Ranking the top 10 2025 NFL Draft prospects in the College Football Playoff National Championship reveals a strong presence of talent in crimson and grey. Among these prospects, a trio of immediate-impact stars from Ohio State’s defensive line stands out, potentially shaping the narrative of both the championship game and the upcoming draft.
This preview focuses on players participating in Monday night’s game, excluding Ohio State’s left tackle Josh Simmons and Notre Dame’s cornerback Benjamin Morrison. Both are regarded as top-20 prospects but are sidelined due to significant injuries, preventing their participation in the national championship.
Here’s an overview of the most promising 2025 NFL Draft prospects set to compete in the national championship game.
The following players are arranged in descending order, with the earliest projected NFL Draft picks listed last.
10. Jordan Clark, CB, Notre Dame
NFL Player Comparison: Clark’s playing style and rising stock mirror that of Avonte Maddox, a fourth-round pick by the Philadelphia Eagles in 2018, who has become a key player for the team over the years.
9. Xavier Watts, FS, Notre Dame
Watts, an All-American, has demonstrated remarkable instincts this season, amassing seven interceptions that seemed almost fated. His ability to read quarterbacks and make decisive moves underscores his aggressive playing style, though it occasionally leads to missed tackles.
NFL Player Comparison: His unpredictable yet explosive style resembles that of Miami’s Kamren Kinchens, who impressed as a rookie with four interceptions after being selected in the third round.
8. TreVeyon Henderson, RB, Ohio State
Henderson, weighing in at 208 pounds and standing 5-10, is a dynamic force on the field. His blend of power and agility makes him a formidable opponent, capable of breaking through defenses or evading tackles with finesse. While some may overlook him due to the depth of talent in this year’s running back class, he is undoubtedly a worthy investment for any NFL team.
NFL Player Comparison: If Henderson falls to Day 3, he could mirror the success of Kyren Williams, a fifth-round selection in 2022 who has made a name for himself with the Rams.
7. Donovan Jackson, OT/OG, Ohio State
Jackson has transitioned from left guard to left tackle due to an injury, showcasing his adaptability. His performance has improved significantly, making him a valuable asset. Standing at 6-4 and weighing 320 pounds, he possesses the physicality required for the NFL, and his versatility could see him selected within the top 75 picks.
NFL Player Comparison: His powerful play style draws comparisons to Tytus Howard, who has excelled as a guard for the Houston Texans.
6. Denzel Burke, CB, Ohio State
Burke, a 6-1, 193-pound cornerback, has been a consistent starter for the Buckeyes, accumulating 28 passes defensed over three years. His physicality and athleticism make him a strong candidate for the NFL Draft, though an injury in the Orange Bowl raises questions about his availability.
NFL Player Comparison: He resembles Cam Taylor-Britt of the Cincinnati Bengals, who has established himself as a reliable starter since being drafted.
5. Quinshon Judkins, RB, Ohio State
Judkins stands out in a loaded running back class, showcasing a blend of size, speed, and agility. His ability to navigate through defenses makes him a valuable asset, and his skills as a receiver add to his appeal. He is expected to impress during workouts, potentially boosting his draft stock.
NFL Player Comparison: His playing style is reminiscent of a younger Joe Mixon, who was selected by the Bengals in the second round.
4. Jack Sawyer, DE, Ohio State
Sawyer’s evolution as a player has been crucial to Ohio State’s success. His ability to make game-changing plays, highlighted by his impressive postseason performance, positions him as a likely early-round pick. His 6-5, 260-pound frame and refined technique have elevated his draft prospects significantly.
NFL Player Comparison: He shares qualities with George Karlaftis, a standout defensive end for the Kansas City Chiefs, known for his instincts and tenacity.
3. Tyleik Williams, DT, Ohio State
NFL Player Comparison: Williams possesses traits similar to Alim McNeill of the Detroit Lions, but he is expected to be drafted much earlier than McNeill, who was a third-round selection in 2021.
2. Emeka Egbuka, WR, Ohio State
Egbuka continues Ohio State’s tradition of producing elite wide receivers. His exceptional route-running skills and ability to create separation make him a standout prospect. He catches the ball cleanly and demonstrates an eagerness to gain yards after the catch, making him a valuable target for any quarterback.
NFL Player Comparison: Egbuka’s style resembles that of Amon Ra-St. Brown, expected to be one of the first receivers selected in the 2025 draft.
1. JT Tuimoloau, DE, Ohio State
NFL Player Comparison: Tuimoloau may not have the same sack potential as some peers, but his consistent performance against top competition makes him a safe pick, akin to Cameron Jordan, who has been a reliable presence for his team for over a decade.
