Exploring "Plan B" and "Plan C" Options for NFL Draft Prospects in 2025
As anticipation builds for the 2025 NFL Draft, sports analysts and fans alike are closely scrutinizing elite players expected to be selected. However, the reality of the draft often means that not every team can land their top choice in the first round. Consequently, alternative prospects—dubbed “Plan B” and “Plan C” options—gain significant importance in the discussions surrounding team strategies.
The following overview highlights various positions and some promising prospects outside the consensus top picks. The analysis includes background information and insights that demonstrate the potential value of these players on Day 2 and Day 3 of the draft.
Quarterbacks: A Critical Position
Plan A: Cam Ward, Miami
Plan B: Will Howard, Ohio State
Plan C: Brady Cook, Missouri
Will Howard has emerged as a notable option for teams in need of a quarterback. The Ohio State transfer recorded 39 touchdowns against 14 interceptions while competing impressively in both the Big 12 and Big Ten conferences. Measuring 6-foot-4 and 235 pounds, Howard is recognized for his athletic ability and solid play that helped lead the Buckeyes to a national championship game. Brady Cook, similarly experienced with over 1,100 passing attempts, offers comparable athleticism but may lack the arm strength to warrant a higher draft selection.
Rushing Options: Versatile Running Backs
Plan A: Ashton Jeanty, Boise State
Plan B: Bhayshul Tuten, Virginia Tech
Plan C: Jarquez Hunter, Auburn
Bhayshul Tuten of Virginia Tech stands out as a compelling prospect. Despite being overshadowed by higher-profile players, Tuten’s performance includes an impressive 5.7 yards per carry over his two seasons in college. Known for his explosive running style, he mirrors the qualities of Jeanty. Meanwhile, Jarquez Hunter presents himself as an underrated talent with a strong track record of performance in the SEC, consistently averaging over 5.7 yards per carry.
Wide Receivers: Depth and Talent
Plan A: Matthew Golden, Texas
Plan B: Tai Felton, Maryland
Plan C: Jaylin Lane, Virginia Tech
Matthew Golden is trending as a top receiver prospectable within the first 20 picks. For teams unable to select him, Tai Felton provides a similar skill set, as evidenced by his high production rate at Maryland with 96 catches in 2024 and strong athletic metrics. Jaylin Lane, another promising player from Virginia Tech, boasts excellent speed and versatility, showcasing the potential for impact in various receiving roles.
Tight Ends: Valuable Targets
Plan A: Tyler Warren, Penn State
Plan B: Terrance Ferguson, Oregon
Plan C: Joshua Simon, South Carolina
Tyler Warren is projected to be the first tight end selected, showcasing remarkable abilities as a versatile offensive player. Meanwhile, Ferguson provides an intriguing alternative, known for his exceptional athletic performance and reliability in challenging situations. Joshua Simon rounds out this group and adds depth, demonstrating significant improvement and production during his career in college.
Offensive Line: Robust Foundations
Plan A: Armand Membou, Missouri
Plan B: Aireontae Ersery, Minnesota
Plan C: Myles Hinton, Michigan
As teams look for flexibility and power on the offensive line, Aireontae Ersery’s solid performance has garnered attention. He combines a large frame with commendable technique for a left tackle, while Myles Hinton’s potential as a pass-blocker and distinctive hand technique solidify his standing as a valuable pick later in the draft.
Defense: Key Positions for Impact
Edge Rusher:
Plan A: Abdul Carter, Penn State
Plan B: Bradyn Swinson, LSU
Plan C: Elijah Ponder, Cal Poly
Abdul Carter is a highly ranked edge rusher likely to land in the top five of the draft. Bradyn Swinson offers a similar edge-rushing ability and could be a satisfying alternative due to his unique athleticism. Elijah Ponder presents a deep sleeper option with notable pressure statistics that could translate well into the NFL.
Linebacker:
Plan A: Jihaad Campbell, Texas
Plan B: Carson Schwesinger, UCLA
Plan C: Teddye Buchanan, California
While Jihaad Campbell is noted for his all-around game as a linebacker, Carson Schwesinger’s ability to replicate Campbell’s success at lower rounds makes him a strategic choice for teams. Teddye Buchanan’s experience as a standout performer at UC-Davis adds an enticing late-round prospect.
Conclusion: Significance of "Plan B" and "Plan C" Options
As the NFL Draft approaches, the emphasis on identifying reliable alternatives becomes more critical for franchises looking to fill various needs without securing a top-10 pick. The prospect of uncovering talent in lesser-known players is a key element of successful drafting strategies. The choices teams make regarding these "Plan B" and "Plan C" athletes could significantly impact their roster composition, ultimately shaping their competitive edge in the seasons to come. With numerous positions addressed, these analyses provide a comprehensive view of emerging prospects to watch in the upcoming draft.
