Mock drafts are always a thrilling endeavor, serving two main purposes: introducing us to the prospects and making some educated guesses about what teams might do in Round 1 of the NFL Draft. Once a year, I put on my GM hat for every team and make picks based on my own insights and strategy.
Let’s reflect on last year’s predict-the-future exercise – a mixed bag of hits and misses, but that’s the beauty of the draft. Now, buckle up for the 2025 edition.
1. Tennessee Titans
Cam Ward, QB, Miami
We were lucky with last year’s exceptional quarterback class, but that shouldn’t dull the spotlight on Cam Ward. This guy has the arm talent, playmaking flair, and the temperament to steer the Titans for years. Don’t sleep on him, Tennessee.
2. Cleveland Browns
Travis Hunter, WR/CB, Colorado
Hunter's the top dog in this draft class, and it’s a no-brainer for Cleveland here. The versatile superstar presents an intriguing dilemma – will he shine more as a receiver or a cornerback? Either way, the Browns are getting a gem who leads both positions in my rankings.
3. New York Giants
Abdul Carter, EDGE, Penn State
Sure, the Giants boast an impressive edge-rushing duo in Brian Burns and Kayvon Thibodeaux, but passing on Carter? Unthinkable. They might even explore trading Thibodeaux, thereby gaining more ammunition in this draft.
4. New England Patriots
Tetairoa McMillan, WR, Arizona
Things get spicy here. While some have cooled on McMillan, I haven’t.
He’s the big, physical target New England needs. Pairing him with Stefon Diggs provides the spark that this wide receiver lineup desperately craves.
Look for updating their offensive line during Day 2.
5. Jacksonville Jaguars
Mason Graham, DL, Michigan
Jacksonville bolsters its defensive front with Graham, a stout run defender and relentless pass-rusher. He’s the kind of force in the trenches that turns a good defense into a great one.
6. Las Vegas Raiders
Ashton Jeanty, RB, Boise State
Yes, I said running back. Jeanty is a rare talent, potentially giving Las Vegas a top-tier player in the backfield.
Add him to an already solid tight end and QB Geno Smith, and this offense could outperform expectations. Cornerback can wait.
7. New York Jets
Armand Membou, OT, Missouri
With a glaring need at right tackle, the Jets snatch up Membou. His presence alongside Justin Fields should supercharge the run game in 2025 with new offensive coordinator Tanner Engstrand pulling the strings.
8. Carolina Panthers
Mike Green, EDGE, Marshall
Green rivals Abdul Carter in terms of talent, and the different ways he wins on the field are a sight to behold. His techniques against the run are just as impressive.
9. New Orleans Saints
Will Campbell, OL, LSU
Campbell fits perfectly into the left guard slot for New Orleans. Pair him with Taliese Fuaga from last year’s draft, and you’ve got a run game poised to dominate opponents.
10. Chicago Bears
Kelvin Banks Jr., OT, Texas
Starting at left tackle since a freshman, Banks has proven his mettle. Despite some erratic hand placement, his experience and athletic prowess complete the Bears’ profound line overhaul this offseason.
11. San Francisco 49ers
Jalon Walker, LB, Georgia
Explosive and relentless, Walker fits right into Robert Saleh's aggressive front seven. Versatile enough to rush the passer or command the center, his speed and playmaking make him a valuable asset.
12. Dallas Cowboys
Tyler Warren, TE, Penn State
While Dallas might’ve eyed an offensive lineman, Warren’s grit, versatility, and potential to shine as a No. 2 pass catcher are enticing. His addition alongside Jake Ferguson introduces a formidable dual tight-end threat.
13. Miami Dolphins
Malaki Starks, SAF, Georgia
Starks meets a crucial Miami need. Fluid and adaptive, his immediate impact in various secondary roles makes him a top 15-worthy pick.
14. Indianapolis Colts
Colston Loveland, TE, Michigan
Landing either Loveland or Warren spells victory for the Colts’ offense, both serving as reliable, bulky targets right in the middle.
15. Atlanta Falcons
Jihaad Campbell, LB, Alabama
Campbell’s mix of size, speed, awareness, and versatility empowers the Falcons. He’s a defensive dynamo, not afraid to step up in pass rush when needed.
16. Arizona Cardinals
Will Johnson, CB, Michigan
Despite injury setbacks in 2024, Johnson is worth the risk for Arizona. This physical cornerback holds explosive, game-changing potential when healthy.
17. Cincinnati Bengals
Kenneth Grant, DL, Michigan
Grant’s daunting size and quickness solidify their nose tackle position. His underlying pass-rush talent adds a dynamic edge to Cincinnati’s defensive line.
18. Seattle Seahawks
Grey Zabel, IOL, North Dakota State
Zabel’s versatility across the offensive line promises an interior upgrade for Seattle. His experience makes him an enticing addition.
19. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Nic Scourton, EDGE, Texas A&M
Choosing between Scourton and Donovan Ezeiruaku was tough. Ultimately, Scourton’s tenacity and his Purdue tape secure his spot with Tampa.
20. Denver Broncos
Emeka Egbuka, WR, Ohio State
Denver plans running back upgrades for Day 2, allowing them to go with Egbuka here. His route-running, athleticism, and run-blocking polish Bo Nix’s options.
21. Pittsburgh Steelers
Derrick Harmon, DL, Oregon
Harmon was an Oregon powerhouse this season. Armed with quickness and muscle, his versatility enhances Pittsburgh’s defensive interior.
22. Los Angeles Chargers
Shemar Stewart, EDGE, Texas A&M
Stewart’s unique blend of size and athleticism aligns perfectly with the Chargers’ defensive preferences, capable of disrupting plays across various formations.
23. Green Bay Packers
Jayden Higgins, WR, Iowa State
While Higgins appears early in this draft, his Green Bay fit is undeniable. With size, ball skills, and versatility, he emerges as a potential top-tier receiver the Packers need.
24. Minnesota Vikings
Shavon Revel, CB, East Carolina
Revel’s ACL tear may have affected his draft position, but his return to form would boost Minnesota’s secondary, supporting Brian Flores’ assertive tactics.
25. Houston Texans
Josh Conerly Jr., OT, Oregon
With untapped potential and feet to dance around pass rushers, Conerly could become a franchise tackle the Texans can’t ignore.
26. Los Angeles Rams
Jahdae Barron, DB, Texas
The Rams aim to leverage Barron’s coverage prowess, filling a critical gap and harmonizing their robust defensive lineup.
27. Baltimore Ravens
Donovan Ezeiruaku, EDGE, Boston College
Baltimore needs a solo artist for pass rushing. Ezeiruaku’s adept rush angles and resilience around the edge make him the ideal candidate.
28. Detroit Lions
Donovan Jackson, OL, Ohio State
Sitting in prime position, the Lions stick to their roots by enhancing the offensive line, embracing Jackson’s impressive versatility.
29. Washington Commanders
Omarion Hampton, RB, North Carolina
A top-tier talent on my board, Hampton’s physical prowess in all facets enhances Washington’s dynamic, multifaceted offense.
30. Buffalo Bills
Tyleik Williams, DL, Ohio State
Though the Bills have a packed roster, Williams strengthens their defense, fortifying their front seven against the run.
31. Kansas City Chiefs
Josh Simmons, OT, Ohio State
Simmons’ trajectory in the draft is a gamble based on his medical evaluations. As a prospect, his dynamic movement skills hold immense promise for the Chiefs.
32. Philadelphia Eagles
Walter Nolen, DL, Mississippi
Nolen’s raw talent and athleticism make him the Eagles’ ideal developmental project, full of potential and ready to reach the next level with the right guidance.
These selections mirror the complex needs and strategic aspirations of each NFL franchise, charting a course for potential success in the upcoming season. Stay tuned and let's see how this unfolds on draft day.
