The 2025 NFL draft is approaching, set to begin on April 24 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. While no Florida football players are expected to be picked in the first 32 selections, at least five UF alumni are likely to be chosen by the end of the seventh round. The Florida Gators hold a streak of 72 consecutive years with players selected in the NFL draft, second only to Michigan and USC.
In a unique twist, Sports Illustrated's Matt Verderame created an "ultimate NFL mock draft," selecting the best player ever chosen at each of the 224 total picks. Two Florida Gators, Emmitt Smith and Jack Youngblood, were highlighted in this draft. Smith, a Pro Football Hall of Famer, is the all-time rushing leader and a three-time Super Bowl champion, while Youngblood, also in the Hall of Fame, was a standout defensive end with a notable career despite playing through injury during the 1979 playoffs.
The draft event spans from April 24 to April 26 at Lambeau Field, with the first round commencing on Thursday at 8 p.m. ET and broadcast on various platforms. Rounds 2 and 3 will follow on Friday night, with the remaining rounds unfolding on Saturday. Fans can stay updated on the draft and Florida Gators news through social media channels like Twitter and Facebook.