While the 2025 NFL Draft is still far off in the distance, players that will be drafted early are on the field now. Each week presents unique matchups for draft prospects and this week is no different. Here are NFL Draft prospects to watch in college football week 7.
1. Jack Sawyer, EDGE, Ohio State Buckeyes
Ohio State is undefeated this season and have high hopes. Their defense is one of the best in the country and Jack Sawyer has played well to make things tough for opposing offenses. He has 17 tackles, three tackles for loss and 2.5 sacks on the season.
This week Sawyer will be going up against Oregon, who has a talented offense, including the offensive line. Sawyer has solid size and strength for the position. He has held up as a run defender, but could be more effective as a pass rusher to improve his stock. Sawyer is currently projected to be a late first round or second round pick.
2. Ajani Cornelius, OT, Oregon Ducks
Oregon is also undefeated this season. They have had some offensive struggles, but seem to have found more consistency. While the Ducks have good skill position players, they have good offensive linemen as well. Their right tackle, Ajani Cornelius, has played well this season for Oregon.
The Ducks are matching up with a tough Ohio State defense this week. Cornelius transferred from the FCS level to Oregon last season. He has good athleticism and movement skills, which allows him to get to the second level and mirror pass rushers well. Cornelius can add strength and improve his hand usage to help his stock. Playing well could see him be a day two pick.
3. Abdul Carter, EDGE, Penn State Nittany Lions
Penn State is unscathed this season with a nice balance of some offensive output and defensive good play. Their defense has several future pros on it, but Carter is the one with the most potential. After moving from linebacker to edge rusher this season, Carter has 22 tackles, eight tackles for loss and three sacks.
Carter will have to help slowing down Lincoln Riley’s USC offense this week. His versatility to play both edge and linebacker should be noted, but it is clear he is still learning his new position. He has good burst, is athletic and flexible. Carter could shed faster and could be a little undersized for the position. Playing well down the stretch could make him a top 10 pick in the 2025 NFL Draft.
4. Isaiah Bond, WR, Texas Longhorns
Texas has had a good offense this season, which has helped them remain unbeaten through five games. They have playmakers all over the field, but Isaiah Bond has specifically has impressed. So far this year, the Alabama transfer has notched 20 catches for 364 yards and three touchdowns.
Bond will be going up against Oklahoma in a rivalry game and the Sooners have a few talented players i their secondary. He has proven to be a game-changer with his speed. Bond is a deep threat, but also can create after the catch. He is smaller and has struggled with press coverage in the past, but he has played well this season and is projected to be a first round pick.
5. Shedeur Sanders, QB, Colorado Buffaloes
Colorado has a 4-1 record in 2024 and have played well offensively. They are led by quarterback Shedeur Sanders, who has had a great season so far. He has passed for 1,630 yards, 14 touchdowns and three interceptions on 70.1 percent completion. Sanders also has rushed for 25 yards and a touchdown.
This week, Colorado will be playing Kansas State. If the Buffaloes truly wish to compete in the Big 12 this season they need to win this game. Sanders has been accurate and plays with great anticipation. He can create on broken plays and protects the football well. Sanders doesn’t have elite arm strength and questions about his leadership style will pop up, but he has played well. He has a chance to be the first quarterback selected in the 2025 NFL Draft.
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