2025 NFL Scouting Combine: Stock Up and Stock Down After Day 3

Image credits: Caean Couto-Imagn Images

The third day of the 2025 NFL Scouting Combine has come to a close, with quarterbacks, running backs, and wide receivers taking center stage. Many of these players wowed scouts with their speed, agility, and explosiveness, while others failed to impress. The combine is a crucial event for NFL teams to evaluate potential draft picks, and this year's edition has been no exception. Players like Golden, Higgins, and Judkins have seen their draft stock rise after impressive performances, while others like Howard, Johnson, and Wells have taken a step back.

One of the standout performers was Golden, who ran a blistering 4.29-second 40-yard dash, the best time of any combine receiver this year. He also showed reliability and toughness, cementing his status as a first-round prospect. Higgins, on the other hand, ran a solid 4.47-second 40 and showed explosiveness with a 39-inch vertical leap. Judkins, meanwhile, impressed with his 4.48-second 40-yard dash and group-best 11-foot broad jump. These performances have undoubtedly caught the attention of NFL scouts and coaches, who will be eager to see how these players perform in their respective pro days.

Other players who impressed on the third day of the combine include Tuten, who led all combine RBs with a 4.32-second 40-yard dash, and Noel, who posted a 4.39-second 40 and tied for the best vertical among all receivers. These players have shown that they have the potential to make an impact in the NFL, and their performances will be closely watched in the lead-up to the draft. On the other hand, players like Howard, Johnson, and Wells will need to rebound from disappointing performances if they hope to improve their draft stock.

The following players have seen their stock rise or fall after the third day of the combine:

• Stock Up:
  1. Golden: 4.29-second 40-yard dash, 1.49-second 10-yard split
  2. Higgins: 4.47-second 40, 39-inch vertical leap
  3. Judkins: 4.48-second 40-yard dash, 11-foot broad jump
  4. Noel: 4.39-second 40, 41 1/2-inch vertical leap
  5. Tuten: 4.32-second 40-yard dash, 40 1/2-inch vertical leap
• Stock Down:
  1. Howard: struggled with deep throws and inconsistent velocity
  2. Johnson: 4.57-second 40, 1.62-second 10-yard split, underwhelming in short-area agility drills
  3. Wells: 4.58-second 40, 34-inch vertical leap, 10-4 broad jump

In other news, several college quarterbacks have been drawing inspiration from NFL players, including Jalen Hurts, who has been praised for his versatility and work ethic. Players like Jaxson Dart, Jalen Milroe, and Cam Ward have all cited Hurts as a role model, and have been trying to emulate his playing style. This is a testament to the impact that Hurts has had on the NFL, and his ability to inspire young players. As the draft approaches, it will be interesting to see how these players perform and whether they can live up to the expectations of their idols.