With the 2025 CFL Combine wrapped up, it’s time to review the performances that stood out—for better and for worse. Some players solidified their status as top prospects, while others left doubts in the minds of scouts and analysts. Whether it’s a breakout 40-yard dash or a concerning lack of agility, the Combine always reveals new insights as we head closer to draft day. Here are the seven risers and fallers from the 2025 CFL Combine:
Risers
1. Elijah Matthews (Wide Receiver)
Elijah Matthews turned heads with his explosive athleticism and elite route-running skills. Matthews recorded a blazing 4.38-second 40-yard dash and displayed exceptional hands during positional drills. His performance cemented him as a potential first-round pick, with many analysts now viewing him as the best wide receiver in this year’s draft class.
2. Connor Blake (Linebacker)
Blake entered the Combine as a mid-tier linebacker prospect but ended it as someone whose name is now buzzing throughout scouting circles. His combination of speed (4.52-second 40-yard dash) and strength in the bench press (29 reps) showcased his ability to cover ground and stay strong in key matchups. Blake’s awareness in coverage drills also boosted his stock significantly.
3. Devonte Harris (Defensive Tackle)
Harris was dominant during one-on-one drills, showing incredible power and quickness for a player of his size. His 33-inch vertical leap was top-notch for a defensive tackle and emphasized the kind of explosive athleticism teams covet. Scouts are now projecting him as a versatile interior lineman who can disrupt offenses on any play.
4. Jalen Ford (Quarterback)
Perhaps the most surprising riser of the Combine, Jalen Ford showcased incredible poise and accuracy during throwing drills. His improved mechanics, combined with a strong performance in agility tests, have pushed him into second-round consideration after being initially labeled a late-round pick. His leadership during team interviews also won him significant praise.
5. Andre Dupuis (Running Back)
This Canadian university standout electrified the Combine with his agility and explosiveness. Posting a sub-3.9-second time in the 20-yard shuttle, Dupuis demonstrated elite change-of-direction skills that set him apart from the rest of the running back group. His strong Combine performance has made him a dark horse candidate for the earlier rounds.
Fallers
6. Jordan Phillips (Offensive Tackle)
Jordan Phillips entered the Combine as one of the top-ranked offensive linemen but left with plenty of questions surrounding his athletic ability. His 5.42-second 40-yard dash and mediocre lateral quickness in agility drills raised concerns about how he’ll handle speedy defensive ends at the pro level. While still a talented prospect, Phillips could see his draft stock slip.
7. Malik Price (Cornerback)
Malik Price struggled in positional drills, where he appeared stiff in his movements and lacked the necessary burst to keep up with faster receivers. His 4.61-second 40-yard dash fell below expectations, especially for a cornerback. Though Price performs better in game settings, his Combine struggles will likely leave teams hesitant to invest a high draft pick.
8. Ethan Carter (Wide Receiver)
Despite high hopes for Carter heading into the Combine, his subpar performance in both speed and hands-on drills disappointed scouts. Dropped passes and an underwhelming 4.69-second 40-yard dash left many wondering if he can separate himself from defenders consistently at the next level.
Final Thoughts
The 2025 CFL Combine lived up to expectations, delivering thrilling performances, surprising standouts, and some disappointing results. For prospects like Elijah Matthews and Jalen Ford, their stock is on the rise, with an exciting professional future ahead. Meanwhile, others like Jordan Phillips and Malik Price have more work to do to reassure teams of their potential.
Whether you’re an analyst preparing for draft day or a fan speculating about your team’s moves, these risers and fallers have set the stage for a compelling 2025 CFL Draft. Want to weigh in on your favorite prospect? Drop your thoughts in the comments below!
