The Super Bowl is right around the corner, which means teams are already doing their homework on who they should be drafting come April. With a litany of offseason draft activities and benchmarks that will shape NFL Draft decision, we have a lot of inputs left to complete our prospect profiles.
Still, we can take many of the draft hopefuls’ bodies of work thus far and look at what could shape up to be one of the more interesting drafts in the last few years. With a quarterback class that pales in comparison to last year’s and a running back class that has the potential to replenish many of the backfields around the league, there will be plenty of surprises in this year’s draft.
As a reminder this is a first-round mock indicative of how I expect the draft to go, not necessarily how I would rank these players in pure talent or skill set.
1) Tennessee Titans: Cam Ward, QB, Miami (FL)
The Titans are no strangers to going all in on playmaking quarterbacks. This year they do it again by selecting Miami standout Cam Ward. Ward excels at pushing the ball downfield and has the athleticism to move the ball with his legs when plays fall apart.
The Titans have spent the last two drafts investing heavily in their offensive line, and that could set up their new signal-caller for early career success despite a lack of elite pass-catching options.
Ward has plenty of experience as a fifth-year college player, a level of experience that’s benefited young quarterbacks such as Jayden Daniels and Bo Nix as recently as this past season.
Ward is a tier or even two below Daniels in my current prospect grading, but the potential is palpable. His mechanics are also sound, so the real questions about him at the next level involve his decision-making and accuracy.
2) Cleveland Browns: Abdul Carter, EDGE, Penn State
The Browns still don’t seem to have a way out of the quarterback nightmare they got themselves into with Deshaun Watson. Additionally, considering Myles Garrett’s recent request to be traded, they are once again a team without a clear path forward.
When a team finds itself at the bottom of a rebuild, it never hurts to invest in high-value positions like EDGE rusher.
Enter Abdul Carter. Carter can immediately step in as the heir to Garrett. He displays incredible athleticism and quickness off the edge. Carter generates pressure with an aggressive burst and strong pursuit.
He is less of the bulldozer that Cleveland has grown accustomed to, but he stays fluid and is developing an increasingly impressive variety of pass rush moves.
3) New York Giants: Shedeur Sanders, QB, Colorado
The Giants, in an attempt to separate themselves even further from Daniel Jones, select his polar opposite in Shedeur Sanders.
He will come with the sideshow and distractions of the Sanders name, but there are only two places I see that working in — New York is one and Las Vegas, which is also a candidate to try and move up for Sanders, is the other.
Sanders is the most accurate passer in the class and has the mobility to extend plays. His arm strength is something that many call into question, but having Malik Nabers as his No. 1 receiver naturally ups the chances of early career success.
The biggest obstacle for Sanders will be his awareness of pressure. He tends to hold on to the ball too long and can sometimes move into pressure, rather than away from it.
4) New England Patriots: Travis Hunter, CB/WR, Colorado
Travis Hunter is the best all around player in this draft class, and it’s not particularly close. The questions regarding what position he’ll play in the NFL, as well as other teams’ QB needs, allow him to fall into the laps of Mike Vrabel, Drake Maye, and the new-look Patriots.
Hunter is the best cornerback in this class, and at worst, he is the second-best wide receiver. His best comparison may be college head coach Deion Sanders, but Hunter is more of a threat on offense. As much of a spectacle it would be to see Hunter regularly play both sides of the ball, it is unlikely any NFL team allows that to happen for the sake of his longevity.
My bet is that we see Hunter find his home as a defensive back, with some offensive packages sprinkled in here and there. Either way, the Patriots get a steal with the fourth pick in the draft. Pairing Hunter with Christian Gonzalez gives New England one of the best young cornerback tandems in the NFL. Additionally, every time he does line up on offense, Hunter would likely serve as Drake Maye’s top option.
Hunter offers elite athleticism. He displays strong ball skills in coverage and as a receiver. The one thing that jumps off the screen when watching his tape is Hunter’s body control. He can do things few others can in contested-catch situations and has an impressive catch radius as well. If you are looking for one crack in his armor, it would be his play strength when going against NFL-caliber receivers and defenders.
5) Jacksonville Jaguars: Mason Graham, IDL, Michigan
The Jaguars have a glaring need at defensive line. They have consistently lacked toughness on defense, and the addition of Mason Graham fixes that from the jump.
Graham, a powerful interior defender with quickness off the snap and solid disruptive moves, has the skill set to be a perennial Pro Bowler and anchor of a defense. While his power in the trenches is evident to anyone who watches Graham, the difference-maker for him is his football IQ.
New head coach Liam Coen also seems to be content enough with the offensive weapons enough to push those needs to later in the draft.
6) Las Vegas Raiders: Will Johnson, DB, Michigan
The Raiders will undoubtedly spend a lot of this offseason doing their homework on available quarterbacks, both those in the draft and free-agent options such as Sam Darnold. Assuming Las Vegas is unable to move up for Sanders, the Raiders will fill needs elsewhere on the roster.
Will Johnson could end up not making it to the sixth pick, as he is that talented. Yet, assuming he does, the Raiders snag a lockdown corner as they look to improve a defense that already sports star edge rusher Maxx Crosby.
Johnson is an instinctual player. He has an impressive understanding of route concepts and reacts quickly. The one area where he could use some improvement is his tendency to jump routes. In college, he was able to lean on his athleticism to recover in those scenarios, but he can’t rely on that at the pro level.
7) New York Jets: Will Campbell, OT, LSU
Aaron Glenn and the Jets have a decision to make with Aaron Rodgers and the future of the team’s quarterback position. The options remain limited, but if Glenn learned anything from this time with the Lions, he knows how important building the trenches is to the success of a team.
Will Campbell shows strong blocking fundamentals and balanced footwork. His pass protection is generally sound, but he needs to continue refining his lateral quickness and technique to counter faster, more agile defenders. He is a candidate to move inside if a team has concerns about his length. Campbell would help round out what is already one of the more promising young offensive lines in the NFL.
8) Carolina Panthers: Tetairoa McMillan, WR, Arizona
The Panthers’ struggles persisted for much of the season. The good news is Bryce Young emerged in the latter part of the season and gave some hope to Carolina fans. The one thing that’s evident is that the Panthers are in desperate need of a true alpha wide receiver.
Tetairoa McMillan is the prototype for an NFL X receiver at 6’5 and 215 lbs. He shows impressive body control and strength. He also excels at picking up yardage after the catch, better than you would expect for a player with his frame.
He has enough speed to be dangerous, even though he isn’t likely to be running away from NFL defenders — think Tee Higgins.
9) New Orleans Saints: James Pearce Jr., EDGE, Tennessee
The Saints will need to replace Cam Jordan sooner than later, and it never hurts for a team facing cap struggles to build the trenches with long-term cheap assets in the first round.
James Pearce Jr. possesses explosive speed and quickness off the edge. His strong first step is a key asset, though he would benefit from refining his leverage and technique to better handle power moves from blockers.
10) Chicago Bears: Ashton Jeanty, RB, Boise State
It’s no secret that the Bears need to address their offensive line. With the current list of players available via free agency, I would not be surprised to see them add some key pieces like Trey Smith, Will Fries, or Kevin Zeitler before the draft. This would give them flexibility in the first round and the ability to target a center in the second round.
Ashton Jeanty is a nimble and agile runner with excellent vision. His ability to identify and exploit running lanes is impressive. He forced the most missed tackles in a single season in FBS history last season with 163. For context, Bijan Robinson forced 112 in 2022. In Jeanty, Ben Johnson gets his hand-picked dynamic weapon on offense.
11) San Francisco 49ers: Malaki Starks, DB, Georgia
The Niners’ defense needs help in the secondary. They can add one of the most versatile defensive backs in the class in Malaki Starks with their first pick in the draft.
Starks boasts impressive quickness and ball-hawking skills, as well as the frame and physicality to be an impact player in every phase of the game. His football IQ is also frequently on display when diagnosing play concepts.
12) Dallas Cowboys: Shemar Stewart, EDGE, Texas A&M
Shemar Stewart is a big-bodied athlete. He provides the Cowboys’ defense with the spark they need while also making them more versatile. Stewart stands out with an explosive first step and relentless energy as a pass rusher.
His ability to disrupt plays early is a key strength, though focusing on hand usage and maintaining balance will make him more effective at the next level. Pairing Stewart with Micah Parsons makes for a terrifying tandem heading into the 2025 season.
13) Miami Dolphins: Kelvin Banks Jr., OT, Texas
If the Bears pass on Ashton Jeanty, I would not be surprised to see Kelvin Banks Jr. as the pick at No. 10. That being said, if Banks does fall outside the top 10, the Dolphins are a prime landing spot due to their need of a lineman with his skill set. Banks is technically sound with robust strength in pass protection.
He puts on a clinic with his footwork both against the run and the pass, and his experience makes him one of the more reliable options in the first round. There are some questions about where he will fit best in the NFL, but whether he slots in as a tackle or guard, he should be a mainstay of an offensive line in no time.
14) Indianapolis Colts: Josh Simmons, OT, Ohio State
The popular selection for the Colts right now is Tyler Warren, and I was tempted to go in that direction myself. The reality is the Colts need to continue to bolster their offensive line more than they need another pass catcher, especially with the current iteration of Anthony Richardson.
Josh Simmons displays refined technique and solid physicality in pass protection. He is effective in both run blocking and pass schemes. He has quick feet, and when healthy, is one of the more athletic tackles in this draft.
The only reason he is not a consensus top-10 pick is due to the fact he is recovering from a season-ending knee injury that may delay his NFL debut. The Colts can afford to let Simmons wait, and when he does return, they have more depth and flexibility in the trenches to protect their young, oft-injured quarterback, as well as block for veteran running back Jonathan Taylor.
15) Atlanta Falcons: Mykel Williams, EDGE, Georgia
The Falcons fielded one of the league’s worst pass rushes this past season, so adding an athletic EDGE rusher is a no-brainer at No. 15. Mykel Williams is one of my favorite players in this draft. He has some developing to do if he wants to reach his full potential, but all the physical traits are there.
Williams combines speed and power to generate pressure off the edge. His length is ideal for an edge rusher, and he has the prototypical size to win at the next level. Williams’ ability to quickly diagnose plays is a plus trait, but refining his shedding techniques and balance against physical opponents will be important in order to take the next step.
16) Arizona Cardinals: Jalon Walker, LB, Georgia
The Cardinals surprised a lot of people this past season with how well they were able to keep up with some of the top teams in the league. That being said, they still needed some improvement on the defensive side of the ball.
Jalon Walker is a versatile linebacker with solid athleticism and coverage skills who can also play on the edge. He shows good agility in navigating the field. He will need to hone his tackling technique and consistency in reading plays, as both will be key for his development. Some teams may consider him as a tweener, which is why he falls outside the top 15.
17) Cincinnati Bengals: Mike Green, EDGE, Marshall
The Bengals are looking for answers after a down season. As they navigate the contracts for their dynamic pass-catching duo, Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins, they will need to find cap space elsewhere. One way to do that is investing in high-,value positions in the draft to lock in rookie contracts.
Mike Green brings high energy and an aggressive pass-rushing style. His bend and twitch at the position have allowed him to be highly productive during his college career. While his athleticism can cover some of his rawness, he is inexperienced as a redshirt sophomore and will need some time to learn on the job.
If the Bengals are willing to be a little patient with his development, he may repay them as a game-changing defender for years to come.
18) Seattle Seahawks: Emeka Egbuka, WR, Ohio State
The Seahawks made the surprising decision to move on from Ryan Grubb as their offensive coordinator after just one season.
Grubb unleashed Jaxon Smith-Njigba and helped the Seahawks’ offense come back to life after a down season in 2023. Still, they turn the page and welcome Klint Kubiak, whose arrival prompts plenty of excitement, especially for Seattle’s passing attack.
It is likely that we see at least one of Tyler Lockett and DK Metcalf moved this offseason. Smith-Njigba has claimed the top wide receiver role for this team, but that won’t be enough if the Seahawks want to win this division.
Emeka Egbuka offers reliable hands and route running out of the slot and could fit perfectly alongside his former college teammate in JSN. Egbuka set a school record for catches at Ohio State and has consistently been a difference-maker for the Buckeyes.
Last season, I had him ranked as my WR5 behind Brian Thomas Jr.; this year, he lands as my WR4 in the class (assuming you count Travis Hunter as a WR).
19) Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Nic Scourton, EDGE, Texas A&M
The Bucs have a lot of defenders who could be playing elsewhere in 2025, so finding ways to bring in difference-makers on that side of the ball will be paramount to their success.
Nic Scourton is known for his explosive first step and quick pursuit off the line. His athleticism allows him to disrupt the quarterback’s timing and be a bully up front. He is a versatile player but relies heavily on his strength. When watching his tape, you see Jared Verse Lite. The chance to play immediately should serve the former Aggie well.
20) Denver Broncos: Tyler Warren, TE, Penn State
Sean Payton and the Broncos’ offense surprised this season thanks to the rapid emergence of Nix. Still, the offense was lacking a consistent receiving threat behind Courtland Sutton.
We have seen how Payton likes to utilize tight ends in his offense, so consider it a top priority for Denver this offseason.
Tyler Warren exceeded 1,200 yards and recorded eight touchdowns last season. He is a playmaker with the ball in his hands who can hold his own as a blocker. He excels in contested-catch situations and can be used in a variety of ways.
21) Pittsburgh Steelers: Luther Burden III, WR, Missouri
The Steelers may be looking for answers at a number of positions this offseason.
One key decision for Pittsburgh is what it decides to do with George Pickens. The volatile receiver is a trade candidate for the moment, and a departure would open up a substantial amount of targets. However, even if Pickens does remain on the roster, the Steelers will need to address the No. 2 receiver position.
Luther Burden is coming off of a down season after a stellar 2023. Most of that has to do with Missouri’s puzzling offense and an overall lack of production for the unit. Burden brings physicality and strength to contested-catch situation. His ability to win in tight coverage is a positive attribute and one that should translate well to the next level.
Some teams may consider him solely a slot receiver, but Burden could ascend once he’s free of his college scheme and usage.
22) Los Angeles Chargers: Colston Loveland, TE, Michigan
The Chargers’ first season under Jim Harbaugh was a huge step in the right direction. The emergence of Ladd McConkey and the most healthy season of J.K. Dobbins’ career helped to keep the offense heading in the right direction. Yet, one thing — Justin Herbert could use at least one more weapon at his disposal.
Colston Loveland is a well-rounded tight end with a solid blocking and receiving skill set. His hands are a major strength, as are his length and speed. Enhancing his release from blocks and refining his route-running process will improve his pass-catching consistency, which is a must if he wants to be a reliable option in the NFL. He also has a thinner frame, which gives him trouble as a blocker and in contested-catch situations.
23) Green Bay Packers: Derrick Harmon, IDL, Oregon
The Packers can add to their defensive front with Derrick Harmon. Adding a talented pass-rushing defender will be critical as the rest of their division sports two young signal-callers and one of the best offensive lines in the NFL in Detroit.
Harmon is a powerful interior defender with a quick burst that allows him to penetrate offensive lines. He checks all the boxes you want for the middle of your defensive line — size, length, versatility, and consistency. His one glaring area of improvement comes with tackling, usually struggling to wrap up.
24) Minnesota Vikings: Armand Membou, OL, Missouri
The Vikings’ season in 2024 showed that they need depth on their offensive line if they want to make it through a full season and beyond. Armand Membou gives them exactly that.
Membou is a ferocious pass blocker and can more than hold his own in the run game. He has clean footwork and exhibits good balance and sound blocking fundamentals. Primarily a right tackle in college, Membou may find a home in the NFL as a guard more often than not due to his height (6’3″).
25) Houston Texans: Kenneth Grant, IDL, Michigan
The Texans took a step back last season as the offense struggled to find its rhythm and the defense took a small step back as well. Investing in the trenches continues to be a recipe for success, and the Texans can continue to bolster their front seven by adding Kenneth Grant out of Michigan.
Grant combines solid strength with quickness of the snap. His ability to disrupt plays in the interior is undeniable. His physical traits are just the beginning as he displays impressive anticipation and awareness on passing downs that make him almost as dangerous as he is stopping the run.
26) Los Angeles Rams: Jaxson Dart, QB, Ole Miss
The Rams look like they may be heading toward a youth movement. They are set on moving on from Cooper Kupp, and while Matthew Stafford is likely coming back, there’s no guarantee it’s with LA. No matter what happens with Stafford, if he falls this far, Jaxson Dart is an easy selection for the Rams as they look to the future.
Dart is my QB1 in this class just slightly ahead of the aforementioned Ward and Sanders. Some may not like his “big game hunting” play style at times, but with strong coaching, he has all the traits to be a franchise-saving decision, especially this late in drafts.
Dart demonstrates dual-threat capabilities with strong mobility and the ability to extend plays. His arm strength is promising, but improving his accuracy and decision-making under pressure will be a priority. Pairing him with Sean McVay and a pass catcher like Puka Nacua could do wonders for his development.
27) Baltimore Ravens: Shavon Revel Jr., DB, East Carolina
The Ravens are looking for answers in their secondary, and they may have found one in Shavon Revel Jr.. Revel is only dropping this far due to his recovery timeline from his ACL tear last season.
He may be slow to start the season, but once he is healthy, he should be able to acclimate quickly. Revel displays excellent agility and quick reaction times in coverage. His ball skills stand out as well as his uber-athleticism.
28) Detroit Lions: Benjamin Morrison, DB, Notre Dame
The Lions’ front seven is impressive when healthy, but the secondary was lacking, even if it took a step forward from years past. Benjamin Morrison shows solid fundamentals in defensive back play with good speed and awareness.
He falls this far in large part due to hip surgery that took him out for the latter part of last season. He lacks elite closing speed, but he is a physical player with great ball skills that should translate well.
29) Washington Commanders: TreVeyon Henderson, RB, Ohio State
The Commanders had a lot of things that worked for them in 2024. One area of improvement to tackle for 2025 is their run game outside of Jayden Daniels. They tried to piecemeal their backfield with Brian Robinson and Austin Ekeler, but both players had some injuries that limited their opportunities.
TreVeyon Henderson is an explosive runner with great vision and agility. His ability to change direction quickly is impressive — not only that, but he has solid long speed and is among the top in the class at explosive run rate.
The only two concerns for Henderson is his extensive injury history and his ability as a pass catcher. He won’t kill a team in that area, but he won’t be Jahmyr Gibbs either. Henderson is my RB2 of this class and could fit perfectly in the Commanders system in 2025.
30) Buffalo Bills: Walter Nolen, IDL, Ole Miss
The Bills need to continue to bolster their defense if they want to get over the Kansas City-sized mountain in their way. Walter Nolen is a robust interior defender known for his quick burst and strength.
His ability to generate pressure is a standout trait, as he consistently was able to disrupt plays on every down. He will need to work on developing a variety of pass-rushing moves and maintaining effort throughout plays. But he will be able to learn from the strong group already in Buffalo.
31) Kansas City Chiefs: Tyler Booker, IOL, Alabama
The Chiefs may be losing starting guard Trey Smith this offseason. If that happens, they will need to address that hole immediately.
Tyler Booker displays strong technical skills and physical strength as an interior lineman. He has a strong base and generates power well.
32) Philadelphia Eagles: Jack Sawyer, EDGE, Ohio State
The Eagles may be in the Myles Garrett sweepstakes, but if the asking price is too high, they have plenty of options in the early rounds of the draft this season. Jack Sawyer is a name to watch as his stock is climbing.
Sawyer is a dynamic edge rusher with a quick first step and aggressive pursuit. He lacks elite athleticism but makes up for it with his strength and physicality at the point of attack. His biggest need will be to refine his hand technique if he wants to take the next step.
