Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, Mississippi State Bulldogs do not appear to have any surefire early picks. Still, several players have enjoyed standout seasons and their eye-catching performances have seen them emerge as potential pro candidates. However, the Bulldogs are frequently chosen as a top sports betting pick by many NFL experts.

Here’s a closer look at three players who are shaping up to be possible Draft selections from Mississippi Bulldogs in 2025:  

Kelly Akharaiyi

Kelly Akharaiyi, a promising prospect for the 2025 NFL Draft, has had a seamless transition to the Mississippi State lineup after an impressive stint at UTEP. During his last season at UTEP, his incredible stats saw him rank fourth nationally. He posted 1,033 receiving yards, 86.1 receptions, 48 receiving scores, and averaging 21.52 yards per catch. At Mississippi State, the 6-foot-1 wide receiver continues to showcase his skills. 

He has played in 24 games, including 18 starts, and posted 1308 yards and eight touchdowns, 69 receptions, and eight touchdowns. His speed, agility, and tactical understanding make him a top prospect for the 2025 NFL Draft. Maintain this consistency at SEC, the highest level of college competition, and his stock will shoot through the roof.

Ethan Miner

Ethan Miner stands out as one of the top centers in college football, a position often overlooked but crucial to any team’s success. According to Pro Football Focus, the 6-2 center was the number three graded center nationally. This season, Miner’s consistency in snapping the ball and protecting the quarterback has been a cornerstone for Mississippi State‘s offense. His strong performance, technical skills, and leadership on the offensive line make him a strong candidate for the 2025 NFL Draft. 

However, the variability in the number of centers drafted annually could potentially impact Miner’s draft chances. Historically, when 10 or more centers have been drafted in a single year, the following year typically sees a decrease, with seven or fewer centers being selected. This year, a notable 12 centers were selected in the draft, marking it the highest number since 1985. For Ethan Miner, who is entering his first and only season at Mississippi State after transferring from North Texas, this trend could be concerning.

Justin Ball

Justin Ball’s size and athleticism make him a potential prospect for the 2025 NFL Draft. Standing at 6’6″ and weighing 250 pounds, Ball has the physical tools that NFL teams covet in a tight end. He transferred to MSU this offseason after five years at Vanderbilt, where he accumulated 204 receiving yards. Ball quickly emerged as a top target in Coach Lebby’s offense during MSU’s spring game. His two touchdown catches in that exhibition game suggest he could have a breakout year. Given his size and this promising performance, a team might consider him worthy of a late-round draft pick.

The Bulldogs’ potential 2025 NFL Draft selections, Kelly Akharaiyi, Ethan Miner, and Justin Ball, are players to keep an eye on in the upcoming season. Their performance and potential make them strong contenders for making the leap to the professional level, and they are expected to bring their best to the field. Are they looking to back them? As the season progresses, these Bulldogs will only draw more attention to themselves and potentially secure their spots in the next NFL Draft.