2025 NFL Draft Comparisons: Pro Matches for Top Draft Prospects
Every year we have the NFL Draft and we compare player after player. Everyone wants to know which prospects have a chance to develop into a superstar on their favorite team. Tipp Major analyzes these expected first round draft picks to their current NFL star comps ahead of the first round of the NFL Draft.
Tipp Major
| 6 min
2025 NFL Draft Comparisons: Pro Matches for Top Draft Prospects
For months, we have been analyzing and comparing players leading up to the 2025 NFL Draft. Let me indulge you one more time as we explore how these players compare to those in the NFL currently. It's always interesting to look at each player's individuality—what makes them unique and how they fit into different systems. Ultimately, these factors are crucial because this is a professional sports and we need to compare players to understand what to expect and what they can potentially become in the NFL.
So, let's have some fun comparing these players, and hopefully, they will distinguish themselves once they fully acclimate to the league.
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2025 NFL Draft Date, Location, and Where To Watch
- Date: April 24-26, 2025
- Location: Green Bay, WI
- Where To Watch: NFL Network, ESPN
Click here for the latest 2025 NFL Draft Odds
2025 NFL Draft Player Comps
UNC RB Omarion Hampton: Joe Mixon
The more and more I watch Omarion Hampton tape, the more I see Joe Mixon being his pro comparison. Ok, let’s get the obvious comparisons out the window. Both are six-footers and weigh 220lbs. Great size for today’s NFL. They both wore the number 28 last year, but we’ll see what number Hampton wears with his new team.
Hampton, like Mixon, has good size for a running back. Both are capable runners who excel in physicality and contact. Although Mixon has a slightly faster 40-yard dash time, both players ran in the 4.4-second range, showcasing their ability to utilize speed effectively. Running the ball effectively is crucial for a running back, but equally important is the ability to protect the quarterback. Mixon is proficient in pass protection, while Hampton needs to focus on improving his blocking skills, particularly in terms of hand placement. When it comes to receiving, both running backs have solid hands. Last season was considered a disappointing year for Mixon, who recorded only 36 receptions. However, he has had several seasons with over 40 receptions, including one season with 60 catches. Hampton, on the other hand, has consistently increased his reception total each season as a Tar Heel and has demonstrated that he can be an every-down back, much like Mixon.
Texas WR Matthew Golden: Terry McLaurin
When we think about Terry McLaurin, we always follow that up with “SCARY!!!!” That is precisely what could describe Matthew Golden in the right circumstances. Again, what sets players apart is their individuality. Golden was going for the NFL Combine 40 yard dash record, held by Xavier Worthy. You have to love the confidence he had. Though he came close to Worthy’s time…Not really!
When comparing the two players, it's hard to overlook their fluid route running on the field. McLaurin is slightly larger in height and weight, while Golden, despite his smaller frame, effectively uses leverage to make contested catches with impressive timing. Additionally, like McLaurin, Golden has strong hands, which helps build trust with their quarterbacks.
Now, let's address their speed. I'm fairly certain McLaurin reached 25 mph during this play in the playoffs last year. However, Golden may demonstrate more consistent long-speed when compared to McLaurin. We may also see Golden utilized on special teams, while Terry McLaurin typically plays a more traditional wide receiver role and is not featured on special teams.
Michigan TE Colston Loveland: Trey McBride
Before Sam LaPorte and Brock Bowers, the tight end (TE) position usually presented a steep learning curve for rookies entering the NFL. So, can Colston Loveland make it three consecutive years that a rookie TE makes an impact in the league? My player comparison suggests he can. I see a lot of Trey McBride's qualities in Loveland. Hopefully, Loveland will have better luck getting into the end zone than McBride has had. Touchdowns can be unpredictable, right? I anticipate McBride's touchdown numbers will trend upward, possibly even as soon as this upcoming season. Remember, the team has signed him for the next four years.
When comparing Loveland to McBride, you can see some similarities on the field. Both players excel in their catching radius. While Loveland may not be as skilled a blocker as McBride, he shows eagerness to improve in that area. In the NFL, a player’s willingness to learn can often motivate coaches to help them develop and make adjustments. A key difference that stands out between Loveland and McBride is their ability as route runners. Both players are notably slippery and able to create separation from defenders while also catching the ball at its highest point.
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