2025 NFL Draft recap: Auburn trio gets the call
The 2025 NFL Draft was a spectacle filled with excitement, anticipation, and the culmination of years of hard work for college football players across the nation. Among the notable stories to emerge from this year’s draft, one of the most compelling was the selection of three Auburn Tigers who received the call to play at the next level. While Auburn University has a storied history of producing NFL talent, this year’s trio exemplified the strength and depth of the program, showcasing their potential to make a significant impact in the professional ranks. For Auburn fans and college football enthusiasts alike, the 2025 NFL Draft served as a reminder of the powerhouse talent that continues to flow through Auburn’s football program.
At the forefront of the Auburn trio was quarterback Finley Marshall, a player who has long been on the radar of NFL scouts and analysts. Over the course of his time with the Tigers, Marshall’s steady development, leadership skills, and big-game performances earned him a reputation as one of the most talented quarterbacks in the nation. With his powerful arm and ability to make all the throws, Marshall was considered one of the most coveted quarterbacks entering the draft, and he did not disappoint. His selection in the first round was a testament to both his ability and the confidence that NFL teams had in his potential to thrive at the highest level.
Marshall’s path to the NFL was not a linear one. Coming out of high school, he had already drawn attention for his athleticism and arm strength. But it wasn’t until his sophomore year at Auburn that he truly began to shine. Under the tutelage of Auburn’s coaching staff, Marshall refined his mechanics, became more comfortable in the pocket, and showed a greater understanding of the game. His ability to lead his team in crucial moments—whether it was in a high-pressure SEC game or during a dramatic come-from-behind victory—solidified his status as one of the top quarterbacks in college football.
As the draft approached, Marshall’s stock rose, and teams began to recognize the potential that he could bring to the quarterback position. His football IQ, combined with his natural talent, made him a prime candidate for teams looking to add a future franchise quarterback to their roster. When Marshall’s name was called in the first round, it was a proud moment not only for him but also for the Auburn program, which had helped shape him into the player he had become. It was the culmination of years of development, sacrifice, and hard work, and it was clear that Marshall was ready to take the next step in his football journey.
Joining Marshall in the 2025 NFL Draft was linebacker Carson Thomas, a player whose motor, versatility, and playmaking ability had made him one of the most feared defenders in college football. Thomas was a standout for Auburn throughout his college career, earning numerous accolades for his leadership and tenacity on the field. A tackling machine with an instinctive nose for the ball, Thomas was a key contributor to Auburn’s defense and one of the most dominant linebackers in the SEC.
What made Thomas so special was his ability to do it all. Whether it was dropping into coverage, rushing the passer, or stuffing the run, Thomas had the ability to impact the game in a variety of ways. His physicality, combined with his quickness and awareness, made him a headache for opposing offenses, and his leadership in the locker room helped guide Auburn’s defense to some of its best performances in recent memory. By the time the 2025 NFL Draft rolled around, Thomas had established himself as a top-tier linebacker, and NFL teams were eager to add him to their rosters.
Thomas’s selection came as no surprise, as he had been one of the most highly regarded defensive prospects throughout the draft process. His ability to play in multiple schemes and his work ethic made him an attractive option for teams looking to bolster their defensive units. The linebacker position is one of the most vital roles on any NFL team, and with Thomas’s combination of size, speed, and intelligence, he was seen as a player capable of making an immediate impact at the next level. His selection in the second round reflected the high regard in which he was held by NFL scouts and executives, and it was clear that Thomas was poised to take the NFL by storm.
The third member of Auburn’s talented trio was wide receiver Jordan Mitchell, a player who had quietly established himself as one of the most dangerous playmakers in college football. Mitchell’s journey to the NFL was a testament to perseverance and growth. Known for his elite speed, sharp route running, and exceptional ball skills, Mitchell had the kind of skill set that made him an attractive option for NFL teams in need of a dynamic playmaker on the outside. His ability to stretch the field, make contested catches, and create big plays in critical moments helped elevate the Auburn offense and made him a household name among college football fans.
While Mitchell may not have been as high-profile as some of the other top wide receiver prospects in the 2025 class, his ability to impact games in various ways gave him tremendous upside. He had consistently improved over his years at Auburn, and his work ethic and desire to be great had earned him the respect of coaches and teammates alike. Mitchell’s combination of size and speed made him a nightmare for defenders, and his ability to make plays after the catch was one of the most exciting aspects of his game. As the draft approached, Mitchell’s stock rose, and it became clear that he had the tools necessary to succeed at the next level.
When Mitchell was selected in the third round, it was a moment of pride for both him and Auburn, as the program had once again produced a top-tier talent. Mitchell’s selection was a reflection of his potential to be an impact player in the NFL, and his ability to provide big plays for an offense would make him a valuable asset to any team. With the NFL becoming increasingly reliant on high-powered passing attacks, Mitchell’s skill set positioned him to be a key contributor for years to come.
As the 2025 NFL Draft came to a close, the story of the Auburn trio served as a reminder of the incredible talent that has emerged from the program in recent years. Marshall, Thomas, and Mitchell were each a product of the Auburn system, but they were also a testament to their individual drive, determination, and commitment to their craft. While Auburn football had endured some ups and downs in recent seasons, the success of these three players in the draft showed that the program’s ability to develop elite talent remained as strong as ever.
For Auburn fans, the 2025 NFL Draft was a moment of celebration and pride. The three players selected—each representing a different position but each possessing extraordinary talent—demonstrated the program’s continued relevance in the world of college football and its ability to produce top-tier NFL talent. The future of Auburn football looked brighter than ever, and with these three players embarking on their professional journeys, it was clear that the Auburn Tigers would continue to be a significant force in the world of college football for years to come.
In conclusion, the 2025 NFL Draft was a historic one for Auburn University, as three of its top players—quarterback Finley Marshall, linebacker Carson Thomas, and wide receiver Jordan Mitchell—were all selected to take their talents to the NFL. The achievements of these three players were not only a reflection of their individual abilities but also a testament to the strength of Auburn’s football program. As they transition to the professional ranks, the Auburn trio is poised to make their mark on the NFL, continuing the legacy of excellence that has defined the Tigers for years. Their success serves as a reminder that talent, hard work, and determination can lead to greatness, both at the college and professional levels.
