As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, a buzz has begun to surround Indiana University’s football program. ESPN analysts have identified five players from the Hoosiers who have the potential to make an impact on the professional stage, sending ripples of excitement through the Bloomington campus. These athletes have honed their skills, overcoming adversity, and now, the fruits of their labor are on the verge of being realized.
First among them is junior quarterback Mason Miller, whose arm strength and pocket poise have drawn comparisons to top-tier NFL talents. As the leader of the offense, Miller’s ability to read defenses and maintain composure under pressure has been evident all season. With every game, his precision passing and quick decision-making have impressed scouts, especially during high-stakes moments. His long-range throws, often to star wide receiver Jaxon Riley, have become a signature aspect of IU’s offense. Miller’s leadership in the locker room and his drive to push the Hoosiers to victory have made him a standout figure. ESPN has him pegged as a potential first-round pick, citing his strong football IQ and physical attributes, such as his quick release and his 6’4″ frame.
On the defensive side of the ball, Derrick Barnes has been a nightmare for opposing offenses. The 6’3″ linebacker has consistently delivered bone-crushing hits, making him one of the most feared defenders in the Big Ten. Barnes’ quickness and agility allow him to move sideline to sideline, shutting down both the run and the pass. His ability to cover ground and make tackles in open space has helped solidify the Hoosiers’ defense as one of the toughest units in the conference. ESPN scouts have already projected him as a second-round pick, highlighting his explosiveness and relentless motor. His leadership on and off the field has helped elevate his teammates, creating a culture of toughness that could serve him well in the NFL.
Not far behind Barnes in ESPN’s rankings is Tyler Jones, a massive 6’5″ offensive tackle whose strength and protection of the quarterback have not gone unnoticed. Jones has developed into one of the most dominant forces on the Hoosiers’ offensive line. His ability to engage defenders and neutralize pass rushers with his size, technique, and power makes him a valuable commodity in the eyes of NFL scouts. ESPN ranks him as one of the top tackles in the country, projecting him to be taken in the first or second round. His impressive footwork and ability to protect Miller’s blind side have been crucial to IU’s offensive success.
Next on the list is Jordan Williams, a dynamic wide receiver whose explosive speed and route-running precision have turned heads across the league. Williams has been a favorite target for Miller, consistently finding ways to get open deep down the field. His ability to separate from defenders with ease, combined with his natural hands and ability to track the ball, has made him one of the most dangerous wideouts in college football. His agility and athleticism place him in the second-to-third-round range for NFL scouts, with many predicting a rapid adjustment to the professional game.
Rounding out the list is Chris Robinson, a cornerback whose ability to lock down receivers and create turnovers has made him a standout in the Big Ten. Robinson has been able to shut down some of the top wideouts in college football, using his quick reflexes and anticipation to make game-changing plays. ESPN believes Robinson’s mix of skills, including his ability to read the quarterback’s eyes and explode to the ball, will make him a likely candidate for an early pick, possibly in the second or third round.
As the 2025 NFL Draft inches closer, these five Hoosiers are ready to take the next step in their careers. Their talent, determination, and work ethic have them poised to make an impact at the next level. For Indiana football, it is a proud moment to see their players finally gaining national recognition, and the future looks bright for both the Hoosiers and their NFL prospects.