Scouting ESPN 300 players and how they'll fit in 2025

The top players in the 2025 recruiting class have their new schools and, in some cases, will soon be starting spring football.

The perfect harmony between skill and scheme can lead to production and wins on the field. Here's how the top 10 2025 recruits at each position could fit at their new schools:

Jump to a position:
OL | LBs | WRs | DBs | DLs | RBs | QBs

Offensive line

Michael Fasusi, Oklahoma | ESPN 300 No. 6

The Sooners went 6-7 in 2024 and their inconsistent offensive line -- which featured eight different lineup combinations and surrendered the most sacks in the SEC -- was one of several reasons why. Adding the five-star Fasusi is a big boost for a group that returns several experienced players. He has elite length, a powerful punch and a high-energy, competitive demeanor.

Fasusi is the top tackle in the class because he can contribute immediately at a high level. That bodes well for a Sooners unit that returns Logan Howland and added multiple tackles out of the portal. It'll be hard to keep Fasusi off the field, though, considering his excellent physical tools, effort and willingness to help where needed.

David Sanders, Tennessee | ESPN 300 No. 7

Elite offensive line prospects Ja'Wuan James (2010), Trey Smith (2017) and Darnell Wright (2019) all signed with the Volunteers in the ESPN 300 era. Sanders is the next in that mold. A tackle with nice blend of height and length, he was a two-way player in high school and possesses excellent body quickness and flexibility.

Sanders' biggest initial hurdle could be his size. While listed at 290 pounds, he has a leaner build and will benefit from adding more mass. Still, he's a tenacious blocker, and he's also already on campus working with an offensive line unit that loses four starters.

Ty Haywood, Michigan | ESPN 300 No. 16

Michigan landing Haywood, a former Alabama commit, was one of the final big splashes of the 2025 recruiting cycle. Haywood is a broad, thickly built lineman with excellent reach, bend, balance and knee drive.

The Texas native seems like a natural fit for the Big Ten and a body the Wolverines can get used to running behind. Michigan loses several contributors from 2024. While Haywood isn't an early enrollee, which is an initial hurdle, he has the physical tools to work his way into the mix early and become an offensive line anchor in Ann Arbor.

Solomon Thomas, LSU | ESPN 300 No. 17

The Tigers got quick returns when 2022 signees Will Campbell and Emery Jones both became immediate starters. Now, Thomas is a potential plug-and-play option for a line that loses both Campbell and Jones, plus two other starters. Thomas is a 300-pounder who carries his weight well and has similar body control and efficient footwork to Campbell. If Thomas can stay healthy, he's versatile enough to develop at tackle or guard and could become LSU's next long-term, all-conference-caliber starter.

S.J. Alofaituli, Miami | ESPN 300 No. 19

After using the transfer portal to address center each of the past three seasons, Alofaituli represents a long-term solution for the Hurricanes. At 6-foot-2, 275 pounds, he lacks ideal height and bulk, but he has good arm length for his size, elite body quickness and bend, plus he quickly gets into defenders to establish leverage and power.

He was a consistent and long-time starter for national power Bishop Gorman and should quickly prove his five-star ranking at Miami, where he could step in as a Year 1 starter.

Lamont Rogers, Texas A&M | ESPN 300 No. 20

The Aggies return most of the key pieces from a productive 2024 offensive line unit. While they don't have an immediate need, landing Rogers was key for their future. He's towering at 6-foot-6 and has elite length. Despite already weighing 300 pounds, he could benefit from some time to further develop his big, rangy frame.

Rogers is a big body who can overpower defenders and is tough to shake once he locks defenders up. With very good balance and mobility for his size, he's more than just a big, smothering presence. Easing him into action could pay off in the long run.

Douglas Utu, Oregon | ESPN 300 No. 22

Utu was another long-time starter for a Bishop Gorman program that regularly faced top national competition, but his 6-foot-5, 300-pound measurables are more ideal than five-star teammate S.J. Alofaituli. Utu has a nice blend of power and balance. He can knock defenders off the ball and also climb to the second level. There's an opportunity at Oregon to compete for a spot at tackle after multiple NFL and portal defections, and Utu could potentially fit at guard as well.

Josh Petty, Georgia Tech | ESPN 300 No. 24

A two-sport athlete who was also an excellent wrestler, the 6-foot-5 Petty is a big man with good height, length and bend. He should also continue to fill out his frame. He has great range and can be excellent in pass protection with his reach, flexibility and agility. The Yellow Jackets addressed losses at tackle in the portal, but Petty is someone to watch battle for time at those spots in 2025.

Andrew Babalola, Michigan | ESPN 300 No. 28

The Wolverines did a great job addressing their offensive line turnover by landing two big men on this list. At 6-foot-6, Babalola has the desired length, though he'll need to pack on more weight. He bends well and has a nice ceiling for development, although the Kansas native will benefit from being on campus early since he didn't consistently play high-level prep competition. It might be premature to call Babalola or Haywood plug-and-play additions, but they have the makings of elite bookend tackles over time.

Juan Gaston, Georgia | ESPN 300 No. 34

Gaston's massive presence at roughly 6-foot-7 and 350 pounds put him on the recruiting radar early. He didn't always look like a top prospect, though, because his size didn't always translate to effectiveness. He seemed to find a better balance as he got older and finished his high school career strong.

When he keeps his feet moving, Gaston can easily displace defenders. He has the patience and ability to stay square in pass protection, and he's a large obstacle even for elite pass rushers. Georgia combats losing several offensive line starters by also returning talented youngsters with a bit more experience than Gaston, who would benefit from easing into early action. He could develop into an NFL-caliber offensive tackle with proper weight management and continued improvement.

Linebackers

Zayden Walker, Georgia | ESPN 300 No. 25

Walker could be the next elite Bulldogs linebacker. The in-state player joins a competitive linebacker room looking to fill the void left behind by Jalon Walker and Smael Mondon Jr. Like that pair, Walker has the versatility to play the edge but should develop inside. He has excellent range and explosive closing speed. Walker also has excellent agility to scrape and avoid blocks and should be equally productive between the tackles.

An active playmaker, Georgia should help Walker become a more secure tackler, as he tends to attack high at times or use his hands. Georgia might not need him to make an immediate impact because it returns players such as CJ Allen and 2023 five-star Raylen Wilson, but Walker has the tools to contribute and meet that recent lineage.

Darrell Johnson, Alabama | ESPN 300 No. 49

Kane Wommack's aggressive, swarming defense often puts linebackers in position to rack up tackles. Alabama will need to replace Jihaad Campbell, who led the team last year with 117 stops, and while returnees Deontae Lawson and Justin Jefferson were also among the team's leading tacklers, Johnson is part of an incoming class that will boost the overall depth. He's a lean, lengthy player who needs to continue to fill out his frame, but his athleticism was evident as a high school senior when he tallied both 100 tackles and ran for over 1,000 yards. Johnson tests well, factors into pursuit and takes to coaching well -- which could help him get on the field early in Tuscaloosa.

He's versatile enough to fill several spots, but he would develop best at the middle linebacker spot. There he can be an active sideline-to-sideline defender, even if Alabama doesn't need him to shoulder the load early with other experienced returners in the fold.

Ty Jackson, Gators | ESPN 300 No. 52

Flipping Jackson from USC was a key part of a strong close to the 2025 cycle for the Gators' top-10 class. Keeping the in-state product home gives Florida a talented player to develop at middle linebacker. Johnson delivers a hard pop and is a physical presence between the tackles, though he's not just a downhill plugger. He tests well and has the range to factor into pursuit on the perimeter.

A pair of 2024 ESPN 300 linebackers, Aaron Chiles and Myles Graham, saw the field as freshmen. It might be tough to keep Jackson off the field, and he could follow a similar trajectory, even if the return of Grayson Howard and Jaden Robinson doesn't require him to play a leading role.

Riley Pettijohn, Ohio State | ESPN 300 No. 55

Losing the highly productive Cody Simon hurts, but the defending champs are in an enviable position by returning several players poised to step into bigger roles.

With that, Pettijohn's impact could be felt further down the line. The four-star out of Texas has a powerful base and an explosive burst to quickly get a jump on the ball. His speed and track background (he ran a 10.77 100-meter dash) helps him make plays in pursuit as a sideline-to-sideline player. Even if Ohio State doesn't need him in 2025, Pettijohn should quickly make a name for himself on special teams.

Justin Hill, Alabama | ESPN 300 No. 58

Hill has arguably the highest ceiling of Alabama's three ESPN 300 linebacker signings. The 6-foot-3 linebacker was deployed in several spots along his high school's front seven and has the desirable measurables to develop. Hill backs up his good testing numbers on film by running well, covering ground in pursuit and showing good burst. His frame and agility should allow him to develop into a disruptive edge rusher. He has the tools to one day fit nicely in the Crimson Tide's hybrid defensive end/linebacker role.

Noah Mikhail, Texas A&M | ESPN 300 No. 61

Mikhail has the frame, length and tools to become a three-down linebacker. His initial quickness should allow him to be a disruptive blitzing presence, but he's big enough at 6-foot-3, 230 pounds to take on blocks and defend the run inside the tackles. He needs to keep developing his ability to drop into coverage, but he has the range and body control to do it.

Texas A&M returns experienced linebackers such as Taurean York and Scooby Williams, who were among its leading tackles last year, but Mikhail is already on campus and can give this unit a boost even if there isn't an immediate need. Don't be surprised if he plays a role in 2025.

Tarvos Alford, Ohio State | ESPN 300 No. 69

Sonny Styles' decision to return for 2025 was a big development for the Buckeyes. His time is limited, though, and Ohio State appears to be in good shape for when he moves on. Styles was a former safety who transitioned to linebacker in Columbus. Alford's development can follow a similar trajectory. He was a hybrid linebacker-safety in high school with excellent length and range who made more than 100 tackles as a senior.

Ohio State's depth chart situation should allow Alford to gain valuable development time, and he has the tools to step into a larger role as a physical and active presence down the line.

Nathaniel Owusu-Boateng, Michigan | ESPN 300 No. 76

Michigan's two leading tacklers, Ernest Hausmann and Jaishawn Barham, both return for 2025. Owusu-Boateng is a physically impressive player with good length and could develop behind and follow in the footsteps of the versatile Barham.

Owusu-Boateng has good initial burst and range. While he slots in at linebacker, he could also contribute on the edge for the Wolverines, much like Barham is expected to do this season.

Nasir Wyatt, Oregon | ESPN 300 No. 80

Wyatt will be someone to watch on the edge. He has exceptional length, a quick first step and good agility. While he can further develop his arsenal, Wyatt arrives with the physical tools to be a dangerous pass rusher. The Ducks lost Jordan Burch but do return some talent at the position including Matayo Uiagalelei, so Wyatt should gain some time to further develop physically and as a player. Don't be surprised if he gets opportunities to hunt down quarterbacks in a situational role in 2025. At the very least, he gives Oregon a promising pass rusher to plug in for the near future when a bigger need arises.

Christian Jones, Nebraska | ESPN 300 No. 82

Keeping the Nebraska native home was a key for Matt Rhule's staff. Jones jumped squarely onto the national radar after two excellent 2023 offseason Under Armour camp performances, then backed it up by winning the 2024 Butkus Award as the nation's top high school linebacker. At 6-foot-3, 230 pounds, Jones has an excellent blend of size, speed and versatility. He has the physicality to play downhill and defend the run, but his testing measurables indicate he can factor into pursuit and play well in space, even looking comfortable in coverage. The Huskers have plenty of experience returning in 2025. Expect Jones to be a strong special teams contributor early, with the physical tools to gain reps, experience and some kind of role defensively in Year 1.

Wide receivers

Dakorien Moore, Oregon | ESPN 300 No. 4

Moore is a bigger, more physical version of outgoing Ducks receiver Tez Johnson. Even by Oregon's lofty standards, Moore is a special athlete. He's reminiscent of Ja'Marr Chase and is one of the most acrobatic, naturally gifted pass-catchers we've evaluated over the past 20 years. Moore checks all the boxes physically, but his competitive temperament sets him apart. He truly loves to play the game. Moore better be ready to compete because Oregon's wide receiver room is loaded with young, inexperienced depth and added Florida State transfer Malik Benson. Nevertheless, Oregon knows Moore is a weapon it can line up anywhere and cause fits for opposing defenses.

Jaime Ffrench, Texas | ESPN 300 No. 26

Ffrench is a gangly, flexible 6-foot-1 receiver who is a different kind of target compared to Xavier Worthy or Isaiah Bond over the past two seasons. Ffrench has grown into his body over the last two years. He has a wide catch radius and can make acrobatic catches look easy. He's sneaky fast with a Max Speed of 20.7 mph, and he ran a laser-timed 40-yard dash in 4.53 seconds. He's a bit of a long strider but can be smooth in the open field. He fits best as an outside target who can win contested catches and provides Texas a jump ball target in the red zone.

Kaliq Lockett, Texas | ESPN 300 No. 30

Like Ffrench, the 6-foot-2 Lockett is a more viable outside target because of his height compared to Texas receivers from the last few years. However, he might be more elusive after the catch than Ffrench, creating even more value. The Longhorns deploy a three-receiver set with junior DeAndre Moore and sophomore Ryan Wingo expected to lead the way. The rotation for the third spot should be an open competition. With Lockett and Ffrench joining the fold, this could be one of the most talented wide receiver groups Steve Sarkisian has ever had.

Talyn Taylor, Georgia | ESPN 300 No. 32

Georgia fans hoping for a deep-ball threat could fall in love with Taylor. His ideal blend of speed and explosiveness will add a significant vertical option to Georgia's offense. Taylor plays even faster than his testing times and can run past anybody to take the top off the defense. He joins a receiving corps loaded with upperclassmen, plus incoming transfer Zachariah Branch, but he could see snaps in certain packages because he can play inside or on the outside.

Jerome Myles, Texas A&M | ESPN 300 No. 35

Myles is a unique prospect. There are plenty of tall, big targets who lack great speed and quickness because of their size. Conversely, plenty of undersized receivers have great speed. The 6-foot-3, 220-pound Myles combines both. He's a 50-50 jump ball weapon because of height and wingspan who also has rare speed and acceleration to pose a vertical threat at the same time. His speed is remarkable for his size. He ran a 10.36 100-meter dash, a 4.48 laser-timed 40-yard dash and posted a Max Speed of 20.4 mph. Texas A&M's wide receiver room is loaded with quality transfers and wide-open competition. Expect Myles to fit right in.

Caleb Cunningham, Ole Miss | ESPN 300 No. 39

Cunningham is almost a mirror image of 2024 freshman phenom Cam Coleman at Auburn. He's tall, lanky and flexible. Cunningham is good on the 50-50 ball and will be a 1-on-1 mismatch nightmare for opposing defenses. Cunningham is so acrobatic when the ball is in the air that he makes difficult catches look easy, even when elevated against defenders. He fits best on the outside and could be a package player as a jump ball specialist if he can earn reps among a crowded group of upperclassmen receivers.

Vernell Brown III, Florida | ESPN 300 No. 41

Brown will be an immediate threat as a return specialist. He's lightning-quick with a terrific feel for returning punts. At 5-foot-11, 175 pounds, Brown is undersized and will need to bulk up. In the long run, he likely fits best as a slot receiver and utility weapon on screens, jet sweeps and underneath routes. Brown is at his best when he has the ball in his hands in space.

Dallas Wilson, Florida | ESPN 300 No. 43

Wilson isn't quite as fast as Aggies commit Jerome Myles above, but he's close. At 6-foot-4, 190 pounds Wilson has an excellent combination of size, speed and athleticism. He should fit best on the outside for Florida where he can run deep routes and also be a significant red zone threat due to his height and 77.5-inch wingspan. Wilson can also be productive due to his straight-line speed after the catch. If he catches a crease in the open field, he'll have the Swamp roaring.

Quincy Porter, Ohio State | ESPN 300 No. 62

The Buckeyes covet tall, thickly built physical receivers who can attack the ball and push people around. That's Porter. He's not as fast as other players on this list and reminds us a little of Gee Scott when he came out of high school. Scott eventually became a late-bloomer as an H-back for the Buckeyes. As a result, Ohio State could use Porter on the inside and outside due to his bulk and strength.

Andrew Marsh, Michigan | ESPN 300 No. 64

Marsh will bring some flash to Michigan's offense. He joins a deep group of upperclassmen who have limited experience or production, which should open the door for Marsh to make a splash. He's a speedy target on the outside and is more of a glider who relies on his speed and elusiveness compared to his suddenness after the catch. Nevertheless, Michigan needs more dynamic playmakers. Marsh makes plays, which could bump him up the depth chart sooner rather than later.

Defensive backs

CB Na'eem Offord | ESPN 300 No. 5

S Trey McNutt | ESPN 300 No. 42, Oregon

Both Offord and McNutt have the physical ability to break through as freshmen, but it'll be tough to make an impact on talent alone. Oregon's defense has a significant learning curve and crowded depth chart. The Ducks' defensive scheme requires an advanced understanding of concepts to perform at a high level, which is difficult to project with true freshmen. Offord could play boundary, nickel or field corner, and he can hold up on an island because of his superior ability and instincts. McNutt will need to show the aptitude to break into the lineup, especially with Purdue transfer Dillon Thieneman also on campus. Offord must contend with a crowded secondary room that expects to return 11 players, including Northwestern transfer Theran Johnson.

S Jonah Williams, Texas | ESPN 300 No. 9

Texas' defense prides itself on being stout down the middle and asks defenders to play forcefully near the line of scrimmage and in pressure packages. Williams is an elite two-sport athlete who looks like a linebacker. He plays big, and Longhorns safeties need to have a linebacker mentality in run support. Williams has an outstanding combination of range and speed. Andrew Mukuba departs, but Texas returns the bulk of its production at safety, including standout freshman Xavier Filsaime. Williams, who is also a talented baseball player, has the talent to become a three-and-out future NFL draft choice if baseball doesn't become a factor.

CB Dijon Lee Jr., Alabama | ESPN 300 No. 11

Lee joins a young, talented Alabama secondary that played three true freshmen in 2024. Now, Alabama defensive coordinator Kane Wommack needs to learn whether Lee is advanced enough to crack the lineup, even as a nickel corner. Lee, who is 6-4, has rare athletic upside, and he's too talented and productive to not find some kind of role in 2025. He'd benefit from beginning his career as a boundary corner and should make an impact on special teams. He'll need to prove he can hold up, however, because Alabama loved to blitz last season, putting a lot of pressure on its corners.

CB Devin Sanchez | ESPN 300 No. 13

S/CB Faheem Delane | ESPN 300 No. 63, Ohio State

Under former defensive coordinator Jim Knowles, safeties led an Ohio State defense that pressured the quarterback, stopped the run with the front four and trusted the secondary to hold up in man coverage on the outside. It's unclear how new defensive coordinator Matt Patricia will mold this scheme. Sanchez was a great fit in Knowles' scheme. He's supremely confident and shines in man coverage situations. The Buckeyes lack depth at both safety and corner, opening the door for Delane to contribute immediately. Both defenders have size, range and physicality to play press man coverage. Ohio State loses Denzel Burke's strong production at corner, but senior Davison Igbinosun will return. The depth chart is wide open for both prospects to make an impact.

CB Blake Woodby | ESPN 300 No. 15

S Anquon Fegans | ESPN 300 No. 50, Auburn

Auburn sophomore Jay Crawford enjoyed a phenomenal freshman season in 2024. Now, Woodby is one of three freshmen corners joining a Tigers secondary this fall that has just one upperclassman. Corners in Auburn's scheme often align in press coverage, but they don't necessarily drop into man coverage after the snap. Instead, they're asked to be aggressive in run support and have the instincts for zone coverage. Woodby is a great fit. The 6-foot, 180-pound corner might already be the fastest player on Auburn's roster and his elite speed makes up for his lack of size and height. If his size becomes an issue, Woodby has the versatility to transition to offense and has upside as a returner.

If Fegans' maturity, aptitude and football instincts match his physical attributes, he could be a terrific fit early on not just as a safety but also as a nickel or outside corner. Defensive coordinator DJ Durkin's scheme requires positional versatility and top-end speed, and Fegans has posted a 21.2 mph max speed. He could work his way into a safety mix that also includes Taye Seymore, Kaleb Harris and Terrance Love.

CB D.J. Pickett, LSU | ESPN 300 No. 18

Like Dijon Lee, the 6-foot-4 Pickett has rare length and height. He also has scheme and positional versatility, and LSU could even start him at safety to begin his career. Pickett's impressive range forces quarterbacks to be aware of where he lines up, because he can close open space in a hurry with his long strides. LSU is deep at corner, but also very young. The Tigers return only two upperclassmen, and one is Virginia Tech transfer Mansoor Delane. There are plenty of opportunities for Pickett to find a role.

S Tae Harris, Georgia Tech, ESPN 300 No. 45

Harris embodies everything Georgia Tech coach Brent Key expects from his players. Landing Harris, a local native, was a huge pickup for the Yellow Jackets and signaled the program is back on the rise. Harris can flat out fly. He ran a 10.6 100-meter dash and a blazing 4.38 laser-timed 40-yard dash. He's a tough, rugged presence as a tackler, and he also has great instincts. Georgia Tech is losing Warren Burrell, LaMiles Brooks and Taye Seymore at corner and returns Omar Daniels, Clayton Powell-Lee and Christian Pritchett at safety. Look for Harris to join a rotation with Daniels.

Defensive linemen

DT Elijah Griffin, Georgia | ESPN 300 No. 3

The Bulldogs' run of sending defensive tackles to the NFL will continue this April, and they also have talented returning options, but Griffin might be their most dynamic defensive tackle since Jalen Carter. The five-star has desirable size, explosiveness and agility. Griffin can take on blocks, and his excellent lateral agility allows him to play off those blocks and become an active presence along the line of scrimmage. He marries natural ability with good effort. Griffin does not have Carter's elite athleticism, but he's more disciplined at this stage and could become just as impactful.

DT Justus Terry, Texas | ESPN300 No. 8

With national title aspirations in 2025, Texas dipped into the portal to bolster its defensive line. That might allow Terry to gain a developmental advantage. Longhorns edge Colin Simmons was one of college football's most impactful freshman defenders despite never technically starting. Terry should find similar opportunities. Unlike the incoming transfers, Terry is not a massive 300-pounder. His positional versatility is immensely valuable because of his blend of size, quickness, power and competitive toughness. He's a disruptive player, and, in time, could create a dangerous inside-out pairing with Simmons.

DE Isaiah Gibson, Georgia | ESPN300 No. 14

The Bulldogs filled a need by keeping Gibson, a Georgia native, at home after he initially committed to USC. With Chaz Chambliss and others moving on, Gibson could quickly fill a hybrid edge role. He has elite length with a wingspan well over 80 inches, good initial quickness and excellent range. There's room for growth, but he has all the tools of a disruptive pass rusher and shows toughness to take on blocks and set the edge. Gibson will only improve as he fills out his frame and his best football is ahead of him, even if he fills an important role in 2025.

DT Jahkeem Stewart, USC | ESPN300 No. 21

The Trojans made strides in 2024, but they'll need to get better in the trenches in an even more challenging Big Ten conference. Landing Stewart and his impact potential was a key recruiting win. At roughly 6-foot-6, 270 pounds, his mobility allows him to post excellent testing numbers. Stewart is long, bends well and USC should quickly utilize his versatility. He is relatively inexperienced after playing just one season of high school football, but he has the talent to exploit matchups if the Trojans can deploy him in the right situations while he develops.

DT Isaiah Campbell, Tennessee | ESPN300 No. 23

Tennessee loses several seniors up front along with James Pearce Jr. to the NFL draft, and its upperclassmen returners are nearing the end of their eligibility. That paves the way for Campbell to play a big role. At 6-foot-4, 265 pounds, he has a versatile build to line up wherever the Volunteers need him. His high school team utilized him both on the edge and inside, and he notched 25 sacks over his final two seasons. It might take some time to settle into a steady role, but Campbell's versatility will get him onto the field quickly.

DE Iose Epenesa, Iowa | ESPN300 No. 29

Iowa fans hope Epenesa fits as well as his brother, Bills defensive lineman A.J. Epenesa, did while in Iowa City. Iose has a chance to be even better, and he's arguably even more college-ready at this stage. He blends quickness, power and active hands, while displaying good instincts and a high motor. With Deontae Craig moving on and Ethan Hurkett nearing the end, Epenesa has an opportunity to make a quick impact and the tools to make his own mark on Iowa's program.

DE Jared Smith, Auburn | ESPN300 No. 37

While Georgia landed the SEC's top incoming edge defender, but Smith gives Auburn a similar player as it tries to get back to the top of the conference. Smith is lean, long and rangy. He covers a ton of ground and has experience playing with his hand down or off the ball. Much like Gibson, Smith needs to further fill out his frame. He's just scratching the surface of his potential and should improve as he better understands how to utilize his elite length, but Smith can be a versatile weapon for the Tigers.

DE Chad Woodfork, TCU | ESPN300 No. 54

Signing a player like Woodfork is big for TCU as it tries to return to the playoff. The Horned Frogs had two players who ranked among the top five in sacks within the Big 12 during their 2022 playoff run but failed to replicate that success in each of the last two seasons. Woodfork has explosive burst, plays with leverage and can develop into a top pass rusher in the Big 12.

DT Amare Adams, Clemson | ESPN300 No. 56

After losing Isaiah Campbell to Tennessee, Clemson responded by signing Adams, a talented 300-pounder with good burst and power who moves well for his size. The Tigers also won't need to lean on him early. They'll benefit from the return of 2020 ESPN 300 defensive tackle DeMonte Capehart, who can be both an impact player and mentor for Adams. They share similar tools, and the preparation is underway for Adams to step into that role once Capehart departs.

DE Zahir Mathis, Maryland | ESPN300 No. 60

Landing Mathis during the February signing period was a big win for Maryland in an otherwise quiet period. The former Ohio State commit should step right in and address a need, as the Terrapins generated the fewest sacks (14) of any Big Ten program in 2024. Mathis needs to add mass to his lean 6-foot-6, 230-pound frame. However, he has elite length, good initial quickness and impressive body control. He should cover plenty of ground and factor into pursuit. Maryland needs an elite edge rusher. It could take some time, but Mathis has the physical tools to fill that role.

Running backs

Harlem Berry, LSU | ESPN 300 No. 27

Inside and outside zones are staples of LSU's scheme. Berry thrives in both because he's slippery in tight creases with excellent acceleration. He sets himself apart from other running backs because it's almost impossible for defenders to get a clean, direct shot on him. He's so light on his feet and has a combination of vision and lateral agility to make tacklers miss in the hole. Berry runs a 10.57 100-meter dash and a verified 4.37 40-yard dash, the fastest in the class. He excels at bouncing the play outside, turning the corner and winning footraces down the sideline. He could be a great change-of-pace back alongside Caden Durham.

Akylin Dear, Alabama | ESPN 300 No. 38

Alabama needs a back who can press the hole and is also an open-field threat. Dear is a shifty, downhill runner who does not dance or hesitate. At 6-foot, 205 pounds, Dear has good height with a thick frame and the lower-body strength to break tackles in high-traffic areas. He's also agile enough to bounce or cut back with acceleration, and he pairs his agility with the vision to identify daylight. Alabama needs to involve its running backs more in the passing game, and Dear can make a difference in that part of the game. He has the athleticism, speed and ball skills to become an all-purpose back.

Gideon Davidson, Clemson | ESPN 300 No. 59

Davidson excels on zones, split zones and counters, and his great vision and speed should fit nicely into Clemson's scheme and lead to explosive plays. The 6-foot, 195-pounder isn't as big as former Clemson running backs Phil Mafah and Will Shipley, but he adds a different dimension as a home run threat. Clemson could utilize him quickly as a change-of-pace, all-purpose back. Davidson's traits are similar to those of former Clemson star and current running backs coach C.J. Spiller.

Anthony Rogers, Ohio State | ESPN 300 No. 91

Rogers shares a lot of traits with former Buckeyes star Ezekiel Elliott. The Buckeyes want running backs with big-play ability but also the power and stature to grind out tough, downhill yards. Rogers can jump-cut in the hole and then lower his shoulder and run through defenders. Ohio State's gap run scheme was successful late in the season, and Rogers has the patience and vision to become a solid counter runner in 2025.

Jordon Davison, Oregon | ESPN 300 No. 97

The 6-foot, 215-pound Davison is more LeGarrette Blount than LaMichael James. He's a bruising, physical runner who loves to engage in contact. Oregon loses 1,200-yard rusher Jordan James to the NFL draft but brings back Noah Whittington and other reserves. Davison could be a great short-yardage and red zone package player whom the Ducks can deploy when they need to push the pile. Davison gets downhill in a hurry and exploits cutback lanes, making him an ideal inside zone and split-zone runner.

Byron Louis, Florida | ESPN 300 No. 112

Freshman Jadan Baugh last fall allowed Florida to become a power run team while it brought fellow freshman DJ Lagway along at quarterback. Now, Louis joins the Gators' running back mix as a slashing, assertive, high-speed runner who is terrific at the second level. Florida could utilize Louis as a sub-package back and change-of-pace runner who adds a spark to complement Baugh's power. Florida has several upperclassmen as well, so expect stiff competition at running back.

Marquise Davis, Missouri | ESPN 300 No. 125

Davis runs with a galloping, upright style that is different from both Nate Noel and Marcus Carroll, who were Missouri's top two rushers in 2024. At 6 feet, 205 pounds, Davis is also bigger than both backs, who were seniors this past year. He should see playing time in 2025, just as freshman Jamal Roberts did last season, because the Tigers must also replace the rushing production of quarterback Brady Cook in addition to Noel and Carroll.

Bo Jackson, Ohio State | ESPN 300 No. 130

Jackson, like Rogers, is a fast, physical and durable player who can produce chunks of yards in spurts or push the pile. His explosiveness and penchant for contact make him a terrific option carrying the load in short-yardage and red zone situations. Both Jackson and Rogers will compete with incoming West Virginia transfer CJ Donaldson Jr. and sophomore James Peoples for playing time.

Ousmane Kromah, Florida State | ESPN 300 No. 142

At 6-foot-2, 215 pounds, Kromah is a power back in the mold of former Florida State running back Trey Benson, although Kromah isn't quite as nimble or sudden on his feet. Florida State's offense under Gus Malzahn will feature multiple power runners in Roydell Williams, Kam Davis and others. Kromah has an opportunity to develop behind that depth and potentially work himself into some reps in 2025.

Dierre Hill, Oregon | ESPN 300 No. 144

Hill's running style and stature contrast with Davison's. Where Davison seeks out contact, the 5-foot-11, 190-pound Hill is more reminiscent of the traditional scatback or all-purpose back Oregon has successfully developed in the past. Hill posted a 21.5 mph max speed and is dangerous once he reaches the second level. Both Hill and Davison are joining a crowded Oregon running back room.

Quarterbacks

Bryce Underwood, Michigan | 2025 ESPN 300 No. 1

Underwood's fit depends on how quarterback-centric Michigan wants to make its offense and whether that happens this season or in the future. The Wolverines could use a shift similar to how Ohio State utilized Justin Fields: Move the pocket, change the launch point and utilize the QB run game.

Underwood's physical attributes will be superior to those of every other quarterback on Michigan's roster, which makes him the most difficult to defend when the offense is designed around him. The Wolverines will likely get him on the perimeter often -- whether it's run or pass -- to threaten defenses in space. His arm strength will also allow Michigan to stretch the field more often.

Keelon Russell, Alabama | 2025 ESPN 300 No. 2

Three words: Vertical passing game. This offense wants to go deep and score fast. That means pushing the ball downfield with more overall accuracy than Alabama had with Jalen Milroe. Russell has intangible traits, and the learning curve should not be too challenging. Add in Russell's physical attributes and the personnel around him at Alabama in Kalen DeBoer's offense, and it's a very exciting recipe for elite-level success down the road. Russell is likely the player most ready to play right away, and the scheme only helps.

Tavien St. Clair, Ohio State | 2025 ESPN 300 No. 10

At 6-4, 225 pounds, St. Clair draws physical comparisons to former Florida quarterback Anthony Richardson, but St. Clair needs to be far more accurate. He will be much different from Will Howard, who just led OSU to a national title, and Julian Sayin, a former five-star he'll be competing with. St. Clair has Howard's size and Justin Fields' skill set. St. Clair is an exciting prospect because he is nowhere near a finished product.

He's big, athletic and can make all the throws. His film as a senior showed improvements compared with the previous two seasons, which means he's progressing. Quarterback runs need to play a big role for new offensive coordinator Brian Hartline when utilizing St. Clair, especially if he sees action early.

Julian Lewis, Colorado | 2025 ESPN 300 No. 12

Former Colorado quarterback Shedeur Sanders was often criticized for holding on to the ball too long and taking too many negative plays. Lewis will be more decisive. He will likely see more RPO plays. This is an RPO-based, horizontal screen scheme, which combines with the run game to set up deep shots downfield.

Quarterbacks in this system need to change their arm angle and release points considering how quickly they are asked to make decisions off token fakes in the backfield. Lewis is a strong fit because it's a quarterback-friendly scheme, and he might not need to play right away with the incoming transfer of Kaidon Salter.

Deuce Knight, Auburn | 2025 ESPN 300 No. 40

Knight is a left-handed passer who is a dynamic runner and improviser, two traits the Auburn offense has lacked under Hugh Freeze. This offense has been more effective when defenses need to account for the quarterback's legs.

Knight is a tall and lanky athlete but also a bit raw, so he could face a tougher learning curve. He's likely to provide support behind Oklahoma transfer Jackson Arnold while he's brought along slowly.

Husan Longstreet, USC | 2024 ESPN 300 No. 44

Athletically, Longstreet is in the same mold as former Lincoln Riley pupils Caleb Williams and Jalen Hurts. Longstreet is a dynamic athlete who can make all of the throws and change arm angles. Longstreet might be more of a sudden athlete as a runner than previous USC signal-callers, which could mean more quarterback runs like we saw from Hurts and Kyler Murray at Oklahoma.

Longstreet should not have to play right away and was a great late pickup in this cycle for the Trojans to develop and allow for his run/pass threat to mature.

Akili Smith Jr., Oregon | 2025 ESPN 300 No. 79

Smith is not too dissimilar from his father, who played for Oregon in 1997-98. He has an extremely strong arm but might not be the runner or creator both Bo Nix and Dillon Gabriel were for the Ducks. He's a tall, nimble pocket passer who can drive the ball into every place on the field. Smith will need to work on his arm angles and twitchiness as a passer to reach his peak in Oregon's RPO and quick-passing game.

Malik Washington, Maryland | 2025 ESPN 300 No. 134

Washington has some of the higher upside of any player in the class. He has a swagger and feel for the game that new offensive coordinator Pep Hamilton will love to work with. Hamilton brings an NFL background to College Park and should be excited about Washington's creativity and natural instincts as a passer.

Washington excels at changing arm angles and making off-platform throws. The arm-angle side of it will really enhance the RPO portion of the Maryland offense. Maryland needs a quarterback to transform the program, and Washington might just be the guy to help the Terrapins turn the corner.

Carter Smith, Wisconsin | 2025 ESPN 300 No. 155

Smith can be unorthodox in his passing traits, but he's very productive and will be a more serious running threat than the Badgers have had in years. He has a cool, poised demeanor with a quiet swagger.

When things break down, Smith becomes dangerous. New offensive coordinator Jeff Grimes, who was the line coach at Auburn with Cam Newton and the offensive coordinator at BYU with Zach Wilson, will find ways to employ Smith's athletic ability.

Bryce Baker, North Carolina | 2025 ESPN 300 No. 200

It's still a bit of a mystery what North Carolina's offense will look like under new offensive coordinator Freddie Kitchens. But Kitchens was an analyst under former coach Mack Brown, so he's intimately familiar with Baker's game.

Kitchens brings an NFL background of over 20 years and has watched the spread offense thrive under both Phil Longo and Chip Lindsey in Chapel Hill, so expect NFL concepts -- which likely helped keep Baker in the fold once Bill Belichick was hired -- and spread influences. Baker is a legitimate runner with upside in the passing game.