Explore our first-round mock for the 2025 NFL Draft. All 32 teams keep their original positions for an intriguing preview of an exciting first round.
The Tennessee Titans select Cam Ward first overall, drafting their franchise quarterback. Head coach Brian Callahan admires Ward’s rise from Washington State to Miami. He was impressed by Ward’s development in accuracy, decision-making, and poise as the ideal leader for Tennessee’s offense.
Ward dominated in 2024, earning ACC Player of the Year honors. He claimed the Davey O’Brien and Manning Awards as the nation’s top quarterback. At Miami, he threw for 4,313 yards and 39 touchdowns. He processes defenses, extends plays, and strikes with precision, making him a dynamic presence for the Titans.
Replacing Will Levis, Ward steps into an offense that desperately needed stability at quarterback. His poise, leadership, and big-play ability provide Tennessee with a cornerstone to build around. Callahan’s system prioritizes efficiency and adaptability, making Ward the perfect quarterback to lead the Titans into a new era. Expect him to make an immediate impact, proving why he was the clear choice at number one.
The Browns made history by selecting Travis Hunter. He is the highest-drafted wide receiver since Calvin Johnson in 2007. Although, his two-way ability sparks debate, but fantasy managers can relax. Hunter will enter the NFL solely as a wide receiver. No cornerback has ever been drafted this high; the last CB to go top five was Champ Bailey in 1999, locking his future on offense.
Hunter’s Heisman season was legendary. He dominated as a receiver without formal preparation. He finished in the FBS top five with 15 touchdowns, 1,258 yards, and 96 receptions. His elite athleticism, ball skills, and explosiveness torched defenses.
His ability to manipulate defenders, create separation, and win contested catches makes him a nightmare for opposing secondaries. Even without structured offensive preparation, Hunter showcased NFL-ready instincts, adjusting mid-play and making clutch grabs with DeVonta Smith-like precision. Now, with full focus on wide receiver, his ceiling is limitless.
The Browns don’t just get a playmaker—they land a generational talent who will redefine their passing attack. Hunter’s rare athleticism, football IQ, and game-breaking ability make him the perfect weapon to elevate Cleveland’s offense. Expect him to dominate from day one, proving why he was worth the historic selection.
The New York Giants draft Abdul Carter, here. They create a terrifying pass-rush trio alongside Kayvon Thibodeaux and Brian Burns. Carter’s explosiveness, relentless pursuit, and ability to slip through blocks with ease; recreates the Giants “Nascar” defense that fueled their Super Bowl victories under Tom Coughlin.
Thibodeaux and Burns collapse the edges while Carter’s inside spin disrupts protection schemes. His sharp instincts and agility allow him to finish plays with authority. Nearly impossible to shake, Carter’s athleticism cements the Giants as the NFL’s most feared pass rush.
By picking the best available player, the Giants revive their Super Bowl defensive identity. Carter cements a relentless front seven that overwhelms offenses. Expect New York’s defense to wreak havoc—just like Coughlin’s legendary units.
The Patriots select Armand Membou fourth overall to anchor their offensive line. With Josh McDaniels back, his technique and athleticism suit a precise, versatile system. His pass protection gives Drake Maye the stability to develop as a franchise quarterback.
Membou stays balanced in pass sets, keeping his weight inside on kick-slides and redirecting counters smoothly. His independent hands and fluid mirror technique neutralize rushers, while twitchy hands shut down close defenders. His athleticism and agility keep him connected to rushers, ensuring Maye a clean pocket.
McDaniels’ offense values structure. Membou sifts through bodies, a key asset. His acceleration and leverage dig out defenders. Controlled quickness aids blocking. His upper-body power corrals off-frame targets and finishes with an edge. This fits McDaniels’ system perfectly.
Membou provides Maye with a reliable protector, allowing him to focus on reading defenses and making plays under minimal pressure. His ability to handle speed and power makes him a cornerstone of the Patriots’ offensive rebuild. Anchoring the line, Membou gives New England a long-term solution to help Maye thrive.
The Jaguars add a versatile playmaker in Jahdae Barron, capable of transforming their secondary like Jeremy Chinn did for Carolina. He can line up at cornerback, safety, or nickel, giving Jacksonville a dynamic weapon who adapts to any matchup. His physicality, instincts, and disruptive playmaking strengthen a defense seeking stability.
Barron anticipates routes with precision. He excels in zone coverage and man-to-man defense. His route recognition, footwork, and strength redirect receivers early. His aggressive hands challenge quarterbacks at the catch point.
Barron dominates run support. He triggers downhill with controlled aggression and delivers physical strikes. His quick reactions keep him near the football, where he breaks up passes and closes tackles.
Barron’s versatility and toughness fit perfectly into Jacksonville’s defensive rebuild. His ability to play multiple roles lets the Jaguars disguise coverages and create mismatches, much like Chinn did for Carolina. With Barron onboard, Jacksonville gains a high-IQ defender ready to elevate their secondary. Expect immediate impact, bringing energy, physicality, and playmaking ability to a unit ready for the next step.
The Las Vegas Raiders select Ashton Jeanty sixth overall, securing a dynamic runner. With Geno Smith at quarterback, Jeanty’s power, vision, and explosiveness make him ideal for Carroll’s run-heavy system.
Jeanty claimed the Maxwell Award this season. He led the nation with 2,601 rushing yards, 28 touchdowns, and 1,970 yards after contact. His ability to force missed tackles (130) and create extra yardage makes him a nightmare for defenders.
Carroll’s offensive philosophy thrives on physicality and discipline, and Jeanty embodies both. Jeanty’s strong frame and explosive burst make him a constant big-play threat, powering through defenders easily. His ability to manipulate defenders at the line fits Carroll’s zone-heavy rushing attack, maximizing every carry.
Jeanty gives Geno Smith a dependable back who grinds out yards, extends plays, and keeps defenses honest. His hands make him a reliable check-down option. The Raiders commit to a power-driven, efficient offense with Jeanty leading the charge. Carroll’s leadership and Smith’s experience set him up for success, making him the perfect fit to thrive immediately.
The Jets draft Will Campbell to anchor their offensive line under coach Aaron Glenn. With Justin Fields at quarterback, his pass protection and run-blocking ensure stability and a strong ground game. Campbell is a refined tackle who can start immediately. Tape against SEC edge rushers—especially Alabama and Florida—shows he can neutralize speed and power. His steady anchoring, fluid recovery, and strong finishing translate to Sundays.
Inside zone and gap schemes maximize Campbell’s strengths. They allow letting him to fire off the ball, control defenders, and excel in pass protection. His dominance against Arkansas’ pressure proves his NFL-ready processor. His mobility and power make him scheme-proof, ensuring success in Glenn’s system.
Despite his shorter arms, Campbell’s technique and recovery prove he is a true tackle. His Ole Miss tape shows he shuts down wide-9 rushers with textbook kick-slides and precise hand placement. The Jets secure a future cornerstone, giving Fields the protection he needs and revitalizing their rushing attack.
The Jets don’t just draft Campbell—they invest in a decade-plus starter capable of earning multiple Pro Bowl nods. His presence in the trenches solidifies the offensive line, laying the foundation for a sustained offensive resurgence. Mark it down: Campbell goes top 10 and becomes one of the NFL’s premier tackles.
Mason Graham was an integral part of Michigan’s championship-caliber defense. He’ll spearhead Carolina’s defense that’s desperate for reinforcements. The Panthers ranked dead last in total defense in 2024, surrendering 404.5 yards per game. Graham is essential to stabilizing the Panthers’ defense, which surrendered a league-worst 179.8 rushing yards per game.
Mason Graham’s rise has been dominant. His unanimous All-American honor cements him as a top defensive tackle. His Rose Bowl MVP performance shows he excels under pressure.
With Derek Carr’s injury creating uncertainty, the Saints select Shedeur Sanders at No. 9 in the 2025 NFL Draft. Sanders offers pocket toughness, an NFL-caliber arm, and natural leadership under center.
Sanders’ precision passing suits Kellen Moore’s offense, which emphasizes accurate throws. His poise and high football IQ ensure efficiency against aggressive defenses. With Olave, Shaheed, and Kamara as weapons, he steps into a system built to maximize his strengths.
Some analysts debate his fit within Moore’s offense, but many applaud his spread-passing proficiency. With a rookie quarterback easing salary cap pressures, the Saints can now redirect funds to other critical areas.
TreVeyon Henderson is molded for Ben Johnson’s offensive scheme. Henderson’s a dynamic blend of speed, versatility, and pass-catching ability to the Chicago Bears’ backfield. His instant acceleration complements Swift, creating a dual-threat backfield that stretches defenses. Henderson thrives in Johnson’s high-percentage passing game, too. He’s exceptional execution on screens, angle routes, and motion concepts to exploit mismatches.
Henderson’s flawless ball security—he has never fumbled in his NCAA career—perfectly aligns with Johnson’s commitment to efficient, mistake-free football. His blend of protection and explosiveness makes him a reliable asset in the red zone and in late-game situations. He is poised to become a cornerstone of Johnson’s evolving offensive strategy.
The San Francisco 49ers select Jalon Walker, the Butkus Award-winning linebacker from Georgia, with the 11th overall pick. Walker fills several defensive needs and fits seamlessly into the team’s scheme.
Walker is remarkably versatile. He plays inside linebacker on early downs and shifts to an edge-rushing role on passing downs. His elite speed and explosiveness put him on record with 7.5 sacks in 2024. Pairing him with Nick Bosa forms a devastating pass-rushing duo. Walker’s leadership and high football IQ make him a natural fit next to Fred Warner. His quick diagnoses and instinctive play replace Dre Greenlaw, keeping the defense built on speed, aggression, and versatility.
Walker’s leadership and high football IQ make him a natural fit next to Fred Warner. His quick diagnosis and instinctive play replace Dre Greenlaw, keeping the 49ers’ defense built on speed, aggression, and versatility.
The Cowboys select Tetairoa McMillan, a high-upside Arizona receiver, in the first round. Tet is a possession receiver that excels in contested catches. His route adjustments and ability to work back to the QB make him a reliable option across the field.
McMillan’s linear routes can be inconsistent under press coverage. Yet, he excels at outplaying defenders in jump-ball situations. His slot mismatch gives Dak Prescott a dependable target. He runs sharp routes that beat defenders one-on-one. Defenses must adjust to cover him. This makes short passes safer and boosts the offense.
With a ceiling reminiscent of Keenan Allen—exceptional body control and elite ball skills. McMillan enters Dallas with the potential to be a long-term difference-maker. He needs to refine his play speed and physicality to emerge as a dominant WR2 alongside CeeDee Lamb. This will solidify Dallas’ aerial attack for the future.
The Miami Dolphins draft a premier cornerback, Will Johnson. The former Wolverine is a two-time All-American and 2023 national champion. Will Johnson arrives in Miami as one of the most decorated players in the draft.
Johnson is a former five-star recruit and son of Michigan alum Deon Johnson.
He excels in man and zone coverage with strong instincts and refined ball skills. Paired with Jalen Ramsey, he forms a formidable defensive duo. With Ramsey’s potential exit after 2025, Johnson could emerge as Miami’s primary lockdown corner.
The Colts draft Tyler Warren in the first round, securing a key offensive weapon. As Richardson develops, Warren offers a dependable target over the middle.
Warren won the John Mackey Award, earned First-Team All-American honors, and ranked fifth in the Big Ten with 1,451 scrimmage yards. Leading the conference with 104 receptions, his contested catch ability, separation, and blocking make him an ideal fit.
With the Colts focused on Richardson’s development, Warren strengthens the passing attack and solidifies the tight end position. His size, athleticism, and refined route-running make him a key piece in Indianapolis’ offense.
The Falcons address their need for a pass rusher, selecting Mike Green in the first round. Atlanta has lacked an edge presence since Vic Beasley’s 2016 double-digit sack season.
Green, who led college football with 17 sacks in 2024; possesses explosive playmaking ability for Atlanta. His combination of speed, power, and relentless pursuit makes him an ideal fit for Atlanta’s defensive scheme. However, his draft stock took a hit due to off-field concerns stemming from his time at Virginia, which he has vehemently denied. Despite the controversy, his talent was undeniable. Many believed he could have been a top ten pick if not for lingering questions about his past.
Atlanta is betting on Green’s ability to rise above the noise and prove himself as a franchise cornerstone. The Falcons need Green to deliver on his potential, giving them the elite pass rusher they’ve been missing for years.
The Cardinals draft Mykel Williams at No. 16, landing a versatile pass rusher from Georgia’s elite defense. A five-star recruit, he earned Freshman All-America honors and thrived despite a deep rotation. His SEC Championship showing—two sacks and five pressures—proved his disruptive ability.
At 6’5″ and 265 pounds, Williams has the length, power, and quickness to thrive in multiple alignments, from 4i-technique to stand-up edge rusher. A two-time Second-Team All-SEC selection, his presence goes beyond the stat sheet, overwhelming offensive tackles with relentless physicality. Arizona is betting on his upside as a cornerstone defender year one and beyond.
The Bengals draft Jihaad Campbell, a versatile Alabama pass rusher, in the first round. With Sam Hubbard retired, they needed a disruptive force to strengthen their front seven, and Campbell delivers.
Campbell started for two years at Alabama, playing all 13 games in 2024. He led the team with 119 tackles (11.5 TFL), ranking fourth in the SEC. He added five sacks, two forced fumbles, two pass breakups, and an interception. His pass rush, run defense, and coverage skills make him a perfect fit for Cincinnati’s evolving scheme.
With the Bengals investing in their offensive core, defense became a priority. Campbell’s range, explosiveness, and football IQ make him a dynamic addition. If healthy, he could anchor their defensive resurgence.
The Seahawks draft Matthew Golden in the first round, adding a dynamic playmaker. With 4.29 speed and 9.5-inch hands, he brings explosiveness and reliability. His versatility allows him to thrive across formations in any offensive setup.
Golden’s route-running mastery makes him the perfect successor to Lockett. His ability to change pace mid-route keeps defenders off balance, creating separation. His blazing speed replaces Metcalf’s deep threat, stretching the field and taking the top off defenses.
Golden thrived in Texas’ pro-style offense, mastering a diverse route tree and complex combinations. His refined technique and explosive acceleration make him a dream for play callers crafting creative schemes. With exposure to advanced concepts, he’s primed for immediate impact in Seattle’s passing attack.
The Seahawks have secured a true difference-maker, ensuring their offense remains one of the most dangerous in the league. Golden’s ability to replace Lockett’s precision and Metcalf’s speed makes him a perfect fit for Seattle’s evolving offensive identity.
The Buccaneers draft Grant in the first round to anchor Bowles’ rush defense. At 6-foot-4 and 360 pounds, he moves with rare explosiveness, running a sub-5.0-second 40-yard dash. His dominance earned him a spot on Bruce Feldman’s 2022 “Freaks List,” ranking 46th among college football’s top athletes.
Michigan strength coach Ben Herbert praised Grant’s raw ability, calling his traits “incredible” with No. 1 Freak potential. His ceiling fits Bowles’ defense, built on brute force and relentless disruption. Grant’s size, speed, and power make him an instant-impact addition to Tampa Bay’s front. If he maximizes his potential, he could become a dominant force in the trenches.
The Broncos draft Hampton, recognizing his game-changing potential. Under Payton, he could thrive in a system built for explosiveness, much like Alvin Kamara. The North Carolina Tar Heel projects as a starting back with the potential for greatness in an offense tailored to his skill set.
Omarion Hampton is a rare running back prospect with elite athleticism. At 5’11” and 221 pounds, he ran a 4.46-second 40-yard dash, showcasing explosive speed. His 9.78 RAS ranks 43rd among 1,909 running backs tested since 1987.
Hampton excelled at North Carolina, proving he can handle a feature back workload. He offers immediate impact with dynamic running ability. His profile fits Sean Payton’s blueprint—explosive backs who maximize space, hit the second level fast, and create chunk plays.
The Steelers draft Jaxson Dart in the first round, securing a dynamic quarterback for Arthur Smith’s system. Dart excels in aggressive downfield passing, leading FBS QBs with 10.6 yards per attempt. His deep-ball ability pairs well with DK Metcalf’s vertical threat, keeping Pittsburgh’s attack potent.
Smith’s run-heavy scheme benefits from Dart’s mobility. Over three seasons at Ole Miss, he totaled nearly 1,500 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns. His efficiency—fourth in passing yards with a 68.4% completion rate—fits a system built on controlled aggression and play-action.
Smith’s offense relies on timing throws and a strong ground game to create explosive plays. Dart’s decisiveness and poise under pressure make him a perfect fit. With Metcalf’s physical presence, the Steelers have a duo ready to attack defenses downfield.
If Dart adapts well to Smith’s system, he could be the missing piece to elevate Pittsburgh’s offense into a more balanced, explosive unit. A combination of his big-play ability, Metcalf’s physical dominance, and Smith’s run-focused scheme could make the Steelers a serious contender.
The Chargers draft Colston Loveland in the first round, securing a premier offensive weapon. At Michigan, he made an immediate impact, winning Offensive Rookie of the Year as a freshman. He earned first-team All-Big Ten honors as a sophomore. By his junior year, he set Michigan’s tight end reception record with 56 catches, claimed second-team All-American honors, and helped win a national championship.
Loveland brings an elite combination of size, speed, and playmaking ability that makes him a nightmare matchup for defenders. His ability to stretch the field, create mismatches, and dominate in contested situations ensures a seamless transition to the Chargers’ offensive scheme.
LaFleur pushed for Booker as the Packers’ first-round pick, reinforcing the run game and maximizing Josh Jacobs’ impact. A dominant force at Alabama, Booker earned first-team All-American honors in 2024, proving his ability to control the trenches.
Booker showed versatility, stepping in at left tackle but thriving as a guard. He delivered 87 knockdown blocks while allowing minimal quarterback pressure. His raw power and finishing mentality fit LaFleur’s ground-and-pound offense, ensuring Jacobs has the lanes and protection to dominate.
With Booker’s elite blocking ability, LaFleur is doubling down on a run-heavy approach, aiming to control the tempo and wear down defenses. If Booker transitions smoothly, he could be the key to unlocking a dominant rushing attack in Green Bay.
The Vikings strengthen their defensive front with first-round pick Walter Nolen, a disruptive force from Ole Miss. He helped the Rebels set records in 2024, totaling 52 sacks and 120 tackles for loss, cementing his status as a dominant interior lineman.
Nolen, a former top recruit, dominated in the SEC with multiple games featuring three or more tackles for loss. His power, agility, and refined technique make him a perfect fit for Minnesota’s defense, where he’ll disrupt offenses immediately.
With his pedigree and proven production, Nolen steps into the NFL as one of the premier interior defensive line prospects, ready to make an immediate impact for the Vikings. His presence in the trenches will be a game-changer, giving Minnesota a formidable force to anchor their defensive front.
The Texans draft Josh Simmons in the first round to protect C.J. Stroud. A versatile tackle, he excels against top competition. His lateral mobility helps him mirror speed rushers and execute smooth cutoff blocks.
Simmons’ powerful jab ensures precise contact. His independent hand placement neutralizes defenders. Elite foot speed and a refined kick-slide keep him ahead of edge rushers. He consistently secures the corner. Despite a 2024 knee injury denting his draft stock, Texans expect a full recovery and see him as a long-term anchor.
Houston’s offensive line is changing after Tunsil’s departure. Simmons steps into a key role, protecting Stroud and sustaining the Texans’ momentum. If fully healthy, he could become one of the league’s top tackles.
The Rams draft Grey Zabel in the first round, securing a perfect fit for their offensive scheme. A natural combo blocker, he excels in their run-heavy approach, setting up play-action. His timed releases, urgent footwork, and precise angles help neutralize linebackers and create clean lanes for the ground game.
Zabel brings a fighter’s mentality to pass protection, delivering a stiff punch and recovering well against counters. His elite processing speed helps him diagnose defensive alignments with confidence, ensuring stability for the Rams. With polished technique and high football IQ, he steps in as a plug-and-play starter, fortifying the line and making an immediate impact.
The Ravens draft Malaki Starks in the first round, securing a defensive cornerstone. A relentless run-stopper, he excels in play recognition, closing burst, and pursuit angles, shutting down rushing lanes. His 4.35-second speed ensures impact plays from deep alignment to the line of scrimmage.
Beyond his physical tools, Starks’ high football IQ is evident in his pre-snap communication, ensuring the Ravens’ secondary adjusts seamlessly to motion and shifts. His ability to diagnose plays and react instinctively makes him a perfect fit for Baltimore’s defensive identity.
With his elite instincts, range, and ability to disrupt offenses, Starks evokes memories of Hall of Fame safety Ed Reed, whose legendary anticipation and game-changing presence defined an era of Ravens football. If Starks can harness his full potential, he could be the next great playmaker in Baltimore’s storied defensive tradition.
The Lions draft Tyliek Williams, a dominant interior lineman. At Ohio State, he proved his worth over three seasons. In 2021, he posted five sacks and 16 tackles. By 2023, he tallied 54 tackles, three sacks, and five passes defended.
His standout game against Notre Dame, where he overpowered Joe Alt, showcased his ability to win against top competition.
Williams returned as a senior and led Ohio State to the 2024 National Championship with 46 tackles and 2.5 sacks. His violent hands, raw power, and relentless motor suit Detroit’s defensive front. He sheds blocks, bull rushes the pocket, and bursts on quarterbacks. His rip, swim, and chop moves add versatility. He controls the line and disrupts plays, giving the Lions’ defense a strong, physical edge.
The Washington Commanders selected Nick Emmanwori in the first round. He is 6-foot-3 and weighs 220 pounds. The South Carolina standout earned unanimous First-Team All-SEC honors. His athleticism shines with a 4.38-second 40-yard dash, a 43-inch vertical leap, and an 11-foot-6 broad jump. He is set to make an immediate impact in the NFL.
Chinn left for the Raiders, leaving Washington in need of a rangy, playmaking safety. Emmanwori fits that role perfectly. He tracks runners, disrupts passing lanes, and delivers punishing hits. His skills ensure a smooth SEC-to-NFL transition. Fresh off an NFC Championship, Washington bets on him to maintain momentum and solidify the secondary. His size, speed, and instincts make him a plug-and-play starter from day one.
The Bills took a gamble by selecting Isaiah Bond in the first round. His draft stock dropped due to character concerns. Once seen as an early pick, off-field issues pushed him back, making him one of the most scrutinized selections.
Bond is explosive on the field. He recorded a 44-yard rush against Florida and scored a 26-yard touchdown against Mississippi State. He proved his versatility across multiple phases. His speed and playmaking ability make him a dynamic asset. Buffalo needed a game-breaking receiver to complement Josh Allen.
McDermott built a locker room of leadership, high character, and integrity. The Bills believe this strong culture can keep Bond focused. If he leaves his off-field issues behind, he can be a difference-maker. His success in Buffalo depends on staying on the right path.
The Kansas City Chiefs selected James Pearce Jr. in the first round. He is a high-upside pass rusher. At 6-foot-5 with a 4.47-second 40-yard dash, he has rare length, bend, and agility. Pearce registered over 100 quarterback pressures in the SEC. His ability to turn the corner against offensive tackles makes him an immediate threat.
Pearce’s arrival in Kansas City brings off-field concerns. His character has been scrutinized over temperament issues and past incidents. However, Andy Reid and the Chiefs take chances on talented players with question marks, trusting their locker room culture. If Pearce stays focused and harnesses his elite tools, he could be a game-changing force in defense.
Coming off a Super Bowl win, the Eagles selected edge rusher Donovan Ezeiruaku in the first round. He is from Boston College. Ezeiruaku is a relentless pass rusher with elite production. In 2024, he recorded 80 tackles (37 solo), forced three fumbles, and tallied 17 sacks.
The Eagles have few roster holes, so they target a disruptive presence in their defensive front. This keeps their pass rush among the league’s most feared. Ezeiruaku’s explosiveness, technique, and high motor make him an immediate impact player. He cements Philadelphia’s defensive dominance heading into the new season.
