Scouting the Nation: 3 Prospects You Need to Know for 2025

Welcome to the first edition of Scouting the Nation, presented by Faceoff Sports Network. In this edition, we take a look at Clemson’s top offensive lineman, Oregon’s best weapon, and a potential All-American in the SEC. As we look ahead to the 2025 NFL Draft and beyond, it’s important to get to know these top prospects in a talented rookie draft class.

Blake Miller (OT) Clemson

A two-year starter for the Clemson Tigers at right tackle, Blake Miller is an exceptional athlete on film. At 6’6 and 310 pounds, Miller will be one of the top prospects in college football, as he heads into his third year with Clemson. Eventually, he is going to be perfect for a team that asks their tackles to get out in space and block on the move at the next level.

Miller works upfield with excellent control to connect with defenders, and he is a very good position blocker. In pass protection, he changes his tempo and pass sets to keep defenders guessing. Additionally, his quick feet allow him to get depth in pass protection and then push defenders up the arc. He keeps his hands in tight at contact, showing off impressive grip strength to sustain his blocks.

What separates Miller is his ability to recover. Even if he is beaten early in the rep, he has the technique and overall athleticism to recover and stay in front of defenders. Experience, consistent tape, and high-end traits will make Miller a coveted tackle prospect when he declares.

Terrance Ferguson (TE) Oregon

There are few difference-making number one tight ends in the NFL, but Terrance Ferguson has the tape and upside to join that group. Notably, he has impressive size and an already filled out frame. Ferguson is a dual threat who wins as a blocker and a receiver. He is very good at blocking on the move, using his play strength and tight hand placement to displace defenders. Additionally, Ferguson’s 13 touchdowns are evidence of his ability as a red zone threat.

With his size and ability to pluck the ball in the air, Ferguson will be a touchdown machine at the next level. For a bigger tight end, he has very loose hips and is quick in and out of his breaks. He can create separation against linebackers and safeties. Working vertically up the seam, Ferguson is a long strider who gains speed. Ferguson plays the tight end position exactly how coaches want it. He blocks through the whistle and doesn’t go down at first contact. Ferguson checks every box as a receiver and blocker, which is why he’ll be a day-one starter in the NFL.

Maxwell Hairston (CB) Kentucky

When watching the Kentucky defense on film, it was easy to see that #31 would be a legitimate NFL prospect. Maxwell Hairston possesses really good size and length for the cornerback position. He has noticeable long speed to stay in phase on vertical routes. Playing in off coverage, Hairston’s closing burst and acceleration were excellent. Additionally, he is a twitched-up cornerback who makes a lot of plays coming downhill.

Moreover, Hairston has natural ball skills, which resulted in 5 interceptions last season. He tracks the ball well and is a natural catcher of the football. With his willingness to be physical and overall length, Hairston will be able to play press-man coverage at a high level in the NFL. He is a fluid mover and has the route recognition to stick with defenders when they change direction.

Finally, Hairston is a scheme versatile cornerback with size, length, and ball skills. Not to mention, he is a willing tackler and run defender. Hairston is the top returning cornerback in the SEC and an All-American candidate for next season.

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