The 2025 NFL mock draft remains firmly anchored in tradition, as the league has not altered its established guideline requiring players to be three years post-high school graduation to qualify for the draft.
This topic certainly sparks lively discussions, particularly concerning the strategies each NFL franchise might adopt with their first-round selections in the upcoming draft. With the Day 1 order nearly finalized, projections have been made for every team’s first-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, featuring all eligible college players.
* Declared for 2025 Draft
1. Tennessee Titans: Arch Manning, QB, Texas (RS FR)
Chad Brinker, the Titans’ president of football operations, recently stated that the team will not overlook a “generational talent” in favor of forcing a quarterback pick at No. 1. This sentiment resonates widely. Elite prospects like Colorado’s Travis Hunter and Ohio State’s Jeremiah Smith are also strong contenders. However, franchises without a secure long-term quarterback will undoubtedly be scouring for the best available talent. Although his college experience is limited, Manning has already showcased impressive size, arm strength, precision, and athleticism, positioning him as a potential NFL superstar, following in the footsteps of his legendary family.
2. Cleveland Browns: Jeremiah Smith, WR, Ohio State (FR)
Cleveland’s previous top pick, defensive tackle Michael Hall, also hailed from Ohio State, making it hard to envision the Browns passing on a talent like Smith for a second consecutive year. Standing at 6-foot-3 and weighing 215 pounds, Smith distinguishes himself with remarkable physical attributes and has already caught the attention of scouts with his dedication to improvement. While the Browns might consider a quarterback, Deshaun Watson’s hefty contract complicates matters. Instead, they may benefit more from pairing Jerry Jeudy with a potential All-Pro prospect to rejuvenate Watson’s performance.
3. New York Giants: Travis Hunter, CB/WR, Colorado (JR)*
Similar to the Titans, the Giants face a pressing need for a quarterback with Drew Lock entering free agency, leaving Tommy DeVito and Tim Boyle as the only options on the roster. However, Hunter’s exceptional talent is too significant to overlook. His versatility and electrifying playmaking ability could be a game-changer on the field, offering both receiving prowess and elite cornerback skills that could elevate the Giants’ defense to new heights.
4. New England Patriots: Mason Graham, DT, Michigan (JR)*
Mike Vrabel’s tenure as head coach of the Patriots is generating excitement, particularly regarding Graham’s potential role in fortifying New England’s defensive line. When paired with the emerging star Keion White, the Patriots could cultivate a formidable defensive front that rivals the league’s best.
5. Jacksonville Jaguars: Malaki Starks, S, Georgia (JR)*
The Jaguars’ alarming 29:6 touchdown-to-interception ratio highlights a dire need for defensive reinforcement. With current starting safety Andre Cisco set to hit free agency, Starks emerges as a standout prospect, combining size, speed, and physicality with exceptional ball skills. He represents the type of dynamic player who could ignite the Jaguars’ defense, much like Brian Thomas, Jr. did for the offense last season.
6. Las Vegas Raiders: Caleb Downs, S, Ohio State (SO)
As the AFC West evolves into a competitive landscape with quarterbacks like Patrick Mahomes and Justin Herbert, the Raiders must bolster their secondary. Downs stands out as a dominant defender, having earned accolades as the SEC Freshman of the Year at Alabama and contributing to Ohio State’s national championship run, despite opponents often avoiding him in play.
7. New York Jets: Abdul Carter, Edge, Penn State (JR)*
Carter, a former linebacker, possesses remarkable speed and agility, making him a standout prospect who could potentially rise to the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 draft. However, in this scenario, he lands with the Jets, who are in desperate need of a turnaround after disappointing seasons. With a talented pass rush already in place, Carter could elevate the Jets’ defense to elite status.
8. Carolina Panthers: Dylan Stewart, Edge, South Carolina (FR)
The Panthers struggled significantly in their pass rush during 2024, with veteran players combining for a mere ten sacks. Stewart, even as a freshman, has drawn comparisons to former Gamecock and 2014 No. 1 overall pick Jadeveon Clowney. His long arms, strength, and polished skills hint at a promising future.
9. New Orleans Saints: Tyler Warren, TE, Penn State (RS SR)*
The Saints face numerous challenges, but enhancing their passing game could alleviate many of their issues. With Taysom Hill aging and recovering from injury, and Juwan Johnson likely heading to free agency, the Saints are expected to seek tight ends. Warren stands out even in a strong tight end class, showcasing a blend of size, agility, and reliable hands reminiscent of Travis Kelce.
10. Chicago Bears: Ashton Jeanty, RB, Boise State (JR)*
With Ben Johnson stepping in as head coach, the Bears’ offense could experience a significant transformation. Jeanty’s playmaking abilities, when combined with talents like Caleb Williams and D.J. Moore, could create an explosive offensive unit reminiscent of the Lions’ recent success.
11. San Francisco 49ers: Will Campbell, OL, LSU (JR)*
12. Dallas Cowboys: Ryan Williams, WR, Alabama (FR)
With a healthy Dak Prescott, the Cowboys could rejuvenate their offense by adding a genuine big-play threat. Williams, with a slender build similar to DeVonta Smith, averaged an impressive 18.0 yards per reception as a true freshman, providing the vertical threat needed to complement CeeDee Lamb.
13. Miami Dolphins: Colin Simmons, OLB, Texas (FR)
14. Indianapolis Colts: Colston Loveland, TE, Michigan (JR)*
Although it may seem early for Loveland, the Colts desperately need improvement at tight end. The position played a minimal role in last year’s passing game, with four players collectively recording only 467 yards. Loveland combines soft hands and solid route-running with strength and blocking technique, making him an appealing target.
15. Atlanta Falcons: Will Johnson, CB, Michigan (JR)*
While some may have criticized Atlanta’s choice of quarterback Michael Penix Jr. last year, few would oppose adding Johnson at this stage in the draft. Johnson, once projected as a top-10 talent, has the potential to become a Pro Bowl player after a challenging 2024 season.
16. Arizona Cardinals: Kelvin Banks, OL, Texas (JR)*
Kyler Murray’s growth as a franchise quarterback is a significant storyline in the NFC West. The Cardinals have successfully surrounded him with solid blockers and pass-catchers, and Banks, a collegiate left tackle, could provide an upgrade over Evan Brown at left guard.
17. Cincinnati Bengals: T.J. Parker, Edge, Clemson (SO)
The Bengals have a history of embracing youthful talent, having found success with players like Joe Burrow and Ja’Marr Chase. They might take a chance on Parker, a powerful edge rusher from Clemson who has recorded impressive statistics in his first two seasons.
18. Seattle Seahawks: Tyleik Williams, DT, Ohio State (SR)*
The Seahawks’ struggles in 2024 stemmed primarily from their offensive line rather than their defense. However, if a standout like Williams is still available, the team’s management will likely act quickly. Williams, weighing in at 320 pounds, combines impressive agility with a relentless motor, making him an appealing addition to the defensive unit.
19. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Jahdae Barron, CB, Texas (RS SR)*
Despite winning the NFC South, the Buccaneers struggled with one of the league’s weakest secondaries, allowing 27 touchdowns and only seven interceptions. Barron, known for his technical skills, instincts, and physicality, could be the solution they need.
20. Denver Broncos: Josh Conerly, Jr., OT, Oregon (JR)*
The Broncos have made significant investments in offensive tackles, but reinforcing the line remains a priority under Sean Payton. Conerly played a crucial role in Oregon’s successful season, demonstrating the agility and power to become a reliable starter in the NFL.
21. Pittsburgh Steelers: Cam Ward, QB, Miami (RS SR)*
The Steelers might consider bringing back Justin Fields or Russell Wilson, but the allure of a top quarterback in this draft could sway their decision. Ward’s impressive highlight reel and rise in prominence warrant attention, though questions about his style’s adaptability to the NFL remain.
22. Los Angeles Chargers: Kenneth Grant, DT, Michigan (JR)*
Jim Harbaugh’s strategy of selecting talent for the trenches has proven effective, as seen with his choice of Joe Alt last year. Grant, with his impressive size and strength, could further bolster the Chargers’ defensive line.
23. Green Bay Packers: Benjamin Morrison, CB, Notre Dame (JR)*
With three cornerbacks set to enter free agency, the Packers must focus on this year’s top prospects at the position. As a Super Bowl contender, they will seek a player ready to make an immediate impact. Morrison, despite an injury setback, was previously viewed as a top-15 prospect.
24. Minnesota Vikings: Jeremiyah Love, RB, Notre Dame (SO)
25. Houston Texans: Tyler Booker, OG, Alabama (JR)*
The Texans’ struggles in the playoffs highlighted the need for improved protection for C.J. Stroud. Booker stands out as one of the few guards ready to contribute immediately, combining strength and agility.
26. Los Angeles Rams: Shedeur Sanders, QB, Colorado (SR)*
27. Detroit Lions: Jack Sawyer, DE, Ohio State (SR)*
28. Washington Commanders: Josh Simmons, OT, Ohio State (SR)*
The Commanders are prioritizing the protection of Jayden Daniels. While they received solid performances from rookie Brandon Coleman and veteran Andrew Wylie, acquiring a talent like Simmons could prove beneficial. Before his injury, Simmons was regarded as a potential top offensive lineman for the 2025 draft. If cleared medically, he could be a valuable pick at this point in the draft.
30. Buffalo Bills: Jalon Walker, LB, Georgia (JR)*
Similar to the Commanders, the Bills are benefiting from solid performances by their current linebackers but should jump at the opportunity to add Walker, the Butkus Award winner, if he remains available.
31. Philadelphia Eagles: JT Tuimoloau, Edge, Ohio State (SR)*
While Jalen Hurts and Saquon Barkley are the stars of the Eagles, the team’s success is built on physicality in the trenches. GM Howie Roseman has a keen eye for talent, and Tuimoloau, despite less impressive stats, is a powerful bull-rusher with the ability to make critical plays in key moments.
32. Kansas City Chiefs: Derrick Harmon, DL, Oregon (RS JR)*
While Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce capture the spotlight, defensive tackle Chris Jones, Jr. remains one of the league’s elite. Harmon, standing at 6-foot-5 and weighing 310 pounds, could closely match Jones’ blend of size and strength. The Chiefs, reigning champions, are poised to secure another talented player at a critical position in the draft.
