With the Browns going with a quarterback in Round 1 of this 2025 NFL Mock Draft, they would be smart to give Ward another weapon to throw to.
A coordinated, intelligent route runner with impressive body control attacking the ball in the air, Matthew Golden has been the subject of plenty of buzz in recent weeks. He doesn’t have an elite physical trait, but he’s a well-rounded target who should be a strong complementary starting receiver in the NFL.
The Arizona Cardinals have shown they can compete with anyone, but they’ve also been inconsistent. Strengthening the defensive line could help stabilize their play.
Walter Nolen has elite physical tools and put together a breakout season at Ole Miss in 2024. His speed, power, and urgency make him a potential disruptor at the next level.
The Los Angeles Rams have done a great job maintaining a strong defensive line post-Aaron Donald, but they could still improve at linebacker to take their defense to the next level.
Adding Leonard Floyd should help the Atlanta Falcons’ pass rush, but their defensive front still needs work.
Whether Jalon Walker is a Frankie Luvu-type hybrid linebacker or a pure edge rusher, his athleticism and motor stand out. His speed and energy could bring new life to an NFL defense.
Jim Harbaugh focuses on the trenches, and the Los Angeles Chargers’ offensive line has improved. But they could still use a playmaker at tight end.
Though overshadowed by Warren, Colston Loveland is a top-tier talent. He’s a smooth athlete who stretches the field and thrives on seam routes. His pass-catching ability makes him a strong first-round pick.
With Trent Williams turning 37 this summer and their offensive line struggling in 2024 (ranked 14th in PFSN’s OL+ metric), the 49ers are in a great spot to invest in the trenches early in the 2025 NFL Draft.
If Josh Simmons hadn’t been injured during the regular season, he might have pushed into the OT1 conversation. Regardless, he could still claim that title in April. He moves well for his position, has great body control, and plays with a high football IQ.
Most mock drafts link the Indianapolis Colts to either a tight end or a safety in Round 1. If they can land a top prospect at either position, they’ll be in a great spot.
A second-team CSN All-American, Tyler Warren had a productive year at Penn State. He’s a big-bodied tight end with strong hands, solid ball skills, and the ability to make an every-down impact.
The Carolina Panthers gained momentum late in the 2024 season, but their defense was a weak spot. After making aggressive moves for defensive linemen in free agency, they now have a great chance to address their need at cornerback.
Will Johnson is a complete cornerback with size, speed, fluidity, and instincts. He’s physical in coverage and has a high floor with an even higher ceiling. An injury dropped him behind Hunter in this draft, but on tape, the two are neck and neck.
The Chicago Bears aggressively addressed their offensive line early in the offseason. But with Joe Thuney’s age, Jonah Jackson coming off an injury, and Braxton Jones hitting free agency in 2026, they still need to plan ahead.
Armand Membou has always stood out physically with his length, agility, and power. In 2024, his technique caught up to his athleticism, making him a well-rounded prospect. He could be eased into the lineup as a rookie before eventually starting at tackle or guard.
The Tennessee Titans could take a quarterback with the first pick, but they might be hesitant to move on from Will Levis after just two years, especially in a weak quarterback class. Abdul Carter is an explosive edge rusher who entered the 2024 season with high expectations and exceeded them, which could be too enticing for the Titans to pass.
His speed and agility make him tough for offensive tackles to block, and he’s built with long arms and a deep arsenal of pass-rushing moves. With his combination of elite physical tools, strong tape, and positional value, he’s a worthy No. 1 pick in the 2025 NFL Draft.
