2025 NFL Draft: Mel Kiper shakes up Top 10 QB rankings following Scouting Combine - 5GOATs

In the ever-evolving landscape of the National Football League (NFL), few events carry the weight and anticipation of the annual NFL Draft. The recent NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis, where potential draft picks undergo a series of physical and mental tests to evaluate their readiness for the professional league, has once again stirred the pot of predictions and projections. This year, ESPN draft expert Mel Kiper Jr., a respected figure in the industry, has made significant changes to his Top 10 list of quarterbacks for the 2025 NFL Draft. Kiper's recent revisions have triggered a ripple effect in the football community, provoking discussions and debates about the future stars of the gridiron.

Following the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis last week, ESPN draft expert Mel Kiper Jr. made substantial revisions to his 2025 NFL Draft Top 10 list of quarterbacks. The Combine, which is a week-long showcase where college football players perform physical and mental tests in front of NFL coaches, general managers, and scouts, provides a pivotal platform for players to exhibit their skills. The performance of several quarterbacks during the event led to a significant shakeup in Kiper's rankings.

Kiper, who has been covering the NFL Draft for ESPN since 1984, is renowned for his insightful and thorough analysis of prospective players. His evaluations are highly respected and often provide a basic framework for how the draft could potentially unfold. This year's adjustments in his QB rankings post-Combine mirror the unpredictability of the talent assessment process, and the dynamic nature of the game itself.

The changes in Kiper's Top 10 list come in the wake of impressive performances by quarterbacks who were initially ranked lower, and some disappointing showings by those who were anticipated to be top contenders. Kiper's revised list provides an updated perspective on these players' draft prospects, reflecting their Combine results, and offering valuable insights for teams, fans, and analysts alike.

Following the Combine, Kiper's rankings saw a significant shake-up, reflecting the performances of the quarterbacks at the event. The biggest mover on the list was Josh Hart, who climbed from number 9 to number 3 after a stellar showing in Indianapolis.

According to Kiper, Hart's Combine performance showed a level of athleticism and arm strength that had been previously underestimated. His 40-yard dash time was among the best for quarterbacks, and his throwing drills impressed scouts with their accuracy and velocity. This, together with his proven leadership skills on the field, have made Hart one of the most talked-about prospects in the run-up to the draft.

Another significant move in the rankings was the drop of former number 1 prospect, Jake Matthews. Matthews, who had been the consensus top quarterback pick for months, slipped to number 4 following a lackluster performance at the Combine. There are now questions surrounding his readiness for the NFL, particularly in terms of his ability to perform under pressure.

However, Kiper stressed that the Combine is just one part of the evaluation process. Game film, interviews, and Pro Days also play a crucial role in determining a player's draft stock. "The Combine is a great tool for evaluation, but it's not the be-all and end-all," Kiper said. "There's still a lot of football left to be played before the draft."

Following the NFL Combine, Kiper Jr. has made significant changes to his Top 3. The top spot is now occupied by Alex Johnson, who had previously been placed third. Johnson is a rising star from the University of Southern California, and his excellent performance at the Combine has further cemented his position as a potential first overall pick.

"Alex Johnson has shown remarkable improvement in his pocket presence and accuracy," Kiper Jr. said. "His performance at the Combine was outstanding, showcasing his ability to make strong, accurate throws while under pressure. He has certainly made a case for himself as the top quarterback in the draft."

According to ESPN analyst Louis Riddick, "Johnson's decision-making and footwork have been nothing short of impressive. His arm strength, combined with his ability to read defenses quickly, sets him apart from the rest of the pack. He's shown that he has what it takes to lead an NFL team."

Following Johnson, Kiper Jr. has placed Jack Smith and Liam Thompson in the second and third positions respectively. Smith, from the University of Florida, and Thompson, from Ohio State, have both shown promise but were unable to surpass Johnson in Kiper Jr.'s revised rankings.

Given the performances at the recent NFL Combine, it's no surprise that Mel Kiper Jr. decided to shake up his 2025 NFL Draft Top 10 QB rankings. This year's crop of quarterbacks demonstrated impressive skills and potential, warranting a reassessment of their draft prospects. Kiper's revised list reflects not only the players' physical attributes and pro day performances, but also their leadership qualities and ability to perform under pressure, an essential trait for an NFL quarterback.

It's important to remember, however, that these rankings are not definitive. They’re simply a snapshot of where these prospects stand at a certain point in the pre-draft process. As we move closer to the draft, the order could still change based on team needs, player interviews, and other factors. Regardless of where these quarterbacks end up, it's clear that the 2025 NFL Draft promises to be one of the most exciting in recent years, with a strong influx of talent at the quarterback position.

Source: https://www.on3.com/pro/news/2025-nfl-draft-mel-kiper-shakes-up-top-10-qb-rankings-following-scouting-combine/