Utah Utes quarterback Cameron Rising (7) celebrates his touchdown with Utah Utes tight end Brant Kuithe (80) during the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, California, on Saturday, January 1, 2022. Utah experienced a fruitful April, with five former players chosen in the 2024 NFL draft. Safety Cole Bishop (No. 60 overall pick, Buffalo Bills), defensive end Jonah Elliss
(No. 76, Denver Broncos), safety/running back Sione Vaki (No. 132, Detroit Lions), offensive lineman Sataoa Laumea (No. 179, Seattle Seahawks), and receiver Devaughn Vele (No. 235, Denver Broncos) all saw their NFL aspirations come to fruition. This marked Utah’s highest number of players drafted since 2020, when Kyle Whittingham’s program boasted seven picks.
Looking forward to the 2025 draft, approximately a year away, here are five Utes with potential for selection:
Cam Rising, Quarterback:
After sitting out the 2023 season due to knee surgery, Rising returns in 2024, aiming to demonstrate his full recovery and regain his previous form. Rising has amassed 5,572 passing yards and 46 touchdowns throughout his Utes career, notably leading them to consecutive Pac-12 championships in 2022. His absence in the previous season underscored his importance,
with Utah’s offensive statistics plummeting. Rising benefits from a talented receiving corps and a solid tight end group, which could bolster his NFL draft prospects should he lead Utah to success in the Big 12 and College Football Playoff.
Dorian Singer, Wide Receiver:
Singer’s draft prospects hinge on his performance in the upcoming 2024 season. Following a standout year at Arizona in 2022, Singer’s transfer to USC in 2023 saw a decline in his output. However, he emerges as a top candidate for WR1 at Utah this season, displaying promising chemistry with Rising during spring practices. If Singer can replicate his 2022 form, he stands a chance to follow in the footsteps of recent Utah receivers drafted into the NFL.
Brant Kuithe, Tight End:
Kuithe’s return to the field after a lengthy absence due to injury presents an opportunity to showcase his skills once more. With a history of impressive receptions and playmaking ability, Kuithe remains a valuable asset in Utah’s offense. A productive season would validate his readiness for the next level, although concerns about his age and size may factor into his draft stock.
Zemaiah Vaughn, Cornerback:
Vaughn’s decision to return for another season at Utah reflects his confidence in his abilities and potential NFL appeal. His athleticism, size, and football IQ make him an intriguing prospect at cornerback.
Vaughn’s performance last season garnered attention from NFL scouts, and continued improvement could solidify his draft status.
Lander Barton, Linebacker:
Despite his relative youth in the football realm, Barton has already displayed promise on the field. With notable contributions in his sophomore season, Barton’s trajectory suggests potential for further growth and recognition.
His familial ties to the NFL, combined with his physical attributes and on-field performance, position him as a prospect to watch for in the draft, should he choose to declare after a successful season.
