In less than two weeks, prospects will officially embark on their journey into the NFL, as they hear their names called in the 2025 NFL Draft. This pivotal moment marks the beginning of what could lead to stardom in the league. As excitement builds, analysts and fans alike are drawing comparisons between the upcoming draft class and established players in the league. On a recent episode of the With the First Pick podcast, host Ryan Wilson and former Tennessee Titans general manager Ran Carthon engaged in discussions about their top draft comparisons, highlighting potential future stars.
Carthon made notable comparisons among the quarterbacks, likening Jalen Milroe to Malik Willis (third-round pick, currently with the Green Bay Packers) and Taysom Hill (undrafted, currently with the New Orleans Saints). He emphasized that while Milroe possesses elite athleticism, he shares some of the processing deficiencies that Willis faced. Carthon noted, "Their strengths are also similar, being able to squeeze the ball into tight windows." He explained that quarterbacks with lesser arm strength must rely on anticipation, a skill that both Milroe and Willis are honing.
Wilson also weighed in, raising concerns about Milroe's ability to perform as a traditional pocket passer. However, both analysts agreed that Milroe's dynamic playmaking ability makes it unlikely that a team would let him sit idle on the sidelines. Wilson compared Milroe to Kirk Cousins (fourth-round pick, currently with the Atlanta Falcons), while Carthon suggested a comparison to Jeff Driskel (sixth-round pick, currently a free agent), expressing skepticism regarding the Cousins comparison.
Moving to the running back position, Carthon compared TreVeyon Henderson to Chase Brown (seventh-round pick, current team: Cincinnati Bengals) due to their shared strengths in zone-running schemes. Carthon praised their decisive and explosive running styles, while Wilson predicted that Henderson would be among the first running backs selected in this year's draft.
Another intriguing comparison was made by Carthon between Omarion Hampton and Joe Mixon (second-round pick, currently with the Houston Texans). Wilson described Hampton as "special," stating he would be surprised if Hampton didn’t make it into the first round. Both analysts agreed that Hampton and Mixon are difficult to tackle and excel in pass protection, enhancing their value on the field.
In the wide receiver category, Wilson compared Matthew Golden to Jordan Addison (first-round pick, currently with the Minnesota Vikings), noting Golden's size and ability to create space. Carthon sees Golden as a potential first-round pick and believes he would thrive opposite a strong No. 1 receiver.
Wilson also drew parallels between Isaac TeSlaa and Cooper Kupp (third-round pick, currently with the Seattle Seahawks), acknowledging that while TeSlaa may not replicate Kupp's success, his size makes him a valuable target. Additionally, Wilson compared TeSlaa to Jauan Jennings (seventh-round pick, currently with the San Francisco 49ers) for his versatility and ability to perform as needed on the field.
On the defensive side, Carthon compared Malachi Moore to Micah Hyde (fifth-round pick, retired), highlighting Moore's intelligence and athleticism. Wilson echoed this sentiment, stating that Moore is one of the smartest prospects in the draft. He also compared Javon Bullard (second-round pick, currently with the Green Bay Packers) and Brian Branch (second-round pick, currently with the Detroit Lions) to showcase the depth of talent at the defensive back position.
As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, the excitement surrounding these prospects continues to grow. The insights shared by Wilson and Carthon on the With the First Pick podcast provide a glimpse into the potential impact these players may have in the NFL. With each comparison, fans can look forward to the next generation of football talent ready to make their mark on the league.
