The NFL Scouting Combine is officially history now. That means the countdown to the draft is officially on. And, of course, it has already become the talk of the town. Every year, the three-day spectacle sees college football’s biggest names enter the league.
This year with big names like Shedeur Sanders and Cam Ward in the mix, the biggest offseason event seems to only be getting more exciting. To add on, the 2025 edition is right around the corner and is set to happen from April 24 to April 26 at Lambeau Field. However, as the hype begins, NFL legend Steve Smith has decided to throw some cold water on it.
Steve Smith Gets Candid as He Calls 2025 Draft Class ‘Water’
When a player like Smith, who was a wide receiver for 16 seasons, has something to say, listening becomes mandatory. In a recent clip posted by Underdog Fantasy on X, the former Carolina Panthers legend gives his two cents about the 2025 class. “Last year’s draft class was oil. This year’s draft class, water,” said Smith without mincing his words. So what does he mean?
Well, it is quite simple. Smith believes that the 2024 class was a league apart as compared to this year’s class. 2024, after all, did see names like Brian Thomas Jr., Malik Nabers, and Ladd McConkey. All of them had big numbers as rookies. Smith went on to add that, “There were free agents in last year’s draft class that would be third- and fourth-round picks in this year’s draft class.”
“There are free agents in last year’s draft class that would be 3rd & 4th round picks in this year’s draft class” 🤔
– Steve Smith on the 2025 NFL WR Draft Class pic.twitter.com/98rG2U1Cns
— Underdog (@UnderdogFantasy) March 3, 2025
Smith seems to be of the opinion that this year’s receiver talent pool might not have the same immediate impact that was seen in 2024. And there is a mettle to his point.
The numbers seem to back him up. Since 2019, at least one rookie receiver has hit 1,000 yards every season. In 2024, there were four. But in 2025?
“We might get two. There are some guys that I like,” he admitted. However, that’s not the best endorsement a draft class could get. But the two names might just be big ones! There is Travis Hunter, known for his playmaking as both a wideout and a cornerback, who is one of the projected top picks. But that’s not the only name to look out for.
There are also names like Colston Loveland, Ashton Jeanty, and even Tyler Warren to watch out for. Smith, however, is not in complete dismay. He went on to add, “You can be an outstanding football player and not be on a team that knows how to use you.” That’s a reality some of these 2025 prospects might have to face.
KEEP READING: 7-Round 2025 NFL Mock Draft
With Smith’s words ringing in everyone’s ears, the draft hype continues. Now, the world will have to wait and see if the 2025 class will rise to the occasion. Is this a year that teams should be extra careful with their picks?
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