The 2025 NFL Combine is just around the corner, marking the final opportunity for prospects to leave a lasting impression on teams before the draft. With nearly four decades of combine data to provide context for both stellar and disappointing performances, standing out at the event is no simple task. This year, there are 329 players participating in the 2025 NFL Combine, and we might witness some historic moments.

Even if we don't see any record-setting runs or jumps, the outcomes of the combine will have significant implications. Our current perceptions could either be validated or completely upended. While it's not wise to overreact to the combine results, it becomes noteworthy when a player's testing results don't correlate with what's seen in their game tape.

Here are five bold predictions for the 2025 NFL Scouting Combine. The upcoming draft has plenty of potential for players to rise in the ranks, so let’s dive into what it will take for significant changes to unfold during this week of events.

5 Bold NFL Combine Predictions

3 Running Backs Force Way Into 1st Round 

The 2025 NFL Draft class presents an intriguing scenario, particularly due to the limited talent pool beyond the top 15 prospects who are largely considered first-round guarantees. This draft is perceived as weaker, significantly affected by the NIL agreements that have allowed more players to stay in college longer, alongside the renewed emphasis on the running game to effectively counter modern defenses. Consequently, this is a promising time for running backs as the position makes a comeback.

Moreover, this draft class boasts an exceptional variety of talented running backs. 16 NFL backs surpassed the 1,000-yard milestone this season, which pales in comparison to the 23 who did so in 2006. With over 30 running backs earning draftable grades on my big board, there's a strong likelihood that teams will be adding either a new starting running back or a quality backup to their roster.

Ashton Jeanty stands out as the only sure-fire first-round selection at this point, though that could change following the combine. In contrast, the receiver class lacks excitement, prompting several teams drafting later in the first round to consider the more dynamic running backs available post-Jeanty. 

Talented players like Omarion Hampton, TreVeyon Henderson, and Kaleb Johnson are among the top prospects in this class.

The combine should encourage teams to disregard some of the more recent biases against drafting running backs early. Selecting a borderline starter late in the first round is less beneficial than securing a standout ball-carrier. Teams like Pittsburgh, the Los Angeles Chargers, Minnesota, and Kansas City all highlight the running game enough to warrant this choice.

I predict that both Hampton and Henderson will solidify their status as first-round picks with impressive 40-yard dash times and good jump results. Their explosiveness is remarkable, and Johnson could also make a case if he excels in agility tests and addresses concerns about his stiffness.

Isaiah Bond Breaks the 40-Yard Dash Record

Do you recall when Xavier Worthy set the NFL Combine record for the fastest 40-yard dash with a time of 4.21 seconds last year? This year, another Texas receiver, Isaiah Bond, has the potential to break that record. All eyes will be on him when it's his turn to run.

While track times aren't always the best predictor of 40-yard dash times, it's worth noting that Bond's 100m and 200m times were faster than Worthy's. Additionally, Bond has a lot to prove after transferring from Alabama and facing challenges during his first season with the Longhorns.

After averaging just 37 yards per game once SEC play started and struggling in the title game against Ohio State, Bond could really use some positive attention and momentum. His attitude towards blocking and difficulties adjusting to being a second receiver raised concerns for scouts, so a standout 40 time is crucial for his chances of being taken on Day 2 of the draft.

While breaking Worthy's record would be advantageous, simply clocking in at 4.2 seconds or better would help validate the first-round pick projection he received a year ago. Bond is a skilled player who effectively runs routes and can make plays after the catch, but if he doesn't meet speed expectations, overcoming his previous limitations and inconsistencies will be even tougher.

Jalen Milroe Doesn't Save His Stock Despite Dominant Showing

The competition for the QB3 spot in the 2025 Draft class has concluded, with Jaxson Dart clearly positioned as the third quarterback likely to be chosen in Round 1. While the 2025 Senior Bowl didn't elevate Dart to the status of a top overall pick candidate, it certainly highlighted the struggles of his main competitor, Jalen Milroe, throughout the week.

Milroe faced challenges right from the weigh-ins, where his hand size measured below the NFL's preferred threshold of nine inches. This raised concerns among evaluators about his inconsistent accuracy and issues with fumbles. Small hands are a concern that also affected Michael Vick.

However, Milroe's opportunity to make an impression will come at the combine. As an elite athlete at 6-foot-1 and 220 pounds, he is expected to showcase exceptional speed and agility, potentially demonstrating the ability to play different positions if needed. Despite this, it's unlikely he will be able to improve his draft stock to avoid being a Day 2 selection at this point. The questions raised during the Senior Bowl are too significant for the combine to resolve.

This doesn't rule out the possibility of Milroe achieving success as an NFL quarterback in the future, but it does suggest that teams will need to invest in him with the right situation. His performance in the 2024 season revealed problematic tendencies in reading defenses and a lack of consistent accuracy, leading to too many negative aspects that hinder his chances of being a prominent riser during the combine.

Da'Quan Felton Will Be Top Workout Warrior

There's often a standout athlete or two who capture everyone's attention during the combine, especially if they weren’t previously on anyone’s radar. Virginia Tech receiver Da'Quan Felton is sure to be one of those standout athletes, as highlighted on Bruce Feldman's annual Freak's List.

Standing at 6-foot-5 and weighing 220 pounds, Felton boasts a 10'8" broad jump and a 4.42-second 40-yard dash. His remarkable vertical explosiveness, speed, and overall agility for his size are quite uncommon. Whether teams see him as a receiver or tight end, interest in Felton will likely be present by Day 3 of the draft. However, his track record beyond his athletic prowess leaves something to be desired.

Throughout two seasons at Virginia Tech, he caught 70 passes for 1,027 yards and 10 touchdowns. While Felton has a striking physique, his performance has not always matched expectations. The former Norfolk standout shows solid effort in the run game and can contribute there, yet he managed to secure only 26 of 60 contested catches and broke 23 tackles in his career.

With his level of athleticism, you'd anticipate a more dominant and threatening presence on the field. Felton may shine in pre-draft workouts, but it's crucial for teams to consider his testing results in context and not get overly carried away by his current performance levels.

Harold Fannin's Stock Plummets

Tyler Warren was a key player for Penn State's offense during a season that nearly saw the Nittany Lions reach the national championship game. However, his achievements are overshadowed by those of Harold Fannin Jr. 

Fannin set a new NCAA record for tight ends, amassing a remarkable 117 receptions for 1,555 yards and 10 touchdowns in a single season.

Despite his incredible production and the fluidity with which he runs routes and secures catches, Fannin lacks elite athleticism. At 6-foot-3 and 230 pounds, he resembles more of a fullback or a power slot receiver than a traditional bulky tight end. Since he only covered 43% of his career snaps as an inline tight end, it's evident that Fannin may not be an immediate fit for all systems.

Outside of Taysom Hill, it's quite rare for NFL offenses to successfully incorporate players with Fannin's profile. Without outstanding athletic traits or size, he presents a unique challenge as a prospect who isn't likely to be a long-term asset for many teams. His performance at the combine will likely highlight these weaknesses, which could result in his draft stock falling to Day 3.