As the confetti settled after the Eagles’ victory in Super Bowl LIX, the NFL offseason officially kicked off, shifting the focus to the 2025 NFL Draft. With the first round set for April 24, all 32 teams are evaluating their next moves.
I’m wasting no time—this mock draft projects all 32 first-round selections, including landing spots for some of the top quarterbacks and prospects. The draft order is locked in, with Philadelphiaselecting at No. 32, and so far, no teams have traded their first-round picks. While draft-day tradesare always a possibility, I’m holding off on predictions for now and focusing on how things stand today.
There’s still a long way to go, with the NFL Combine in two weeks and pro days to follow, along with interviews and medical evaluations that could shake up the draft board. But based on team needs, my rankings, and league sources, here’s how I see Round 1 unfolding.
Let’s start with the Tennessee Titans and their difficult decision at No. 1. For more analysis, tune into the “SportsCenter Special” on Tuesday at 5 p.m. ET (ESPN2).
1. Tennessee Titans – Travis Hunter, CB/WR, Colorado
The Titans face a tough decision at No. 1. While quarterbacks Cam Ward (Miami) and Shedeur Sanders (Colorado) are in the mix, Tennessee isn’t forcing a QB selection if they don’t believe one is worth the top pick. That opens the door for a debate between Hunter and Penn State edge rusher Abdul Carter.
Hunter is a unique talent who played both wide receiver and cornerback, logging an incredible 1,458 snaps last season. Whether the Titans utilize him on offense or defense, he fills a major need. In 2024, he hauled in 15 touchdowns as a receiver and recorded four interceptions as a defensive back.
2. Cleveland Browns – Abdul Carter, EDGE, Penn State
Like Tennessee, the Browns will evaluate their quarterback options, but the trade request from Myles Garrett may push them to address the edge rusher position first.
Carter made a seamless transition from linebacker to defensive end, finishing the season with 12 sacksand 23.5 tackles for loss, ranking among the top seven nationally. His ability to disrupt offenses makes him an ideal fit for Cleveland’s defense.
3. New York Giants – Cam Ward, QB, Miami
With Daniel Jones no longer in the picture, the Giants are in desperate need of a quarterback. Ward shined in his lone season at Miami, throwing for 4,313 yards and 39 touchdowns—the most TDs in the FBS.
While he still needs to refine his footwork and decision-making, Ward possesses elite arm strengthand a calm presence in big moments, making him a potential franchise quarterback for New York.
4. New England Patriots – Will Campbell, OT, LSU
Fixing the offensive line is a top priority for New England, especially with second-year quarterback Drake Maye under center. The Patriots ranked 31st in pass-block win rate (50.9%) and allowed the fifth-most sacks (52) last season.
Campbell, my top-rated tackle, brings excellent footwork, balance, and body control to handle elite edge rushers. With Mike Vrabel emphasizing O-line improvement, Campbell is a smart investment.
5. Jacksonville Jaguars – Mason Graham, DT, Michigan
The Jaguars need defensive help after finishing 31st in yards per play allowed (5.9) and last in net passing yards per attempt (7.5). Graham, a dominant interior disruptor, has the strength and quickness to transform Jacksonville’s defense.
Lining him up alongside Josh Hines-Allen and Travon Walker could significantly upgrade their pass rush and run defense.
6. Las Vegas Raiders – Shedeur Sanders, QB, Colorado
The Raiders need a franchise quarterback, and they land one here in Shedeur Sanders. The son of Deion Sanders, Shedeur impressed in 2024, throwing for 4,134 yards and 37 touchdowns.
His accuracy, touch, and ability to thrive under pressure make him an ideal fit for Pete Carroll’s new system. With Jimmy Garoppolo out and no clear starter, the Raiders get their guy at No. 6.
7. New York Jets – Mykel Williams, EDGE, Georgia
With Aaron Rodgers likely gone, the Jets could target a quarterback later, but here they focus on pass rush.
Williams, a versatile edge rusher, complements Will McDonald IV and provides elite power and length off the edge. Though his sack numbers were modest (14 in three years), his impact goes beyond the stat sheet.
8. Carolina Panthers – Jalon Walker, EDGE/LB, Georgia
The Panthers struggled to generate pressure last season, ranking 31st in pass rush win rate (28.1%). Walker, despite modest length for an edge rusher, has an explosive first step and elite athleticism.
Carolina needs a game-changer on defense, and Walker fits the bill.
9. New Orleans Saints – Tetairoa McMillan, WR, Arizona
With Chris Olave dealing with injuries and Marquez Valdes-Scantling a free agent, the Saints must reinforce their receiving corps.
McMillan, a 6-foot-5 wideout, had 1,319 receiving yards in 2024 and offers an elite catch radius—a perfect red-zone target for New Orleans.
10. Chicago Bears – Kelvin Banks Jr., OT, Texas
With Caleb Williams under center, protecting him is Chicago’s top priority. Williams was sacked 68 times last season, the most in the NFL.
Banks, a dominant pass-blocker, allowed just four pressures on 510 snaps in 2024. Some question his arm length, but his footwork and technique make him a natural left tackle.
This mock draft will continue evolving as we get closer to the NFL Combine and pro days, but for now, these are my top 10 projections for the 2025 NFL Draft.
