It’s mock draft season, and it's time I toss my hat in the ring. No click-bait or overreactions here — just 32 picks built on keeping an ear to the ground and matching players to where they actually make sense.

This class is loaded with potential on both sides of the ball. We’ve got an intriguing QB mix led by Cam Ward and Shedeur Sanders, plus guys like Tyler Warren and Ashton Jeanty headlining the offensive weapons. On defense, names like Travis Hunter, Abdul Carter, and Mason Graham are on everyone’s radar. 

Questions are flying around about whether Travis Hunter ends up sticking at corner, flipping to receiver full-time, or continuing to pull double duty. Either way, someone’s going to take the swing early. And of course, there’s always that one surprise name that crashes the top ten and throws everything off. Let’s get into it and run through how the first round could shake out.

2025 NFL Draft - Round 1

1. Tennessee Titans: Cam Ward – QB, Miami

Cam Ward has emerged as the clear No. 1 prospect after lighting it up at Miami, showcasing not just a live arm and great pocket poise, but a flair for the big play that fits the modern NFL. The Titans have apparently shut down all other QB workouts (including one with Shedeur Sanders), making it obvious they’re all-in on Ward. 

Head coach Brian Callahan’s involvement in the evaluation hints he sees Ward as the cornerstone of his offense. Most mock drafts and Vegas odds back up that notion, with those close to the team calling it “all but official.” Feels like the kind of pick that finally gives this team some much-needed life.

TRADE: Cleveland Browns trade 2nd pick to Raiders for 6th pick, 68th pick, 180th pick, 2026 first-round pick, and 2026 third-round pick.

2. Las Vegas Raiders (via Browns): Abdul Carter – EDGE, Penn State

Talk about a draft-shaking trade. The Raiders jump up to No. 2 by cutting a huge deal with Cleveland, all because Abdul Carter is just too enticing to pass up. He’s a freakishly explosive edge rusher who could form a nasty pass-rushing duo alongside Maxx Crosby. While many thought Carter might team up with Myles Garrett, Las Vegas wants to make sure that doesn't happen. 

With Tom Brady in a very hands-on role, the Raiders are in win-now mode, and Carter is viewed as a generational piece. Meanwhile, the Browns slide back — but stay ahead of the Saints — and add picks for the future.

3. New York Giants: Travis Hunter – CB/WR, Colorado

The Giants’ leadership is feeling the heat, and they need a difference-maker now. Travis Hunter, if he’s still on the board, is simply too good to pass up. Even if he’s not going both ways full-time in the NFL, his elite talent at either cornerback or wide receiver can transform this team. 

Pairing Hunter with Malik Nabers gives the Giants two dynamic playmakers who should bring a spark to an offense that’s been desperate for juice. Yes, some teams worry about his workload if he tries to pull double duty, but in the New York spotlight, the risk might be worth the reward.

4. New England Patriots: Will Campbell – OT, LSU

After some rocky times on the offensive line, the Patriots (under the watchful eye of Mike Vrabel) go for a tone-setting tackle in Will Campbell. He’s looked like the best O-lineman in this class, playing with the ideal mix of technique, strength, and movement. 

With the run-blocking chops to open holes and the anchor to slow down top-tier edge rushers, Campbell checks every box. There’s always a chance New England trades down when they miss out on top defensive prospects like Travis Hunter or Abdul Carter, but if they stay put, they’re grabbing a cornerstone for their offensive line overhaul.

5. Jacksonville Jaguars: Mason Graham – DL, Michigan

Jacksonville’s new leadership has a clear philosophy: you can't do it without the trenches. Mason Graham is the perfect fit for that approach. He was a force at Michigan, bringing a relentless motor, quick hands, and versatility to line up in multiple spots. 

Add him to an emerging Jaguars defense, and you ease the pressure on the pass-rushers by clogging up the interior. Plus, more stops on D means more opportunities for Trevor Lawrence to do his thing. It’s a classic complementary football move that should help shape the Jags’ identity.

6. Cleveland Browns (via Raiders): Shedeur Sanders – QB, Colorado

Let’s be real: the Browns’ QB situation is a hot mess. Deshaun Watson may never be the same, Joe Flacco is pushing 40, and Kenny Pickett’s development hasn’t inspired much confidence. 

Enter Shedeur Sanders, a record-setting passer from Colorado who’s all about accuracy and high-volume production. Cleveland had to stay in front of the Saints to lock him down, knowing full well New Orleans has been eyeing passers. With Flacco on the roster, the Browns have a bridge if they need it, but the hope is that Sanders takes over sooner rather than later. 

With the opportunity to get fully out from under the Watson contract in the 2026 offseason, it's time to reset that QB room.

7. New York Jets: Ashton Jeanty – RB, Boise State

TRADE: The Jets send Breece Hall and the 110th pick to Denver in exchange for pick #20.

With Denver linked to a running back in the draft and being in more of a win-now mode, they'll take on a proven playmaker who's likely going to want a contract extension. While the Jets reset the financial clock at the position and pair the electric Jeanty with Justin Fields.

Dealing Breece Hall to double-dip in the first round might sting Jets fans, but that sting won't last long. When Ashton Jeanty steps in — arguably the most complete running back in the draft — it'll quickly ease their pain. 

He posted a jaw-dropping 2,600 yards and 29 touchdowns last season, plus he’s shown he can catch passes out of the backfield. With the Jets needing financial flexibility, swapping Hall’s contract for a cheaper rookie deal makes sense. Jeanty offers fresh legs, explosiveness, and a whole lot of upside.

8. Carolina Panthers: Tyler Warren – TE, Penn State

Carolina could go a bunch of ways here, but grabbing Tyler Warren from Penn State fills a big-time need. The Panthers haven’t had a consistent safety valve for their QB in ages, and Warren’s versatility is off the charts. 

He has over 1,200 career receiving yards and can line up basically anywhere on the field. Whether he’s blocking, catching passes, or even taking the occasional trick-play snap, Warren brings a skill set that makes life easier for any quarterback.

9. New Orleans Saints: Will Johnson – CB, Michigan

The Saints’ secondary has been shaky at best, and age isn’t helping. Will Johnson injects some youth and immediate effectiveness into their defensive backfield. 

He’s one of the most complete corners we’ve seen in a while, excelling in man, zone, and press. His stats — like allowing just 17 catches all year — speak for themselves. Add his size, speed, and football IQ, and you’re looking at a plug-and-play CB1 who can lock down top receivers from Day 1.

10. Chicago Bears: Armand Membou – OT, Missouri

Chicago got their quarterback and wide receiver last year. Now it’s time to fortify the trenches. Armand Membou is a freak athlete who somehow moves like a smaller lineman despite weighing 332 lbs. 

No sacks or QB hits allowed in 2024 is crazy enough, but then you see that blazing 4.91 forty time for a big man, and you get why the Bears are drooling. Membou can handle pass protection, open run lanes, and give their young QB some much-needed confidence in the pocket.

11. San Francisco 49ers: Kelvin Banks Jr. – OT, Texas

The 49ers pride themselves on a stellar offensive line, and with Trent Williams nearing the twilight of his career, they go for the heir apparent in Kelvin Banks Jr. He started 42 straight games at Texas, winning just about every lineman award possible. This guy is consistent, battle-tested, and quick enough to thrive in Kyle Shanahan’s system. Banks could start right away on the right side or learn behind Williams until the torch is passed.

12. Dallas Cowboys: Tetairoa McMillan – WR, Arizona

Dak Prescott and the Cowboys have been looking for a reliable WR2 to pair with CeeDee Lamb, and they finally find it in the 6’5” Tetairoa McMillan. His contested-catch ability, body control, and knack for racking up yards — over 3,400 in his college career — make him a lethal addition. He’ll move the chains, provide a red-zone threat, and help stretch defenses so Lamb can keep feasting. Dallas might have just found a perfect complement for their passing attack.

13. Miami Dolphins: Kenneth Grant – DL, Michigan

Miami’s run defense had its fair share of hiccups last season, so snagging Kenneth Grant is a direct response. He’s a massive 6’4”, 331 lbs interior disruptor who can eat blocks for breakfast and still generate a pass rush when needed. Grant’s motor, quickness off the snap, and ability to chase down plays from the backside are downright scary for a guy his size. The Dolphins get a centerpiece for the interior of their defense, and fans get to breathe a little easier against the run.

14. Indianapolis Colts: Colston Loveland – TE, Michigan

The Colts want to keep developing Anthony Richardson, and the best way to do that is to give him targets he can trust. Colston Loveland might be that guy. Even though the Colts have some bodies in the tight end room, what they don't have is much production from any of them. With a 6’6” frame, smooth route running, and sticky hands, Loveland can become a best friend for a young QB—someone who can bail him out on tough downs and keep drives alive.

15. Atlanta Falcons: Mykel Williams – EDGE, Georgia

The Falcons haven’t had a real pass-rush threat in what feels like forever. Mykel Williams is the kind of guy who could finally change that. At 6’5” and 260 lbs, he brings the length and power to handle both run and pass responsibilities. While he didn’t rack up insane sack totals, he consistently created havoc at Georgia, showing flashes of a high ceiling. And as a local product, Williams would have plenty of fan support right from the jump.

16. Arizona Cardinals: Jahdae Barron – CB, Texas

The Cardinals’ secondary needs a lifeline, and Jahdae Barron could be it. Winner of the Jim Thorpe Award in 2024, he snatched five interceptions and proved he can tackle in space. His versatility to play on the boundary or in the slot will be a big help for a defense that’s struggled with consistency. Look for Barron to give the Cardinals a much-needed spark in coverage.

17. Cincinnati Bengals: Jalon Walker – EDGE/LB, Georgia

Cincinnati’s pass rush has been put on the back of Trey Hendrickson, but they’re hunting for another disruptor. Jalon Walker brings explosiveness and the kind of positional flexibility the Bengals could use on the defensive end right now. Some teams weren’t sure if he’s a true edge or a linebacker, but that might actually be his biggest strength, filling multiple roles. If Cincinnati uses him the right way, he could develop into an impact player off the edge while also helping at linebacker.

18. Seattle Seahawks: Grey Zabel – IOL, North Dakota State

Time to bolster the interior O-line in Seattle. Grey Zabel started 41 games across four different positions, giving him the flexibility to slide in wherever needed. He’s an excellent fit for a zone-blocking scheme, with the footwork and intelligence to call out protections if he moves to center. While he won’t headline any highlight reels, Zabel’s consistency and leadership are exactly what the Seahawks need in the trenches.

19. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Jihaad Campbell – LB, Alabama

It’s no secret that Lavonte David is nearing the end, so the Bucs plan for the future by grabbing Jihaad Campbell. He’s got sideline-to-sideline speed, and he’s proven he can bring the heat in pass rush scenarios. Campbell’s 117 tackles and 5 sacks in 2024 prove his productivity, and his coverage skills are exactly what Tampa’s scheme calls for at linebacker. Consider him the next man up when David finally hangs up the cleats, likely learning by his side until he does.

20. New York Jets (via Broncos): Jaxson Dart – QB, Ole Miss

The Jets use the pick they got from the Breece Hall trade to take a gamble on a future quarterback. Sure, they’ve got Justin Fields, but his contract situation is easy enough to get out of if they decide to shift gears in 2026. Enter Jaxson Dart, who threw for over 4,200 yards and added nearly 500 rushing yards last season. He’s got dual-threat ability and plenty of talent, though he still needs some polish in his decision-making. Having both Dart and Jeanty growing in New York is something that fanbase has been desperately waiting for.

21. Pittsburgh Steelers: Derrick Harmon – DT, Oregon

The Steelers had their eye on a quarterback, but with Jaxson Dart gone, they shift focus to the defensive trenches — looking back to signal caller later in the draft. Derrick Harmon is a physical freak who led all FBS interior defenders with 55 pressures. At 6’5” and 313 lbs, he moves surprisingly well, posting a sub-five-second 40 time. Pittsburgh’s defensive line is getting older, so Harmon is the perfect infusion of youth, size, and raw power to keep that unit nasty.

22. Los Angeles Chargers: Emeka Egbuka – WR, Ohio State

The Chargers’ receiving corps lacks stability, and Emeka Egbuka brings a dependable set of hands and crisp routes. He’s not a track star, but he’s got enough burst to keep corners honest, plus the technique to break loose every now and then. With a 1,000-yard, 10-TD season at Ohio State, Egbuka should thrive in a quick-pass system built to exploit matchups. This pick helps the Chargers give Justin Herbert another consistent target outside of McConkey, something they didn't have last year.

23. Green Bay Packers: Maxwell Hairston – CB, Kentucky

The Packers want corners who can force turnovers, and Maxwell Hairston fits the bill with 6 career interceptions and a blazing 4.28 speed. His 3 pick-sixes speak to his instincts and big-play potential. Green Bay’s secondary could use a jolt of athleticism and youth, and Hairston might be the perfect injection of both. Whether man or zone, he’s shown the ability to handle them both, which should help a Packers defense searching for game-changers.

24. Minnesota Vikings: Nick Emmanwori – S, South Carolina

Minnesota’s defense has been shaky, especially on the back end. Nick Emmanwori is a freak athlete (6’3”, 220 lbs, 4.38 speed) with the range to play center field or drop down in the box. Over 244 career tackles and 6 picks at South Carolina hint at his do-it-all potential. The Vikings could really use a boost at safety, and Emmanwori’s versatility feels like the perfect piece to help them get more flexible and modern on the back end.

25. Houston Texans: Josh Simmons – OT, Ohio State

The Texans' offensive line was one of the worst units in football last year, and it's something that flat-out has to be addressed. Josh Simmons gives them a young, athletic option to start rebuilding up front. He’s an athletic tackle who excels in pass protection but does come with some injury concerns (a patellar tendon tear in 2024). If he stays healthy, Simmons could be a franchise cornerstone, offering them flexibility at both tackle spots and locking down pass rushers for years to come.

26. Los Angeles Rams: Shavon Revel Jr. – CB, East Carolina

The Rams love big, athletic corners, and Shavon Revel Jr. fits the bill at 6’2” with a 4.40 40. He was having a breakout 2023 season before a 2024 ACL injury, but the potential is sky-high. With 13 pass breakups and a reputation for press coverage, he could become a key piece in LA’s man-heavy scheme. After doing such a good job revamping the defensive line, this feels like the first step toward reworking the secondary too.

27. Baltimore Ravens: Kingsley Suamataia – OT, BYU

Baltimore is always thinking about protecting Lamar Jackson, and with Ronnie Stanley aging, they grab Kingsley Suamataia to develop at tackle. At 6’6”, 325 lbs, he’s raw but loaded with upside. Hand placement and consistency need work, but there’s a clear path for him to eventually take over at either tackle spot. The Ravens can afford to bring him along slowly while he continues to work on his game.

28. Detroit Lions: Mike Green – EDGE, Marshall

The Lions keep stacking pass rushers, and Mike Green is the next piece of that puzzle. With 17 sacks last season, he led the FBS and caught everyone’s attention. Sure, he’s a bit undersized and might struggle against the run, but Detroit can start him in a specialist role while he bulks up. Opposite Aidan Hutchinson, Green’s first-step explosiveness could make the Lions’ pass rush one of the league’s scariest.

29. Washington Commanders: Luther Burden III – WR, Missouri

Washington’s wide receiver group just got even scarier with Luther Burden III joining the fold. He’s an explosive slot weapon, racking up 2,200 yards and 21 touchdowns at Mizzou. Between Terry McLaurin, Deebo Samuel, and now Burden, the Commanders can stretch the field in multiple ways. While Burden might need to polish his outside route tree, he’s dangerous with the ball in his hands and gives Jayden Daniels exactly the kind of playmaker this offense needs as a third option.

30. Buffalo Bills: Walter Nolen – DL, Ole Miss

Buffalo’s interior D-line has faced injuries and age issues, so adding Walter Nolen is a big swing. He recorded 14 TFLs and 6.5 sacks at Ole Miss in 2024, showing flashes of real dominance. The Bills need a guy who can collapse the pocket and help in run support, and Nolen fits the bill. If he refines his consistency, the upside is enormous for a defense always looking to take that final step toward a Lombardi.

31. Kansas City Chiefs: Shemar Stewart – EDGE, Texas A&M

The Chiefs reload their D-line with a freak athlete who can play inside and outside. Shemar Stewart might not have stuffed the stat sheet (4.5 sacks), but his 4.59 40 and eye-popping vertical and broad jump numbers show off next-level potential. In Steve Spagnuolo’s system, Stewart could develop into a disruptive force, pairing with Chris Jones and giving KC a flexible front for years to come.

32. Philadelphia Eagles: Omarion Hampton – RB, North Carolina

Nothing like the Eagles snagging a luxury pick. Omarion Hampton put up massive production at UNC — 3,500+ career rushing yards and 30 total TDs — and he’s still only scratching the surface. At nearly 220 lbs, he packs a punch but also has speed to break off chunk plays. Even after extending Saquon Barkley, the Eagles love rotating backs, and Hampton is exactly the kind of downhill threat who can keep defenses honest. That’s a typical Philly move: load up on a position of strength not because you need to, but just because you can.