While his performance in the final game of the season in 2024 was rough vs Notre Dame, Allar quieted many critics by quarterbacking the Nittany Lions to the College Football Playoff semi finals this past season. He’ll be looking to go at least one step further and by doing so, help cement himself as one of the best QBs in college football.

Keldric Faulk took a huge leap forward in 2024 with 7 sacks and multiple other big plays for the Tigers defense. Auburn will be hoping the former 4-star recruit continues to ascend and becomes one of the best edge rushers in the nation.

Having been a multi-year star for the Tulane Green Wave, rushing for over 1,300 yards both of his years, Makhi Hughes is taking his talents to the West Coast to play for the Oregon Ducks. Already featured on award watchlists, he brings considerable potential to an offense looking to replace a chunk of NFL talent.

At 6-5, 330 pounds, Jackson has twitch and power that may be unmatched in the defensive linemen class. Fully available in 2024, he had 3.5 sacks in 2024 and would have had a top-100 grade from NFL scouts if he had declared but a breakout season in 2025 could make his draft stock rise even more.

After starting his career in Colorado, Tyson has made a much bigger splash with the Buffaloes Big-12 rivals, Arizona State. In 2024, he enjoyed a breakout season and after missing out on the Sun Devils’ CFP game vs Texas, Tyson is set to return, hoping he can post yet another 1,000+ yard season.

Avieon Terrell, the younger brother of NFL star corner A.J. Terrell is set to carve out his own NFL draft story next April. As a projected first-rounder, Terrell should have a big impact on Clemson’s bid for a national championship run.

Eli Stowers returns as one of the best and most versatile TEs in college football. The converted QB who was All-SEC first team in 2024, should have another big year as Diego Pavia’s go-to receiver.

Deontae Lawson is the captain and leader of the Alabama defense, operating as the Mike linebacker for multiple seasons. With another year of college football under his belt, he could see his stock rise just like his former running mate Jihaad Campbell.

Among the best offensive linemen in the SEC is Jake Slaughter, Center for the Florida Gators. He will be tasked with keeping 2nd year phenom DJ Lagway upright for the 2025 season.

The first of a 10-part series looking at 10 draft eligible players who will have a big impact on the upcoming college football season. First up is Ohio State star safety Caleb Downs.