We are still two months away from the opening kickoff of the 2025 college football season — and even further from the 2026 NFL draft — but one cannot help but be curious about what next year’s professional selection process might bring.

ESPN NFL draft analyst Matt Miller sought to satiate that query by putting together a first-round mock draft based on film, as well as conversations with scouts and talent evaluators throughout the league. In his assessment, three members of the Florida Gators‘ 2025 roster made the cut.

Offensive tackle Austin Barber — a consensus first-round pick among most too-early mocks — lands at No. 21 with the Houston Texans. He is followed by edge defender Tyreak Sapp, who comes in at No. 29 with the Detroit Lions. Then, lastly, center Jake Slaughter sneaks into the first 32 picks with the final selection of the first round by the Buffalo Bills.

Here is a look at how Miller broke down this triumvirate of first-round Gators.

Austin Barber, OT, Houston Texans (No. 21)

“The Texans went through a massive offensive line overhaul after surrendering 52 sacks in 2024, trading left tackle Laremy Tunsil, signing several free agents and selecting tackle Aireontae Ersery in Round 2 of the past draft. But the work in finding better protection for C.J. Stroud is far from over. The 6-foot-6, 314-pound Barber started 12 games at left tackle last season, showing pro-level starting upside thanks to efficient hand placement in pass protection and ideal quickness for zone running schemes.”

Tyreak Sapp, EDGE, Detroit Lions (No. 29)

“Surprisingly, the Lions chose not to draft an edge rusher to help Aidan Hutchinson — especially considering the star pass rusher is returning from a season-ending leg injury. Sapp is coming off a career-best seven sacks last season and has the ideal strength at 6-foot-3, 272 pounds to stack up against the run while also showing the quickness to win with his first step. Adding Sapp to Hutchinson, defensive tackle Alim McNeill and 2025 first-round defensive tackle Tyleik Williams would give Detroit one heck of a defensive front.”

Jake Slaughter, C, Buffalo Bills (No. 32)

“Buffalo has had solid interior line play in Josh Allen’s tenure as a starting quarterback, but this would be a good place for the Bills to replenish with a starting-caliber player. Slaughter didn’t allow a sack last season and was penalized only twice. He’s already pro-sized at 6-foot-5, 308 pounds and is a clean pass protector with strength, quickness and great awareness. Slaughter has the athletic profile to play guard or center in the NFL at a high level.”

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This article originally appeared on Gators Wire: Florida Football: 2026 NFL mock draft has three Gators named