The NFL Draft is a crucial event for teams looking to strengthen their rosters, yet it’s common for franchises to miss out on their top choices during the first round. As a result, many fans analyze elite prospects with little chance of acquiring them. This article is dedicated to highlighting potential “Plan B” and “Plan C” selections for key positions, focusing on players who may be available in the later rounds of the 2025 Draft.

Over the past seven years, I’ve enjoyed identifying promising “Plan B” prospects, with past successes including players like Tyrone Tracy and De’Von Achane. This year will continue that tradition, providing insights into a few standout alternatives across various positions. Let’s dive into the candidates poised to make their mark on the NFL.

Quarterback Prospects

Primary Selection: Cam Ward, Miami

Secondary Selection: Will Howard, Ohio State

Tertiary Selection: Brady Cook, Missouri

Will Howard transferred to Ohio State after an impressive stint at Kansas State, throwing for 39 touchdowns against just 14 interceptions in two years. Standing at 6-foot-4 and 235 pounds, Howard demonstrates solid athleticism and performed well through the Buckeyes’ championship run. Although differing in style from Ward, he represents a reliable option for teams seeking stability at quarterback.

Meanwhile, Brady Cook also boasts significant experience with over 1,100 career attempts, demonstrating athletic ability but lacking the elite arm strength typically found in first-round picks.

Running Back Options

Key Selection: Ashton Jeanty, Boise State

Alternative: Bhayshul Tuten, Virginia Tech

Backup: Jarquez Hunter, Auburn

Bhayshul Tuten is a standout choice from Virginia Tech. His remarkable film, analytics, and combine results reflect his capability as a dynamic feature back, averaging 5.7 yards per carry over two seasons.

On the other hand, Jarquez Hunter could be one of the draft’s most underrated running back prospects. With consistent performances in the SEC, his lowest yards-per-carry tally was 5.7, showcasing his durability and ability to evade weak tackles. Hunter’s skill set makes him a valuable pick on Day 3.

Wide Receiver Talent

Top Pick: Matthew Golden, Texas

Second Choice: Tai Felton, Maryland

Third Option: Jaylin Lane, Virginia Tech

Matthew Golden is emerging as a potential first-round receiver, renowned for his speed and ability to create separation. If teams miss out on him, Tai Felton is an excellent alternative showcasing impressive production at Maryland with 96 receptions in 2024.

Jaylin Lane rounds out this trio, demonstrating speed and versatility to stretch defenses at all levels. His combine performance highlights his capability, making him a considerable asset.

Tight End Candidates

Primary Choice: Tyler Warren, Penn State

Alternate: Terrance Ferguson, Oregon

Alternative: Joshua Simon, South Carolina

Tyler Warren is projected to be the first tight end selected in the draft, combining physical prowess with extensive college experience. However, Terrance Ferguson provides significant upside following a strong combine performance, proving to be an effective player in a deep tight end class.

Joshua Simon from South Carolina is another notable prospect, recognized for his outstanding athletic results and potential as an impactful receiving tight end.

Offensive Line Prospects

Choice Candidate: Armand Membou, Missouri

Second Option: Aireontae Ersery, Minnesota

Backup: Myles Hinton, Michigan

Armand Membou is poised to make an early impact on NFL rosters as an offensive tackle. Aireontae Ersery’s consistent performance at Minnesota deserves attention, potentially positioning him for first-round consideration.

The versatile Myles Hinton rounds out this section, displaying the agility necessary to excel in a vital position for any offense.

Defensive Linemen

Primary Pick: Mason Graham, Michigan

Secondary Pick: T.J. Sanders, South Carolina

Back-up: Jared Harrison-Hunte, SMU

Mason Graham stands out as one of the top defensive tackles, while T.J. Sanders offers an intriguing skill set that many teams may overlook amidst a crowded draft class. Jared Harrison-Hunte presents a solid option for teams searching for later-round depth with proven production metrics.

Defensive Back Selections

Lead Option: Jahdae Barron, Texas

Alternative: Jordan Hancock, Ohio State

Backup: Caleb Ransaw, Tulane

Jahdae Barron is projected to be a top cornerback in the draft, while Jordan Hancock from Ohio State offers similar defensive skills that could see him selected in later rounds. Caleb Ransaw has the potential to exceed expectations based on performances during his collegiate career.

Safety Prospects

Primary Pick: Malaki Starks, Georgia

Alternative: R.J. Mickens, Clemson

Backup: Maxen Hook, Toledo

Malaki Starks is an outstanding safety prospect expected to draw significant attention on draft day. R.J. Mickens brings strong ball-hawking traits from his time at Clemson, while Maxen Hook’s extensive collegiate experience bolsters his candidacy as a dependable safety.