh Simmons
Imagine being Josh Simmons, the highly touted offensive tackle from Ohio State projected to be a first-round pick despite tearing his ACL. With a strong reputation for athleticism and a solid 74.4 PFF overall grade in the past season, Simmons faces uncertainty due to his injury. As he undergoes extensive medical evaluations, the question looms: Will teams take a chance on his talent early in the draft, or will concerns about his injury push him down the selection order?
CB Shavon Revel
Shavon Revel’s journey to the NFL Draft is marked by impressive athletic achievements, earning him a spot with the East Carolina Pirates. Following a standout performance that secured him a scholarship, Revel’s path took a challenging turn when he tore his ACL in September 2024, sidelining him for the remainder of the season. With a five-month recovery period, all eyes are on Revel to see if he can bounce back and impress scouts despite his recent injury.
CB Benjamin Morrison
Benjamin Morrison, a standout cornerback from Notre Dame, appeared destined for a top-20 selection in the 2025 NFL Draft following impressive performances. However, a hip injury sustained during a game against Stanford cut his season short after just six games, raising concerns among NFL scouts about his long-term mobility post-surgery. The injury poses a significant red flag as Morrison’s draft stock faces uncertainty.
ER Mykel Williams
Mykel Williams, the highly regarded edge rusher from Georgia Bulldogs, garnered praise for his work ethic and talent but faced adversity when he suffered an injury in the season opener. Despite playing through pain for the remainder of the season, Williams’ imposing physical attributes and skill set make him an intriguing prospect for teams willing to take a chance on his potential once he is fully healthy.
CB Maxwell Hairston
Maxwell Hairston’s collegiate career with the Kentucky Wildcats was marked by a breakout performance in his junior year, leading the SEC in interceptions and earning recognition for his playmaking abilities. However, a shoulder injury in his final season limited his playing time and raised concerns about his draft prospects. Analysts project Hairston as a late first or early second-round pick, provided his shoulder injury does not impact his draft stock.
TE Elijah Arroyo
Elijah Arroyo’s tenure with the Miami Hurricanes has been marred by injuries, notably a torn ACL in his sophomore season that sidelined him for a significant portion of games. Known for his prowess in stretching the field and solid blocking, Arroyo’s injury history presents a potential obstacle as NFL scouts evaluate his draft potential. The tight end’s ability to overcome past injuries will be a key factor in determining his draft position.
In conclusion, these major prospects facing injury concerns are set to undergo rigorous scrutiny during the NFL Combine. The 2025 NFL Draft promises to be a rollercoaster ride for these athletes, with opportunities for greatness on the horizon. However, for some, the journey may resemble a high-stakes game akin to Squid Game, where one misstep could alter their professional futures.
