1) Caleb Downs, S, Ohio State (6-0, 205)*

Downs was a Day 1 starter for Nick Saban at Alabama as a true freshman before transferring to Ohio State in 2024. He was a leader for the Buckeyes’ national championship defense last season, and he has 28 tackles for this year’s title contenders. The brother of Indianapolis Colts receiver Josh Downs, Caleb is a tough, instinctual five-tool defender. He can cover slot receivers, defend against the deep ball, blitz effectively, create turnovers and provide secure tackling. Furthermore, his athleticism was on display when he returned punts for touchdowns in 2023 and ’24.

2) Jeremiyah Love, RB, Notre Dame (6-0, 214)*

A true dual threat in the backfield, Love gets skinny to find creases inside, bounces plays outside when needed and has breakaway speed. In the open field, the preseason All-American can jump over, spin off or blow through tackle attempts. He runs with lean and churns his legs to get the extra yard. He’s effective as a receiver, too, beating linebackers and safeties on routes from the slot. Love possesses excellent hands and body control.

3) Fernando Mendoza, QB, Indiana (6-5, 225)*

Mendoza impressed as a two-year starter at Cal before transferring to Indiana, where he leads an undefeated Hoosiers squad. He’s been the most consistent of the top quarterback prospects this season, as a plant-and-deliver passer who places the ball accurately on short and intermediate tosses. He can throw receivers open downfield, too. Mendoza is not a quick-twitch athlete, but he can slide to find room inside the pocket and challenges defenses as a runner with his long strides. NFL coaches will like his toughness. He can take a hit while delivering throws and is willing to fight for yardage as a runner.

4) Rueben Bain Jr., Edge, Miami (6-3, 270)*

After tying for the Hurricanes’ team lead with 7.5 sacks as a true freshman, Bain missed time due to injury in 2024. He’s returned with a vengeance this season, becoming the most dominant edge rusher in college football. Bain’s thick frame foreshadows his powerful bull rush but belies his speed off the edge and hustle to the ball. His scheme versatility might be his best attribute, as he beats tackles from a linebacker wide-9 stance and stacks-and-sheds as a base end or 5-technique run defender. NFL defensive coordinators will appreciate those skills, given the multiplicity of most schemes in the Sunday game.

5) Arvell Reese, Edge/LB, Ohio State (6-4, 243)*

One of 2025’s biggest breakout stars might not be done rising up boards, potentially becoming as highly valued a defender as recent No. 3 overall picks Abdul Carter and Will Anderson Jr. He will be an impact starter at the next level because of his combination of instincts and physical prowess. Reese has been a terror for opposing quarterbacks on blitzes, charging through open gaps and beating linemen with plus bend and length, as well as strong hands. His closing speed in the open field is formidable, chasing ball-carriers to the sideline and across the formation.