2 min read • April 22, 2025
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Maxwell Hairston, a redshirt junior cornerback from the University of Kentucky, has emerged as a notable prospect for the 2025 NFL Draft. Known for his ball-hawking abilities and impressive athleticism, Hairston's journey has been marked by both standout performances and injury setbacks.
In the 2024 season, Hairston encountered a significant challenge when he sustained a shoulder injury that limited his participation to seven games. Despite attempting to play through the injury against teams like Georgia and Ohio, the ailment eventually sidelined him for five consecutive games, including matchups against Ole Miss, Vanderbilt, Florida, Auburn, and Tennessee.
Prior to this setback, Hairston had an impressive 2023 season, leading the SEC with five interceptions and earning Second-Team All-SEC honors. His ability to read the quarterback and make decisive plays was evident, and he continued to showcase these skills in the limited games he played in 2024, recording an interception returned for a touchdown against Ohio.
Hairston's athletic prowess was on full display at the 2025 NFL Combine. He recorded a blazing 4.28-second 40-yard dash, the fastest among all participants, along with a 39.5-inch vertical jump and a 10'9" broad jump. These metrics underscore his explosive speed and leaping ability, traits that are invaluable for a cornerback in today's NFL.
Despite concerns stemming from his injury history and slightly undersized frame (5'11", 183 lbs), Hairston remains a highly regarded prospect. Analysts project him as a late first-round to early second-round pick. ESPN's Mel Kiper Jr. has linked Hairston to the Buffalo Bills at pick No. 30, highlighting his potential to bolster their secondary.
Teams like the Denver Broncos and Washington Commanders have shown interest, hosting Hairston for pre-draft visits. His fit in zone-heavy defensive schemes makes him an attractive option for franchises seeking to enhance their pass defense.
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