Clemson, Maryland, Colorado Football Prospects Emerge as NFL Draft Contenders

As the 2025 college football season approaches, several underclassmen and transfers are drawing significant attention for their potential impact and future NFL prospects. Clemson sophomore wide receiver Bryant Wesco Jr. has emerged as a top 2027 NFL Draft prospect after a record-breaking freshman year, highlighted by a standout performance in the ACC Championship Game where he set a freshman receiving yardage record. Maryland faces a quarterback competition between prized freshman Malik Washington and UCLA transfer Justyn Martin, with experts divided but leaning towards Washington as the starter, reflecting the urgency to improve after a 4-8 season and a largely overhauled roster. Meanwhile, Colorado faces the challenge of replacing No. 2 overall NFL draft pick Travis Hunter, with junior cornerback DJ McKinney poised to step up as a leading defensive player and a top 2026 NFL draft prospect after a strong 2024 season. Maryland’s head coach Mike Locksley and new offensive coordinator Pep Hamilton aim to develop their inexperienced quarterbacks amid a team rebuild and a challenging upcoming schedule. These developments underscore the dynamic nature of college football recruiting, player development, and the high stakes of transitioning to professional ranks.