Projecting the top landing spot for Clemson football players, including Phil Mafah, in the 2025 NFL draft

Phil Mafah has the tools to be a standout NFL running back. A powerful, downhill runner with great vision, Mafah has impressed during his time at Clemson, complementing the speed and agility of his backfield counterparts. However, as an NFL prospect, he brings more than just size and strength; his ability to pick up key yards in short-yardage situations and break tackles makes him an enticing prospect for several NFL teams.

Best Landing Spots for Phil Mafah:

1. Miami Dolphins
   • Why It Fits: The Miami Dolphins, led by head coach Mike McDaniel, have transformed into an offensive juggernaut, utilizing speed and explosiveness to carve through defenses. However, they lack a reliable, physical running back who can complement the high-powered passing attack spearheaded by Tua Tagovailoa and the dynamic wide receiver corps of Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle. While Raheem Mostert and Jeff Wilson Jr. have provided serviceable efforts, neither brings the consistent power and downhill running style that Mafah offers.
   • Fit in the Scheme: Mafah could be the ideal complement to Miami’s outside zone running scheme. His ability to wear down defenders and his skill in short-yardage situations would give the Dolphins the option to mix up their offense and control the clock. His toughness between the tackles could allow Miami to close out games late and offer a more balanced attack.
2. Buffalo Bills
   • Why It Fits: The Buffalo Bills, under head coach Sean McDermott, have one of the most exciting and dynamic offenses in the NFL, led by quarterback Josh Allen. However, despite their success, the Bills have struggled to establish a consistent running game. Devin Singletary and James Cook have been solid options, but neither provides the physicality and power that can grind down opposing defenses. Mafah’s ability to move the chains and impose his will on defenders would be a major asset for Buffalo.
   • Fit in the Scheme: The Bills’ zone-blocking scheme could take advantage of Mafah’s vision and decision-making as a running back. Additionally, his ability to catch passes out of the backfield would make him a valuable asset in the Bills’ versatile offense, giving Allen another weapon to work with in the passing game. Mafah could be the type of running back who makes an immediate impact, especially in short-yardage and goal-line situations.
3. Kansas City Chiefs
   • Why It Fits: The Kansas City Chiefs have been a perennial powerhouse in the NFL, largely due to the greatness of quarterback Patrick Mahomes. While the Chiefs’ offense is predominantly centered around Mahomes and the passing game, there’s still room for a more traditional running back to play a key role. Isiah Pacheco has been effective for Kansas City, but the Chiefs lack a true bruising back who can handle the physicality of the postseason and grind out tough yards when necessary.
   • Fit in the Scheme: Mafah’s ability to break tackles and gain positive yards consistently would serve the Chiefs well, particularly when they need to close out games or sustain long drives. His skill set would add a physical dimension to the Chiefs’ offense, which could prove valuable in the postseason. Additionally, with Mahomes spreading the field, Mafah would have plenty of room to exploit gaps in the defense, whether in the running or passing game.
4. Los Angeles Rams
   • Why It Fits: The Los Angeles Rams have been in need of a reliable, versatile running back who can contribute in all phases of the game. After the departure of Cam Akers, the Rams have been piecing together their backfield, but have lacked consistency. Mafah could provide that steady presence as a bruising runner capable of taking over when the Rams need to move the chains in crucial situations.
   • Fit in the Scheme: Sean McVay’s offense is predicated on play-action and getting the running back involved in the passing game. Mafah’s ability to run between the tackles and contribute as a pass-catcher out of the backfield fits well in McVay’s system. As the Rams transition into the next phase of their offensive evolution, Mafah would provide them with a reliable and powerful option to complement their passing attack.

Other Key Clemson Players:

Beyond Mafah, several other Clemson players are likely to be drafted in the 2025 NFL Draft, with each having a unique skill set that will make them valuable assets at the next level.

1. Cade Klubnik (Quarterback)

Cade Klubnik, Clemson’s starting quarterback, has shown flashes of brilliance during his time as the Tigers’ signal-caller. A dual-threat quarterback with great mobility and a strong arm, Klubnik has the tools to succeed in the NFL. As the quarterback position continues to evolve with a growing emphasis on mobility and versatility, Klubnik could be an appealing prospect for teams looking for a quarterback who can make plays both inside and outside the pocket.

Best Landing Spots for Cade Klubnik:

• Minnesota Vikings: The Vikings have Kirk Cousins, but his future is uncertain. Klubnik could be a great fit as a developmental quarterback in Minnesota’s offense, especially under the tutelage of offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak.
• Atlanta Falcons: The Falcons could benefit from a quarterback who can use his legs to extend plays in Arthur Smith’s run-heavy offense. Klubnik could bring an added dimension to their attack, allowing them to implement more RPO and play-action elements.

2. Myles Murphy (Defensive End)

Myles Murphy has been one of the top pass-rushers in college football and will likely be one of the first Clemson players selected in the 2025 NFL Draft. A powerful and explosive defensive end, Murphy has the size and speed to get after the quarterback and disrupt offenses.

Best Landing Spots for Myles Murphy:

• Detroit Lions: The Lions have been building a strong defense and could use an elite pass rusher like Murphy to complement their young talent. Murphy’s versatility allows him to line up in various spots along the defensive line, making him a valuable piece in Detroit’s defensive rotation.
• New Orleans Saints: The Saints have been rebuilding their defense and would benefit from a player like Murphy who can wreak havoc in the backfield. His ability to set the edge against the run and generate pressure on the quarterback would make him an immediate starter.

3. Trenton Simpson (Linebacker)

Trenton Simpson is one of the top linebacker prospects in the 2025 draft. Known for his sideline-to-sideline range, playmaking ability, and leadership on the field, Simpson has the versatility to play both inside and outside linebacker at the next level.

Best Landing Spots for Trenton Simpson:

• Chicago Bears: The Bears are in the early stages of a defensive rebuild, and Simpson could play a key role in that process. His ability to cover the pass and stop the run would make him a strong fit in the Bears’ defense.
• Green Bay Packers: The Packers need a versatile linebacker who can be a difference-maker in both pass coverage and run defense. Simpson’s skills would provide Green Bay with the type of linebacker they need to build around moving forward.

4. Antonio Williams (Wide Receiver)

Antonio Williams has emerged as a reliable wide receiver for Clemson, showing great hands, route-running ability, and the capacity to make plays after the catch. He has the potential to be a steal in the 2025 NFL Draft and could become a high-value pick for a team in need of a reliable pass-catcher.

Best Landing Spots for Antonio Williams:

• San Francisco 49ers: The 49ers’ offense under Kyle Shanahan is designed to get the ball into the hands of playmakers, and Williams has the skill set to excel in such a system. His ability to create separation and make plays after the catch would be a perfect complement to San Francisco’s offensive scheme.
• Cleveland Browns: The Browns have invested in their offense with quarterback Deshaun Watson, and they need more receiving weapons. Williams’ ability to play both in the slot and on the outside would give Watson a reliable target in key situations.

The 2025 NFL Draft will see several Clemson football players take the next step in their careers. Phil Mafah, with his power, vision, and pass-catching ability, is well-positioned to make an immediate impact in the NFL. Teams like the Miami Dolphins, Buffalo Bills, Kansas City Chiefs, and Los Angeles Rams are ideal landing spots where Mafah’s skill set would thrive. Alongside Mafah, other Clemson stars like Cade Klubnik, Myles Murphy, Trenton Simpson, and Antonio Williams will all have opportunities to shine in the NFL, contributing to the next wave of Tigers’ success at the professional level. As the 2025 draft approaches, it’s clear that Clemson’s pipeline to the NFL remains strong, with plenty of talent ready to make an impact in the pros.