NFL Mock Draft 2025: Expert Predictions and Analysis

1. The NFL Draft Season is Heating Up

The 2025 NFL Draft season is officially in full swing, and the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis is the place to be for teams looking to shape their future with the best college talent. The Athletic’s college football experts have teamed up to bring us a detailed mock draft, predicting how the first round could unfold. From quarterbacks to edge rushers, this year’s draft class is packed with talent, and teams are eager to find their next franchise-changing stars. With no trades allowed in this mock draft, here’s a breakdown of their picks and what they mean for each team.

2. The Top Picks: Elite Talent and Franchise-Changing Players

The Tennessee Titans kick off the mock draft by selecting Cam Ward as their quarterback of the future. Ward’s impressive measurables and arm strength make him the top choice over Shedeur Sanders, a decision that could redefine the Titans’ offense for years to come. The Cleveland Browns, despite needing a quarterback, opt for Abdul Carter, a defensive phenom from Penn State, who could form a fearsome duo with Myles Garrett if he stays. The New York Giants, surprisingly, choose Travis Hunter, the draft’s best prospect, a dynamic cornerback and wide receiver who could be an All-Pro talent. The New England Patriots pick Will Campbell, an elite offensive tackle, to protect their young quarterback Drake Maye, while the Jacksonville Jaguars go for Jalon Walker, a game-changing linebacker to bolster their defense.

3. Defense Reigns Supreme in the Early Picks

The Las Vegas Raiders address their long-term quarterback needs by selecting Shedeur Sanders, a highly accurate and prolific passer. The New York Jets pick Mason Graham, a dominant defensive tackle, to strengthen their front line, while the Carolina Panthers choose Mike Green, an explosive edge rusher, to fix their struggling defense. The New Orleans Saints land Mykel Williams, a physical freak at edge rusher, to add another weapon to their defense. The Chicago Bears address their offensive line with Armand Membou, a powerful tackle, to protect quarterback Caleb Williams. The San Francisco 49ers select Kelvin Banks, a standout tackle, to fortify their line, while the Dallas Cowboys pick Ashton Jeanty, a star running back, to add some excitement to their offense.

4. Mid-Round Picks: Filling Gaps and Building for the Future

The Miami Dolphins choose Malaki Starks, a versatile safety, to shore up their defense, while the Indianapolis Colts pick Tyler Warren, a dynamic tight end, to add another weapon to their offense. The Atlanta Falcons go for Shemar Stewart, a defensive lineman with the size and speed to disrupt opposing offenses. The Arizona Cardinals pick Derrick Harmon, another disruptive defensive tackle, to strengthen their front line. The Cincinnati Bengals land Will Johnson, a cornerback with a knack for reading quarterbacks, to boost their secondary. The Seattle Seahawks select Josh Conerly Jr., a tough and versatile tackle, to help in a division loaded with fierce pass rushers. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers pick Donovan Ezeiruaku, a productive edge rusher, to add depth to their defense.

5. Late-Round Picks: Addressing Needs and Adding Depth

The Denver Broncos select Colston Loveland, a promising tight end, to upgrade their offense, while the Pittsburgh Steelers pick Tetairoa McMillan, a standout wide receiver, to help their quarterback of the future. The Los Angeles Chargers choose Tyler Booker, a dominant guard, to solidify their interior line, while the Green Bay Packers pick JT Tuimoloau, a disruptive edge rusher, to boost their pass rush. The Minnesota Vikings select James Pearce Jr., an athletic edge rusher, to add more weapons to their defense. The Houston Texans pick Josh Simmons, a standout tackle, to protect quarterback C.J. Stroud. The Los Angeles Rams select Emeka Egbuka, a reliable wide receiver, to rebuild their receiving corps, while the Baltimore Ravens pick Donovan Jackson, a versatile lineman, to add depth to their line.

6. Final Picks: Building for the Future

The Detroit Lions select Nic Scourton, a physical edge rusher, to complement Aidan Hutchinson, while the Washington Commanders pick Luther Burden III, a talented wide receiver, to give Jayden Daniels more weapons. The Buffalo Bills choose Nick Emmanwori, a high-energy safety, to pair with Damar Hamlin, and the Kansas City Chiefs select Tyliek Williams, an athletic defensive tackle, to strengthen their front line. Finally, the Philadelphia Eagles pick Jihaad Campbell, a do-it-all linebacker, to add depth to their defense as they look to defend their Super Bowl title.

From franchise-changing quarterbacks to game-wrecking defenders, this mock draft paints a vivid picture of how teams might approach the 2025 NFL Draft. With so much talent available, this year’s draft promises to shape the future of the league in exciting ways.