The 2025 NFL Draft’s first round is starting to take shape after the Wild Card round, and several teams are looking to address key needs. The Tennessee Titans, holding the coveted first pick, are projected to select Miami quarterback Cam Ward, a dynamic playmaker with the arm talent and mobility to potentially revitalize their offense. The Cleveland Browns, facing uncertainty with Deshaun Watson’s injury woes, are predicted to snag Colorado quarterback Shedeur Sanders, a poised and accurate passer who needs to refine his decision-making. The New York Giants, missing out on the top quarterbacks, are likely to pick the best player available: Colorado’s Travis Hunter, a two-way star who can excel as both a lockdown cornerback and a dynamic receiver.
The New England Patriots, under the new leadership of Mike Vrabel, prioritize protecting their existing quarterback, Drake Maye, by selecting LSU offensive tackle Will Campbell. Campbell’s versatility allows him to play inside or outside, providing immediate support to Maye. The Jacksonville Jaguars, aiming to bolster their last-ranked defense, target Michigan defensive lineman Mason Graham. Graham’s run-stopping abilities and interior pass rush prowess could greatly benefit their struggling defensive line. The Las Vegas Raiders, having traded Davante Adams, address their need for a top receiver with Arizona’s Tetairoa McMillan, a big-bodied playmaker reminiscent of Mike Evans.
The New York Jets, with Aaron Rodgers’ future uncertain, fortify their secondary by drafting Michigan cornerback Will Johnson. Johnson’s impressive coverage skills, when healthy, paired with Sauce Gardner could create an elite cornerback duo. The Carolina Panthers bolster their pass rush with Penn State edge rusher Abdul Carter, an athletic freak whose physicality and diverse move set make him a nightmare for opposing quarterbacks. The New Orleans Saints, seeking to improve their pass rush, target Texas A&M edge rusher Nic Scourton. Scourton’s size, strength, and length make him a formidable force against both the run and the pass.
The Chicago Bears, determined to protect Caleb Williams, their frequently sacked quarterback, select Texas offensive tackle Kelvin Banks. Banks’ versatility allows him to play multiple positions, strengthening their offensive line. The San Francisco 49ers, aiming to rebuild their defensive line, add Texas A&M’s Shemar Stewart, a player with impressive size, speed, and power, though his sack production needs improvement. The Dallas Cowboys, seeking a workhorse running back, draft Boise State’s Ashton Jeanty, an elite back with exceptional contact balance and explosiveness.
The Miami Dolphins, facing the potential loss of Jevon Holland in free agency, draft Georgia safety Malaki Starks. Starks’ versatility, athleticism, and playmaking ability make him an ideal addition, even if Holland returns. The Indianapolis Colts secure Penn State tight end Tyler Warren, a versatile player who can bolster both the passing game and run blocking for Anthony Richardson. The Atlanta Falcons strengthen their defensive line with Georgia edge rusher Mykel Williams, whose length and athleticism make him a promising pass rusher.
The Arizona Cardinals further upgrade their defensive line with Georgia edge rusher Jalon Walker, another explosive player with exceptional speed and closing ability. The Cincinnati Bengals, looking to improve their pass rush, draft Texas A&M edge rusher James Pearce Jr., an athletic player with a quick first step, despite a somewhat underwhelming season. The Seattle Seahawks address their offensive line woes with Ohio State offensive tackle Josh Simmons, a potentially top-10 pick whose season was cut short by injury.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers aim to improve their porous pass defense with Texas cornerback Jahdae Barron, a versatile player capable of lining up at multiple positions. The Denver Broncos provide Bo Nix with another receiving weapon in Ohio State’s Emeka Egbuka, a polished route runner with reliable hands. The Pittsburgh Steelers strengthen their secondary with Notre Dame cornerback Benjamin Morrison, a physical and athletic cover man who can play both outside and in the slot. His draft stock was potentially hampered by a hip injury.
The Los Angeles Chargers address their need for a reliable pass-catching tight end with Michigan’s Colston Loveland. Loveland reunites with his former college coach, Jim Harbaugh, and boasts a combination of size, athleticism, and blocking ability. The Green Bay Packers add depth to their cornerback position, which has been plagued by Jaire Alexander’s injuries, by selecting East Carolina’s Shavon Revel. Revel’s potential top-15 projection was derailed by a knee injury. The Minnesota Vikings bolster their offensive line, particularly at right guard, with Alabama’s Tyler Booker, a physical player who excels in both pass protection and run blocking.
The Houston Texans prioritize protecting C.J. Stroud, their frequently sacked quarterback, with Arizona offensive lineman Jonah Savaiinaea. Savaiinaea is projected to move inside and contribute his solid pass protection and powerful run blocking. The Los Angeles Rams plan for the future of their offensive line by drafting Minnesota offensive tackle Aireontae Ersery, a raw but talented prospect with the potential to become a long-term starter. The Washington Commanders provide Terry McLaurin with another dynamic target in Missouri wide receiver Luther Burden, a shifty slot receiver with impressive elusiveness and playmaking ability.
The Baltimore Ravens address their need for edge rushing pressure by selecting Marshall’s Mike Green, the nation’s sack leader. Green’s twitchy movements and diverse pass rush moves make him an appealing prospect. The Buffalo Bills revamp their defensive front with Ole Miss defensive lineman Walter Nolen. While still needing refinement, Nolen’s physicality, strength, and movement skills project him as a potential force. The Philadelphia Eagles secure a potential successor for Lane Johnson by drafting Texas offensive tackle Cameron Williams, a raw but talented player with promising physical tools.
The Kansas City Chiefs continue to build defensive line depth with Oregon’s Derrick Harmon, a player with three-down potential and a well-developed set of pass-rush moves. Finally, the Detroit Lions find a complementary edge rusher for Aidan Hutchinson in Arkansas’ Landon Jackson, a unique prospect with impressive size, length, and strength.
