Auburn’s Finest: Top Tigers Primed for the 2025 NFL Draft
As the page turns on another college football season, the anticipation for the NFL Draft begins to build. For Auburn faithful, this means turning their attention to the talented Tigers who have a chance to make their mark at the professional level. While the 2024 season might not have unfolded exactly as they hoped, a handful of Auburn standouts have consistently displayed the skills and potential that NFL scouts covet. Heading into the 2025 NFL Draft, several Tigers are poised to hear their names called, representing the next wave of Auburn talent entering the league.
Leading the charge is running back Jarquez Hunter. A dynamic playmaker since his freshman year, Hunter possesses an electrifying blend of speed, agility, and surprising power for his 5-foot-10, 209-pound frame. His burst allows him to hit holes quickly, and his lateral quickness makes him a nightmare for defenders in space. Hunter’s ability to also contribute in the passing game as a receiver out of the backfield adds another dimension to his pro potential. While some scouts might nitpick his size, his on-field production and consistent ability to make defenders miss make him a compelling prospect who has garnered attention as a potential Day 2 selection. His performance at the Senior Bowl further solidified his draft stock, showcasing his skills against top competition.
Another Tiger generating significant buzz is wide receiver KeAndre Lambert-Smith. A graduate transfer who quickly became a focal point of the Auburn offense, Lambert-Smith showcased his dynamic playmaking ability throughout the 2024 season. At 6-foot-1 and 182 pounds, he possesses impressive speed, reportedly clocking a 4.37-second 40-yard dash, which translates to his ability to stretch the field and create separation. He demonstrated reliable hands and a knack for finding the end zone, leading the SEC in yards per game and touchdowns at one point. Despite some initial puzzlingly low draft projections, his consistent production and leadership qualities have made him an intriguing prospect who could rise up draft boards as teams look for experienced and productive receivers in the later rounds. His participation in the East-West Shrine Bowl provided another platform to impress scouts.
On the defensive side of the ball, edge rusher Jalen McLeod has emerged as a notable prospect. Transferring and making an immediate impact, McLeod led the Tigers in sacks and tackles for loss in the 2024 season. While his 6-foot-1 frame might be considered slightly undersized for a traditional NFL edge rusher, his explosiveness off the snap, relentless motor, and ability to disrupt opposing offenses are undeniable. His knack for getting to the quarterback and creating negative plays makes him an attractive option for teams seeking pass-rushing help, potentially as a rotational player with upside. His invitation to the Senior Bowl speaks volumes about the recognition of his talent by NFL personnel.
Adding to the list of potential draftees is tight end Rivaldo Fairweather. At 6-foot-4 and 252 pounds, Fairweather possesses the prototypical size and athleticism that NFL teams look for in a modern tight end. While his receiving numbers might have slightly dipped in 2024 due to the arrival of other offensive weapons, his ability to stretch the field, create mismatches, and contribute as a blocker makes him a versatile prospect. His athleticism alone could warrant a late-round selection for a team looking to add depth and potential at the tight end position. His participation in the East-West Shrine Bowl provided him with an opportunity to showcase his skills in front of NFL scouts.
Linebacker Eugene Asante is another Auburn player who could hear his name called in the later rounds. As the leading tackler for the Tigers in 2023, Asante demonstrated his instincts, physicality, and ability to make plays in the middle of the defense. While perhaps slightly undersized at 6-foot-1 and 219 pounds for a traditional inside linebacker, his speed (reportedly running a 4.48-second 40-yard dash) and coverage ability could make him a valuable asset on special teams and as a potential developmental linebacker. His invitation to the Senior Bowl highlights the recognition of his abilities by NFL teams.
Beyond these top prospects, other Auburn players could also garner interest from NFL teams as potential late-round picks or undrafted free agents. Defensive tackle Isaiah Raikes possesses the size and strength to potentially contribute as a run-stopping interior lineman. Safety Jerrin Thompson has experience and versatility in the secondary that could appeal to teams looking for depth.
The journey to the NFL Draft is a rigorous process involving evaluations, interviews, and pre-draft workouts. For these Auburn Tigers, their performances on the field have laid the foundation, and the coming weeks will be crucial in solidifying their draft stock. Regardless of when or where they are selected, these players represent the hard work and dedication synonymous with Auburn football, and Tigers fans will undoubtedly be watching with pride as they embark on their professional careers. They carry the spirit of the Plains with them, hoping to make a significant impact at the highest level of the game. The 2025 NFL Draft promises to be an exciting time for these Auburn standouts as they take the next step in their football journeys.
