Mel Kiper Jr.’s Latest 2025 NFL Mock Draft Features Two Alabama Players in the First Round
ESPN’s NFL Draft expert, Mel Kiper Jr., released his updated 2025 NFL Mock Draft on Wednesday, highlighting two Alabama football players as first-round selections. The draft, which is still more than three months away, remains a fluid situation as prospects continue to rise and fall on draft boards. However, Kiper’s latest projection provides renewed hope for Alabama fans that their school’s streak of first-round draft picks will continue.
Alabama’s Draft Prospects for 2025
Currently, Alabama boasts three notable prospects eligible for the 2025 draft: quarterback Jalen Milroe, offensive guard Tyler Booker, and linebacker Jihaad Campbell. Each of these players brings unique talents to the table, but questions remain about their draft stock.
Jalen Milroe, the Crimson Tide’s quarterback, has been one of the most debated prospects in this draft class. With mock draft projections ranging from No. 2 overall to as low as the third round, Milroe’s place in the draft remains uncertain. On the other hand, Booker and Campbell, while highly talented, play positions considered less premium in the NFL, which can sometimes impact draft value.
Despite these concerns, Alabama fans can breathe a little easier thanks to Kiper’s latest mock draft, which includes two Crimson Tide standouts in the first round.
Tyler Booker Goes 16th Overall to the Cardinals
Kiper projects offensive guard Tyler Booker to be the first Alabama player selected in the draft, going 16th overall to the Arizona Cardinals. Previously ranked as the No. 3 interior offensive lineman in Kiper’s evaluations, Booker’s stock has risen, making him the first interior offensive lineman off the board in this latest mock.
Booker’s selection would be a significant boost for the Cardinals, particularly quarterback Kyler Murray, who has struggled behind an inconsistent offensive line. Booker’s presence would not only improve pass protection but also elevate Arizona’s ground game, making him a valuable addition to the team.
Jihaad Campbell Selected 17th Overall by the Bengals
Immediately following Booker’s selection, Kiper has the Cincinnati Bengals selecting linebacker Jihaad Campbell with the 17th overall pick.
Despite standout performances from stars like quarterback Joe Burrow and wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase, the Bengals missed the playoffs due to defensive struggles. Campbell’s versatility and ability to excel in various roles on defense make him an ideal pick to address those shortcomings. His athleticism and football IQ would provide an immediate upgrade to the Bengals’ defensive unit.
Notable Absence: Jalen Milroe
While Booker and Campbell earned spots in Kiper’s first round, quarterback Jalen Milroe was notably absent. Milroe’s draft stock has been highly volatile, with some analysts projecting him as high as No. 2 overall, while others place him outside the first round entirely.
Milroe is currently viewed as competing for the No. 3 quarterback spot behind Miami’s Cam Ward and Colorado’s Shedeur Sanders. His ultimate draft position will likely depend on team evaluations during interviews and workouts. As Kiper notes, it only takes one team to believe in a prospect, and Milroe’s leadership and athleticism could win over NFL decision-makers.
Alabama’s First-Round Streak in Jeopardy?
Alabama has maintained an impressive streak of producing at least one first-round pick in each of the last 16 NFL drafts. While the streak appeared at risk earlier this year, Kiper’s mock draft suggests it is likely to continue, thanks to Booker and Campbell’s rising stock.
As the draft approaches, much can still change. Players will have opportunities to impress scouts during the Senior Bowl, NFL Combine, and pro days. For now, though, Alabama fans can take comfort in seeing their players featured prominently in Kiper’s projections.
Conclusion
The 2025 NFL Draft is shaping up to be another exciting event for Alabama football. While uncertainty remains around Jalen Milroe’s draft stock, the inclusion of Tyler Booker and Jihaad Campbell in Mel Kiper Jr.’s latest mock draft provides hope that the Crimson Tide will once again have a strong presence in the first round. Fans will eagerly watch the coming months as Alabama’s top prospects vie to solidify their positions on draft boards.
