The 2025 NFL Draft is right around the corner. Team needs are starting to take shape as free agency and trades dominate headlines. There are still a few key moves to be made before we get a clear picture of how the top of the draft might unfold — and, from there, how the next few rounds could shape up.
For now, we work with the information available and dive into my first three-round mock draft of the offseason.
1) Tennessee Titans
Abdul Carter, EDGE, Penn State
The Tennessee Titans may look to trade down from this pick, but it’s unclear if they’ll get the return they hope for. If they stay put, they go with the No. 2 player on my big board at one of the most coveted positions in the NFL: EDGE rusher Abdul Carter.
Carter displays elite athleticism and quickness off the edge. He generates pressure with an explosive burst and relentless pursuit. He’s a Brian Burns clone, staying fluid while developing an increasingly impressive variety of pass-rush moves. This pick won’t fix everything in Round 1, but it gives Tennessee a defensive cornerstone for years to come.
2) Cleveland Browns
Cam Ward, QB, Miami
The Cleveland Browns may still be stuck in quarterback limbo with Deshaun Watson, but they can begin looking toward the future in 2025. It’s becoming increasingly likely that they take their QB of the future in Cam Ward.
Ward, a fifth-year player, enters the draft with valuable experience, much like Jayden Daniels and Bo Nix last year. While Ward is two tiers below Daniels in my current prospect grading, his potential is clear. His mechanics are sound, but his decision-making and accuracy will be the biggest concerns at the next level.
The Browns will need to surround Ward with high-IQ coaching and veteran leadership — something they haven’t historically done well with young quarterbacks.
3) New York Giants
Shedeur Sanders, QB, Colorado
The New York Giants are running out of options at quarterback this offseason. If they miss out on the top available QBs, they’ll need to find an answer quickly.
Enter Shedeur Sanders.
Sanders is the most accurate passer in this class and has the mobility to extend plays. While some question his arm strength, pairing him with Malik Nabers could ease those concerns early in his career.
Sanders’ biggest hurdle will be handling pressure, as he tends to hold onto the ball too long and sometimes moves into pressure instead of 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. However, concerns over his NFL position — along with team needs at quarterback — push him down the board, and that allows the New England Patriots to land a generational talent.
Hunter is the best cornerback in the draft and, at worst, the second-best wide receiver. His closest comparison is Deion Sanders, though he’s even more of a threat on offense. While it would be thrilling to see Hunter play both ways, NFL teams are unlikely to risk his longevity by letting him do so full-time.
Pairing Hunter with Christian Gonzalez gives the Patriots one of the NFL’s best young secondaries. And whenever he lines up on offense, expect him to be Drake Maye’s go-to target.
Hunter’s elite athleticism, ball skills, and body control make him a rare prospect. His only real weakness is play strength, as he could struggle against NFL-caliber receivers and defenders.
5) Jacksonville Jaguars
Mason Graham, IDL, Michigan
The Jacksonville Jaguars have a glaring defensive line need. They’ve lacked toughness on that side of the ball for years, and adding Mason Graham immediately changes that.
Graham has the potential to be a perennial Pro Bowler. He’s a powerful interior defender with quickness off the snap and an array of disruptive moves. While his trench power is clear, Graham’s football IQ separates him from other interior linemen.
With new head coach Liam Coen seemingly content with the team’s offensive weapons, addressing defense early makes sense.
6) Las Vegas Raiders
Will Campbell, OT, LSU
The Las Vegas Raiders traded for Geno Smith, answering their quarterback question for now. Next up? Protecting their veteran signal-caller with a high-motor offensive lineman in Will Campbell.
There are some concerns about Campbell’s arm length, but they shouldn’t scare away Las Vegas. He has strong blocking fundamentals and balanced footwork. His pass protection is solid, but he needs to refine his lateral quickness to handle elite speed rushers. If needed, Campbell could transition to guard, making him a versatile asset.
Campbell would immediately solidify the Raiders’ offensive line, which is now being built around Brock Bowers and Smith.
7) New York Jets
Kelvin Banks Jr., OT, Texas
If Aaron Glenn learned anything from his time with Detroit, it’s the importance of building the trenches. With newly acquired Justin Fields leading the New York Jets offense, protection is critical.
Kelvin Banks Jr. is technically sound, with elite strength in pass protection. His footwork is excellent, making him a standout in both the run and passing game. Some teams might debate whether he’s best at tackle or guard, but either way, he projects as a long-term NFL starter.
8) Carolina Panthers
Tetairoa McMillan, WR, Arizona
The Carolina Panthers’ struggles continued throughout last season. The good news? Bryce Young showed real growth down the stretch, giving Carolina hope.
Now, they must get him a true No. 1 wide receiver.
Tetairoa McMillan is the prototypical NFL X receiver, standing at 6-foot-5, 215 pounds. He has elite body control and strength while excelling at yards after catch. He isn’t a burner, but McMillan’s speed is more than enough to threaten defenses. For Panthers fans hoping to land Tee Higgins, they get the next best thing in McMillan.
9) New Orleans Saints
Jaxson Dart, QB, Ole Miss
New Orleans Saints head coach Kellen Moore has quite the rebuild ahead. And as an offensive-minded coach, it wouldn’t be surprising to see him take his quarterback of the future, Jaxson Dart.
Dart could sit behind Derek Carr for at least part of Year 1, which would benefit both the Saints and his development.
Since Day 1, Dart has been my QB1 — landing slightly ahead of Ward and Sanders in my prospect rankings. Some may question Dart’s aggressive, big-play mentality, but with strong coaching, he has all the traits to be a franchise cornerstone.
Dart is a dual-threat QB with 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 Moore and Chris Olave could set the stage for a Saints resurgence.
10) Chicago Bears
Armand Membou, OT, Missouri
The Chicago Bears have made strong moves to reinforce their interior offensive line. However, with Joe Thuney unlikely to have a long-term future in Chicago, they need young talent to protect Caleb Williams.
Armand Membou is a ferocious pass blocker who holds his own in the run game. He has clean footwork, balance, and strong blocking fundamentals. While he primarily played right tackle in college, some NFL teams may project Membou as a guard due to his 6-foot-3 frame. Regardless, his versatility makes him a valuable addition to Chicago’s OL.
11) San Francisco 49ers
Will Johnson, DB, Michigan
The San Francisco 49ers need help in the secondary, and they get one of the most versatile defensive backs in this draft.
Will Johnson might not make it to pick 11, but if he does, the 49ers will land a lockdown corner. He’s an instinctual player with an impressive understanding of route concepts. His quick reactions and anticipation make Johnson a ball hawk, but he does have a tendency to jump routes. In college, he relied on athleticism to recover, but in the NFL, he’ll need to refine his technique.
12) Dallas Cowboys
Ashton Jeanty, RB, Boise State
The Dallas Cowboys are at a crossroads in their division. Their recent decisions have left them in a tough spot, and rather than fixing key areas, they may once again opt for flash over substance.
Ashton Jeanty is a nimble, agile runner with elite vision. His ability to identify and exploit running lanes is exceptional. Last year, he forced 163 missed tackles, breaking the FBS single-season record. For context, Bijan Robinson forced 112 missed tackles in 2022.
If selected, Jeanty could become the Cowboys’ offensive engine, even if their offensive line remains a concern.
13) Miami Dolphins
Josh Simmons, OT, Ohio State
It’s no secret that the Miami Dolphins desperately need offensive line help, and they need it immediately.
Josh Simmons has the refined technique and physicality to be a long-term solution. He’s effective in both run-blocking and pass protection, and his quick feet and athleticism make him an ideal fit for Miami’s offense.
The only reason Simmons isn’t a consensus top-10 pick is his season-ending knee injury, which could delay his NFL debut.
14) Indianapolis Colts
Colston Loveland, TE, Michigan
The Indianapolis Colts need to protect Anthony Richardson while also giving him a reliable weapon in the short and intermediate passing game. While Tyler Warren is a popular projection here, he lacks Colston Loveland’s blocking versatility.
Loveland is a well-rounded tight end who excels as both a blocker and receiver. His strong hands, length, and speed make him a threat after the catch. Loveland’s route running and release technique need some refinement, but he’s a dangerous playmaker with the ball. Even with a thinner frame, he’s a serviceable blocker.
15) Atlanta Falcons
Shemar Stewart, EDGE, Texas A&M
The Atlanta Falcons had one of the NFL’s worst pass rushes last season, so adding an athletic edge rusher is a no-brainer at No. 15.
Shemar Stewart is a big-bodied, explosive athlete who brings versatility to Atlanta’s defense. His quick first step and relentless motor allow him to disrupt plays early. However, improving his hand usage and maintaining balance will be key to his development at the next level.
16) Arizona Cardinals
Jalon Walker, LB, Georgia
The Arizona Cardinals surprised many last season with their competitiveness, but their defense remains a concern.
Jalon Walker is a versatile linebacker with solid athleticism and coverage skills. He has the ability to play on the edge and drop into coverage. His agility and tackling technique make him a promising prospect, though he needs to be more consistent in diagnosing plays.
Some teams may view Walker as a tweener, which is why he falls outside the top 15.
17) Cincinnati Bengals
Mykel Williams, EDGE, Georgia
The Cincinnati Bengals are looking for answers after a down season. As they navigate contract negotiations for their dynamic pass-catching duo, Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins, as well as sack leader Trey Hendrickson, they’ll need to free up cap space elsewhere. One way to do that is by investing in high-value positions in the draft.
Mykel Williams still needs development to reach his full potential, but his physical traits are already NFL-caliber. He 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 he must refine his shedding technique and balance against NFL-caliber blockers.
18) Seattle Seahawks
Tyler Booker, OL, Alabama
The Seattle Seahawks need to find ways to protect Sam Darnold and fast. They’ve been one of the most active teams this offseason, moving on from both Geno Smith and DK Metcalf. Bringing in Darnold could work for Seattle, but he has historically struggled under pressure.
Tyler Booker displays strong technical skills and physical strength as an interior lineman. He has a strong base and generates solid power at the point of attack. Expect him to become a mainstay on the Seahawks’ interior line.
19) Tampa Bay Buccaneers
James Pearce Jr., EDGE, Tennessee
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers could see several defensive starters playing elsewhere in 2025, making this a critical position to address.
James Pearce Jr. brings explosive speed and quickness off the edge. His first-step burst is elite, but he would benefit from refining his leverage and technique to handle NFL power moves.
20) Denver Broncos
Tyler Warren, TE, Penn State
Sean Payton may have just added Evan Engram, but don’t be surprised if the Denver Broncos double down at the position — especially if Warren or Loveland fall to No. 20.
Warren posted over 1,200 yards and eight touchdowns last season. He’s a playmaker with the ball in his hands and holds his own as a blocker. He excels in contested catch situations and can be utilized in multiple offensive packages.
21) Pittsburgh Steelers
Omarion Hampton, RB, North Carolina
The Pittsburgh Steelers have been one of the most active teams in 2025. They are the favorites to land Aaron Rodgers, and they added Metcalf, whom I like to call the original George Pickens. While other needs exist, Arthur Smith needs a reliable running back, and Omarion Hampton fits the mold.
Hampton is a playmaker. He averaged over 150 yards per game in his last two seasons at North Carolina. His 6-foot, 220-pound frame makes him a three-down back, and he should immediately impact Pittsburgh’s offense.
22) Los Angeles Chargers
Emeka Egbuka, WR, Ohio State
The Los Angeles Chargers’ first season under Jim Harbaugh was a step in the right direction. The emergence of Ladd McConkey and the healthiest season of J.K. Dobbins’ career kept the offense moving, but it’s clear that Justin Herbert needs another weapon.
Emeka Egbuka provides reliable hands and route running out of the slot and fits perfectly alongside McConkey. Egbuka set the record for career receptions at Ohio State and was a consistent difference-maker for the Buckeyes.
23) Green Bay Packers
Derrick Harmon, DL, Oregon
Derrick Harmon is a powerful interior defender with a quick first step that allows him to penetrate offensive lines. He checks all the physical boxes you want in a defensive lineman — size, length, versatility, and consistency. However, Harmon’s biggest weakness is tackling, as he struggles to wrap up consistently.
With two young quarterbacks (Jordan Love, Caleb Williams) in their division and the Detroit Lions’ elite offensive line, the Green Bay Packers need to bolster their defensive front — making Harmon a perfect fit.
24) Minnesota Vikings
Malaki Starks, DB, Georgia
The Minnesota Vikings have made smart moves this offseason, turning what some thought would be Darnold into several key starters.
With flexibility at No. 24, Minnesota takes the best player available. And with Love, Williams, and Jared Goff in the NFC North, a strong secondary is crucial.
Malaki Starks features elite quickness and ball-hawking skills. His frame and physicality allow him to impact all phases of the game, and his football IQ consistently shows in play diagnosis.
25) Houston Texans
Grey Zabel, G, North Dakota State
The Houston Texans took a step back last season as the offense struggled to find its rhythm, and the defense regressed slightly. They also made the shocking move of parting ways with star left tackle Laremy Tunsil.
Investing in the trenches is always a winning formula, and the Texans can begin rebuilding their offensive line in Round 1. Grey Zabel is a versatile lineman who projects on the interior in the NFL. His best position could be center, though he has the ability to play guard.
While he may not be an immediate difference-maker, Zabel has all the traits to develop into a high-upside, reliable starter.
26) Los Angeles Rams
Nic Scourton, EDGE, Texas A&M
The Los Angeles Rams appear to be transitioning to a youth movement. They added a wave of young defensive talent in 2024, and in Round 1, they grab Nic Scourton, one of the youngest defensive players in the draft.
At just 20 years old, Scourton is known for his explosive first step and relentless pursuit off the line. His athleticism allows him to disrupt quarterbacks and bully blockers up front.
He’s an incredibly versatile defender, but Scourton leans heavily on his power moves. Watching his tape, he looks like a Jared Verse lite, making it fitting that he’ll have the opportunity to learn from him at the next level.
27) Baltimore Ravens
Jahdae Barron, CB, Texas
The Baltimore Ravens are searching for answers in their secondary, and they may have found a much-needed boost in Jahdae Barron.
Barron has the traits of a lockdown corner in the NFL. There are questions about his size and physicality, but neither should keep him from being a first-round pick. He was a turnover machine in 2024, recording five interceptions while excelling in coverage.
28) Detroit Lions
Shavon Revel Jr., DB, East Carolina
The Lions’ front seven is one of the best in the league when healthy, but the secondary still needs work, even though it took a step forward last season. The departure of Carlton Davis to the Patriots only magnifies that need.
Shavon Revel Jr. is dropping this far due to his recovery from a torn ACL last season. While he may be slow to start the season, once fully healthy, Revel should acclimate quickly. He has elite agility and reaction speed in coverage, and his ball skills and athleticism make him an exciting addition to the Lions’ young secondary.
29) Washington Commanders
TreVeyon Henderson, RB, Ohio State
The Washington Commanders had plenty of success in 2024, but one area that needs improvement is the run game outside of Jayden Daniels. Washington attempted to patch together its backfield with Brian Robinson Jr. and Austin Ekeler, but neither provided a consistent spark.
TreVeyon Henderson is an explosive runner with excellent vision and agility. His quick change of direction stands out, along with his solid long speed. Henderson also ranks among the best in the class in explosive run rate.
The two concerns? His extensive injury history and pass-catching ability.
Henderson won’t be a liability in the passing game, but he won’t be Jahmyr Gibbs, either. Nevertheless, he fits perfectly in the Commanders’ system.
30) Buffalo Bills
Walter Nolen, DL, Ole Miss
The Buffalo Bills must continue building their defense if they want to get past Kansas City in the AFC. Walter Nolen is a powerful interior lineman with quick burst and elite strength. His ability to generate pressure consistently disrupts plays. However, he must work on developing a diverse pass-rushing arsenal and maintaining effort throughout plays.
Fortunately, Nolen will get the opportunity to learn from an already talented Buffalo defense.
31) Kansas City Chiefs
Luther Burden III, WR, Missouri
The Kansas City Chiefs are looking for answers at wide receiver. Rashee Rice is returning, but Travis Kelce’s future production is uncertain, and Xavier Worthy is dealing with off-field issues. Adding an offensive playmaker is a top priority after an underwhelming offensive season and a blowout loss in the Super Bowl.
Luther Burden III is coming off a down season after a dominant 2023. However, that was largely due to Missouri’s puzzling offensive scheme rather than a decline in talent.
Burden is strong and physical in contested catch situations. His ability to win in tight coverage should translate well to the NFL. Some teams may see him as a pure slot receiver, but once he’s free from his college scheme, Burden could unlock even more potential.
32) Philadelphia Eagles
Nick Emmanwori, S, South Carolina
The Philadelphia Eagles land another freak athlete in Nick Emmanwori. At 6-foot-3, 220 pounds, Emmanwori turned heads at the NFL Combine, posting an absurd 4.38-second 40-yard dash.
The Eagles’ draft strategy has always been to take the best player available, and with a clear need at safety, this is a perfect match for the Super Bowl champions.
Round 2
33) Cleveland Browns
Donovan Ezeiruaku, EDGE, Boston College
34) New York Giants
Matthew Golden, WR, Texas
35) Tennessee Titans
Donovan Jackson, G, Ohio State
36) Jacksonville Jaguars
Jihaad Campbell, LB, Alabama
37) Las Vegas Raiders
Mike Green, EDGE, Marshall
38) New England Patriots
Aireontae Ersery, OT, Minnesota
39) Chicago Bears
Xavier Watts, S, Notre Dame
40) New Orleans Saints
Tre Harris, WR, Ole Miss
41) Chicago Bears
Princely Umanmielen, EDGE, Ole Miss
42) New York Jets
Isaiah Bond, WR, Texas
43) San Francisco 49ers
Kenneth Grant, DT, Michigan
44) Dallas Cowboys
Jonah Savaiinaea, OT, Arizona
45) Indianapolis Colts
Cameron Williams, OT, Texas
46) Atlanta Falcons
Benjamin Morrison, CB, Notre Dame
47) Arizona Cardinals
Barrett Carter, LB, Clemson
48) Miami Dolphins
Azareye’h Thomas, CB, Florida State
49) Cincinnati Bengals
Maxwell Hairston, CB, Kentucky
50) Seattle Seahawks
Tate Ratledge, G, Georgia
51) Denver Broncos
Kaleb Johnson, RB, Iowa
52) Seattle Seahawks
Trey Amos, CB, Ole Miss
53) Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Denzel Burke, CB, Ohio State
54) Green Bay Packers
Xavier Restrepo, WR, Miami (FL)
55) Los Angeles Chargers
Harold Fannin Jr., TE, Bowling Green
56) Buffalo Bills
Elic Ayomanor, WR, Stanford
57) Carolina Panthers
Wyatt Milum, G, West Virginia
58) Houston Texans
Josh Conerly Jr., OT, Oregon
59) Baltimore Ravens
Jayden Higgins, WR, Iowa State
60) Detroit Lions
JT Tuimoloau, EDGE, Ohio State
61) Washington Commanders
Kevin Winston Jr., S, Penn State
62) Buffalo Bills
Deone Walker, DT, Kentucky
63) Kansas City Chiefs
Quinshon Judkins, RB, Ohio State
64) Philadelphia Eagles
Bradyn Swinson, EDGE, LSU
Round 3
65) New York Giants
Lathan Ransom, S, Ohio State
66) Kansas City Chiefs
Marcus Mbow, OT, Purdue
67) Cleveland Browns
Jalen Royals, WR, Utah State
68) Las Vegas Raiders
Jack Bech, WR, TCU
69) New England Patriots
Jaylin Noel, WR, Iowa State
70) Jacksonville Jaguars
Tez Johnson, WR, Oregon
71) New Orleans Saints
Emery Jones Jr., OT, LSU
72) Chicago Bears
Landon Jackson, EDGE, Arkansas
73) New York Jets
Darien Porter, CB, Iowa State
74) Carolina Panthers
Jared Ivey, EDGE, Ole Miss
75) San Francisco 49ers
T.J. Sanders, DT, South Carolina
76) Dallas Cowboys
Darius Alexander, DT, Toledo
77) New England Patriots
Jared Wilson, OL, Georgia
78) Arizona Cardinals
Kyle Kennard, EDGE, South Carolina
79) Houston Texans
Dylan Fairchild, G, Georgia
80) Indianapolis Colts
Jalen Milroe, QB, Alabama
81) Cincinnati Bengals
Elijah Arroyo, TE, Miami (FL)
82) Seattle Seahawks
Josaiah Stewart, EDGE, Michigan
83) Pittsburgh Steelers
Dorian Strong, CB, Virginia Tech
84) Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Ozzy Trapilo, OT, Boston College
85) Denver Broncos
Andrew Mukuba, S, Texas
86) Los Angeles Chargers
Alfred Collins, DT, Texas
87) Green Bay Packers
Tory Horton, WR, Colorado State
88) Jacksonville Jaguars
Kyren Lacy, WR, LSU
89) Houston Texans
Ashton Gillotte, EDGE, Louisville
90) Los Angeles Rams
Tai Felton, WR, Maryland
91) Baltimore Ravens
Zy Alexander, CB, LSU
92) Seattle Seahawks
Will Howard, QB, Ohio State
93) New Orleans Saints
Mason Taylor, TE, LSU
94) Cleveland Browns
Chris Paul Jr., LB, Ole Miss
95) Kansas City Chiefs
Smael Mondon Jr., LB, Georgia
96) Philadelphia Eagles
Shemar Turner, DT, Texas A&M
97) Minnesota Vikings
Mello Dotson, CB, Kansas
98) Miami Dolphins
CJ West, DT, Indiana
99) New York Giants
Omarr Norman-Lott, DT, Tennessee
100) San Francisco 49ers
RJ Harvey, RB, UCF
101) Los Angeles Rams
Ollie Gordon II, RB, Oklahoma State
102) Detroit Lions
Jack Sawyer, EDGE, Ohio State