Black Monday has arrived, signaling the conclusion of the 2024 regular season. Following the Lions’ statement win in the Sunday night finale in Detroit, 18 teams have wrapped up disappointing campaigns and shifted focus to the offseason. For players, that might mean a trip to Cabo. But for front offices, it’s the start of an extensive evaluation process leading up to their own version of the Super Bowl — the 2025 NFL Draft.
With the draft order for picks 1 through 18 now officially set, we have the unique opportunity to explore the many potential outcomes and scenarios that may unfold. While a lot can — and likely will — change between now and April 24, particularly after the Scouting Combine in February, it’s an exciting time to speculate on how the dominoes may fall based on the current draft order.
1) Tennessee Titans (3-14)
Shedeur Sanders, QB, Colorado
The Will Levis experiment has come to an end in Tennessee. Levis’ brand of football is nothing short of exciting; however, the Titans brass are looking for something with a little more upside and a lot less risk.
Furthermore, head coach Brian Callahan has made it clear that neither Levis nor journeyman Mason Rudolph is the long-term answer at QB.
Enter Shedeur Sanders. The son of “Prime Time” Deion Sanders, Shedeur has all of the traits and pedigree to be an elite NFL quarterback.
Sanders has a live arm capable of layering throws with pinpoint accuracy and precision. His strong, balanced lower body allows him to fend off pressure and deliver accurate off-platform throws. Whether operating in rhythm or improvising off-schedule, Sanders excels. His pocket mobility and ability to extend plays with his legs, paired with his toughness and grit, make him an ideal fit to be the first player off the board on draft night.
2) Cleveland Browns (3-14)
Cameron Ward, QB, Miami
Expect the Browns to receive substantial trade offers from both the New York Giants and the Las Vegas Raiders, who won their way out of the top two selections in this draft. While general manager Andrew Berry might entertain such offers, the Browns are in a rare position to rectify past missteps following one of the most scrutinized trades in NFL history.
Financially constrained by Deshaun Watson’s $72 million cap hit over the next two seasons (per Spotrac), the Browns are nearly paralyzed in terms of roster flexibility. The second overall pick offers them a potential franchise quarterback on a cost-effective rookie deal, a chance to reset their trajectory. Bringing in a player like Ward at this position would offer far greater upside than relying on veterans like Joe Flacco or Jameis Winston.
He boasts a strong arm, exceptional pocket presence, and the ability to deliver accurate throws with both touch and velocity when he has a solid base. His ability to throw from multiple body angles and excel in pull-to-run or pull-to-throw situations makes him a dual-threat weapon. Ward’s dynamic skill set could provide immediate competition for Watson, positioning him as a potential starter and offering Cleveland a path forward.
3) New York Giants (3-14)
Travis Hunter, WR/DB, Colorado
Still in desperate need of a franchise quarterback, the Giants find themselves on the outside looking in and will have to address their need either in a later round or outside of the draft altogether. Taking the third-ranked quarterback would simply be a drastic reach at this point in the draft.
The only way to operate with both quarterbacks off the board is to take the best player available. Travis Hunter is elite value with the third overall selection and is one of the most unique prospects to enter the NFL Draft.
The 2024 Heisman Trophy winner was a dynamic presence on both the offensive and defensive sides of the ball and has yet to declare a position for the NFL Draft, leaving the door open for him to play both ways as a pro.
As a receiver, Hunter has an exceptional feel for space, separation speed, smooth and efficient change of direction, elite body control, strong and natural hands, and always finds a way to come down with the football. He is a dynamic playmaker who always rises to the occasion. Hunter plays to win.
On the defensive side, Hunter is equally impressive. A physical and willing tackler, he showcases elite ball skills, sharp instincts, and quick, decisive break ability. Hunter has a knack for making plays regardless of his position. He plays to win.
Whether he focuses on one position or continues his two-way dominance, Hunter is a can’t-miss prospect and an exceptional value at No. 3 overall.
4) New England Patriots (4-13)
Kelvin Banks Jr., OT, Texas
New England landed their franchise quarterback a year ago, drafting Drake Maye third overall. Despite the struggles of playing behind one of the league’s worst offensive lines, which allowed a staggering 52 sacks, Maye still managed to shine as a rookie. It’s a testament to his talent, but this level of protection is unsustainable for both success and longevity — just ask Andrew Luck.
Enter Banks, a 20-year-old phenom with a 6’4”, 320-pound frame and elite athleticism. His combination of agility and smooth movement makes him a standout, particularly in the run game, where he thrives when pulling and operating in space.
Banks plays with a strong base, light feet, and excellent hand placement, enabling him to dominate at the point of attack while avoiding penalties. He is a very young and skilled prospect who boasts immense upside.
5) Jacksonville Jaguars (4-13)
Abdul Carter, EDGE, Penn State
The Jaguars once again find themselves near the top of the draft order, a reflection of a struggling franchise and defensive unit that struggled mightily in 2024, recording just 34 sacks — one of the league’s worst totals. With the fifth overall pick, Jacksonville has a prime opportunity to address this glaring weakness by selecting a premier player at one of the NFL’s most valuable positions.
Carter is a premier pass rusher who boasts positional flexibility. The 6’3″, 251-pound edge rusher transitioned from inside linebacker to full-time edge rusher for the 2024 season with the Nittany Lions. He is a disruptive player with elite get-off speed, who is lethal when he gets his pad level lower. Pairing him in a room with Josh Hines-Allen and Travon Walker would give the Jaguars ample resources to fortify a unit desperate for rejuvenation.
6) Las Vegas Raiders (4-13)
Ashton Jeanty, RB, Boise State
The Raiders opted to move on from running back Josh Jacobs just a year after he earned the rushing crown for the Silver and Black, with hopes that Zamir White could replicate similar production. Jacobs, part of the running back renaissance, continued to excel in Green Bay while White regressed, and the Raiders churned out the league’s worst rushing offense.
It’s safe to assume the Raiders now hold a brand new appreciation for the value of that position, especially on a unit that lacks a franchise quarterback.
The 2024 Heisman Trophy runner-up is a bona fide blue-chip prospect and generational talent. He is a dynamic playmaker who possesses elite contact balance, remarkable power and durability, dangerous top-end speed, and the ability to flip the field on a single cut. He has the ability to be an instant game-changer and a foundational piece for a rebuilding organization.
7) New York Jets (5-12)
Will Campbell, OT, LSU
The Jets find themselves in turmoil after the brief and underwhelming Aaron Rodgers era, with little to show for their all-in approach. In a move that saw them add aging veterans to an already mediocre roster, they now face yet another rebuild. As with any rebuild, the focus will shift to the trenches, ensuring solid protection for whichever quarterback takes the reins for Gang Green in 2025.
At 6’6” and 323 pounds, Campbell boasts an elite frame, paired with a strong base, quick feet, and the ability to generate power with every move. His anchor is solid, and his hands are incredibly strong, making him a dominant presence up front. By pairing Campbell with 2024 first-round pick Olu Fashanu, the Jets will set themselves up to strengthen the foundation and take a longer-term approach to their rebuilding efforts.
8) Carolina Panthers (5-12)
Mason Graham, DT, Michigan
Dave Canales and the Panthers finished strong down the stretch, building optimism for the future. With needs across the entire roster, the Panthers are in a position to select the best player available, regardless of position, and fill a major void.
Graham stands out as one of the most complete football players in this draft class. A disciplined defender, he excels against the run and is a powerful pass rusher. He consistently establishes leverage, utilizes intentional hand placement, and is a relentless finisher. As Canales continues to establish his culture, Graham appears to be the ideal cornerstone to build around.
9) New Orleans Saints (5-12)
Mykel Williams, EDGE, Georgia
After 14 seasons, franchise legend Cam Jordan is nearing the end of his illustrious NFL career. Even if he opts to return for a 15th season in New Orleans, the pass rush could certainly benefit from additional firepower around him.
Williams is an explosive pass rusher with all the traits needed to become one of the league’s elite. His combination of speed and power is impressive, but it’s his ability to bend, collapse his frame, and establish leverage that sets him apart. Whether using savvy moves or overwhelming offensive linemen with a powerful bull rush, he’s a dynamic talent.
Williams is simply too talented for the Saints to pass on as they look to bolster their foundation for the future.
10) Chicago Bears (5-12)
Josh Simmons, OT, Ohio State
General manager Ryan Poles made a concerted effort in the 2024 offseason to surround rookie quarterback Caleb Williams with playmakers, adding running back D’Andre Swift and receivers Keenan Allen and Rome Odunze.
However, the offensive line didn’t receive the same level of attention, and it quickly became apparent. Williams and the Bears’ offense came dangerously close to breaking the single-season record for most sacks allowed (68). It’s no secret: the Bears are in dire need of reinforcements up front.
Simmons suffered a season-ending knee injury in the October loss to Oregon. His agent, Drew Rosenhaus, has stated that Simmons is expected to be cleared and ready to practice by training camp in August. Had Simmons never gotten hurt, he’d likely be a top-five selection. Now, the Bears can select a premier talent at 10th overall.
The 6’5”, 310-pound tackle is an exceptional athlete and natural bender with quick and light feet. He plays with tight hands, maintains leverage and position, and is lethal when blocking in the open field. He’s exactly the kind of tackle Williams needs. This is a no-brainer for the Bears.
11) San Francisco 49ers (6-11)
Will Johnson, CB, Michigan
Without question, John Lynch and the 49ers never anticipated being in a position to select a blue-chip prospect. Yet, here they are with the golden opportunity to address an immediate need by selecting the best cornerback in the draft.
This two-time All-American’s 2024 season was cut short due to turf toe, sidelining him for the final five games. His injury status is unlikely to hinder his draft stock.
Johnson is a ball hawk. With nine career interceptions, he’s proven himself as one of the draft’s elite defensive backs. Johnson has great eye discipline, sharp instincts, savvy ball skills, and breaks on the ball with precision and confidence. He’s not shy about being involved in the run game, either. He is a physical tackler in the run game and doesn’t shy away from contact. Johnson’s not just an instant-impact player; he’s a tone-setter.
12) Dallas Cowboys (7-10)
Tetairoa McMillan, WR, Arizona
Jerry Jones has rarely been one to make a splash in the offseason. However, in 2022, they surprisingly traded then four-time Pro Bowl wide receiver Amari Cooper to the Cleveland Browns, banking on the growth and development of Michael Gallup as the sidekick to superstar CeeDee Lamb.
That plan flopped, and Gallup is no longer a Cowboy. Now, the Cowboys, with needs across the roster, are in a position to draft one of the top wide receivers available.
At 6’5”, McMillan is the definition of a mismatch nightmare for defensive backs. He’s far more than a token red-zone weapon — he’s a smooth, polished receiver with excellent body control and the ability to transition in and out of breaks fluidly. He’s a physical player who craves the contested catch and is an elite tracker of the football.
His play has a striking resemblance to that of the Colts’ Michael Pittman Jr. and would be a great complement to Lamb and Jalen Tolbert.
13) Miami Dolphins (8-9)
Malaki Starks, S, Georgia
Veteran safety Jordan Poyer’s contract expires at the end of the 2024-2025 campaign. Even if he doesn’t retire, the Dolphins will unlikely bring back the 33-year-old former All-Pro without any competition. It would be even more improbable for Miami to look past the clear-cut best safety in the draft at this pick.
Starks is an instinctive centerfielder with natural ball skills, highlighted by his six career interceptions, including his lone 2024 pick — an acrobatic grab against Clemson in the season opener. He plays with decisiveness, showcasing excellent closing speed, relentless pursuit, and physicality as a run defender. For a defensive unit that likely needs a revamp, Starks would be a great piece to build around.
14) Indianapolis Colts (8-9)
Tyler Warren, TE, Penn State
Some picks simply make sense, and Warren to the Colts feels like one of them. The connection is almost poetic.
Warren, wearing No. 44 for the Nittany Lions, evokes memories of Dallas Clark, the beloved No. 44 of old. General manager Chris Ballard worked the phones during the 2024 NFL Draft seeking a deal to land Georgia’s Brock Bowers, but nobody was willing to budge, and the Raiders selected the rookie Pro Bowler two picks ahead of Indy’s slot.
The 6’6”, 261-pound tight end is a Colt if I’ve ever seen one. The blue-chip prospect does everything exceptionally well. He is a fearless competitor, dominant in the run game, and a physical yet savvy receiver with dangerous run-after-the-catch potential. A no-brainer for the Colts in April.
15) Atlanta Falcons (8-9)
Nic Scourton, EDGE, Texas A&M
General manager Terry Fontenot made a bold move last year, selecting quarterback Michael Penix Jr. eighth overall. While the decision sparked plenty of debate, it also meant passing on top pass rushers like Jared Verse and Laiatu Latu — players who have since had strong rookie campaigns at a position the Falcons desperately need to improve.
It wouldn’t be out of character for Terry Fontenot to consider taking another quarterback, like Jalen Milroe — just kidding.
It’s clear that pass rusher has to be the top priority, especially at this point in the draft. The 6’4″, 285-pound pass rusher formerly of Purdue made an immediate impact in his first year in the SEC.
He’s the complete package: an elite block shedder, a smooth and natural bender, powerful enough to walk defenders back, and with excellent lateral speed. His ability to dominate the line of scrimmage is undeniable. He’s the type of player who can make an immediate difference from Day 1.
16) Arizona Cardinals (8-9)
Derrick Harmon, DT, Oregon
The Cardinals showed considerable growth in their second season under Jonathan Gannon, with the foundation being laid for a bright future under both Gannon and general manager Monti Ossenfort. After a highly successful draft class just a year ago, which featured Marvin Harrison Jr., continuing to build on that momentum by adding another cornerstone piece at a premium position is crucial.
Harmon is an absolute powerhouse. A strong, stout, and powerful interior lineman, he possesses a solid base, an explosive initial punch, and plays with a low, smooth posture that minimizes his large frame. At 310 pounds, he’s surprisingly nimble, with the ability to collapse and shrink the pocket. A tenacious block-shedder and elite run defender, it’s nearly impossible to find a player of his size who moves both vertically and laterally as well as he can.
17) Cincinnati Bengals (9-8)
James Pearce Jr., EDGE, Tennessee
General manager Duke Tobin and the Bengals’ organization have squandered one of the greatest single-season efforts of our generation by MVP candidate Joe Burrow. Weekly heroics performed by Burrow and Ja’Marr Chase couldn’t overcome a severely lackluster defense and consistent special-teams woes.
While the Bengals hit on Burrow and Chase, they’ve failed to consistently draft, develop, and retain premier talent overall (see: Joe Mixon, Jessie Bates III). This lack of sustained roster-building is why Who Dey are once again left on the outside looking in.
Pearce overwhelms tackles with speed and finesse, but be careful not to underestimate his power. He has no problem walking tackles straight back into the pocket. He’s dominant with his speed and athleticism and lethal on stunts. He’s a piece the Bengals could’ve used this year but will hopefully unleash for years to come.
18) Seattle Seahawks (10-7)
Jalon Walker, EDGE/LB, Georgia
The 2024 Butkus Award recipient is a versatile EDGE/LB hybrid who would be an excellent fit in Mike Macdonald’s defensive scheme.
Walker is a quick, explosive rusher who consistently disrupts the backfield, but his athleticism allows him to seamlessly transition between edge rusher and linebacker. He’s a physical tackler with great strength, demonstrating discipline and conviction in his play.
As a dynamic chess piece, he could be a matchup nightmare all over the field — one that GM John Schneider would likely find too valuable to pass up.
19) Houston Texans (10-7)
Walter Nolen, DT, Ole Miss
Winning back-to-back AFC South titles, DeMeco Ryans and Nick Caserio are building something special in the Lone Star State. Caserio, who worked his way up the ranks in the Patriots organization under the guidance of Bill Belichick, Michael Lombardi, and Scott Pioli, understands the importance of constructing and maintaining a roster from the inside out.
Nolen is yet another dynamic interior defensive lineman. Despite weighing in at 305 pounds, Nolen is fast, fluid, and explosive. He can collapse the pocket in an instant and is a tenacious block-shedder with a lightning-quick get-off. When he’s at his best, Nolen can be completely dominant.
In a division where he’ll need to chase down quarterbacks like Shedeur Sanders and Anthony Richardson twice a year, Nolen’s skill set could prove invaluable, making him a tough player to pass up at pick No. 19.
20) Tampa Bay Buccaneers (10-7)
Shavon Revel Jr., CB, East Carolina
Todd Bowles is one of the most respected defensive coaches in the NFL, but it’s no secret that the Buccaneers’ secondary is in need of more firepower. Tampa Bay currently ranks as the third-worst passing defense in the league, allowing a staggering 244 yards per game.
Revel boasts an elite frame at 6’3″, 193 pounds. He plays with relentless effort and has a natural instinct for the football. A physical and punishing run defender, he is often in the right position and displays sharp instincts in pass coverage. Without a doubt, Revel is a playmaker.
Though he suffered a season-ending ACL injury in practice after just three games in 2024, he remains a highly touted prospect, even coming from a mid-major program.
21) Denver Broncos (10-7)
Luther Burden III, WR, Missouri
Sean Payton and the Broncos ended one of the longest playoff droughts in the league with a dominant home victory over Carson Wentz and the Kansas City Chiefs. It was a remarkable turnaround for the second-year coach and rookie quarterback Bo Nix, who was the sixth of six quarterbacks selected in the first round just a year ago.
Now, the Broncos are poised to add one of the elite playmakers in this draft class to complement Nix.
Burden III is an exceptionally dynamic talent capable of stretching the field. His smooth acceleration and sharp route running, combined with outstanding body control, make him a dangerous weapon. Pairing him with Courtland Sutton would give the Broncos a lethal receiving duo, forcing defenses to adjust and balance their coverage schemes.
22) Pittsburgh Steelers (10-7)
Emeka Egbuka, WR, Ohio State
The Steelers are one of the most consistent and steady organizations in all of football, with a history of immense success at drafting receivers. It’s likely they will continue that trend in 2025.
Egbuka is a refined and reliable prospect with a natural feel for space and positional versatility. He’s a smooth route runner with excellent body control, thriving in high-pressure moments when it matters most. For a Steelers offense searching for consistency and another playmaking threat alongside George Pickens, Egbuka could be the perfect solution to alleviate the strain on their underwhelming passing attack.
23) Los Angeles Rams (10-7)
Cameron Williams, OT, Texas
Les Snead broke a nearly decade-long first-round drought last year, selecting his first first-round pick since drafting Jared Goff in 2016. After years of trading away picks for stars like Jalen Ramsey and Matthew Stafford, Snead and the Rams hit a home run with Jared Verse at pick 19 in 2024. Now, they look to add another cornerstone piece to solidify the foundation for the future.
With veteran Rob Havenstein nearing the twilight of his career, the Rams can’t afford to pass on the opportunity to secure a long-term solution at offensive tackle — an increasingly rare commodity as the draft progresses.
Williams, a 6’5″, 335-pound behemoth, combines athleticism and strength in a way that stands out. He excels as a dynamic run blocker, particularly when pulling, and pairs his physicality with excellent footwork, a solid base, and a keen understanding of leverage and positioning. His tight hand placement and strong pass protection make him a plug-and-play option from Day 1, perfectly suited to anchor the Rams’ offensive line for years to come.
24) Green Bay Packers (11-6)
Tyleik Williams, DT, Ohio State
To Aaron Rodgers’ dismay, last year’s selection of tackle Jordan Morgan ended a 12-year streak of choosing defensive players in the first round of the draft, with the lone exception being quarterback Jordan Love in 2020. With defensive tackle Kenny Clark entering the later stages of his career, the Packers are likely to seize the opportunity to add another game-wrecking defensive talent.
Williams is an incredibly powerful and disruptive force who dominates the line of scrimmage. He is an elite run stuffer, with the ability to displace blockers and collapse the pocket in passing situations.
General manager Brian Gutekunst understands the physicality required in the NFC North and knows how crucial it is to control the trenches, especially in inclement postseason weather. Coming from a premier program in the Big Ten, Williams appears tailor-made for the Green Bay Packers.
25) Los Angeles Chargers (11-6)
Colston Loveland, TE, Michigan
A playoff appearance for the Chargers in Jim Harbaugh’s first year should come as no surprise. Harbaugh is a dynamic leader and masterful culture builder, relentlessly focused on bringing the right people into his organization to instill his winning mentality.
Some picks are simply too obvious, and the 6’5″, 3-star tight end that Harbaugh personally recruited to Michigan in 2022 is a perfect fit for the Chargers in Round 1.
Loveland, a 2024 Mackey Award finalist, is a smooth, natural receiver with exceptional body control and the ability to high-point the ball. He’s a consistent threat over the middle and versatile enough to line up outside or in-line to contribute to the run game. A true go-getter, Loveland is a do-it-all player who would quickly become any quarterback’s best friend.
26) Washington Commanders (12-5)
Tre Harris, WR, Ole Miss
The Commanders struck gold with head coach Dan Quinn and quarterback Jayden Daniels. As they continue to build upon their already strong foundation, it’s clear that Daniels could use another weapon to complement Terry McLaurin.
The 6’3”, 210-pound playmaker from Ole Miss is a proven commodity. Over the last three seasons, he recorded over 900 yards each year, surpassing the 1,000-yard mark in 2024. He’s a smooth route runner with exceptional body control and shows poise when making catches in traffic.
While adding another playmaker for the expected Offensive Rookie of the Year might seem like a luxury, the Commanders are ahead of schedule in their rebuild. This pick isn’t just a bonus — it’s a strategic move to further solidify their bright future.
27) Baltimore Ravens (12-5)
Tyler Booker, OL, Alabama
A perennial contender in the AFC for much of the past two decades, general manager Eric DeCosta and the Ravens have built a strong tradition of selecting the best player available.
Booker, at 6’5” and 325 pounds, embodies that philosophy. Just shy of 21 years old — his birthday falling only two weeks before the draft — Booker is a young, dynamic talent with immense upside. He’s a powerful presence in both pass protection and the run game, excelling at delivering a dominant first punch while maintaining excellent pad level.
Adding him to an already formidable offensive line would not only bolster Baltimore’s front but also provide much-needed depth and long-term stability to one of the team’s most crucial units.
28) Philadelphia Eagles (14-3)
Jihaad Campbell, LB, Alabama
Howie Roseman has had an incredibly successful tenure as general manager for the Philadelphia Eagles. Why? He simply drafts good football players, regardless of where they are slotted. Here, at pick 29, the Eagles have the opportunity to select yet another pure football player from Alabama.
Campbell is a pure off-the-ball linebacker. Instinctive, intuitive, and disciplined, he excels at getting his eyes in the right place, reacting quickly, and making decisive plays. His conviction makes him a reliable tackler and a perfect fit for a defense looking to add a steady, impactful presence.
29) Buffalo Bills (13-4)
Shemar Stewart, EDGE, Texas A&M
General managers like Brandon Beane recognize that you can never have too many pass rushers. While talent evaluators often gravitate toward physical traits over experience and production, the demand for elite pass rushers remains constant.
Stewart, despite recording only 1.5 sacks in 2024, possesses the ideal frame at 6’6” with impressive arm length and remarkable athleticism, placing him squarely in the first-round conversation. His performance at the NFL Scouting Combine could further boost his draft stock.
For teams with the depth that allows the necessary patience to grow and develop a young prospect, Stewart offers immense upside, making Buffalo an ideal landing spot for this raw, yet highly tantalizing talent.
30) Minnesota Vikings (14-3)
Benjamin Morrison, CB, Notre Dame
Although starting cornerbacks Stephon Gilmore and Shaquil Griffin have excelled, the fountain of youth remains a myth. Therefore, general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah will likely need to address the cornerback position in April.
Morrison, a 6’4″, 190-pound lockdown cornerback from Notre Dame, would be a blue-chip prospect had he not suffered a season-ending hip injury against Stanford earlier this fall. Still, he’s a highly refined player with sharp technique, smooth hips and feet, and great eye discipline and instincts. Morrison excels in man coverage and plays with a finishers’ mentality.
Barring any medical setbacks, he’s an immediate plug-and-play prospect. Landing a player with his skill set at this point in the draft is elite value, even if you have to be patient through his recovery.
31) Detroit Lions (15-2)
Kenneth Grant, DT, Michigan
Brad Holmes has quickly established himself as one of the league’s premier talent evaluators, spearheading one of the most impressive organizational turnarounds in recent history. Holmes has already added cornerstone pieces like Penei Sewell and Aidan Hutchinson to the roster, and now the Lions are looking to address needs at cornerback and defensive line depth.
With the top cornerbacks already off the board, the Lions have an opportunity to draft another standout defensive lineman from Michigan. Sound familiar?
Grant, a 6’3″, 339-pound game-wrecker, brings a rare combination of athleticism and power to the table. He boasts a powerful first punch, an explosive first step, and the ability to disrupt the pocket from the interior. A strong block shedder with exceptional instincts, Grant has all the tools to become a stalwart on this defensive line.
Paired with Alim McNeill on the interior, he could help form one of the league’s most dominant defensive fronts, further solidifying the Lions’ defense for years to come.
32) Kansas City Chiefs (15-2)
Emery Jones, OT, LSU
The saying goes, “The Chiefs are still the Chiefs.” Despite a revolving door at left tackle that was temporarily stabilized when All-Pro guard Joe Thuney volunteered to move out and fill the gap, general manager Brett Veach is well aware that he needs to do more than just Band-Aid their offensive line issues.
Jones, who will be 21 years old and one month come draft day, could be the answer for years to come.
A two-time second-team All-SEC selection, Jones has started 36 games in his collegiate career. He’s a smooth athlete with a strong, stable base, and his technique stands out. He’s often in ideal position, exceptionally strong in pass protection, and mirrors defenders with his feet rather than relying on lean or reach. His ability to pull and operate in the open field further showcases his versatility.
Jones offers an immediate plug-and-play option for the Chiefs’ offensive line.