With the NFL Scouting Combine now in the rearview mirror and free agency officially underway, evaluators are that much closer to making their selections come the day of the NFL Draft.
Teams that do not fill their necessary holes via free agency will next turn to April’s NFL Draft to select potential future stars. Here is a look at what the first round might look like, which could change depending on the rest of free agency.
1) Tennessee Titans
Abdul Carter, EDGE, Penn State
If a trade down with Giants makes sense, the Tennessee Titans will likely consider it. If they can still land Abdul Carter, it would be a win-win. However, I’m skeptical it will happen, so for now, the Titans remain in this spot, where they take the best player available — Penn State edge rusher.
New information about the injury reported in Indianapolis could change things, but ultimately, this pick is about the future, not just a Pro Day or the next few weeks.
2) Cleveland Browns
Cam Ward, QB, Miami (FL)
We all agree that the Cleveland Browns will take a QB1 with this pick, but there’s plenty of debate over which one. Many close to Cleveland believe this isn’t much of a decision, and while I think Shedeur Sanders is better than some critics think, Cam Ward is the better QB right now — and maybe, just maybe, the answer everyone in Northern Ohio has been looking for. But we’ve said that before.
The Browns addressed their defense by re-signing Myles Garrett to a record contract. Now, they’re taking steps to solidify the offense.
3) New York Giants
Travis Hunter, WR/CB, Colorado
With Matthew Stafford off the table, all mock drafts are pointing to the New York Giants addressing their QB issue with the No. 3 pick.
However, with free agency just beginning, the Giants are likely making calls to Russell Wilson, Aaron Rodgers, and perhaps even Kirk Cousins’ agent. Why? The current GM and coach are on the hot seat and need to win now. Neither Shedeur Sanders nor Cam Ward, if available, seem to be the quarterbacks who can take the Giants to the promised land they need.
Want to win and save your jobs? Do what the Vikings or Buccaneers did and find a Sam Darnold or Baker Mayfield, then pair him with the best all-around talent in this class — Travis Hunter.
The Heisman winner, alongside Malik Nabers, gives a veteran signal-caller the chance to make something happen in 2025. No one in East Rutherford is thinking about 2026 right now. Take the free square and play the free agency game.
4) New England Patriots
Armand Membou, OT, Missouri
The New England Patriots spent a lot of money to overhaul their entire defense and also signed offensive tackle Morgan Moses from division-rival Jets. But they shouldn’t stop there, as they had the worst offensive line in 2024, according to PFSN’s OL+ rankings.
No offensive lineman impressed more than Membou at the NFL Combine in Indianapolis. He clocked in at 332 pounds, ran a 4.91-second 40-yard dash, hit a 34-inch vertical, and showed he’s more than just a guy looking for pancake blocks. He rises up the draft board to become the top lineman selected and finds a home in New England, where he’ll protect quarterback Drake Maye.
5) Jacksonville Jaguars
Mason Graham, DT, Michigan
The Jaguars finished the 2024 season with the 31st-ranked defense, according to PFSN’s Defense+ metric. They struggled at times to get to the quarterback, and with new general manager James Gladstone coming over from Los Angeles — a team that has boasted a strong defensive line for years, anchored by Aaron Donald — the Jaguars are looking to improve.
If the Jaguars are building for the future and already have their quarterback, wide receiver, and running back positions filled with young talent, Michigan’s Mason Graham could be the guy to lead the defense’s reformation.
At Michigan, Graham demonstrated explosive ability as a defensive tackle and could bring the needed aggression to Jacksonville’s defense.
6) Las Vegas Raiders
Will Johnson, CB, Michigan
The Las Vegas Raiders filled their QB need with the trade for Geno Smith and have started to improve the 21st-ranked defense by filling a hole at starting corner. Will Johnson is the top CB in this draft, including Hunter.
7) New York Jets
Shemar Stewart, EDGE, Texas A&M
After signing Justin Fields to a two-year, $40 million contract, Gang Green seems set with a plan at QB moving forward. The failed Rodgers experiment is over and a new era under head coach Aaron Glenn begins with Fields.
The Jets lost Haason Reddick, Javon Kinlaw, and D.J. Reed on defense, though extended Jamien Sherwood. Either way, with the losses, it is time to rebuild here. With a great NFL Combine, Texas A&M’s Shemar Stewart jumps over Jalon Walker in the EDGE rankings and ends up with the New York Jets.
Anything can happen in the upcoming Pro Days, but Stewart tested as one of the best and most dynamic ends in the history of the NFL Combine and earns the bump over Walker. He’s that rare combination of athleticism, power, and length, and he faced some strong opponents in his SEC career.
8) Carolina Panthers
Jalon Walker, EDGE/OLB, Georgia
With Stewart off the board, the Panthers grab the next EDGE in Walker. They need a tone-setter on that side of the ball, and Walker is just that. Especially with the Carolina Panthers not re-signing Shaq Thompson, Walker can slot right in and play either spot.
The Panthers’ problem is that their 32nd-ranked defense was fairly ineffective in many categories. No team in the league had a worse pressure rate (16.2%) or QB knockdown rate (5.5%) last season than the Panthers.
9) New Orleans Saints
Shedeur Sanders, QB, Colorado
With most teams playing the QB carousel at the beginning of free agency, Sanders fell to the bottom half of the top 10. I originally had Sanders going to the Jets, but New York took care of that by signing Fields.
Sanders becomes the QB-in-waiting for an oft-injured Derek Carr and can jump right in should Carr have another injury-filled season. The Saints are going to need a complete rebuild with aging players and no cap space. Starting at QB isn’t the worst idea, especially when Sanders falls to this spot in the draft.
10) Chicago Bears
Will Campbell, OT, LSU
Heading into the NFL Combine, Will Campbell was a projected top-five pick. However, Membou’s rise allows the Bears to snag a versatile offensive lineman to complement the offseason trades for guards Joe Thuney and Jonah Jackson.
With three Bears linemen likely leaving via free agency, Campbell can fit in at either guard or tackle, helping to further solidify the trenches. He has shown impressive power and movement skills and will be a key player to protect Caleb Williams for years to come.
11) San Francisco 49ers
Mykel Williams, EDGE, Georgia
This pick is all about team needs, and the San Francisco 49ers primarily need a cornerback or an edge rusher. With Hunter and Johnson off the board, cornerback isn’t the option here. Mykel Williams is a young playmaker the 49ers need, especially with many expiring contracts on the defensive side of the ball.
The 49ers are a team to watch, as they could trade up to secure a cornerback or trade down for more picks. If they stay put, they’ll take the best player available, and Williams fits that bill here.
12) Dallas Cowboys
Ashton Jeanty, RB, Boise State
Jeanty to Dallas has been discussed since October, so this move comes as no surprise. The Cowboys committed offseason malpractice in 2024 by not finding a suitable running back. With the resurgence of the position last season, thanks to Saquon Barkley, Derrick Henry, and Josh Jacobs, Jerry Jones isn’t going to miss out on one of the best prospects to come out in years.
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Many have also placed North Carolina’s Omarion Hampton here, but 2,600 yards and 29 touchdowns are hard to pass up. The Cowboys need many things in 2025, but they won’t be accused of neglecting the running back position.
13) Miami Dolphins
Kelvin Banks Jr., OL, Texas
It is no secret that the key to the Miami Dolphins offense is keeping QB Tua Tagovailoa upright. Concussions and other injuries have derailed their plans, and that begins up front. Kelvin Banks Jr. can immediately slot in as a starting guard, where Miami is losing its top three options. His position versatility also allows him to be the long-term solution for Terron Armstead when that career ends.
While I firmly believe they go offensive line here, keep an eye on the star of the NFL Combine, Nick Emmanwori, as the Dolphins currently have one safety under contract, and Emmanwori impressed the entire NFL world last week and will shoot up the board.
14) Indianapolis Colts
Tyler Warren, TE, Penn State
There might be no better fit in the NFL Draft than Tyler Warren to the Indianapolis Colts.
The tight end position has been largely ignored in Indy over the years, and there are multiple ones on the board to choose from. The Penn State weapon showed during the College Football Playoff that he can line up anywhere, block, catch, and run. He had over 1,200 yards and 104 catches and will be a perfect dump-off or down-the-field weapon for young Anthony Richardson to use.
15) Denver Broncos
Colston Loveland, TE, Michigan
Trade: Broncos receive Nos. 15 and 201 and a 2026 sixth-rounder from Atlanta. Falcons receive Nos. 20 and 51 from Denver.
With Warren going to the Colts, the Denver Broncos jump up five spots to get a tight end for second-year QB Bo Nix. It’s no secret that Sean Payton is looking for his “joker” on offense, and Loveland is the perfect piece. He is a great route runner with excellent size and strength to be an effective weapon in the passing game.
Some have him ahead of Warren on their TE list, but either way, Payton gets what he wants.
16) Arizona Cardinals
Kenneth Grant, DT, Michigan
Standing 6’4″ and weighing 330 pounds, Grant brings an immediate presence to the Arizona Cardinals’ defensive front. Known for his ability to dominate as a gap-stuffing run defender, he will help solidify the interior of Arizona’s defensive line.
His size and strength allow him to clog up running lanes and occupy blockers while disrupting ball carriers in the backfield. In a division full of dynamic running backs such as Kyren Williams, Kenneth Walker III, and Christian McCaffrey, Grant’s ability to control the line of scrimmage will be crucial for Arizona’s defensive game plan.
His presence will allow Arizona’s defense to match up more effectively against both the run and pass, providing them with a physical, forceful presence in the middle of their defensive front. If Grant can refine his conditioning and pass-rush technique, he has the potential to be a key piece of the Cardinals’ defense for years to come.
17) Cincinnati Bengals
Jahdae Barron, CB, Texas
With the Cincinnati Bengals needing immediate help at cornerback, Jahdae Barron offers the potential to be a key building block for a defense that is looking to get back into playoff contention. The Bengals just missed the postseason last year, primarily due to a 28th-ranked defense.
Barron’s addition will allow Cincinnati to solidify the secondary, taking some of the pressure off their pass rush and giving their defense the stability it needs to become a top-tier unit. Barron is a highly skilled cornerback known for his physicality, quickness, and ball skills. In addition to his coverage skills, Barron is a physical tackler who is not afraid to step up against the run.
18) Seattle Seahawks
Tyler Booker, OG, Alabama
It’s been an interesting couple of weeks in Seattle, trading QB Geno Smith and WR DK Metcalf, cutting WR Tyler Lockett, and then spending $100 million on Sam Darnold. Darnold will still have Walker and Jaxon Smith-Njigba on offense, but what they don’t have is a solid offensive line. PFN’s metrics had the Seattle Seahawks with the third-worst offensive line in the NFL last season, and that’s where they will shop in this year’s draft.
After struggling with consistency on the offensive line last season, the Seahawks recognize the importance of strengthening their front five to protect their future QB and establish a more effective running game. Booker brings a combination of power, length, and versatility that will significantly upgrade Seattle’s interior offensive line.
19) Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Jihaad Campbell, LB, Alabama
Lavonte David is now 35 years old, so it’s time for Tampa Bay to draft that next great linebacker to follow in the footsteps of David and Derrick Brooks. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have always had playmakers roaming the second level of their defense, and Jihaad Campbell can be the next great one.
At 6’2″ and 230 pounds, Campbell possesses the athleticism and sideline-to-sideline range that is becoming increasingly valuable in today’s NFL. His ability to diagnose plays quickly and cover ground makes him a threat in both the running game and the passing game.
20) Atlanta Falcons
James Pearce Jr., EDGE, Tennessee
Trade: Falcons receive Nos. 20 and 51 from Denver. Broncos receive Nos. 15 and 201 and a 2026 sixth-rounder from Atlanta.
The Atlanta Falcons have perpetually been inside the bottom five in sack and pressure rate. That was no different this past year. Despite picking up Matthew Judon, Atlanta ranked inside the bottom 10 in terms of pressure rate. That, combined with several free agents at EDGE, means that Atlanta needs to add more pass-rushing talent.
With Williams and Walker off the board early, the Falcons opt to trade down, pick up a second-round pick, and still get an edge rusher to improve their D-line in James Pearce Jr. He provides them with a dynamic athlete who can immediately contribute to their defense. Known for his speed, power, and ability to disrupt plays in the backfield, Pearce brings the potential to be a game-changer for Atlanta.
21) Pittsburgh Steelers
Josh Simmons, OL, Ohio State
When I wrote the first draft of this mock on Saturday, I had the Pittsburgh Steelers taking WR Emeka Egbuka to pair with George Pickens. Obviously, the Steelers had the same thought, trading for Metcalf on Sunday.
While the QB situation is still in flux, Pittsburgh could also lose both running backs, Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren, but I am going to have them shore up the offensive line here before they go off the board with Houston and Kansas City coming up on the clock.
The Steelers still take a Buckeye, but it’s Josh Simmons, the 6’5” tackle out of Ohio State. Simmons fills an immediate need with Dan Moore Jr.’s departure and brings the athleticism and versatility needed to help protect whoever the Steelers decide to bring in at quarterback.
22) Los Angeles Chargers
Mike Green, EDGE, Marshall
The Los Angeles Chargers have several potential departures on defense, including Joey Bosa. Green has been a mover on the draft board after a final college season with 17 sacks (best in the country) and 51 pressures (tied for sixth). He’s an explosive athlete who offers very good length and quickness as a pass rusher, filling an immediate need for Jim Harbaugh’s defense.
23) Green Bay Packers
Derrick Harmon, DT, Oregon
The Green Bay Packers’ top-10 defense was largely a product of an opportunistic secondary, as they struggled to create pressure at times, ranking in the middle of the pack in terms of pressures and sacks. In looking to improve the defensive front, Derrick Harmon provides them with a dynamic force in the middle, capable of disrupting both the running game and the passing game.
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He is a versatile athlete who can move around while also excelling at run stuffing. He can be a plug-and-play guy for Green Bay.
24) Minnesota Vikings
Maxwell Hairston, CB, Kentucky
The Minnesota Vikings have an immediate need at corner opposite Byron Murphy Jr., and the speedy Maxwell Hairston gets the nod over Trey Amos and other corners. Hairston turned heads at the NFL Combine with his 4.28-second 40-yard dash and has shot up many draft boards. He has incredible range but needs to get stronger to make an immediate impact in the secondary in Minnesota.
25) Houston Texans
Donovan Jackson, OL, Ohio State
The Houston Texans offense ranked 28th in PFSN’s Offense+ metric, mainly because of an O-line that ranked 31st. After trading Laremy Tunsil to Washington, they need a complete rebuild of the line.
At 6’4″ and 320 pounds, Jackson has the size, strength, and physicality to dominate at the guard position. His ability to generate push in the run game is exceptional and will help improve the Texans’ ability to establish a strong ground game. In pass protection, Jackson’s impressive strength and quick feet make him a difficult player to get around.
26) Los Angeles Rams
Shavon Revel Jr., CB, East Carolina
The Los Angeles Rams were another spot that I saw a WR going, but they took care of that by signing Davante Adams on March 9. With the bulk of the rest of the offense returning, the Rams go back to defense.
They drafted DE Jared Verse and DT Braden Fiske last year to beef up the line, so I am having them go to the secondary in 2025 with the selection of East Carolina CB Shavon Revel Jr.
Once a top-15 prospect, Revel falls here due to a torn ACL suffered in September. That doesn’t change the fact that he was once seen as one of the top corner prospects in this draft.
27) Baltimore Ravens
Malaki Starks, S, Georgia
As the Baltimore Ravens usually do, they grab a player that was mentioned as a top-10 pick who somehow falls to 27. Malaki Starks didn’t have the best NFL Combine, and with more people needing corners than safeties, Starks dropped down the board. It’s not necessarily an immediate need for the Ravens, but it’s the top player on the board and one that was once going much, much higher.
28) Detroit Lions
Donovan Ezeiruaku, EDGE, Boston College
After showing promise on defense last season but needing more consistency in their pass rush, the Detroit Lions drafted Donovan Ezeiruaku as a player who could make an immediate impact and help elevate their defense to the next level.
In the postseason loss to the Commanders, Detroit rarely got pressure on Jayden Daniels. Combined with injuries all over the secondary, they allowed 45 points in an early exit.
Ezeiruaku’s potential to develop into a top-tier pass rusher, combined with the return of 2022 first-round pick Aidan Hutchinson, will give the Lions the depth they need to repeat the 15-win season from last year.
29) Washington Commanders
Nick Emmanwori, S, South Carolina
The Washington Commanders surprised everyone with the run to the NFC Championship game in 2024 and added to their offense already with the trade for WR Deebo Samuel Sr. But we also saw major holes on the defense in the title game, allowing Philly to run and pass all over them.
Emmanwori had one of the best workouts at the NFL Combine that we have ever seen by a safety. He has the hyper-elite size and athleticism to play big nickel, and his skills also lend well at strong safety. He projects as a versatile playmaker who can excel in the deeper areas of the field but also make plays in the box.
30) Buffalo Bills
Tetairoa McMillan, WR, Arizona
This might end up being the steal of a draft.
I did not plan on having the first WR off the board at No. 30, but all the final moves before free agency put a ton of veteran WRs on the market. A lot of the teams filled needs on their teams (EDGE, OL) instead of WRs — and a lot of them (Tetairoa McMillan, Egbuka, Matthew Golden, Luther Burden III) fell.
A top-10 talent that just kept falling, McMillan will be a nice fill-in should Amari Cooper and Mack Hollins not come back. His 1,319 receiving yards ranked third in the country last year and would be another dynamic weapon for MVP Josh Allen and his shiny new contract.
I could also see Ohio State’s Egbuka here, but either way, I think Buffalo goes WR to pair with Khalil Shakir and Keon Coleman in a dynamic Bills offense.
31) Kansas City Chiefs
Josh Conerly Jr., OT, Oregon
We all saw what happened in the Super Bowl when the Kansas City Chiefs’ offensive line was run over by an aggressive defensive front. Philadelphia rushed four all night and did whatever it wanted in the Super Bowl win.
Josh Conerly Jr. is an athlete pass protector who has excellent feet and quickness. He can handle speed rushers off the edge and has very good length to punch and stymie the rushers’ attacks. He is still getting stronger and needs some work when faced with power on his head, but he would be a great addition to the Chiefs’ offensive line.
32) Philadelphia Eagles
Walter Nolen, DT, Ole Miss
When you get this far down in the first round, it’s usually drafting for luxury and not need. The Philadelphia Eagles showed what their front four can do, dominating the Chiefs in the Super Bowl without blitzing. With Josh Sweat due for a huge payday, reinforcements are on the way on defense.
At 6’4″, 296 pounds, with solid proportional length and strong burst, Walter Nolen’s power will fit in perfectly on this Eagles defense, joining Jalen Carter and Jordan Davis in one of the best DT rotations in the game.
Cowboys have said there not drafting jeanty this is a stupid mock