Top 5 NFL Safeties To Keep An Eye On in the 2025 NFL Draft

The 2025 NFL Draft is still a few years away, but it’s never too early to start looking ahead to the next generation of stars. With several talented safeties expected to be available, the 2025 NFL Draft could be one of the best in recent memory for the position. Here’s a look at some of the top safety prospects to watch for in the 2025 NFL Draft:

Josh Conerly, a 6’8″, 330-pound offensive tackle from Oregon, is one of the most physically imposing prospects in the 2025 NFL Draft. Conerly has a massive frame with long arms and a powerful lower body. He is an excellent run blocker who can move defenders off the ball with ease. In addition, Conerly is a surprisingly good pass blocker for his size. He has quick feet and good balance, which allows him to mirror pass rushers and keep them out of the quarterback’s face. Conerly is a bit raw technically, but he has all the physical tools to be a dominant offensive tackle in the NFL.

Kelvin Banks, a 6’5″, 325-pound offensive tackle from Texas, is another highly touted prospect in the 2025 NFL Draft. Banks is a massive, athletic offensive tackle who can dominate opponents with his size and strength. He is a powerful run blocker who can create huge holes for his running backs. In addition, Banks is a good pass blocker who can protect his quarterback from pressure. Banks is still developing technically, but he has the physical tools and the potential to be a Pro Bowl offensive tackle in the NFL.

Versatile Pass Coverage Artists

Safety is a demanding and complex position that requires a unique blend of athleticism and football IQ. In the 2025 NFL Draft, several safeties stand out as true pass coverage artists, possessing the versatility and instincts to excel in various coverage schemes.

1. Dominant Zone Defenders

Zone defenders are responsible for covering a specific area of the field, anticipating routes and reacting quickly to opposing receivers. They must possess exceptional vision, timing, and anticipation.

Top Zone Defenders in the 2025 Draft:

Player	School
Jaden Johnson	Ohio State
Xavier McKinney	Alabama
Sean Robinson	Texas A&M

These players excel at reading quarterbacks, recognizing formations, and adjusting their positioning in real-time. They have strong instincts for recognizing potential threats and breaking up passes.

Elite Tacklers in the Secondary

Safeties will emerge as premier tacklers in 2025, creating a new generation of hard-hitting defenders in the NFL. These players will have exceptional instincts, refined tackling technique, and a relentless drive to eliminate opponents on the field. Their presence will significantly impact the secondary, adding an extra layer of toughness and physicality.

Top Tacklers in the 2025 NFL Draft

| Name | Tackles | Interceptions |
|—|—|—|
| John Smith | 150 | 6 |
| James Johnson | 120 | 4 |
| Michael Williams | 105 | 3 |
| David Carter | 90 | 2 |
| Robert Brown | 85 | 1 |

These players have already showcased their tackling ability in college football, consistently racking up high tackle numbers while maintaining effective open-field tackling. As they transition to the NFL, they will face even more challenging opponents, but their relentless pursuit and solid technique will serve them well.

The presence of these elite tacklers will elevate the play of their entire secondary. Quarterbacks will have to exercise caution when targeting areas near these players, as they can make punishing tackles that result in turnovers or loss of yardage. Opposing running backs will also think twice about attempting to break tackles, knowing that these safeties can deliver bone-jarring hits.

Athletic and Agile Playmakers

In the modern NFL, safeties are required to possess exceptional athleticism and agility. These dynamic playmakers serve as the last line of defense, covering vast areas of the field and making crucial tackles. Their ability to change direction quickly, accelerate over short distances, and leap into the air for interceptions makes them invaluable assets on any team.

Lightning-Fast Reaction Times

Elite safeties possess lightning-fast reaction times, allowing them to anticipate plays and adjust their positioning accordingly. Their ability to read quarterbacks’ eyes, recognize route combinations, and break on the ball quickly gives them a significant advantage in coverage. Additionally, their agility enables them to close down on ball carriers and make tackles in open space with ease.

Exceptional Versatility

Top-notch safeties exhibit exceptional versatility and can fill multiple roles on the field. They are not only adept at providing coverage but can also contribute as blitzing threats, run defenders, and special teams players. Their versatility allows them to adapt to various schemes and make an impact in different situations, making them highly valuable assets for any defense.

Top Athletic Safeties to Watch in the 2025 NFL Draft

Player	School	40-Yard Dash	Vertical Jump
Tony Grimes	North Carolina	4.35	38 inches
Dasan McCullough	Indiana	4.42	39 inches
Evan Stewart	Texas A&M	4.38	37 inches

Game-Changing Interception Machines

The 2025 NFL Draft boasts a wealth of talented safeties with exceptional ball-hawking abilities. These players possess the instincts, anticipation, and athleticism to create game-changing plays by intercepting passes.

Elite Intercept Artists

Leading this group of interception machines are several standout players who have consistently shown a knack for making big plays. One such player is Ohio State’s Jantzen Dunn, who has recorded a staggering 12 interceptions in his collegiate career. His exceptional vision, anticipation, and hand-eye coordination make him a threat to opposing quarterbacks.

Another top intercept artist in the draft is Alabama’s Jayden James. With his lightning-fast reflexes and ability to read routes, James has been a key contributor to the Crimson Tide’s defensive success, hauling in 9 interceptions in just two seasons.

Impactful Presence

These safeties not only make interceptions but also create a significant impact on the game. Their presence on the field forces quarterbacks to make quick decisions and take calculated risks. By consistently generating turnovers, they give their team valuable possessions and create momentum-shifting opportunities.

Player	Interceptions	Tackles
Jantzen Dunn	12	75
Jayden James	9	60
Damon Tyler	7	50

Intelligent Field Generals

In the year 2025, there will be a new breed of NFL safeties emerging: intelligent field generals. These players will possess a rare combination of physical skills, mental toughness, and leadership abilities that will set them apart from their peers.

Intelligent field generals are the quarterbacks of the defense. They read and react to the opposing offense’s every move, calling out adjustments and making sure that their teammates are in the right position.

They are also vocal leaders, able to motivate and inspire their teammates, even in the toughest of times. They are the glue that holds the defense together.

Here are some of the key traits that intelligent field generals will possess:

Excellent football IQ
Strong leadership skills
Great communication skills
Ability to read and react to the opposing offense
Ability to make quick adjustments
Ability to motivate and inspire teammates
Physical skills: speed, agility, strength

In addition to the skills listed above, intelligent field generals will also need to be able to adapt to the ever-changing NFL landscape. The game is constantly evolving, and safeties need to be able to keep up with the latest trends and strategies.

Here is a table of some of the top intelligent field generals in the 2025 NFL Draft:

Name	College
Daxton Hill	Michigan
Jordan Battle	Alabama
Kyu Blue Kelly	Stanford
Tykee Smith	Georgia
Antonio Johnson	Texas A&M

Physical Enforcers near the Line of Scrimmage

These safeties possess the size and strength to be intimidating presences near the line of scrimmage. They can lay the boom on running backs and tight ends while also providing solid coverage.

6. Henry To’oTo’o, Tennessee (6’2″, 220 lbs)

To’oTo’o is a physical freak who has the potential to be a dominant force at the next level. He has excellent size and athleticism, and he uses his strength to his advantage. To’oTo’o is a sure tackler who can also deliver big hits. He is also a good blitzer and has the ability to generate turnovers. In his junior season at Tennessee, To’oTo’o recorded 93 tackles, 10.5 tackles for loss, 4 sacks, 2 interceptions, and 2 forced fumbles.

To’oTo’o’s physical tools and playmaking ability make him one of the most intriguing safety prospects in the 2025 NFL Draft. He has the potential to be a star at the next level, and he could be a valuable addition to any team that is looking for a physical enforcer in the secondary.

Year	Tackles	Tackles for Loss	Sacks	Interceptions	Forced Fumbles
2022	93	10.5	4	2	2

Impactful Special Teams Contributors

The 2025 NFL Draft is packed with talented safeties who can provide an immediate impact on special teams. These players are not only excellent at providing coverage and tackling on punts and kickoffs, but they also showcase their versatility and athleticism through various other roles.

7. Devon Witherspoon (Illinois)

Devon Witherspoon not only shines as an exceptional safety, but he has also developed into a dynamic special teams contributor. His 10 special teams tackles in 2022 led the Fighting Illini, demonstrating his relentless pursuit of ball carriers. Moreover, Witherspoon’s ability to jam receivers at the line of scrimmage has made him a valuable asset on punt coverage.

Witherspoon’s impact on the punt return team is equally impressive. His quick reaction time, aggressive tackling, and knack for forcing fumbles have helped Illinois recover multiple punts. His fearless approach and ability to consistently disrupt opponents’ momentum on special teams make him a standout prospect for NFL teams seeking a safety with an unwavering commitment to all phases of the game.

Season	Special Teams Tackles	Forced Fumbles
2021	7	1
2022	10	1

Rising Stars from College Football

The 2025 NFL Draft is expected to be a strong year for safeties, with several talented players entering the league. Here are a few rising stars to watch:

Antonio Johnson, Texas A&M

Johnson is a 6’3″, 200-pound safety who had a breakout season in 2022. He recorded 75 tackles, 3 interceptions, and 10 pass breakups. Johnson is a physical and athletic safety who can cover a lot of ground. He is also a good tackler and has a knack for making big plays.

Travis Hunter, Jackson State

Hunter is the No. 1 overall recruit in the 2022 class and is expected to make an immediate impact at Jackson State. He is a 6’1″, 185-pound safety who is known for his speed and athleticism. Hunter is also a good tackler and has a knack for making big plays. He is expected to be a major contributor for Jackson State in 2023 and could be a first-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft.

Other safeties to watch include:

Name	School
Jaheim Oatis	Alabama
Zion Branch	Ohio State
Nick Emmanwori	South Carolina

Conclusion

These are just a few of the rising stars to watch in the 2025 NFL Draft. With their athleticism, physicality, and playmaking ability, these players have the potential to be impact players in the NFL.

Future Pro Bowl Candidates

9. Devon Witherspoon (Illinois)

Witherspoon is a dynamic playmaker with exceptional instincts and a polished technique. His lightning-quick reflexes enable him to anticipate plays, jump routes, and generate turnovers. In his sophomore season, he recorded a remarkable 7 interceptions, showcasing his ball-hawking abilities. Witherspoon possesses excellent coverage skills, showcasing the ability to shut down receivers and force incompletions. He demonstrates a well-rounded skill set that includes strong tackling, pass breakup proficiency, and a knack for forcing fumbles. Witherspoon’s exceptional athleticism, coupled with his football IQ, makes him a prime candidate for a Pro Bowl nod in the future NFL.

Below is a table summarizing Witherspoon’s key stats:

Stat	2022
Tackles	28
Interceptions	7
Pass Breakups	13
Forced Fumbles	2

Blueprint for Defensive Success in the NFL

#1: Assessing the Versatility of the Safety Position

Safeties have evolved into versatile defenders capable of covering the deep pass, supporting the run defense, and creating turnovers. To succeed in the NFL, a safety must possess a combination of speed, agility, and football intelligence to adapt to various defensive schemes and coverages.

#2: Importance of Range and Reaction Time

Safeties are the last line of defense, responsible for covering deep passes and preventing explosive plays. Exceptional range and reaction time are crucial. They must be able to close ground quickly, make up for lost steps, and disrupt opposing receivers before they can make a catch.

#3: Physicality and Run Support

While coverage skills are paramount, safeties must also contribute to the run defense. They need to be physical and willing to tackle in open space. Strong tackling technique, good balance, and a nose for the ball can turn a safety into a valuable asset against the run.

#4: Tackling Efficiency

Safeties must be efficient tacklers to prevent big gains and limit the number of missed tackles. Proper technique, including proper body positioning and leverage, is essential for bringing down elusive ball carriers and preventing yards after contact.

#5: Football Intelligence and Communication

Safeties serve as the quarterback of the secondary, relaying calls and adjusting coverages based on the opposing team’s formation and play selection. Excellent football intelligence and communication skills are vital for ensuring that the entire defense is on the same page.

#6: Turnovers as Game-Changers

The ability to create turnovers is a game-changing skill for safeties. Interceptions and forced fumbles can shift the momentum in an instant and give the offense an opportunity to score points. Ball-hawking instincts and anticipation are key for successful turnovers.

#7: Athleticism and Physical Prowess

At the NFL level, safeties must possess exceptional athleticism to match up with speedy receivers and cover the entire field. Elite speed, agility, and jumping ability are essential for staying with elusive targets and making game-changing plays.

#8: Adapting to Different Coverage Schemes

Defensive coordinators employ a variety of coverage schemes, and safeties must be able to adjust seamlessly to each one. Cover 1, cover 2, cover 3, and zone blitz are among the most common schemes, and safeties must understand their roles and responsibilities in each.

#9: Improving Field Vision and Awareness

Field vision and awareness are critical skills for safeties. They need to be able to scan the field quickly, identify potential threats, and react accordingly. A wide field of vision helps them anticipate plays and make quick decisions.

#10: Top Safety Prospects in the 2025 NFL Draft

The 2025 NFL Draft is expected to feature several highly touted safety prospects with the potential to make an immediate impact at the professional level. Here are some of the top players to watch:

Name	College	Strengths
John Doe	Ohio State	Range, tackling efficiency, football intelligence
Jane Smith	Alabama	Athleticism, physical prowess, turnover ability
Michael Jones	Georgia	Versatility, run support, communication skills

2025 NFL Draft Safeties: A Look Ahead

The 2025 NFL Draft is still a few years away, but it’s never too early to start looking at the potential prospects. At the safety position, there are a number of talented players who could be available for teams to select. Here’s a look at some of the top safeties who could be available in the 2025 NFL Draft:

Antonio Johnson, Texas A&M
Dasan McCullough, Indiana
Sonny Styles, Ohio State
Isaiah Nwokobia, Iowa
Jake Pope, Auburn
Jaleel Skinner, Miami (FL)

These are just a few of the top safeties who could be available in the 2025 NFL Draft. It’s still early to tell who will be the best players in this class, but these are some of the names to watch.