The runners and riders to be considered first-round selections in the 2025 NFL Draft are starting to take shape. Some players have solidified their projections as first-round picks with their profiles and production. Meanwhile, some players are falling out of favor with scouts due to injury or slow starts.
Furthermore, as the NFL calendar rolls on, the needs of each franchise become more apparent. While mock drafts in October are an inexact science due to uncertain declarations, free agency, and contract re-signing, we look at who each team could be considering as its first-round selection in Green Bay in April 2025.
The draft order is from Pro Football Network’s free Mock Draft Simulator, where you can create your own mock drafts and draft alongside your friends with multi-user draft experience.
1) New England Patriots: Travis Hunter, CB/WR, Colorado
Travis Hunter is an elite athlete who offers the most intriguing and exciting overall skill set in the 2025 NFL Draft. The two-way Colorado star projects best as a cornerback who also sees the field as a wide receiver in sub-packages. He can lock down the perimeter by using his intrinsic instincts and intelligence to jump routes and proactively anticipate cuts to take away the football.
Meanwhile, on offensive sub-packages, the Buffaloes CB could also use his speed, instant change of direction, and unique ball skills to be dynamic when rotated in as a receiving weapon.
2) Cleveland Browns: Shedeur Sanders, QB, Colorado
Deshaun Watson is playing like the worst quarterback in the NFL and is on pace to record the worst QB+ grade across a season since 2019. The Browns’ colossal guaranteed contract does limit Watson’s potential movement, but the flexibility of a rookie quarterback contract could offset the pain.
The 2025 QB class continues to fluctuate and has been erratic with no run-away QB1, but Shedeur Sanders has maintained consistency as one of the top passers in the country.
The Colorado QB is a clean prospect with underrated athleticism and pocket movement, an above-average arm to fit the ball through tight windows, and the ability to operate the offense with timing and quick processing to keep the Buffaloes’ offense in rhythm.
9 out of 20 NFL scouts picked @ShedeurSanders 🦬 pic.twitter.com/alowtzSRxA
— Fuel 🇺🇸 (@FuelBoulder) October 5, 2024
PFN Analyst Ian Cummings’ Take on Shedeur Sanders
No QB prospect in the 2025 NFL Draft has more fanfare than Sanders. That’s what comes with being not only a premier 2023 transfer signing but also the son of former Hall of Fame cornerback and Colorado head coach Deion Sanders.
The Buffaloes didn’t meet expectations after a hot start in 2023, but Shedeur did his job and did it well despite having very little help from his offensive line. Over 12 games, Sanders completed 298 of 430 passes for 3,230 yards, 27 TDs, and just three INTs.
Early on in the 2024 season, it appears as if the storyline will be more of the same. Colorado has been up and down early on, but Sanders remains one of the team’s best components on the offensive side of the ball.
As a player, Sanders has drawn comparisons to Seattle Seahawks Pro Bowl QB Geno Smith with his smooth mobility, crisp accuracy and touch, and easy arm talent. But a lack of clean pockets continues to make Sanders skittish, and off the field, his leadership style has drawn ire.
There’s still time for Sanders to correct his flaws and right the ship. And with his arm and accuracy, he does have early-round upside. However, there’s still work to do before Sanders’ stock matches his prestige.
3) Jacksonville Jaguars: Kelvin Banks Jr., OT, Texas
With each passing week, it becomes less likely that head coach Doug Pederson and general manager Trent Baalke will be in post to make this selection. But finding a franchise left tackle is an immediate necessity for whoever makes the pick.
Despite the variable nature of the OT class, Kelvin Banks Jr. could be the pick of the group. With smooth mobility and lateral agility, the Longhorns’ LT could be a high-end NFL starter due to his physical tools.
At 6’4” and 320 pounds, the former five-star recruit has excellent size, strength, and hand usage. However, teams will be looking for Banks to refine his footwork in the second half of the college football season.
4) Carolina Panthers: Cam Ward, QB, Miami (FL)
Bryce Young won’t be the future of the Carolina Panthers, and finding a young quarterback should still be the priority. Cam Ward has worked his way into contention to be one of the top QBs drafted in the 2025 NFL Draft by building on his creation capacity and excellent arm strength.
At Miami, the Hurricanes’ signal-caller has improved his decision-making by limiting turnover-worthy plays while showcasing his ability to play on time and in rhythm, in addition to his recognizable leadership qualities.
PFN Analyst Ian Cummings’ Take on Cam Ward
Ward started the 2023 season on a four-game heater for Washington State. Over that stretch, he threw for 1,394 yards, 13 touchdowns, and zero interceptions. But his output dropped over the season’s remaining eight games, tossing just 12 TDs to seven interceptions.
When he’s on, Ward has the elite arm talent to make throws that no other quarterback in the 2025 NFL Draft can make. He also has the change-of-direction ability at 6’2″ and 223 pounds to be a stellar creative presence.
Maturing and putting it all together is the key for Ward. And the returns have been very promising at Miami. He’s been immaculate to start the season, and one could argue he’s been the best QB in the nation so far in 2024.
This season, Ward has matched his high-level passing talent and creation capacity with a newfound sense of timing, discipline, and authority as a field general. If he can keep this up, Round 1 capital is within reach.
5) Los Angeles Rams: Will Johnson, CB, Michigan
Will Johnson is a premier perimeter cornerback who demonstrated his readiness for the NFL early in his Michigan career. The Wolverines’ corner is a polished prospect with Pro Bowl-caliber upside in the NFL.
At 6’2” and 202 pounds, Johnson is one of the top players in college football. His instincts, awareness, and athleticism make him a true lockdown corner.
With two pick-sixes through his first five games of the season, Johnson is a ball hawk who uses explosive burst, snappy footwork, and fluid body control to be a menance at the catch point.
6) Tennessee Titans: Luther Burden III, WR, Missouri
The most significant question mark on the Titans’ roster remains Will Levis. However, with an aging receiver room with expiring contracts, it’s imperative they get younger and more explosive at the position.
Luther Burden III personified the modern-day RAC receiver who thrives with the ball in hand. The Missouri WR creates separation with shape movements and agility. With a natural understanding of space, Burden’s athleticism makes him an ankle breaker to defend and a potential home-run hitter on every play.
7) Cincinnati Bengals: Nic Scourton, EDGE, Texas A&M
The Cincinnati Bengals registered only eight sacks in their first six games of 2024, ranking 30th in the NFL. To keep their Super Bowl window open, they must improve their defense and create more pressure on opposing quarterbacks.
Nic Scourton is among the youngest players in the 2025 NFL Draft, but his skill set is ready for the next level. The Aggies’ pass rusher is 6’4” and 280 pounds and has brute core strength and violent power. Ten sacks in 2023 showcased Scourton’s ability to be productive, while the edge defender has the versatile arsenal to win effectively.
8) New Orleans Saints: Abdul Carter, EDGE, Penn State
Abdul Carter is an elite athlete who is only scratching the surface of his development. While switching from linebacker to playing more on the edge in 2024 has had some growing pains, the Penn State defender continues to evolve and show growth.
An abundance of athleticism underpins Carter’s game, giving him a high ceiling in the pros. With elite flexibility and bend at 6’3” and 252 pounds, the Nittany Lions’ star has all the foundations.
With an aggressive mindset, explosive first step, and alignment versatility, Carter should be one of the top edge rushers drafted in April 2025.
9) Arizona Cardinals: Mason Graham, DT, Michigan
Mason Graham is an elite penetrator through the middle with sky-high potential. In fact, the Michigan DT’s overall skill set makes him one of the top overall prospects in the 2025 NFL Draft. He has the talent in this draft class to become the highest-drafted DT since Derrick Brown (No. 7 overall) in 2020.
At 6’3” and 318 pounds, Graham is an exceptionally mobile mover with a quick first step. He gets instant penetration into the backfield to get after the QB while having the power profile and base to take on blocks.
The strong Wolverines’ DT puts together strong combinations, an efficient arsenal of pass-rush moves, and leverage creation to immediately impact the Arizona Cardinals’ defensive line.
10) Las Vegas Raiders: Tetairoa McMillan, WR, Arizona
At 6’5” and 210 pounds, Tetairoa McMillan is a rare, elite receiving option. The Arizona wide receiver’s large catch radius allows him to catch balls away from his body, which is not probable for most receivers, but it doesn’t come at the expense of explosiveness.
The former five-star recruit is a true X receiver and has drawn comparisons to Mike Evans from College Football Network’s Cam Mellor. With short-area quickness, route-running nuances, and a varied route tree, the Wildcats’ WR is cementing himself as one of the top wideouts in the 2025 NFL Draft.
TETAIROA. MCMILLAN. WHAT. A. CATCH. @TMAC96795 🤯🤯🤯
📺: Pac-12 Network pic.twitter.com/EMGwmKPrYX
— Arizona Football (@ArizonaFBall) September 17, 2023
11) New York Giants: Jalen Milroe, QB, Alabama
Jalen Milroe has rocketed his draft stock during the 2024 season and continues to grow and develop as a prospect. The physically gifted Alabama QB flashed his ability to create big plays by throwing for 3,000 yards and 35 touchdowns in 2023, but his overall game needed refinement.
In 2024, the Crimson Tide’s passer refined his technique, mechanics, and footwork, allowing him to continue making explosive plays with his elite arm strength and athleticism. Milroe now also processes the field at a higher level, has become more accurate, and works all areas of the field as a passer.
PFN Analyst Ian Cummings’ Take on Jalen Milroe
Down the stretch in 2023, Jalen Milroe made a midseason benching for Tyler Buchner feel like nothing more than a bad dream. Milroe grew throughout the 2023 season, putting up over 3,000 yards and 35 touchdowns while becoming an undeniable star for the Crimson Tide.
There’s still plenty of room for Milroe to keep refining his mechanics and process as a passer, but he’s an electric creator and running threat at 6’2″, 220 pounds, with the arm strength to drive the ball downfield.
Milroe has all of the requisite talent to be a future NFL starter. He’s a superlative athlete and competitor with blistering speed, explosiveness, and agility. He also has a strong arm with good angle freedom and elasticity.
Going further, NFL teams will be won over by Milroe’s toughness and resolve as a leader. He could have faded away after being benched early in the 2023 season by Nick Saban. But a week later, he returned and, down the stretch, became Alabama’s most important player.
Working with Kalen DeBoer could help Milroe take the next step as a quarterback, much as he did for Michael Penix Jr. Milroe will be tested more later on in the 2024 season.
12) Miami Dolphins: Kenneth Grant, DT, Michigan
Since Christian Wilkins’ departure, the Miami Dolphins have struggled to create the interior pressure that has become essential in the modern NFL. Kenneth Grant has the potential to be the answer as an ascending prospect with a transferable skill set as a pro.
At 6’3” and 339 pounds, Grant is a powerful athlete with an imposing frame who provides upside when generating pressure on the quarterback. The Michigan DT provides consistent penetration and production with intelligent recognition, powerful strength to displace opponents, and athletic leverage creation.
13) New York Jets: Carson Beck, QB, Georgia
Carson Beck has fallen out of fashion since Alabama defeated Georgia earlier this season. However, the Bulldogs’ QB has continued to play at a high level and put on a fantastic second-half performance in the SEC showdown.
At 6’4” and 220 pounds, the redshirt senior doesn’t have the electric athletic upside of others in this class. Still, Beck does bring a high floor as an offensive operator. He can take command of an offense from the pocket, where the Georgia passer uses his traditional skill set to keep the offense in rhythm, execute the game plan, and handle progressions.
PFN Analyst Ian Cummings’ Take on Beck
Right now, Carson Beck is safely the present QB1 in the 2025 NFL Draft. Looking at how he already operates in the pocket after one full year as a starter, it’s hard to turn away from Beck’s potential.
Even though the Bulldogs missed the College Football Playoff last year after a heartbreaking SEC Championship loss to Alabama, Beck was a central force for the team’s success, completing 302 of 417 attempts (72.4%) for 3,941 yards, 24 TDs, and six INTs.
At around 6’4″ and 215 pounds, Beck is a lean, nimble pocket operator. He’s incredibly poised under pressure, adept at scanning the field, and has the laser-like velocity and layering ability to fit the ball into incredibly tight windows.
He’s not the same athlete, but some aspects of Beck’s physical profile as a passer are reminiscent of Trevor Lawrence.
If he can make his high-level flashes of anticipation a regularity, Beck has the potential to lock down the No. 1 overall pick in a similar fashion.
14) Seattle Seahawks: Emery Jones Jr., OL, LSU
Abraham Lucas has struggled to stay healthy at right tackle, and Geno Smith has been subjected to intense pressure in Seattle. Finding a long-term solution will be among the vital offseason needs for the Seahawks.
At 6’6” and 322 pounds, Emery Jones Jr. is a polished prospect with plenty of experience playing RT. The LSU offensive tackle plays with incredible mental characteristics, with his football IQ, instincts, and awareness underpinning Jones’ success.
A nasty, physical mauler who goes looking for work and has accurate hand usage, Jones can be a mainstay at RT for an NFL franchise.
15) Denver Broncos: Isaiah Bond, WR, Texas
The Denver Broncos offense lacks some juice. Isaiah Bond would quickly fix that.
An elite field stretcher with natural ball-tracking, sharp separation, and corrective body control, the Texas WR is a proven deep threat. The transfer from Alabama has quickly established himself as one of the most elusive ball carriers in the 2025 NFL Draft who possesses some of the top change of direction and proactive explosive movement in this class.
16) Dallas Cowboys: Ashton Jeanty, RB, Boise State
Boise State RB Ashton Jeanty has been the biggest threat in college football, putting up remarkable stats in his junior year. The Broncos’ running back has 1,248 yards and 17 rushing touchdowns through six games, averaging 9.9 yards per attempt.
The Cowboys rank dead last in the NFL for rushing yards through six weeks, but the do-it-all rusher can fix their rushing attack woes.
Jeanty is an elite space finder and tackle breaker with special vision, elusiveness, and playmaking ability at 5’9” and 217 pounds. He’s in contention for the Heisman Trophy, and his reliability in all facets of the game will make an instant impact in the NFL.
Ashton Jeanty is unstoppable 🤯
(via @BroncoSportsFB)pic.twitter.com/CtSOk698gr
— Sports Illustrated (@SInow) October 13, 2024
17) Philadelphia Eagles: James Pearce Jr., EDGE, Tennessee
The Eagles’ pass rush has deceived in 2024, and the unit is due for an overhaul.
James Pearce Jr. is an explosive, fluid athlete who has the potential to be a game-wrecker. At 6’5” and 240 pounds, the Tennessee pass rusher has a light frame, limiting his impact as a run defender.
However, Pearce’s 10 sacks in 2023 led the SEC, and his overwhelming athleticism converts speed to power. The Volunteers’ defender has solid pass-rush moves and accelerative change of direction and fits the development mold that Howie Roseman loves to draft.
18) Chicago Bears: Mykel Williams, EDGE, Georgia
Mykel Williams is a physically gifted pass rusher with the versatility to line up across the line of scrimmage. At 6’5” and 265 pounds, the Georgia defender combines prototypical size with incredible athletic ability.
The former five-star recruit could develop into a star on the Bears’ defensive line alongside Montez Sweat, where Willams could continue his ascending growth. The Bulldogs’ pass rusher displays strong hands, excellent core strength, and elite length to win at the point of attack, as well as the foundational athleticism, which is a penetrative force.
19) Indianapolis Colts: Colston Loveland, TE, Michigan
The Colts need to keep surrounding Anthony Richardson with weapons if he is to continue developing in the NFL despite Indianapolis’ defense frailties. Colston Loveland can become Richardson’s security blanket and will open up the game schematically for the former fourth-overall selection.
At 6’5” and 245 pounds, Loveland brings gifted athleticism as an outstanding pass catcher. The Michigan TE is an expansive route runner with an increased catch radius to attack the ball, especially over the middle.
Loveland translates his basketball background onto the gridiron, where he can high-point passes and break in and out of routes with sudden burst. The Wolverines’ starman is also a willing blocker and has the versatility that makes him a mismatch in all areas.
20) San Francisco 49ers: Cameron Williams, OT, Texas
The San Francisco 49ers need to find their long-term right tackle, and Cameron Williams is gaining momentum and buzz in this OT class.
At 6’5” and 335 pounds, the Texas RT possesses the raw traits, adequate length, a robust frame, and strong hands. Williams has a vice grip in pass protection, agile footwork, and an abundance of lower body strength to drive defenders back in the running game.
21) Buffalo Bills: Malaki Starks, S, Georgia
Malaki Starks is one of the top overall prospects in the entire 2025 NFL Draft class, but positional value could see the Georgia DB slip. The Bulldogs’ safety has unique athleticism and true sideline-to-sideline speed. The 6’1” 205-pound DB has fluid body flexion and the sudden triggering speed to pounce on balls.
As a starter in Athens, Starks has matched up against the best of the SEC and has come out on top on most occasions. With exceptional ball skills and agility to compete at the catch point, paired with the physicality, awareness, and tackling ability to succeed as a run defender, Starks can do it all and has very few weaknesses.
The five-star recruit will be regarded highly in April’s NFL Draft.
22) Los Angeles Chargers: Deone Walker, DT, Kentucky
Deone Walker hasn’t had the production or effectiveness he did a year ago, but the Kentucky defensive tackle has a unique, rare combination of traits.
At 6’6” and 345 pounds, Walker has unnatural athletic ability and unrivaled upside as a pass rusher. With a basketball background, the mammoth Wildcats DT has impressive mobility, strong pass-rush moves, and overbearing strength to collapse the pocket in the passing game and fill gaps as a run defender.
23) Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Shemar Stewart, DL, Texas A&M
An ascending name in scouting circles, Shemar Stewart is rocketing up draft boards. The 6’6”, 290-pound former five-star is having a breakout year and has had success from different alignments in 2024.
The hulking Texas A&M defensive lineman has started every game as an edge rusher this season and has displayed an intriguing and developing variety of pass-rush moves.
Steward continues to showcase his high upside with his incredible explosiveness and sheer power at his size. With a skill set that continues to grow and develop with more reps, the Aggies’ DL fits what the Buccaneers are trying to do by getting more explosive and dominant up front.
24) Green Bay Packers: Shavon Revel Jr., CB, East Carolina
Shavon Revel Jr. was on track to become a top-15 selection in the 2025 NFL Draft. However, an early-season ACL tear has dampened expectations. The season-ending injury could see the ECU prospect slide to the gain of those drafting further down the board.
The Pirates’ defensive star is a freaky athlete with urgent speed, violent physicality, and sideline-to-sideline range. At 6’2” and 188 pounds, Revel has elite length while also displaying the intelligent, natural instincts and awareness to be a high-end starter in the NFL.
25) Washington Commanders: Denzel Burke, CB, Ohio State
At long last, the Washington Commanders have their franchise quarterback. Now, attention must turn to the defense, where plenty of holes still exist.
Denzel Burke, at 6’1” and 193 pounds, has a well–proportioned frame and is an easy mover. The Ohio State CB goes underrated in a strong 2025 cornerback class, but his intelligence and movement skills alone are worthy of first-round discussion.
With underrated ball skills, anticipatory route recognition, and scheme versatility, Burke can be a lockdown-style corner in the NFL.
26) Pittsburgh Steelers: Tre Harris, WR, Ole Miss
Tre Harris is one of the top receivers in the SEC and is having incredible production with Ole Miss in 2024. The fifth-year standout is having a career year, receiving 59 receptions for 987 yards and six touchdowns through the season’s first seven games.
The Rebels’ favored weapon is a contested-catch machine. With his range, radius, and rare physicality, Harris dominates the catch point. At 6’2” and 210 pounds, he’s a true red-zone threat with the ability to make acrobatic catches with fluid body control.
Absolutely no idea how Tre Harris caught this TD. He’s been an unstoppable force for Ole Miss this season. Just absurd ball skills and body control pic.twitter.com/ylHmSkqaXf
— Bobby Football (@Rob__Paul) October 13, 2024
27) Baltimore Ravens: Jonah Savaiinaea, OL, Arizona
Jonah Savaiinaea is a versatile offensive lineman who excels as a run blocker. With fluid footwork, awareness, and angle positioning, the Arizona OL would be a great fit in Baltimore.
With experience at guard and tackle, the 6’5” and 330-pound offensive lineman has the required length and strong anchor to maintain leverage, which could allow him to be a multi-year starter at the next level.
28) Detroit Lions: Jack Sawyer, EDGE, Ohio State
The Detroit Lions needed another pass rusher to operate on the other side of Aidan Hutchinson. After Hutchinson suffered a gruesome leg break against the Cowboys, the need for pass-rush help has become even more vital.
Some player fits feel right. Jack Sawyer is a physical, violent, powerful edge rusher who feels like a Dan Campbell-type player. At 6’5” and 260 pounds, the Ohio State defensive end plays with calm intelligence but an aggressive demeanor. A big, high-motor prospect, Sawyer has the strength to overpower offensive linemen and the instincts to close gaps in the run game.
29) Atlanta Falcons: Benjamin Morrison, CB, Notre Dame
After undergoing hip surgery, Benjamin Morrison’s 2024 season has ended abruptly. The Notre Dame CB was expected to be among the top cornerbacks drafted in April, but a step back in play in 2024, paired with the injury, will see his draft stock slide.
Nevertheless, Morrison is a lockdown corner with refined technique, scheme versatility, and athleticism. With smooth mobility and flexible movement to thrive in man coverage, the Irish star defender plays with intelligence to take correct angles and position his body accordingly.
Morrison can operate on the perimeter or from the slot and has the foundations of a mainstay corner for an NFL franchise.
30) Houston Texans: Derrick Harmon, DT, Oregon
A new name to get familiar with, Oregon DT Derrick Harmon has increased his draft stock into the top 50 discussion. While his play may not pack the stat sheet, Harmon’s overall impact on critical downs cannot be underestimated.
Harmon has been highly disruptive since transferring to Oregon in 2024. In the offseason, he cut his weight down by 20 pounds. The Ducks defender now measures 6’5” and 310 pounds and looks cleaner and more athletic.
The former Spartan plays with a hot motor and does the dirty work, and his foot quickness allows him to get off blocks and consistently blow up the backfield.
31) Kansas City Chiefs: Will Campbell, OL, LSU
Will Campbell stands out with his overall technique, athleticism, and strength. The LSU left tackle’s bracing anchor, sustained physical strength profile, and mobility make him a strong contender to be the first offensive lineman selected.
Despite concerns over his high stance and arm length (expected to be under 33”), Campbell’s flexible movement, bend, and balance make him a promising prospect, although some scouts and teams will project his NFL future as a guard.
32) Minnesota Vikings: Quinshon Judkins, RB, Ohio State
The Vikings’ rushing attack ranked 28th in the NFL in yards, with just 577 on the ground through five weeks. Aaron Jones is struggling through injury, and Minnesota traded for Cam Akers to attempt to reignite their rushing attack.
Quinshon Judkins has the playstyle and production to transition immediately to the NFL. At 6’0” and 219 pounds, the Ohio State RB combines vision, powerful leg drive, and contact balance as one of the younger prospects in the 2025 NFL Draft, which could allow him to have a long career.
The former Ole Miss rusher has sustained acceleration through all three levels, plus Judkins’ lower body strength enables him to fight through collisions, find space, and create extra yardage.