Top-ranked Texas star boldly says his game 'speaks for itself' compared to Travis Hunter and Will Johnson

The Texas Longhorns' pro day was a must-watch event for NFL scouts and decision makers. Quinn Ewers headlined the offensive display, while Jahdae Barron worked on showing why he should be the top cornerback off the board in the 2025 NFL Draft. 

The Jim Thorpe Award winner in 2024 has been a massive riser since the start of the season, showing more playmaking and versatility as a senior than anyone else in the country. He left no doubt as to his feelings about his standing in this class. 

"I almost definitely believe that I am CB1,” Barron said, via Calvin Watkins of the Dallas Morning News. “I’m so versatile, I can do a lot. I can go play corner, I can play nickel and I can play safety. So I’m what you need and I can do it for you in the most humblest way.”

The first-team All-American said his willingness to do whatever it takes to help the team win is why he should be taken above bigger stars in Travis Hunter and Will Johnson. Hunter has been projected in the top four picks as either a cornerback or receiver, while Johnson has been slipping in mocks to the middle of the first round.

“I’m here to do anything that benefits the team, always, and I know the rest will speak for itself,” Barron said.

After intercepting five passes in 2024 and earning more reps as an outside cornerback this past fall, teams will find his potential especially intriguing. Here's what our Ryan Roberts had to say about Barron's outlook in his scouting report.

"While there may be more exciting defensive backs in the 2025 NFL Draft class, there aren’t many more high floor players than Barron. He profiles to a zone based system on the outside, but has starter upside in that specific system. Inside at nickel, Barron has plus starter upside and could have Pro Bowl potential as he develops.

Barron will not be for everyone, but for the right team, he should be a tremendous football player. His zone instincts, on top of his natural competitiveness, and urgency will be a huge sell to an NFL team on the next level. Barron is as solid as they come."