A QB, pass-rusher, or unicorn? The competition for the No. 1 pick in the 2025 NFL Draft is heating up as coaches, scouts, and executives prepare for the NFL Scouting Combine. The Tennessee Titans are likely weighing their options among four standout candidates: Shedeur Sanders from Colorado, Cam Ward from Miami, Abdul Carter from Penn State, and Travis Hunter, also from Colorado. These prospects will showcase their talents next week in Indianapolis, presenting their skills and engaging in interviews before an audience of over 900 NFL personnel.
The decision-making process will hinge on game tape and how evaluators foresee each player’s professional trajectory. The significance of the No. 1 pick cannot be overstated; it represents a rare opportunity to select a player with the potential to become a perennial Pro Bowler and a future Hall of Fame candidate.
Setting such high expectations for the top pick narrows the field of candidates considerably. Hall of Fame team-builders like Ron Wolf and Super Bowl-winning coaches including Mike Holmgren, Tom Coughlin, and Jon Gruden have long believed that players rated in the top five must demonstrate elite skills and impressive college performance. These players should raise minimal doubts about their future potential and exhibit adaptability to various offensive schemes.
Due to the challenge of identifying such exceptional talent, the No. 1 overall pick is often viewed as a rare gem in the draft landscape. This article will examine the four leading prospects for the 2025 draft and present their cases for being the top choice.
Shedeur Sanders stands out as the most talked-about prospect, largely due to his lineage as Coach Prime’s son. His name sparks lively discussions among fans and analysts alike, yet his impressive performance over four years cannot be overlooked. Sanders has led two programs to success, showcasing his playmaking abilities and strong leadership qualities.
During his time at Jackson State and Colorado, Sanders revealed traits of a franchise quarterback. He achieved a remarkable completion rate of 70.1%, amassing 14,327 passing yards, 134 touchdowns, and only 27 interceptions. His timing, anticipation, and accuracy make him a valuable asset for any offense, enabling playmakers to thrive. His ability to maintain control of the game while moving the chains is a testament to his skill.
While there are concerns about his tendency to hold onto the ball too long and take unnecessary sacks, Sanders has demonstrated a knack for winning. His record of 23-3 at Jackson State, including a flawless conference record of 16-0, along with his 13-11 mark at Colorado, speaks volumes about his impact. Transforming a struggling 1-11 team into a bowl game contender (9-4 in 2024) underscores his qualifications for the No. 1 pick.
Cam Ward embodies the traits of a franchise quarterback, showcasing both elite skills and a competitive spirit. His journey from a zero-star recruit to a blue-chip prospect is remarkable, as he has successfully led teams at Incarnate Word, Washington State, and Miami. Ward’s leadership and determination have been key factors in his teams’ successes.
Ward’s arm talent and improvisational skills make him a noteworthy contender for the top pick. He possesses the ability to deliver throws with velocity and precision from various angles, including a side-arm release that allows him to navigate around defenders. His capability to connect with speedy receivers on deep routes opens up the playbook for offensive coordinators.
However, Ward’s aggressive style has led to some questionable decisions, particularly in the red zone, where he has made costly turnovers. While a strong coaching approach could help him refine his decision-making, finding the balance between taking risks and playing smart will be crucial for his development as a top quarterback. If he can harness his potential effectively, Ward could prove to be a valuable No. 1 selection.
In today’s NFL, elite pass rushers are highly sought after, especially those who can change the game. Abdul Carter has emerged as a standout candidate, impressing coaches and scouts with his explosive speed and agility. At 6 feet 3 inches and 252 pounds, Carter has the physical tools to dominate in one-on-one matchups against offensive tackles. His ability to convert speed into power during critical moments makes him a player to watch.
Travis Hunter, the Heisman Trophy winner, stands out as the most versatile prospect in this draft class. His instincts, awareness, and ball skills set him apart as a two-way player. Hunter possesses exceptional catching ability and tracking skills, making him a formidable weapon on both offense and defense.
Although he may project as a WR2 or WR3 due to his size (6 feet 1 inch, 185 pounds), Hunter’s dual-threat capability as a CB1 and gadget offensive player adds to his appeal as a potential No. 1 pick.
