Insider notes on prospects declaring for the 2025 NFL Draft: Florida LB's true intention, 4 under-the-radar prospects, and transfer portal outlook

Expectations from league sources are that over the next two weeks, a time in which most colleges will be playing their final regular-season games, the majority of prospects will make their ultimate decision as to whether or not they intend to enter the 2025 NFL Draft. Here’s a recent update on five draftable players:

5 underclassmen expected to enter the 2025 NFL Draft

#1 Mansoor Delane (CB/Virginia Tech)

The true junior was highly rated off the 2023 film, and he’s presently graded as a second-round pick on my board. He’s in the midst of a solid season for a Virginia Tech squad that’s struggling to keep its head above water.

Mansoor Delane - Source: Imagn

In 10 games this year, Delane has intercepted three passes, broke up nine, and forced two fumbles. Word out of Blacksburg is that Delane will enter the upcoming draft and could make a rise up boards. He’s estimated to measure 6-foot-1, 180 pounds, and could run under 4.4 seconds in the 40.

With so many questions looming at the cornerback position in the 2025 NFL Draft, it's not out of the question that Delane sneaks into the back end of Round 1.

#2 Joshua Farmer (DT/Florida State)

The redshirt junior showed interest in entering the 2024 draft, but he ultimately chose to return to Florida State, a program in the midst of a disastrous season. Farmer has shown flashes of big-time potential, yet his lack of consistency is concerning.

Joshua Farmer - Source: Imagn

He’s a big-bodied athlete who moves well, yet he does not make enough plays on the field. I’m told that Farmer is close to choosing an agent and it’s about 75% that he enters the draft. Inconsistency on the field and a deep class at the defensive tackle position will likely push Farmer into the fifth round.

#3 Thomas Fidone II (TE/Nebraska)

If you’re looking for a player who is totally off the radar outside the scouting community and could be a surprise entry before getting drafted much higher than anyone expects, Fidone is the man.

Thomas Fidone II - Source: Imagn

The fourth-year junior has 30 receptions for 298 yards this season after 25 catches and four TDs a year ago. He’s a big (6-foot-5, 250 pounds), very athletic tight end who makes plays all over the field.

Unfortunately, he doesn’t fit what the Cornhuskers do on offense and has had limited opportunities this season. People in Nebraska are saying Fidone will enter the draft. People in the scouting community believe Fidone is at worst a fourth-round prospect.

#4 Shemar James (LB/Florida)

James has been one of the bright spots in the Gators’ dreary season. The athletic linebacker is a three-down defender who makes plays against the run and pass.

Shemar James - Source: Imagn

James is terrific in pursuit and has 48 tackles, three PBUs, and two sacks this season. I’m told entering the draft is a 50/50 proposition for James right now, and if he does not leave for the NFL, there’s a good chance he will enter the transfer portal.

#5 Lee Hunter (DT/Central Florida)

Another fourth-year junior, Hunter entered the season graded as a fifth-round prospect by scouts. Estimated to measure just under 6-foot-4 and 320 pounds, Hunter has been solid this season and is well-liked by several teams.

Lee Hunter - Source: Imagn

I’m told Hunter will ask for his grade from the advisory committee, and if the feedback he’s received does not show him to be a top-100 prospect, which is very unlikely, the big defensive tackle will return for another season on the college field.