The Most Underrated 2025 NFL Draft Prospects

Ahead of every NFL Draft, the spotlight is usually on the hottest prospects like the potential star quarterbacks or defensive game-changers. However, a set of talented players flies under the radar each time, and the past showed us that such players can become NFL legends. Although these players don’t hit the headlines, they have the potential to make an impact in the NFL. So, let’s take a look together at the most underrated 2025 NFL Draft prospects.
Houston QB Donovan Smith
Unlike the 2024 NFL Draft cycle, the upcoming 2025 edition doesn’t have the same level of first-round certainty when we speak about quarterbacks. However, Donovan Smith might be a player that can upset the charts. He is just one of eight players with more than 2,500 passing yards, 250 completions, and 20 passing touchdowns in 2023. He might be your hidden favorite as well, but before placing bets, check Promoguy for the US sports betting guides. Houston is known for producing excellent offensive prospects in college football and Donovan Smith’s skillset fits the modern offense.
California RB Jaydn Ott
Although California is well known for producing quarterback prospects, Jadyn Ott should be the first RB in the top 100 picks in almost 15 years. Ott had 1,311 rushing yards last fall, followed by 833 yards after contact. Looking into rushes of 10 or more yards, Ott was 3rd in those rankings managing to do so 32 times. Despite lacking a physical profile, Ott’s quickness poses many troubles to opponents’ defenses. Therefore, we will highlight this name ahead of the 2025 NFL Draft.
Miami WR Samuel Brown
Samuel Brown, wide receiver, meets many criteria that NFL teams look for in this position. His athletic profile, hands, and excellent route running fit both for field and boundary wideout. The Hurricanes already have two top wideouts in the likes of Jacolby George and Xavier Restrepo, and Samuel Brown is a great addition to this duo.
Rutgers RB Kyle Monangai
Although you might haven’t heard too much about Kyle Monangai, he is the leader in the Big Ten rushing yards with 1,263 and one of the best running backs. His position is usually undervalued, but it’s quite important on the offensive side since it can take off the pressure of a QB. Monangai’s production on early run-downs shows a hot prospect.
Oklahoma State LB Nick Martin
Nick Martin is perhaps among the hottest prospects that have emerged during summer evaluations. Few players in the country can match his mix of athleticism and physicality. Martin had 140 total and 83 solo tackles, which is not only the highest in the Big 12 this season but also since 2018. Therefore, teams that need a dynamic player in the heart of defense should consider Martin’s skillset.
Conclusion
Although the hype is around the first round of the NFL Draft, top talents exist beyond it. Some players don’t create much excitement but they can make a big difference in the NFL. So, let’s see who will be the next underrated player with a successful NFL career.

NFL Draft Diamonds was created to assist the underdogs playing the sport. We call them diamonds in the rough. My name is Damond Talbot, I have worked extremely hard to help hundreds of small school players over the past several years, and will continue my mission. We have several contributors on this site, and if they contribute their name and contact will be in the piece above. You can email me at nfldraftdiamonds@gmail.com
