NCAA Football: CFP National Playoff First Round-Clemson at Texas — Dec 21, 2024; Austin, Texas, USA; Texas Longhorns offensive lineman Cole Hutson (54) and offensive lineman Kelvin Banks Jr. (78) in action during the game between the Texas Longhorns and the Clemson Tigers in the CFP National Playoff First Round at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

NCAA Football: CFP National Playoff First Round-Clemson at Texas — Dec 21, 2024; Austin, Texas, USA; Texas Longhorns offensive lineman Cole Hutson (54) and offensive lineman Kelvin Banks Jr. (78) in action during the game between the Texas Longhorns and the Clemson Tigers in the CFP National Playoff First Round at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

Top 10 NFL Draft Prospects To Watch in the College Football Playoff Semifinal: Ohio State vs. Texas Features Multiple First-Round Picks

The Cotton Bowl Classic between Ohio State and Texas is full of potential top-round 2025 NFL Draft picks, led by some massive beef on the offensive line.

January 10, 2025

While some analysts suggest he could shift to guard due to occasional issues with footwork and athleticism, Banks’ strengths are hard to ignore. His strong anchor, powerful grip, and refined technique make him a formidable force, and these qualities should propel him into the top 20 picks of the draft.

Cameron Williams possesses one of the highest ceilings among tackles eligible for the 2025 NFL Draft. At 6’5″ and 335 pounds, he combines ideal size with elite athleticism and physical traits.

The Ohio State wide receiver has built an impressive resume highlighting his elite route-running skills, outstanding athleticism, and excellent field awareness. With 2,681 career receiving yards, he ranks fifth in Ohio State’s all-time history and needs just 66 more yards to surpass Michael Jenkins at the top of the prestigious list.

The Ohio State offensive tackle has officially declared for the draft, and if his medical evaluations come back clear, he could still be a contender for the first round. At 6’5” and 310 pounds, the Buckeye demonstrates remarkable strength and fluid movement, showcasing his dominance when he is healthy.

NFL teams will recognize Bond’s explosive speed and elusive, twitchy movement, which make him a dangerous mismatch in the open field. With a potential far exceeding his 532 receiving yards and five touchdowns in 2024, Bond’s upside makes him an intriguing prospect.

Jahdae Barron is firmly in the early Day 2 conversation for the 2025 NFL Draft and is often featured in the first round of multiple mock drafts. With some of the most innate intelligence and anticipation in the class, Barron is a natural playmaker with a non-stop motor and one of the class’s most secure tacklers.

Alfred Collins looks poised to be the next NFL standout from Texas’ defensive line. At 6’6″ and 320 pounds, the defensive tackle is a powerful presence who excels at filling gaps and shedding blocks, aided by his impressive 35-inch arms. With his physical tools, Collins is a strong candidate for a Day 2 selection in the 2025 NFL Draft.

A versatile defensive lineman, Tyleik Williams has the potential to be drafted on Day 2 of the 2025 NFL Draft. He has masses of potential, showcasing excellent mobility and strength profiles. However, inconsistency has plagued his 2024 season and should, therefore, limit his draft stock ascending to the first round.

As Texas’ top receiving threat in the College Football Playoff, Matthew Golden is gaining significant momentum heading into the 2025 NFL Draft. With his impressive acceleration, long speed, and keen route-running skills, he has the potential to become an impactful player at the next level.

Donovan Jackson should be one of the top interior offensive linemen taken in the 2025 NFL Draft, having put together a comprehensive resume in Columbus. At 6’4” and 320 pounds, he plays with outstanding intelligence, explosive mobility, and violent strength. The Buckeyes’ interior protector is an adequate athlete, has punchy hands, and should be a stalwart on an NFL offensive line for years.