As the NFL Draft kicks off this Thursday night in Green Bay, excitement is building around two former Virginia Tech stars who are quickly rising up draft boards. While last year’s draft was relatively quiet for the Hokies, this year could tell a different story—thanks to the emergence of wide receiver Jaylin Lane and running back Bhayshul Tuten as potential difference-makers at the next level.
Despite a rocky 2024 season that ended in a 6-7 record and a Duke’s Mayo Bowl loss to Minnesota, the Hokies had a few standout performers whose NFL potential couldn’t be ignored. Lane and Tuten, in particular, have made major impressions in pre-draft workouts and interviews, catching the attention of scouts, analysts, and franchises alike.
Pro Football Focus recently highlighted Lane and Tuten among their “X-Factors” for the 2025 draft class—players who may not be at the top of every mock draft, but who could end up making significant impacts on whichever teams take a chance on them. Other players on that list include Iowa State’s Jaylin Noel, TCU’s Savion Williams, and Missouri’s Luther Burden.
Jaylin Lane’s stock has soared, especially after showcasing his dynamic versatility as both a receiver and a punt returner. He’s met with several NFL teams, including the New York Giants, and told the New York Post he’s ready to make game-changing plays.
“I’m not afraid to make the tough catches,” Lane said. “If I can make a play that changes the game, I’m going to take that shot every time.”
Tuten’s value lies in his explosiveness and dual-threat capability. Not only does he bring home-run potential out of the backfield, but he’s also a proven weapon on special teams. In 2023, he electrified fans by returning two kickoffs for touchdowns—one against Florida State and another versus Virginia—underscoring his ability to flip the field in an instant.
With both players peaking at the right time, there’s growing buzz that Lane and Tuten could be drafted earlier than projected. As the draft unfolds, all eyes will be on where these two former Hokies land—and how soon their names are called.
One thing’s for sure: they’re no longer flying under the radar.