The 2025 NFL Draft is fast approaching, with the highly anticipated first round set to begin on Thursday, April 24. The event will take place in Green Bay, Wisconsin, and is scheduled to start at 8 p.m. ET. Some of college football’s most elite prospects will finally learn where their professional careers will begin, and many will have the opportunity to walk across the stage in celebration of their draft selections.
As the countdown continues, the NFL has updated its list of invited attendees for the first round. Initially, 17 players were slated to be present in person, but that number was revised to 16 on Friday, just days before the draft. These players will be featured front and center during one of the most exciting nights in sports as they await their name being called.
Notably, Ole Miss quarterback Jaxson Dart has opted out of attending the event in person. Dart, whose draft stock has ranged from first- to third-round projections, was initially expected to be among those in attendance. His absence, however, will not diminish the buzz surrounding where he lands in the draft.
Another name no longer attending is Georgia edge rusher Mykel Williams. Like Dart, Williams had been considered a likely candidate for the opening round and was originally part of the event’s in-person roster. His decision to skip the ceremony adds another layer of intrigue to Thursday night, as fans and analysts speculate on his landing spot.
In contrast, Kentucky cornerback Maxwell Hairston was added to the list of attendees. A rising name in draft circles, Hairston has become a popular choice in late first-round projections, thanks to his breakout performance in the 2024 college season. His inclusion reflects the shifting dynamics of this year’s class as teams look to bolster their defensive backfields.
Despite being one of the most talked-about prospects, Colorado quarterback Shedeur Sanders is still not on the list of confirmed attendees. Sanders’ draft stock has been the subject of intense debate, with speculation ranging from a potential Day 1 selection to the possibility of slipping into later rounds. Nevertheless, teams like the New York Giants and Pittsburgh Steelers have shown notable interest in the dynamic quarterback.
The updated list of attendees gives fans a clearer picture of who might hear their names called early on draft night, but the drama and surprises that typically accompany the NFL Draft are sure to keep viewers on the edge of their seats. With just days to go, anticipation is building as the next wave of football stars prepare to take the leap to the professional level.
Here’s a complete rundown of the 2025 NFL Draft prospects set to attend Day 1 in Green Bay:
Prospect Position College
Cam Ward QB Miami
Jalen Milroe. QB Alabama
Ashton Jeanty. RB. Boise State
Travis Hunter. WR, CB. Colorado
Tetairoa McMillan. WR. Arizona
Matthew Golden WR. Texas
Will Campbell OT LSU
Josh Simmons OT Ohio State
Tyler Booker OL Alabama
Abdul Carter. EDGE. Penn State
Shemar Stewart. EDGE. Texas A&M
Mason Graham DL. Michigan
Jihaad Campbell. LB. Alabama
Will Johnson. CB Michigan
Maxwell Hairston CB Kentucky
Malaki Starks. S. Georgia
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