The 2025 NFL Draft class is starting to take shape, and that means we’re getting a clearer picture of some of the top prospects and the position groups with the most depth.
The running back, tight end and offensive tackle positions seem to be the deepest and strongest on the offensive side of the ball. On defense, the edge defender group is as deep as we’ve seen in several years, dominating the projected top 50. There are also more impact defensive backs this year than a year ago, with plenty of options on all three days of the draft, specifically on Days 2 and 3.
Here are PFF's top safety prospects in the 2025 NFL Draft, along with some initial scouting notes courtesy of lead draft analyst Trevor Sikkema.
For the full ranking of draft prospects, along with their three-year player grades and position rankings, click here.
S1. Malaki Starks, Georgia
Starks was a playmaker in the SEC for three straight seasons. He brings good football IQ, tackling and movement ability to play free, strong and slot. He isn't a rare athlete, but he's a starting-caliber player for the backend of any defense.
S2. Xavier Watts, Notre Dame
Big board rank: 39
Watts is the best ball-hawking safety in this class thanks to his intelligence and ability to break on the football. That will have him drafted somewhere on Day 2, even with his tackling woes.
S3. Nick Emmanwori, South Carolina
Big board rank: 43
Emmanwori is a tricky prospect who will require a leap of faith, considering where he's likely to be drafted. His elite athleticism and playmaking ability suggest his ceiling could be on par with a player like Kerby Joseph, but his underwhelming box play and questionable technique and instincts are more reminiscent of Isaiah Simmons, who was drafted in the first round in 2020 but has struggled to find a natural NFL position.
S4. Sebastian Castro, Iowa
Big board rank: 79
Scouting summary coming soon! In the meantime, check out PFF's 2025 Big Board tool, where you’ll find everything you need to evaluate this year’s top prospects.
S5. Kevin Winston Jr., Penn State
Big board rank: 82
Winston’s tape and the athleticism that he showed off in 2023 made him a prospect worthy of going in the first round. While his recent injury muddies his projection, he’s still one of the top safeties available if he can fully recover.
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