1. The Tennessee Titans: A Rare Opportunity at the Top
The 2025 NFL Draft is shaping up to be one of the most unpredictable in recent memory, especially when compared to the 2024 draft, where the first three picks were accurately predicted by NFL executives. This year, there seems to be far less consensus, and the stakes are high for teams with premium picks. The Tennessee Titans, holding the No. 1 overall pick for the first time since 1978, are under intense scrutiny. While most mock drafts have the Titans selecting Penn State edge rusher Abdul Carter, there is a strong belief among some executives that the Titans will opt for Miami quarterback Cam Ward instead. The rationale is simple: quarterbacks are the lifeblood of modern NFL success, and passing on a potential franchise QB when you have the chance to handpick one is seen as a mistake.
Executives point out that the Titans are unlikely to settle for a mediocre quarterback in free agency when they have the rare opportunity to draft their quarterback of the future. While Carter is an elite pass-rushing prospect, the need for a long-term solution at quarterback may take precedence. However, there is some dissent, with one executive suggesting that the Titans might prefer Colorado’s Travis Hunter, a versatile two-way star who could be a cornerstone for their defense. But Hunter’s fit in Tennessee’s defense, which values physicality at cornerback, remains a question unless he transitions to wide receiver. Ultimately, the Titans have the luxury of choosing any direction, but the pressure to make the right call is immense.
2. The Cleveland Browns: A High-Risk, High-Reward Pick
The Cleveland Browns, picking second overall, are another team under the microscope. While most executives do not view Colorado quarterback Shedeur Sanders as a top-10 prospect, he has been mocked to the Browns in some scenarios. Sanders’ draft stock is polarizing. Critics point to his tendency to hold the ball too long, lack of elite physical traits, and underwhelming combine interviews. Some even fear that his presence could put more pressure on a coaching staff than alleviate it. However, there are those who believe Sanders’ accuracy and confidence could make him a tempting choice, especially for a team like Cleveland that desperately needs a quarterback.
The Browns’ decision-making process will be crucial here. While some teams might shy away from Sanders due to concerns about his father, Deion Sanders, and the potential distractions that come with his name, Cleveland’s leadership might see an opportunity to draft a quarterback with the potential to elevate their franchise. Executives acknowledge that Sanders’ stock has fluctuated wildly, with some mocks placing him as high as No. 3 and as low as No. 29. The Browns’ willingness to take a gamble on Sanders will depend on their confidence in his ability to grow into a franchise quarterback and their comfort with the scrutiny that comes with drafting him.
3. The New York Giants: Building for the Future
The New York Giants, holding the third pick, find themselves in a familiar position: needing to balance immediate needs with long-term building. While the Giants have already invested in edge rushers like Kavon Thibodeaux and Brian Burns, some executives believe they will double down on the position by selecting Penn State’s Abdul Carter. The rationale is simple: pass rushers are invaluable in the NFL, and having depth at the position can only benefit a team. However, not everyone is convinced. Some argue that the Giants already have enough talent on the edge and should focus on reinforcing their offensive line or adding a dynamic playmaker like Colorado’s Travis Hunter.
Hunter’s versatility as both a wide receiver and cornerback makes him an intriguing option, but his fit in the Giants’ scheme is unclear. If the Giants opt for an offensive lineman, they might be underwhelmed by the lack of elite tackle prospects in this draft. With so many directions to choose from, the Giants’ decision will likely hinge on their confidence in their current roster and their willingness to invest in foundational pieces that can anchor their team for years to come.
4. The New England Patriots: Offensive Priorities
The New England Patriots, picking fourth, are another team with a clear directive: improve the offense. With quarterback Drake Maye entering his second season, the Patriots need to surround him with better talent, whether that means upgrading the offensive line or adding a playmaker at wide receiver. Colorado’s Travis Hunter is a name that has come up frequently in mocks, thanks to his elite athleticism and potential to be a difference-maker on offense. While Hunter’s defensive versatility is tempting, executives believe the Patriots will prioritize his offensive upside, especially given the lack of depth at wide receiver.
However, not everyone is convinced that Hunter is the right choice. Some executives suggest that the Patriots might target a tight end like Tyler Warren, who offers a more physical, Gronk-like presence in the middle of the field. Others believe the Patriots might opt for an offensive lineman, though the lack of elite tackle prospects in this draft makes that less likely. Regardless of the direction, the Patriots’ focus will be on giving Maye the tools he needs to succeed, even if it means reaching for a player who might not be fully polished.
5. The Jacksonville Jaguars: Fortifying the Roster
The Jacksonville Jaguars, picking fifth, are in a position to address one of their few remaining needs. With a young core that includes quarterback Trevor Lawrence and wide receiver Brian Thomas, the Jaguars could use this pick to fortify their offensive line. LSU’s Will Campbell is often mentioned as a potential target, given his athleticism and upside at tackle. However, there is some uncertainty about whether Campbell will develop into a franchise left tackle or whether he might be better suited for guard in the NFL.
If the Jaguars pass on Campbell, they might turn to Michigan defensive tackle Mason Graham, who has been rising up draft boards due to his size and strength. Graham’s ability to anchor the defensive line would give the Jaguars a much-needed presence in the middle, especially if they are unable to address the position in free agency. With so many options on the board, the Jaguars’ decision will likely come down to their confidence in their scouting department and their vision for the future of their roster.
6. The Las Vegas Raiders: A Ground-and-Pound Approach
The Las Vegas Raiders, picking sixth, are one of the most difficult teams to predict. With a ownership group that includes Tom Brady and a coaching staff led by Pete Carroll, the Raiders are likely to take a conservative approach to the draft. While some executives believe the Raiders might target a quarterback, the more likely scenario is that they will focus on building a strong running game. Boise State running back Ashton Jeanty is often mentioned as a potential target, thanks to his explosive speed and ability to break tackles.
Jeanty’s addition would give the Raiders a dynamic presence in the backfield, allowing them to control the clock and ease the pressure on whichever veteran quarterback they bring in via free agency. While some executives question whether a running back is worth a top-10 pick, the Raiders’ commitment to a ground-and-pound approach makes Jeanty a logical fit. With Carroll’s influence, the Raiders are likely to prioritize toughness and physicality, even if it means reaching for a player who might not be a perfect fit for every team.
7. The New York Jets: Desperation at Quarterback
The New York Jets, picking seventh, are in a precarious position. With Tyrod Taylor currently penciled in as their starter, the Jets are desperate to find a long-term solution at quarterback. While most executives believe the Jets will target a quarterback in the draft, there is no consensus on who that quarterback might be. Mississippi’s Jaxson Dart is often mentioned as a potential target, thanks to his athleticism and upside, but not everyone is sold on his readiness to start in the NFL.
Other names, like Louisville’s Tyler Shough, have also been floated as potential targets. Shough’s experience and physical tools make him an intriguing option, but his advanced age and injury history could cause teams to hesitate. Regardless of who the Jets choose, the pressure to get this pick right is immense. With so few appealing veteran options available, the Jets may feel compelled to roll the dice on a quarterback they believe can lead their franchise into the future.
The 2025 NFL Draft is shaping up to be one of the most fascinating in recent memory, with plenty of twists and turns along the way. For teams at the top of the draft, the stakes are high, and the decisions they make now will have lasting implications for years to come.
