Three Miami Players Are Selected as Day 2 Favorites in the NFL Mock Draft

NFL Mock Draft: Three Miami Players Listed as Day 2 Favorites

As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, the Miami Hurricanes have several standout players who are expected to make an impact at the professional level. Although many of Miami’s top prospects will likely hear their names called on Day 1, several standout players are trending as potential picks for Day 2 of the draft—rounds 2 and 3. Day 2 of the NFL Draft is a pivotal point in the selection process, and it can be where many prospects who may have slipped under the radar on Day 1 end up in the perfect situation for their development and immediate impact.

In this mock draft preview, we’ll highlight three Miami Hurricanes players who are drawing significant attention and are likely to be selected on Day 2 of the 2025 NFL Draft. These players represent a mix of positions and skills but all share one thing in common: they have the talent and potential to make an immediate impact at the professional level.

1. Tyrique Stevenson (CB) – Projected Round 2 Pick

One of the most talked-about Miami prospects entering the 2025 NFL Draft is cornerback Tyrique Stevenson. A physical corner with the ability to lock down receivers and contribute in multiple facets of the game, Stevenson has caught the attention of NFL scouts throughout the season. While some analysts believe he could sneak into the back of the first round, many predict that Stevenson will be selected early on Day 2—potentially in the second round.

Strengths

• Physicality and Size: Standing at 6’0″ and weighing 210 pounds, Stevenson has the ideal size and physical traits to play cornerback in the NFL. His size gives him an advantage in contested situations, and he isn’t afraid to mix it up in run support.
• Versatility: Stevenson’s ability to play both outside and in the slot makes him an enticing option for teams. His versatility gives defensive coordinators flexibility in how they use him.
• Ball Skills and Playmaking: Stevenson is excellent at tracking the ball and has shown a knack for creating turnovers. Whether it’s an interception or breaking up a pass, he always seems to be around the football. His aggressive style of play has resulted in several highlight-worthy moments on the field, and scouts love that kind of playmaking ability.
• Physical Press Coverage: Stevenson is a strong press man corner, utilizing his size and strength to throw off wide receivers’ routes. This is a trait that NFL teams covet, particularly for teams that value press coverage.

Areas for Improvement

• Consistency in Coverage: At times, Stevenson has shown that he can get too aggressive and bite on fakes or misdirections. His instincts are good, but he’ll need to refine his technique to avoid penalties and get burned by savvy NFL receivers.
• Footwork: Although his physical traits are outstanding, Stevenson needs to continue improving his footwork in tight coverage situations. In the NFL, every inch matters, and improving his ability to mirror quick, elusive route runners will be crucial.

NFL Outlook

Tyrique Stevenson has all the traits to be a starting cornerback in the NFL. His physical tools and aggressive mentality make him an ideal fit for teams that employ a heavy man-to-man defensive scheme. Stevenson could come in and compete for a starting spot early on, especially if he lands in a scheme that values press coverage and physicality. Whether he’s lining up against an elite No. 1 receiver or playing the slot, Stevenson’s versatility and ball skills make him a prime candidate for Day 2 selection.

2. Zion Nelson (OT) – Projected Round 2/3 Pick

Zion Nelson, a standout offensive tackle for the Miami Hurricanes, has been one of the most consistent players on the offensive line. After a solid career at Miami, Nelson’s stock has been steadily rising as the draft approaches. He has the ideal frame to be a long-term starter at the NFL level and has the potential to develop into one of the more reliable tackles in the league.

Strengths

• Elite Size and Athleticism: At 6’5″ and 320 pounds, Nelson has the perfect size for an NFL tackle. His long arms, coupled with excellent agility, make him a nightmare for defenders trying to rush the passer. His athleticism allows him to keep up with quick edge rushers, and his quick feet are a key asset in both run blocking and pass protection.
• Pass Protection: Zion Nelson is particularly strong in pass protection. His ability to keep defenders at bay with his size, combined with his solid technique, gives his quarterback a clean pocket to throw from. He is especially effective in protecting the blindside, which is crucial in the modern NFL.
• Run Blocking: Nelson has shown the ability to drive defenders off the ball and create running lanes for his running backs. His strength at the point of attack makes him effective in both zone and power run schemes.
• Experience: With four years of starting experience at Miami, Nelson has faced top-tier pass rushers in the ACC, preparing him for the competition he will face in the NFL. His experience and football IQ are big advantages when transitioning to the pros.

Areas for Improvement

• Consistency in Hand Placement: While Nelson has the tools to dominate in the NFL, he has struggled with hand placement at times. He’ll need to continue refining his technique, especially against more skilled pass rushers who will exploit minor mistakes.
• Footwork Under Pressure: There are moments where Nelson’s footwork can get sloppy under pressure, particularly against quicker pass rushers. While he’s a solid athlete, he’ll need to refine his footwork to prevent defenders from getting around him.

NFL Outlook

Zion Nelson is expected to be a top choice in the second or third round of the 2025 NFL Draft. Teams will likely view him as a starting-caliber tackle with the upside to be a long-term fixture in their offensive line. His ability to play both tackle positions and his experience at the collegiate level will make him a versatile option for NFL teams. With some further refinement, Nelson could develop into a Pro Bowl-caliber offensive lineman in the right system. His physical gifts and technical ability make him a valuable Day 2 pick.

3. Michael Redding III (WR) – Projected Round 3 Pick

While Michael Redding III may not have been the most hyped receiver at Miami, his combination of size, athleticism, and upside has caught the attention of scouts heading into the 2025 NFL Draft. A big, strong receiver who can make plays down the field, Redding has the tools to develop into a solid No. 2 or No. 3 receiver in the NFL. After an up-and-down college career, he’s showing that he can be a dangerous weapon with the right development.

Strengths

• Size and Speed: Redding stands at 6’3″ and weighs 215 pounds, giving him an imposing physical presence on the field. His combination of size and speed allows him to stretch the field and be a matchup nightmare for smaller cornerbacks. He’s capable of winning contested catches and can be a deep threat.
• Route Running: Although he’s still refining his craft, Redding has shown the ability to run precise routes. He’s effective at creating separation with his size and athleticism, and his quickness in and out of breaks allows him to gain separation from defenders.
• Hands and Catch Radius: Redding has a large catch radius, and he’s proven to be reliable at securing passes in tough situations. Whether it’s in traffic or on deep throws, Redding has the hands to reel in passes and convert critical third downs.
• Blocking Ability: A strong, physical receiver, Redding is also willing to block in the run game. His ability to contribute as a blocker can make him a valuable asset for teams that like to run a lot of screens and play-action passes.

Areas for Improvement

• Inconsistency: Redding has been inconsistent throughout his college career, at times disappearing from games or failing to make the necessary adjustments when defenders challenge him. His route running can be erratic at times, and he needs to focus on sharpening his skills to be more reliable.
• Separation against Elite Corners: While Redding can win against college corners, he’ll need to prove that he can separate from the NFL’s elite cornerbacks. He will need to further develop his technical skills to avoid being stifled by press coverage at the next level.

NFL Outlook

Michael Redding III is a raw, but intriguing, prospect for NFL teams. His physical tools—size, speed, and hands—are undeniable, and with the right development, he could turn into a key contributor at the next level. Redding will likely be selected in the third round, with a chance to develop into a No. 2 or No. 3 receiver for a team looking for a big, athletic pass catcher. If he can continue to work on his consistency and route running, Redding could make an immediate impact on special teams and as a rotational receiver in his first couple of seasons.