With the 2025 NFL Draft looming in less than two weeks, prospects are preparing to embark on their professional journeys in the league as they anticipate hearing their names called.
As they step into a world that could lead to stardom, analysts and former executives alike are making predictions about their future impact in the NFL.
In the latest episode of the “With the First Pick” podcast, host Ryan Wilson joined former Tennessee Titans general manager Ran Carthon to discuss their favorite draft comparisons for this year’s class.
The duo engaged in lively debates, providing insight into who some of the prospects remind them of, showing both agreement and disagreement along the way.
**Quarterbacks**
When it comes to quarterbacks, Carthon emerged with intriguing comparisons.
He likened Alabama’s Jalen Milroe to Malik Willis, a third-round pick currently with the Green Bay Packers, citing their similar deficiencies in processing, as well as their prowess in fitting the ball into tight windows.
In terms of athleticism and explosiveness with the ball, Carthon saw a parallel to Taysom Hill, who went undrafted and currently plays for the New Orleans Saints.
Wilson acknowledged Milroe’s elite athleticism but expressed concern regarding his pure pocket-passing skills, while Carthon pointed out that Milroe may not be a starter initially, but his talent will not allow him to remain benched.
In contrasts to Milroe’s unique skill set, Wilson compared Ohio State quarterback Kyle McCord to Kirk Cousins, currently playing with the Atlanta Falcons.
While Carthon recognized McCord’s growth over the years, he disagreed with Wilson’s comparison, noting that Cousins has a more natural passing ability and quicker release of the ball.
Instead, Carthon opted to compare McCord to Jeff Driskel, a sixth-round pick who is currently a free agent, reflecting on both players’ journeys in the league.
**Running Backs**
As the discussion turned to running backs, Carthon established a connection between TreVeyon Henderson and Chase Brown, a seventh-round pick currently with the Cincinnati Bengals.
Carthon noted that both players excel in zone-running schemes, showcasing decisiveness and explosiveness, which makes Henderson a strong candidate to be among the first running backs taken in the draft.
When it comes to Omarion Hampton, Wilson labeled him as “special,” predicting he could very well be a first-round pick.
Carthon chimed in, drawing a comparison between Hampton and Joe Mixon, currently playing for the Houston Texans, citing their physical running style and prowess in pass protection as defining features.
The conversation about running backs continued with Jaydon Blue, whom Carthon paralleled with Jahmyr Gibbs, a first-round pick currently with the Detroit Lions.
Carthon praised Blue for his explosiveness and agility, noting that the first defender typically fails to bring him down, while Wilson mentioned Blue’s remarkable speed.
Expanding on Blue’s potential, Wilson connected his playing style to James Cook, a second-round pick currently with the Buffalo Bills, emphasizing the smoothness in Blue’s running technique.
Continuing the running back theme, Wilson referred to Brashard Smith as “electric,” while Carthon asserted his belief in Smith’s ability after transitioning from wide receiver to running back.
Carthon highlighted that Smith is still developing in his new position and could emerge as a dangerous kick returner once he fully adjusts to the nuances of the game.
**Wide Receivers**
In the wide receiver segment, Wilson compared Matthew Golden to Jordan Addison, the first-round pick currently with the Minnesota Vikings.
Both analysts observed similarities in Golden’s physical attributes, ability to make plays downfield, and skill in creating yards after the catch.
Carthon sees Golden as a first-round pick himself, particularly envisioning a scenario where he pairs with an existing No. 1 receiver on a team.
Wilson also drew comparisons for Isaac TeSlaa to Cooper Kupp, currently with the Seattle Seahawks, recognizing TeSlaa’s size and capability as a big target in the middle of the field.
Wilson emphasized that although he doesn’t expect TeSlaa to reach Kupp’s level, the stylistic resemblance is nonetheless notable.
Additionally, Wilson compared TeSlaa to Jauan Jennings, a seventh-round pick currently with the San Francisco 49ers, focusing on how both players can contribute even if they don’t necessarily test exceptionally well.
**Defensive Backs**
Finally, as the discussion shifted towards defensive backs, Carthon made a compelling comparison between Malachi Moore and former Pro Bowler Micah Hyde, who was a fifth-round pick and is now retired.
Wilson praised Moore, declaring him one of the brightest minds in the draft, while Carthon emphasized the instincts and athleticism they share.
Wilson expanded upon the defensive back category with comparisons of his own, linking Javon Bullard to a second-round pick currently with the Green Bay Packers and Brian Branch, also a second-round pick currently with the Detroit Lions.
As the anticipation builds for the 2025 NFL Draft, the discussions surrounding the potential and projected comparisons for this year’s prospects serve to highlight the excitement and opportunity that awaits them in the league.
image source from：https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/nfl-draft-predictions-former-nfl-gm-gives-his-favorite-pro-comparisons-for-prospects-in-the-2025-class/
