Starting Thursday, February 27, the NFL Scouting Combine of 2025 offers 329 of the nation’s leading prospects an opportunity to leave an impressionful impression at one of football’s premier showcase events. As part of these participants, several lesser known talents may stand out and make themselves known this week; let’s highlight four players whose performances could radically boost their draft chances.
Emerging Talents at the 2025 NFL Scouting Combine
Dylan Sampson, Tennessee (RB)
Dylan Sampson concluded his senior year with the Tennessee Volunteers on a high note, leading the SEC with 1,491 rushing yards and 22 touchdowns over 13 games. The 2024 SEC Player of the Year stands at five-foot-eleven and weighs 200 pounds, bringing remarkable speed to the field that might just make him the fastest running back in the 40-yard dash at the combine. At just 20 years old, Sampson’s mix of speed and skill sets him up as a promising candidate for an RB1 spot in the NFL.
Jordan Burch, Oregon (DL)
Starting his college football journey with the South Carolina Gamecocks, Jordan Burch transferred to Oregon after the 2022 season. The 23-year-old defensive lineman has been with the Ducks for two seasons, posting his best year in 2024 with 8.5 sacks, 11 tackles for loss, and six passes defended. Standing six-foot-six and weighing in at 290 pounds, Burch has honed his body composition to thrive in the NFL, showcasing an explosive blend of size and speed.
Bhayshul Tuten, Virginia Tech (RB)
Bhayshul Tuten of Virginia Tech stands out among a highly competitive running back class in the 2025 draft by sneaking under the radar. After transferring from North Carolina A&T prior to 2023 season, Tuten amassed 1,159 yards and 15 touchdowns during his senior year rushing at over 23 mph with 4.32 in 40-yard dash times; an exhibit which could launch him up the draft boards. At Virginia Tech’s draft combine this March, Bhayshul may find his place among their roster.
Savion Williams, TCU (WR)
At TCU, Savion Williams made incremental strides toward realizing his full potential. From quarterback in high school to wide receiver during college and back again again afterwards, Williams has yet to realize all his abilities as an NFL receiver despite possessing six-foot-5 and 225 pound frame combined with 22.5 miles per hour field speed; during his senior season alone he recorded 60 receptions for 611 yards and six touchdowns, marking one of TCU’s top prospects among wide receivers for future draft selection.