As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, teams are gearing up to make strategic picks that could shape their future. With the season in full swing and some teams already focusing on rebuilding, this mock draft provides a glimpse into the potential first-round selections. From franchise quarterbacks to essential defensive linemen, each team’s choice reflects its most pressing needs and long-term plans.
New England Patriots (1–6)
Biggest needs: Offensive Tackle, Wide Receiver, Edge Rusher
The pick: Wide Receiver/Cornerback, Travis Hunter, University of Colorado
The Patriots have the luxury of selecting the top talent in the draft. Travis Hunter, excelling as both a receiver and cornerback at the University of Colorado, offers versatility and game-changing ability, making him the best all-around player on the board.
Carolina Panthers (1–6)
Biggest needs: Quarterback, Wide Receiver, Edge Rusher
The pick: Quarterback, Cameron Ward, University of Miami
With Bryce Young benched, the Panthers turn to Cameron Ward, a standout quarterback from the University of Miami, to rejuvenate their faltering offense and potentially replace Young. Bookmakers are eyeing this move as a significant shift that could elevate the Panthers from the bottom ranks to a top team contender in future seasons.
Cleveland Browns (1–6)
Biggest needs: Quarterback, Offensive Tackle, Wide Receiver
The pick: Quarterback, Shedeur Sanders, University of Colorado
Following Deshaun Watson’s injury, the Browns need a new quarterback. Shedeur Sanders, son of NFL legend Deion Sanders, brings star quality and robust performance as their quarterback of the future.
Tennessee Titans (1–5)
Biggest needs: Quarterback, Offensive Tackle, Wide Receiver
The pick: Wide Receiver, Tetairoa McMillan, University of Arizona
Despite struggles at quarterback, the Titans choose Tetairoa McMillan, a receiver who can dominate with his size and skills, giving whoever is at quarterback a prime target.
New York Jets (2–5)
Biggest needs: Edge Rusher, Defensive Lineman, Cornerback
The pick: Cornerback, Will Johnson, University of Michigan
With D.J. Reed potentially exiting, the Jets reinforce their secondary with Will Johnson, a top cornerback who could form an elite duo with Sauce Gardner.
New Orleans Saints (2–5)
Biggest needs: Defensive Lineman, Wide Receiver, Tight End
The pick: Defensive Lineman, Mason Graham, University of Michigan
With a weakened defensive line, the Saints pick Mason Graham to bolster their front, adding strength and playmaking ability where it’s critically needed.
Jacksonville Jaguars (2–5)
Biggest needs: Offensive Tackle, Offensive Guard, Defensive Back
The pick: Offensive Tackle, Kelvin Banks Jr., Louisiana State University
To protect Trevor Lawrence and enhance their offensive line, the Jaguars draft Kelvin Banks Jr., known for his elite pass protection and durability.
Las Vegas Raiders (2–5)
Biggest needs: Quarterback, Offensive Tackle, Wide Receiver
The pick: Quarterback, Jalen Milroe, University of Alabama
The Raiders aim for a fresh start with Jalen Milroe, a quarterback known for his athleticism and potential, hoping he can develop into a franchise leader.
New York Giants (2–5)
Biggest needs: Quarterback, Offensive Tackle, Cornerback
The pick: Quarterback, Quinn Ewers, University of Texas
Facing uncertainty at quarterback, the Giants opt for Quinn Ewers, whose high ceiling could make him the new face of the franchise.
Miami Dolphins (2–4)
Biggest needs: Offensive Line, Defensive Tackle, Cornerback
The pick: Offensive Tackle, Will Campbell, Louisiana State University
To fix their struggling offensive line, the Dolphins bring in Will Campbell, an immediate starter who could transform their line’s performance.
Los Angeles Rams (2–4)
Biggest needs: Linebacker, Cornerback, Offensive Tackle
The pick: Cornerback, Benjamin Morrison, University of Notre Dame
The Rams need to strengthen their secondary after losing key players to injuries. Despite an injury that will sideline him for the season, Benjamin Morrison showed potential as a shutdown cornerback, making him a valuable pick.
Cincinnati Bengals (3–4)
Biggest needs: Edge Rusher, Defensive Tackle, Cornerback
The pick: Outside Linebacker, James Pearce Jr., University of Tennessee
James Pearce Jr.’s explosive pass-rushing skills and physical potential make him an ideal choice for the Bengals to enhance their defensive line.
Arizona Cardinals (3–4)
Biggest needs: Edge Rusher, Defensive Lineman, Cornerback
The pick: Outside Linebacker, Abdul Carter, Pennsylvania State University
Abdul Carter, known for his high energy and effective tackling, could boost the Cardinals’ pass rush significantly, fitting well within their defensive scheme.
San Francisco 49ers (3–4)
Biggest needs: Cornerback, Center, Offensive Tackle
The pick: Offensive Tackle, Emery Jones Jr., Louisiana State University
Emery Jones Jr.’s consistency and ability to protect the quarterback make him an excellent pick for the 49ers, who are looking to solidify their offensive line.
Los Angeles Chargers (3–3)
Biggest needs: Tight End, Defensive Lineman, Wide Receiver
The pick: Defensive Lineman, Kenneth Grant, University of Michigan
Kenneth Grant’s physicality and knack for interior pass rushing could significantly improve the Chargers’ defensive line, making him a strategic selection.
Dallas Cowboys (3–3)
Biggest needs: Defensive Lineman, Running Back, Wide Receiver
The pick: Running Back, Ashton Jeanty, Boise State University
Ashton Jeanty, a standout player with exceptional balance and speed, could provide a much-needed boost to the Cowboys’ struggling running game.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers (4–3)
Biggest needs: Cornerback, Edge Rusher, Offensive Lineman
The pick: Cornerback,Shavon Revel Jr., East Carolina University
Despite an injury, Shavon Revel Jr.’s skillset as a cornerback could immediately improve the Buccaneers’ pass defense.
Philadelphia Eagles (4–2)
Biggest needs: Linebacker, Edge Rusher, Wide Receiver
The Eagles, well-known for their affinity for University of Georgia players and amid discussions on week 10 odds, opt for Mykel Williams to enhance their defensive line. Williams, a standout edge rusher, could be a frequent topic on sports podcasts due to his ability to elevate the Eagles’ ninth-ranked pass rush and overall defensive dynamism. His presence promises to bring versatility and a fresh edge to Philadelphia’s strategic plays in the upcoming season.
Seattle Seahawks (4–3)
Biggest needs: Offensive Tackle, Linebacker, Edge Rusher
The pick: Offensive Tackle, Aireontae Ersery, University of Minnesota
Aireontae Ersery’s robust blocking could shore up the Seahawks’ offensive line, protecting their quarterback from frequent sacks.
Indianapolis Colts (4–3)
Biggest needs: Cornerback, Safety, Defensive Lineman
The pick: Safety, Malaki Starks, University of Georgia
Malaki Starks offers versatility and excellent defensive skills, making him a key asset for improving the Colts’ secondary.
Conclusion
This preview of the first 20 picks of the 2025 NFL Draft showcases a mix of immediate impact players and high-potential talents, each aligned with their team’s strategic needs. As the college season progresses, these projections offer a roadmap of what to expect and which players to watch as they transition from college stars to NFL rookies. Keep an eye on these promising athletes as they conclude their collegiate careers and prepare for the professional stage.
