For the families of UNLV football players, anticipation for the 2025 NFL Draft represents not just a culmination of years of dedication, but a remarkable chapter in their lives marked by perseverance, sacrifice, and unwavering hope. The draft is not simply about numbers on a stat sheet—it’s a deeply emotional milestone, filled with pride, excitement, and the weight of dreams fulfilled. For players like Ricky White III and Jackson Woodard, the moment also shines a spotlight on the legacy they’ve left behind at UNLV and the thrilling new journey that lies ahead.
Ricky White III, who has been described as electrifying on the field, has truly become a legend in UNLV football history. This record-breaking wide receiver etched his name in the program’s books with back-to-back 1,000-yard receiving seasons, a feat never before accomplished at the university. Known for his blazing speed, precise footwork, and unrelenting competitiveness, White has become synonymous with excellence. By delivering consistent standout performances, he hasn’t just cemented his place as one of the most celebrated receivers in school history—he’s also put himself on the radar of NFL scouts with an eye for game-changing talent. With his commanding presence on the field and knack for executing under pressure, White represents the best in what college football has to offer, making him a coveted prospect for teams seeking to bolster their receiving corps.
On the other side of the ball, linebacker Jackson Woodard has been a defensive powerhouse for UNLV, an anchor for the team’s defense and a leader in every sense of the word. Woodard’s historic 135-tackle season earned him Mountain West Defensive Player of the Year honors, a testament to his relentlessness, grit, and football IQ. His ability to read plays before they unfold, coupled with his knack for executing decisive tackles with precision, makes him one of the top defensive prospects of the draft. A true game-changer on defense, Woodard has not only elevated his own career but also inspired his teammates and future players to strive for greatness. While Ricky White III stole hearts with his offensive firepower, Woodard commanded respect with his rock-solid defensive presence, forming a dynamic duo that made UNLV football a program to watch.
Both of these standout athletes have weathered grueling preparation leading up to the draft. From the intensity of the NFL Combine to the more personal setting of UNLV's Pro Day, they have worked tirelessly to prove their mettle. The Combine tested their physical limits, mental acuity, and ability to perform under immense scrutiny, while their Pro Day allowed them to showcase their talent within a familiar environment surrounded by supporters. Each moment was an opportunity to elevate their draft stock—to stand out and validate their readiness for professional football. For these players, preparation went beyond physical training; it required mental resilience and the ability to remain composed when it mattered most.
Perhaps no one feels the emotional weight of this moment more than their families. Reflecting on years of early morning practices, nerve-wracking games, and countless sacrifices, these parents, siblings, and loved ones have been a constant source of strength for the players. For them, draft day represents a culmination—a moment to celebrate the payoff of years of shared dedication to a dream that once seemed distant. It is a day where joy, pride, and even a touch of apprehension combine, knowing that their sons are about to step into the national spotlight and shoulder the weight of new aspirations and opportunities.
But the significance of this moment extends beyond the players and their families. Ricky White III and Jackson Woodard’s success is a reflection of what hard work and belief can achieve—not just for them, but also for the UNLV community. Their journeys inspire both current and future players, showing that a path to the NFL is possible through passion, grit, and teamwork. These athletes do not only carry their own aspirations into the draft; they uplift a program, a university, and a community that has rallied around their success.
As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, this is a time of reflection, celebration, and hope. For Ricky White III and Jackson Woodard, it is the next step in fulfilling their dreams and securing their legacy. For their families, it is a poignant reminder that years of hard work and belief in their children can bear fruit in extraordinary ways. And for the UNLV football program and its fans, it’s proof that dedication, resilience, and a commitment to excellence can elevate individuals and communities alike to heights once unimaginable.