By Stephen Vilardo, SuperWest Sports
Today, in our continuing previews of the top 2025 NFL Draft prospects from the West, we focus on the defensive backs.
The region could see as many as seven DBs selected in Green Bay this week, while others could be undrafted free agents.
But for now, here’s a look at those I think may hear their name called during the three-day draft.
1. Travis Hunter, Colorado, CB — Top 5 overall
The most exciting player in the 2025 NFL Draft, Hunter could be a difference-maker from Day One.
He’s a dynamic two-way player who could shine on either side of the ball and may also be the best receiver in the class. However, I see him as predominantly a DB in the NFL and a part-time WR.
As a DB, he is a ball hawk with incredible range and playmaking ability, making spectacular picks. He has the speed to stay with anyone.
Hunter can get flat-footed and off balance in his backpedal at times, but he will be an immediate starter, no matter which team selects him.
2. Nohl Williams, Cal, CB —Third/Fourth Round
Williams is a ball hawk; he finished his collegiate career with 14 picks and had an eyepopping seven as a senior.
He is long and athletic and can play physically in press coverage. His playmaking instincts are on display in zone coverage as he does a good job of keeping his eyes balanced.
Williams doesn’t have great speed, but he has the burst to prevent separation.
He needs to make sure he doesn’t get handsy in those situations, as he incurred numerous holding penalties in college.
3. Kitan Crawford, Nevada, S — Fourth/Fifth Round
Crawford’s stock is rising after a strong showing at the NFL Combine, where he covered the 40-yard dash in 4.41. He is a burner.
His good footwork keeps him square to the QB, and he can lay the boom on receivers coming over the middle.
While he is a big hitter, his stature is a bit slight. At 5-foot-11, he is somewhat small for an NFL safety. And his arms are more compact than scouts would like.
Nonetheless, Crawford could see the field early in some nickel packages and perform well on special teams.
4. Craig Woodson, Cal, S — Fifth Round
Woodson is an exceptionally athletic safety with high intelligence who reads routes fast and changes direction quickly.
He is willing to stick his nose in run support but lacks the tackling prowess to bring down backs one-on-one.
Woodson will contribute on special teams and could immediately be an asset as an extra safety in a Dime look.
5. Jaylin Smith, USC, CB, Sixth/Seventh Round
Smith performs well in press coverage and has the body control to make plays in man-to-man.
He has experience in the secondary both as a Safety and Nickel, which could help him get on the field.
At only 5-foot-10-½, his measurables are not quite at an NFL level. Despite his stature, he is a sure tackler.
6. Marcus Harris, S, Cal — Late Seventh Round/UDFA
Harris was an excellent zone safety for the Golden Bears.
His biggest attribute might be his ability to read the QB and recognize the play. He is elite against the run but will struggle when defending man-to-man.
Harris could be a steal late if he is drafted into the right system.
7. Shamari Simmons, S, Arizona State — Late Seventh Round/UDFA
Simmons is an outstanding tackler and a solid zone defender.
He is willing to mix it up with bigger players and make plays.
Simmons arguably lacks the athleticism to be a starting NFL DB, and his speed is below average for the position.
writes about various topics for SuperWest sports, including stats and records, college sports, and motorsports. He also founded and runs the Sports and Entertainment Research Center (SERC).
