Scouting the Nation 2025: 3 Impact Seniors for the NFL Draft
Welcome back to another look at the 2025 NFL Draft in this edition of Scouting the Nation. Today, we take a look at Pitt’s top prospect, a first-round offensive lineman, and an excellent quarterback at Florida.
As the college football season approaches, the 2025 NFL Draft will certainly be on our minds. Whether you’re a hardcore fantasy football manager, Devy enthusiast, or an avid football fan, we’ve got you covered. In this series, Scouting the Nation, we highlight top players to look out for in the upcoming draft class.
3 FCS Prospects for the 2025 NFL Draft – Scouting the Nation
Gavin Bartholomew TE Pitt
The best blocking tight end in next year’s draft, Gavin Bartholomew will be able to contribute in that regard as early as his rookie season. Notably, his athleticism will also allow him to be a high-level blocker in space. Bartholomew has been a quality player dating back to his freshman season, where he was one of the focal points on Pitt’s ACC-winning offense.
Furthermore, Bartholomew is fearless over the middle of the field and is a natural hand catcher. He will pluck the ball out of the air, and he’s a threat after the catch. Even when he wasn’t targeted, Bartholomew created consistent separation on film. He’s an all-around complete tight end who will be an impact starter for an NFL team.
Aireontae Ersery OT Minnesota
The Golden Gophers have a really solid roster, and their best offensive prospect is Aireontae Ersery. Ersery is a two-year starter who flashed a lot of potential as a sophomore before putting it all together last season. Additionally, he creates easy displacement as a run blocker, with phenomenal upper-body strength and powerful hands.
As a pass protector, Ersery anchors well against power and uses his excellent length to keep defenders outside the pocket. In a class with many smaller offensive linemen, Ersery should be able to separate himself. He’s already a first-round pick who should only elevate himself next season.
Graham Mertz QB Florida
One of my favorite prospects in the country, Graham Mertz, had a breakout season at Florida last year. He throws with good anticipation, velocity, and accuracy. Mertz stood out on intermediate throws, and a lot of the difficult passes he made under pressure will translate to the next level.
Furthermore, there were several games in which Mertz elevated the Florida offense, and he did a great job protecting the football. There is a lot to like about Mertz’s film, and he is a name that will definitely rise throughout next season and the pre-draft process.