Projecting the Paths: LSU’s Standouts and Their Potential NFL Homes in the 2025 Draft
The air crackles with anticipation as the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, and for LSU football fans, the focus sharpens on the talented crop of Tigers poised to make their mark at the professional level. Following a strong showing in the 2024 draft, which saw three LSU players selected in the first round, the program once again boasts several high-caliber prospects with the potential to hear their names called early in Green Bay. While the sheer volume of first-rounders from the previous year might be difficult to replicate, the 2025 class is rich with talent across various positions, promising to add to LSU’s already impressive NFL lineage.
Leading the charge is undoubtedly offensive tackle Will Campbell. A cornerstone of the LSU offensive line since his arrival, Campbell has consistently demonstrated the blend of size, athleticism, and technical refinement that NFL teams covet in a blindside protector. Standing at an imposing 6-foot-6 and weighing over 315 pounds, Campbell possesses the physical tools to handle the rigors of the NFL. His film showcases a player with exceptional footwork, a strong anchor to stymie pass rushers, and the football IQ to recognize and react to complex defensive schemes. Widely considered one of the top offensive tackles in this year’s class, Campbell is projected by many analysts as a potential top-10 pick, with some mock drafts even placing him in the top five. Teams in need of a reliable and potentially dominant left tackle will undoubtedly have Campbell high on their draft boards. The New England Patriots, holding an early pick, have frequently been mentioned as a possible landing spot for the Louisiana native.
Another Tiger generating significant buzz is tight end Mason Taylor. The son of Hall of Fame defensive end Jason Taylor, Mason has carved his own impressive collegiate career in Baton Rouge. With each passing season, Taylor has showcased his growth as both a blocker and a receiver, culminating in a productive 2024 campaign where he led the team in receptions and receiving yards among tight ends. At 6-foot-5 and 255 pounds, Taylor possesses the prototypical size for an NFL tight end, coupled with surprising athleticism and reliable hands. His ability to contribute in the running game as a blocker and his developing route-running skills make him an intriguing prospect for teams seeking a versatile player at the position. While not projected as a first-round pick like some of his predecessors, Taylor is widely expected to be a Day 2 selection, potentially landing in the second or third round. Teams that value a tight end who can both block effectively and contribute as a receiving threat will find Taylor’s skillset highly appealing.
On the defensive side of the ball, edge rushers Bradyn Swinson and Sai’vion Jones have garnered attention from NFL scouts. Swinson, a 6-foot-4, 250-pound force off the edge, enjoyed a breakout season in 2024, showcasing his ability to generate pressure on opposing quarterbacks with a combination of speed and power. His improved technique and relentless motor have made him a rising prospect in the draft. Jones, at 6-foot-5 and a stout 280 pounds, offers a different but equally compelling skillset. Known for his strength and ability to set the edge against the run, Jones also possesses the potential to develop into a consistent pass rusher at the next level. Both Swinson and Jones are projected as potential Day 2 or early Day 3 picks, offering teams valuable additions to their defensive fronts. Their versatility and potential for further development make them attractive options for teams looking to bolster their pass-rushing depth.
Adding to the offensive line talent pool are Emery Jones Jr., Miles Frazier, and Garrett Dellinger. Jones, a versatile lineman who has experience playing both tackle and guard, offers teams positional flexibility and a strong physical presence. Frazier, known for his reliability in pass protection, also brings a wealth of starting experience at guard. Dellinger, who has played multiple positions along the offensive line during his time at LSU, provides valuable depth and versatility. While perhaps not as highly touted as Campbell, these three offensive linemen are expected to be selected in the mid-to-late rounds of the draft, offering teams valuable depth and potential starters down the line. Their experience in a high-level college program like LSU makes them relatively pro-ready prospects.
In the secondary, cornerback Zy Alexander has emerged as a prospect of interest. Possessing good size at 6-foot-2 and displaying solid athleticism, Alexander has shown flashes of being a lockdown corner. His coverage skills and ball-hawking ability have caught the eye of scouts. While consistency in press coverage is an area for improvement, Alexander’s potential to develop into a starting cornerback at the NFL level makes him a likely mid-round selection. Teams looking to add length and athleticism to their cornerback room will be keeping a close watch on Alexander.
Rounding out the list of potential draftees are linebacker Greg Penn III and running back Josh Williams. Penn, a three-year starter and defensive captain for the Tigers, brings a wealth of experience and a reputation as a reliable tackler. Williams, a dependable running back with a strong work ethic, has demonstrated his ability to contribute in various facets of the game. While their draft stock may vary, both players offer valuable experience and potential depth to NFL teams in the later rounds or as undrafted free agents. Their contributions to a successful LSU program speak to their character and potential to contribute at the next level.
As the 2025 NFL Draft draws nearer, the projections for these LSU standouts will continue to evolve. However, one thing remains certain: the Bayou Bengals will once again be well-represented among the next generation of NFL talent. With a blend of high-end prospects and valuable contributors, LSU’s 2025 draft class is poised to make a significant impact on the league for years to come, further solidifying the program’s reputation as a breeding ground for professional football talent. The draft weekend in Green Bay promises to be an exciting one for LSU fans as they watch where their beloved Tigers will begin their NFL journeys.
