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The 2025 NFL Draft proved to be a defining moment for the Missouri Tigers football program, as multiple standout players saw their professional dreams come true.
With three athletes drafted and several more signing as undrafted free agents, Mizzou showcased its ability to develop NFL-ready talent and reaffirmed its standing among top college football programs.
Top Draft Picks: Tigers Called Early
Armand Membou – Offensive Tackle
- Drafted: 1st Round, 7th Overall
- Team: New York Jets
- Membou became Missouri’s highest draft pick in over a decade. Known for his quick footwork, strong hands, and relentless motor, he is expected to compete for a starting spot right away on the offensive line.
Luther Burden III – Wide Receiver
- Drafted: 2nd Round, 39th Overall
- Team: Chicago Bears
- A dynamic playmaker, Burden finished his college career with over 2,000 receiving yards and 19 touchdowns. His versatility and explosive yards-after-catch ability made him a coveted pick early in the second round.
Marcus Bryant – Offensive Tackle
- Drafted: 7th Round, 220th Overall
- Team: New England Patriots
- Bryant, who transferred from SMU, brought consistency and technique to the Missouri offensive line. Though a late-round pick, his experience and athleticism make him a developmental asset for the Patriots.
Undrafted Free Agents: Making Their Own Path
Several Missouri players, though not drafted, quickly found opportunities with NFL teams eager to sign proven college performers.
Brady Cook – Quarterback
- Signed With: New York Jets
- Cook ended his college career with over 9,000 passing yards and 65 total touchdowns. His leadership and accuracy earned him a shot to compete for a backup role.
Theo Wease Jr. – Wide Receiver
- Signed With: [Team TBD]
- Wease brought reliability and deep-threat capability to Missouri’s offense. His route-running precision and football IQ stood out in team meetings and workouts.
Johnny Walker Jr. – Defensive End
- Signed With: [Team TBD]
- A disruptive edge rusher, Walker posted 9 sacks and 14 tackles for loss in his final season. His motor and agility off the snap caught scouts’ attention.
Nate Noel – Running Back
- Signed With: [Team TBD]
- Known for his vision and acceleration, Noel brings a strong north-south running game and solid pass-catching ability out of the backfield.
Missouri Tigers 2025 NFL Draft Recap
| Player | Position | Status | NFL Team |
|---|---|---|---|
| Armand Membou | Offensive Tackle | 1st Round, 7th Overall | New York Jets |
| Luther Burden III | Wide Receiver | 2nd Round, 39th Overall | Chicago Bears |
| Marcus Bryant | Offensive Tackle | 7th Round, 220th Overall | New England Patriots |
| Brady Cook | Quarterback | Undrafted Free Agent | New York Jets |
| Theo Wease Jr. | Wide Receiver | Undrafted Free Agent | TBD |
| Johnny Walker Jr. | Defensive End | Undrafted Free Agent | TBD |
| Nate Noel | Running Back | Undrafted Free Agent | TBD |
Missouri’s NFL Legacy Continues
This year’s draft class strengthens Missouri’s growing reputation as a factory for NFL talent. From first-round selections to players fighting their way through camp as undrafted free agents, these athletes exemplify the Tiger mentality of perseverance, skill, and leadership.
For Missouri fans, it’s another reason to celebrate—not only the college team’s success but also its enduring influence at the professional level. These new pros now carry the Tiger legacy forward in stadiums across the NFL.
The 2025 NFL Draft was a testament to Missouri’s football excellence and player development. From big-name picks to gritty undrafted signees, the Tigers proved they belong on the national stage.
With determination, talent, and an unbreakable spirit, these players now embark on their next chapter — the NFL. Missouri football fans have plenty to be proud of, and the future continues to look bright for Tigers in the pros.