MOBILE, Ala. — This past week, the spotlight was on Mobile, Alabama, as NFL coaches, general managers, scouts, and potential draft prospects gathered to observe the upcoming stars of the league during a series of drills and live play. The event is particularly significant as teams prepare for the 2025 NFL Draft, working to refine their draft boards based on performances and evaluations of these young athletes.
In addition to assessing the players, a buzz filled the air with discussions about high-profile free agents, coaching changes, and emerging trends within the league. Here are three noteworthy insights that emerged from the practice fields and informal meetings:
1. Aaron Rodgers’ Future: Retirement or Change of Scenery?
There has been much speculation about the future of quarterback Aaron Rodgers, particularly following the New York Jets’ shift in leadership as Aaron Glenn takes over as head coach. While some believe that Rodgers may contemplate retirement, others suggest that he could still be a valuable player in the league.
One executive from the AFC expressed skepticism about Rodgers’ fit with teams looking for a new quarterback, given his challenging situation in the past season. Despite a respectable performance, where he threw for nearly 4,000 yards and 28 touchdowns, there is concern about whether he can still be the centerpiece for a team, especially after a tough season for the Jets.
However, another AFC executive believes that Rodgers will continue to play, albeit not with the Jets. He argued that a franchise aiming for long-term success would benefit from building a system that supports the growth of a younger quarterback rather than customizing the offense for Rodgers for just one season.
In response to these swirling rumors, Glenn acknowledged that conversations about Rodgers have already begun, highlighting the importance of evaluating the entire roster as decisions are made moving forward.
2. Kellen Moore’s Rising Star
Another topic of interest is Kellen Moore, the offensive coordinator for the Philadelphia Eagles. Many executives have been impressed by Moore’s innovative approach and leadership qualities in previous hiring cycles. Recently, reports have surfaced indicating that several teams view him as a strong candidate for head coaching roles due to his deep understanding of the game and ability to connect with players.
An AFC general manager, who had not previously interviewed Moore, remarked on his exceptional performance during games, indicating that he holds a reputation for being an effective play caller. This is due in part to Moore’s time with the Dallas Cowboys, Los Angeles Chargers, and now the Eagles, where he has consistently demonstrated his capabilities.
The New Orleans Saints are reportedly interested in interviewing Moore further, which could position him as a leading candidate for their head coaching vacancy following the upcoming Super Bowl.
3. Shedeur Sanders and the Importance of Experience
While not present at the Senior Bowl, Colorado quarterback Shedeur Sanders has been a topic of discussion among scouts who viewed his strong performance at the Shrine Bowl. Sanders, son of football legend Deion Sanders, has played a total of 50 college games, showcasing his skills and improving his chances in the upcoming draft.
His recent statistics, which include a remarkable completion rate and impressive yardage, are part of why he has attracted attention. However, teams are also considering his overall experience, which will be a critical factor as they decide on quarterbacks for the future.
The heightened interest in experienced players like Sanders reflects a growing trend in the NFL. With the urgency to win, teams are increasingly looking for quarterbacks who can step in and perform immediately rather than waiting for them to develop over time.
Moreover, in a broader context, scouts have reported that this year’s draft class stands to be deeper than ever, partly due to the impact of the transfer portal and the extension of eligibility caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. This expanded talent pool could provide teams with more options, particularly in the later rounds of the draft.
As the NFL gears up for the offseason, the decisions made in the coming weeks will shape the league for years to come, with teams carefully weighing their options in players, coaches, and strategies. The excitement for the 2025 NFL Draft continues to build as prospects strive to make their mark in front of decision-makers and fans alike.
