Hidden Talents Flying Under the NFL Draft Radar

As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, much attention is given to the marquee names expected to dominate the early rounds. However, the depth of this draft class ensures that several lesser-known talents possess the potential to make significant impacts at the professional level.

Don’t let these lesser-known players fool you - they might very well be worth placing bets on soon. And when they’re no longer flying under the radar, and you decide to register at a reputable sportsbook or casino provider, those no deposit bonuses will be a godsend!

So, without further ado, let's dive in. Let’s look at 12 such prospects who could emerge as valuable assets for NFL teams despite flying under the radar.​

1. Jacob Parrish, CB, Kansas State

Jacob Parrish is a highly athletic and competitive cornerback known for his versatility. Despite his smaller stature at 5-foot-9¾ and 190 pounds, Parrish's quickness and agility allow him to excel in both man and zone coverage schemes. His understanding of offensive route concepts enhances his effectiveness on the field. While his size may pose challenges against taller receivers, his tenacity and football IQ make him a promising prospect for teams seeking depth in their secondary.

2. Dillon Gabriel, QB, Oregon

Dillon Gabriel is an unorthodox, big-game quarterback whose ultra-confident mentality can be both a strength and a fault. His approach could lead him to an All-Pro career if his fundamentals hold up, but there's also a risk of inconsistency. Teams willing to invest in his development may find a high-reward player in Gabriel.​

3. Bhayshul Tuten, RB, Virginia Tech

Bhayshul Tuten is a dynamic running back with impressive agility and vision. His ability to make defenders miss and his versatility as a runner and receiver out of the backfield make him a valuable asset. Tuten's performance at the combine has raised his draft stock profile, and he could be a steal for teams looking to bolster their offensive weapons.

4. Jayden Higgins, WR, Iowa State

Standing at 6-foot-4 and 214 pounds, Jayden Higgins is a big-bodied receiver with notable athleticism. His 4.47-second 40-yard dash and 39-inch vertical jump are impressive for his size. Over two seasons at Iowa State, Higgins amassed 140 receptions for 2,166 yards and 15 touchdowns, showcasing his effectiveness on the perimeter.

5. Tyrion Ingram-Dawkins, DL, Georgia

Tyrion Ingram-Dawkins is a versatile defensive lineman who demonstrated exceptional athleticism at the combine. Measuring 6-foot-5 and 276 pounds, he recorded a 36-inch vertical and a 10'4" broad jump, along with a 4.86-second 40-yard dash. While his production at Georgia was modest, his physical attributes suggest significant potential at the next level.

6. Kain Medrano, LB, UCLA

Another one to watch is Kain Medrano, who brings physicality and athleticism to the linebacker position. At 6-foot-3 and 222 pounds, he recorded 72 tackles, two interceptions, and 1.5 sacks in 2024. His performance at the combine highlighted his speed and agility, making him an intriguing prospect for teams looking to enhance their linebacker corps. ​

7. Eugene Asante, LB, Auburn

Eugene Asante is a linebacker whose athleticism and instincts have caught the attention of scouts. His ability to read offenses and make quick decisions on the field positions him as a potential sleeper in the draft. Teams looking for a strong linebacker may consider Asante a valuable addition.

8. Riley Leonard, QB, Notre Dame

Riley Leonard is a 6-foot-4, 216-pound quarterback known for his dual-threat capabilities. In 2024, he threw for 2,861 yards with 21 touchdowns and eight interceptions. Training under former NFL quarterback Philip Rivers, Leonard has refined his skills and could be a valuable developmental prospect for teams seeking depth at the quarterback position.

9. Da'Quan Felton, WR, Virginia Tech

Da'Quan Felton is a wide receiver whose combination of size and speed makes him a compelling prospect. His ability to create separation and make contested catches has been noted by scouts, suggesting he could develop into a reliable target at the professional level.​

10. Jaxson Dart, QB, Ole Miss

Jaxson Dart is a quarterback prospect whose arm strength and mobility have garnered attention. He brings an alluring two-sport throwing background from baseball and football to the quarterback position. His ability to extend plays and make throws on the run adds a dynamic element to his game. With further development, Dart has the potential to become a star quarterback in the NFL.​

11. Nathan Kapongo, DE, Akron

Nathan Kapongo is a defensive end who has recently gained attention for his pass-rushing abilities. His size and athleticism make him a disruptive force on the defensive line. Teams looking to enhance their pass rush may find Kapongo to be a valuable addition.

12. Jameis Winston, QB, New York Giants

Veteran quarterback Jameis Winston has signed with the New York Giants, potentially influencing the quarterback market and drafting strategies for teams needing a signal-caller. His presence may impact the evaluation of team selections.

In short, while the spotlight in the 2025 NFL Draft will shine brightest on the top-ranked prospects, history has shown that some of the league’s biggest impact players come from unexpected places. The athletes highlighted here may not be household names—yet—but their talent, determination, and potential make them strong candidates to outperform their draft positions. Whether they become reliable starters, rotational contributors, or surprise stars, these hidden gems could shape the future of the NFL in ways that few anticipate. So, as teams prepare to make their selections, keen-eyed scouts will recognize the value these under-the-radar prospects bring. Similarly, fans should keep an eye on them, too—because the next great NFL story might just begin with one of these names.