Rutgers Football Sees Strong Representation in the 2025 NFL Draft

Rutgers football had strong representation in the later rounds of the 2025 NFL Draft, with three Scarlet Knights being drafted by NFL franchises. Rutgers’ Robert Longerbeam, Kyonte Hamilton, and Kyle Monangai each heard their name called during the sixth and seventh rounds, representing the only players to be drafted for Rutgers football. The 2025 draft marked the first time since the 2022 NFL Draft that RU has had multiple players selected in the same year. Also, it represents the program’s largest draft class since 2013.

Under head coach Greg Schiano, the Rutgers football program continues its positive trend, showcasing its emerging talent in the NFL draft. Since the draft began, over 100 former Rutgers players have been selected into the NFL.

In recent years, notable Rutgers football players drafted include Max Melton (DB, Arizona Cardinals, 2024), Christian Braswell (DB, Jacksonville Jaguars, 2023), Isiah Pacheco (RB, Kansas City Chiefs, 2022), and Kemoko Turay (DE, Indianapolis Colts, 2018).

Rutgers Football: Players Selected in 2025 NFL Draft

Robert Longerbeam, Cornerback – Baltimore Ravens

Rutgers cornerback Robert Longerbeam was the first Scarlet Knight off the board after being selected by the Baltimore Ravens in the sixth round (212th overall pick). Longerbeam is the eighth cornerback to join the Ravens’ 2025 roster.

Longerbeam has raised interest across multiple franchises, showcasing his strong tackling and defensive skills. At 5-foot-11, 178 pounds, Longerbeam provides speed and versatility in the defensive secondary. He recorded a 4.39-second 40-yard dash and is known as a sure tackler at the corner position.

Longerbeam served as Rutgers football’s 2024 captain, demonstrating strong leadership on and off the field. He is known for his ball skills and his ability to disrupt passes. Over his collegiate career, he played 53 games (31 starts), recording 154 tackles, 37 pass deflections, and five interceptions.

Kyonte Hamilton, Defensive Tackle – Houston Texans

Rutgers defensive tackle Kyonte Hamilton was the second Scarlet Knight off the board. He was drafted by the Houston Texans in the seventh round (224th overall pick). Hamilton is the seventh defensive tackle to join the Texans’ 2025 roster.

Hamilton started 51 consecutive games to conclude his college career in Piscataway. A former elite wrestler, Hamilton transitioned fully to football in 2021. Hamilton played in 51 consecutive games across four seasons, logging 110 tackles, 11 tackles for loss, six sacks, a forced fumble, and 45 quarterback pressures in 1,781 defensive snaps.

Kyle Monangai, Running Back – Chicago Bears

Rutgers running back Kyle Monangai was drafted by the Chicago Bears with their seventh-round, 233rd overall pick. Monangai is the fifth running back to join the Bears’ 2025 roster.

Monangai has been a standout offensive player for the Scarlet Knights. The former Don Bosco prospect rushed for over 2,500 yards in the past two seasons. Throughout the years, Monangai has showcased his toughness and consistency as a power rusher.

Monangai was a key contributor to Rutgers’ offense, showing off his powerful running style and consistency on the field. The 5-foot-9, 209-pound running back ran a 4.60-second 40-yard dash, earning him a spot among the top-10 running backs in the draft. Throughout his college career, the Roseland, New Jersey, native logged 3,222 rushing yards and 27 touchdowns, ranking second in Rutgers football history in rushing yards.

RU’s Undrafted Free Agent Signing & Rookie Minicamp Invites

• Desmond Igbinosun: Defensive Back, Undrafted Free Agent signed by the Baltimore Ravens.
• Shaquan Loyal: Safety, Undrafted Free Agent signed by the Cincinnati Bengals.
• Tyreem Powell: Linebacker, Undrafted Free Agent signed by the New Orleans Saints.
• Hollin Pierce: Offensive Tackle, Undrafted Free Agent signed by the Philadelphia Eagles.
• Eric Rogers: Cornerback, Undrafted Free Agent signed by the Los Angeles Chargers.
• Dymere Miller: Wide Receiver, Undrafted Free Agent signed by the New York Giants.
• Austin Riggs: Offensive Lineman, Rookie Minicamp invitation from the Minnesota Vikings