Welcome back to another edition of Scouting the Nation, presented by Faceoff Sports Network. In this edition of Scouting the Nation, we take a look at one of the best centers returning to college football and a cornerback who is poised to rise. Be sure to get to know these top Florida and Florida State prospects as potential stars in the upcoming 2025 NFL Draft.
2025 NFL Draft: Top Florida Players
Jake Slaughter C Florida
Due to injury, Jake Slaughter was thrust into action and ended up starting eight games. Watching Florida’s film, Slaughter was far and away their best offensive lineman.
Slaughter is incredibly explosive off the snap and reaches his landmarks with ease. Very few centers move as effortlessly in space and to the second level as Slaughter does. Additionally, he moves with such control, trusting his athleticism to get to and make contact with defenders. Notably, in pass protection, his foot quickness allows him to mirror defensive tackles and consistently keep them in front of him. Slaughter’s play strength shows up in the run game, as well as pass protection.
Furthermore, Slaughter has natural pop in his hands and can displace defenders on double team blocks. Defenders struggle to bullrush Slaughter, too. For only being a first-year starter, Slaughter showed legitimate high-end NFL ability. With another step next season, Slaughter will be viewed as not only one of the best centers but one of the best offensive linemen in the nation.
Azareye’h Thomas CB Florida State
Florida State is producing NFL talents on defense year in and year out, and cornerback Azareye’h Thomas is next up. He has first round ability and flashed immense upside on tape. Additionally, he checks every box teams will look for in a starting outside cornerback.
Thomas is tall, long, and built well, yet very fluid for that size. He engulfs smaller wideouts while being able to match the physicality of bigger receivers. Ultimately, he is a true press-man cornerback who will be able to use his length to disrupt receivers at the line and his route recognition to stay in phase throughout the entirety of the play.
On tape, Thomas was always in the receiver’s hip pocket and didn’t give up separation. Even against receivers with elite speed, Thomas was able to stay step for step with them deep. Notably, his recovery speed was another plus to his game. Thomas is going to be a cornerback one at the next level.
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