The run-up to the 2025 NFL Draft has put several elite prospects under the microscope, but none more so than Mike Green, the standout pass rusher from Marshall. While Green’s talent on the field is undeniable, his path to the draft has been marked by both extraordinary performances and significant controversy.

Mike Green: A Dominant Force at Marshall

Mike Green emerged as one of the most explosive edge rushers in college football during the 2024 season. At Marshall, he led the nation in sacks with a remarkable 17, demonstrating a unique blend of speed, agility, and power. Green’s ability to disrupt plays and set a hard edge made him a popular name in many mock drafts targeting the need for defensive playmakers.

His college stats reflect a player built for NFL success: 84 tackles, 23 of them for loss, and a constant threat in opposing backfields. Dane Brugler of The Athletic ranks Green as the No. 4 edge rusher in this year's class, describing him as "a twitchy athlete with the burst and body control to win one-on-one as a pass rusher." For more detailed scouting reports and draft insights on Mike Green, check out Sports Illustrated's analysis of Green’s draft profile.

Off-Field Concerns Impact Mike Green’s Draft Outlook

Despite his physical gifts and solid production, Mike Green's draft stock has faced turbulence this spring. Reports surfaced about unresolved sexual assault accusations stemming from his time at Virginia, the university he attended prior to transferring to Marshall. Although Green has publicly maintained his innocence—stating, “I’ve done nothing wrong. There’s accusations out there... Nobody ever asked me a question about what happened”—the allegations have prompted some NFL teams to remove him from their draft boards.

This controversy has led analysts like Albert Breer to drop Green out of first-round consideration in recent mock drafts. Green addressed the issue during interviews at the NFL Combine, but doubts linger among scouts and team executives. Read more about the Bengals’ evaluation of Mike Green and league-wide draft strategies.

Where Does Mike Green Fit in the 2025 NFL Draft?

Though some experts still believe that Green’s on-field performance could tempt teams late in the first round or early on Day Two, off-field character always weighs heavily in the NFL draft process. Teams with a pressing need for pass rush may see Green as a difference-maker, provided they are comfortable with the outcome of their internal investigations.

The Cincinnati Bengals, among others, appeared interested in Green early in the process. However, given recent history and an increased focus on player conduct, even need may not outweigh risk for some franchises. If Mike Green does fall to later rounds, he may become one of the most debated value picks in recent memory.

For comparison, the 49ers selected Mykel Williams from Georgia with the No. 11 pick, banking on both his talent and clean profile. Read about how teams like San Francisco balance talent and character in their draft strategy.

Conclusion: A Career at the Crossroads

Mike Green’s story serves as a reminder of the complexities involved in evaluating NFL talent. Exceptional performance can grab scouts’ attention, but character questions remain a decisive factor for many teams. As the 2025 NFL Draft unfolds, all eyes will be on Mike Green—waiting to see if a team will bet on his immense upside, or if off-field issues outweigh his potential.

For the latest draft updates and prospect news beyond Mike Green, including live reactions from Day 1, visit NBC Sports Bay Area’s draft coverage.