2025 NFL Mock Draft: The New York Giants are poised to select Cam Ward as the first overall pick, signaling a shift in their quarterback strategy.
The top five picks will feature several recognizable names, including the standout Heisman winner from this season.
As the draft progresses, the Dallas Cowboys are expected to bolster their receiving corps, while the Kansas City Chiefs are likely to strengthen their running back position.
This mock draft assumes that no trades will occur in the first round.
Let’s examine the predictions in detail.
1. New York Giants: Cam Ward, QB, Miami
Debate surrounds Ward’s professional prospects, but he stands out in this mock draft. With 56 college starts under his belt, he demonstrates an ability to make challenging throws look simple. Ward is perceived as a more refined passer than Shedeur Sanders, and indications suggest he has a strong desire to play for the Giants.
2. New England Patriots: Kelvin Banks, OT, Texas
The Patriots will likely focus on securing the best tackle available to protect their franchise quarterback, Drake Maye. With a history of using multiple offensive line combinations this season, the need for stability is critical. There’s also the possibility of trading this pick to a team in search of a quarterback.
3. Jacksonville Jaguars: Travis Hunter, CB/WR, Colorado
While Hunter’s dual-role potential is intriguing, it raises questions about his effectiveness. Using him primarily on defense while incorporating him in specific offensive situations may be a more strategic approach.
4. Cleveland Browns: Aireontae Ersery, OT, Minnesota
After a strong 2023 season, the Browns’ offensive line faced significant injuries in 2024. The decision to draft an offensive lineman or a quarterback like Sanders will depend heavily on the ongoing DeShaun Watson situation.
5. Tennessee Titans: Will Campbell, OT, LSU
The Titans face a pivotal choice regarding Shedeur Sanders. Campbell, a three-year starter at left tackle, offers a solid option at 6-foot-6 and 320 pounds.
6. Las Vegas Raiders: Shedeur Sanders, QB, Colorado
As Sanders approaches his 23rd birthday, he has started 49 games and could have a significant impact for the Raiders. Speculation suggests that Deion Sanders may influence his son’s decision to join the Raiders.
7. New York Jets: Mykel Williams, Edge, Georgia
8. Carolina Panthers: Mason Graham, DL, Michigan
The Panthers will prioritize a strong pass rush, especially after struggling with run defense in 2024.
9. Chicago Bears: Abdul Carter, Edge, Penn State
The Bears have faced a high number of sacks this season, and adding a formidable edge rusher could be their best defensive strategy against strong divisional offenses.
10. New Orleans Saints: James Pearce Jr., Edge, Tennessee
Pearce’s speed and performance make him a strong candidate to succeed Cam Jordan, who is nearing the end of his career.
11. San Francisco 49ers: Derrick Harmon, DT, Oregon
While the 49ers may consider a quarterback, bolstering the defense is essential after losing key players.
12. Miami Dolphins: Josh Simmons, OT, Ohio State
Simmons, who had a strong season before injury, could be a valuable asset at right tackle or left tackle, depending on the Dolphins’ plans for their line.
13. Cincinnati Bengals: Will Johnson, CB, Michigan
Johnson’s technical skills make him an ideal fit for the Bengals’ struggling defense, although they may also consider a wide receiver if Tee Higgins departs.
14. Dallas Cowboys: Tetairoa McMillan, WR, Arizona
While the offensive line remains a concern, pairing McMillan with CeeDee Lamb could create a dynamic offensive threat.
15. Indianapolis Colts: Tyler Warren, TE, Penn State
Warren is a versatile player who could be compared to Colts legend Dallas Clark, but with even greater potential.
16. Arizona Cardinals: Shavon Revel Jr., CB, East Carolina
With a need for cornerback depth, Revel’s fit as a tall, athletic player makes him a logical choice, despite his recent injury.
17. Seattle Seahawks: Jalen Milroe, QB, Alabama
Milroe presents an intriguing case for the Seahawks, having shown both impressive highs and lows during his college career.
18. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Jalon Walker, LB, Georgia
With Lavonte David aging, Walker’s ability to play various linebacker roles makes him an appealing option for the Buccaneers.
19. Atlanta Falcons: JT Tuimoloau, DE, Ohio State
Despite returning to school, Tuimoloau remains a strong candidate for teams seeking a pass rusher.
20. Denver Broncos: Nic Scourton, Edge, Texas A&M
With a need to pressure opposing quarterbacks, Scourton’s selection could address a significant gap in the Broncos’ defense.
21. Houston Texans: Jonah Savaiinaea, OL, Arizona
Savaiinaea’s performance at right tackle highlights a need for the Texans, who may also consider free agency to bolster their line.
22. Los Angeles Chargers: Ashton Jeanty, RB, Boise State
23. Los Angeles Rams: Walter Nolen, DT, Ole Miss
Nolen may not be the next Aaron Donald, but he can significantly improve the Rams’ run defense.
24. Washington Commanders: Colston Loveland, TE, Michigan
The Commanders could benefit from adding a reliable target for their young quarterback, making Loveland a valuable pick.
25. Pittsburgh Steelers: Luther Burden, WR, Missouri
Burden’s athleticism and production make him a strong candidate to fill the Steelers’ need for a second wide receiver.
27. Green Bay Packers: Benjamin Morrison, CB, Notre Dame
With few weaknesses on their roster, the Packers may seek to enhance their secondary, especially with Alexander’s injury history.
28. Philadelphia Eagles: Elic Ayomanor, WR, Stanford
As the Eagles contemplate the future without A.J. Brown, Ayomanor’s speed and size make him a compelling option.
29. Buffalo Bills: Trey Amos, CB, Ole Miss
30. Minnesota Vikings: Malaki Starks, Safety, Georgia
Starks could step into a significant role for the Vikings, potentially replacing veteran Harrison Smith.
31. Detroit Lions: Emeka Egbuka, WR, Ohio State
Egbuka’s combination of speed and route-running skills makes him a valuable addition to the Lions’ receiving corps.
32. Kansas City Chiefs: Omarion Hampton, RB, UNC
The Chiefs may prioritize a running back to enhance their offensive depth, especially after relying on unconventional sources for production in the past.