3 Virginia Tech Players Who Could Be Late-Round Draft Steals for These NFL Teams
What a difference a year makes for the Virginia Tech football program. After failing to have a single player selected in the 2024 NFL Draft, the Hokies are poised for a much brighter outcome in 2025. Much of last year’s draft misfortune stemmed from head coach Brent Pry’s focus on player retention, but now several Virginia Tech players are generating buzz as potential late-round picks.
As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, mock drafts are predicting that former Hokies will hear their names called. According to Pro Football Focus (PFF), three Virginia Tech players are expected to be picked in the late rounds on Day 3, each filling specific needs for different teams.
Bhayshul Tuten: A Versatile Running Back with Explosive Potential
Virginia Tech running back Bhayshul Tuten has been a standout performer this offseason, impressing scouts with his play at the Senior Bowl and NFL Combine. PFF’s Jordan Plocher predicts that Tuten could be selected by the Chicago Bears in the late rounds, as the team looks to strengthen its backfield. While the Bears may target a top-tier running back early, Tuten’s speed and tackling-breaking ability make him a valuable pick later in the draft. His 40-yard dash at the Combine raised plenty of eyebrows, and his knack for making plays at all levels could make him a hidden gem for any team.
Antwaun Powell-Ryland: A Rising Edge Rusher
Edge rusher Antwaun Powell-Ryland is another Virginia Tech player who has seen his stock rise. After transferring from Florida, Powell-Ryland had a stellar season, recording 14 sacks and consistently disrupting opposing quarterbacks. Plocher has him potentially landing with the Cincinnati Bengals on Day 3, who could benefit from adding depth to their pass rush. Powell-Ryland’s ability to create pressure, along with his 48 pressures and 25 hurries, makes him a prime late-round prospect for teams seeking an edge rusher with immediate impact potential.
Aeneas Peebles: A Defensive Tackle with Major Upside
Aeneas Peebles, who transferred from Duke, is generating significant interest as a potential late-round steal. Known for his impressive pass-rushing skills, Peebles posted a remarkable 92.1 pass-rushing grade at PFF and impressed at the NFL Combine. Plocher sees him as a potential fit for the Kansas City Chiefs, a team in need of interior defensive line help. If selected, Peebles could quickly make an impact as a disruptive force on defense.
With several Hokies likely to be drafted, Virginia Tech is set for a much stronger presence in the 2025 NFL Draft, and these three players could become late-round steals.