This article presents my fifth annual NFL mock draft, meticulously crafted based on extensive discussions with numerous college coaches and NFL insiders over the last two months. The aim of this draft is to deliver unique perspectives from rival coaches who have diligently scouted these prospects, developed game plans against them, and faced them in high-stakes situations—often more than once. The insights shared come from sources granted anonymity to allow for candid evaluations of the players. (Note: An asterisk indicates a proposed trade.)
The Tennessee Titans are poised to select Cam Ward, the standout quarterback from Miami. Despite speculation that the New York Giants have a keen interest in Ward, the Titans possess a pressing need for a quarterback and will not overlook the 2024 ACC Player of the Year. Ward has revitalized the Miami football program, holding the NCAA Division I record with 158 career touchdown passes across his stints at Miami, Washington State, and Incarnate Word. An ACC defensive coordinator noted, “He’s an alpha. Great leader. Competitive. That usually works well in the NFL.”
Ward's performance in 2024, which included 39 touchdowns and just seven interceptions, showcases his potential, despite some reckless play. His unique style often resembles "backyard football," which makes him a hard player to defend against, according to opposing coaches. His athleticism and arm talent make him a high-risk, high-reward prospect that could significantly impact the Titans.
Should Ward be off the board, the Cleveland Browns will likely select Abdul Carter, a defensive edge player from Penn State. At 6-3 and 250 pounds, Carter's speed and agility have drawn comparisons to elite players like Micah Parsons and Von Miller. He excelled in his first season on the edge, leading the nation with 23.5 tackles for loss and 12 sacks. Despite a foot injury affecting his evaluation, his explosive 40-yard dash and agility metrics make him a valuable addition to the Browns' defense alongside Myles Garrett.
The New York Giants are in dire need of a quarterback, and Shedeur Sanders of Colorado fits the bill. Known for his polarizing playing style, Sanders led the Buffaloes to a remarkable turnaround, improving their record from 4-8 to 9-4. His impressive 64-to-13 touchdown-to-interception ratio, despite playing behind a subpar offensive line, highlights his talent. However, concerns about his decision-making and tendency to take unnecessary sacks could hinder his success in the NFL.
The New England Patriots are likely to draft Travis Hunter, an exceptional athlete who can play both cornerback and wide receiver. Hunter’s accolades include the Heisman Trophy, the Biletnikoff Award, and the Bednarik Award, showcasing his dual-threat capabilities. Coaches praise his football intelligence, ball skills, and ability to create space on the field. Although some doubt his top-end speed, his competitiveness and playmaking ability make him a valuable asset for the Patriots.
With an urgent need for defensive line assistance, the Jacksonville Jaguars are expected to select Mason Graham from Michigan. Standing at 6-3 and 296 pounds, Graham has shown remarkable athleticism and strength, earning first-team All-America honors. His ability to play with leverage and take on double teams makes him an ideal fit for a team looking to bolster its defense.
Despite speculation around the Raiders selecting a running back, they are likely to choose Jalon Walker, the 2024 Butkus Award winner. Walker's explosiveness and versatility as both an off-the-ball linebacker and an edge rusher make him a coveted prospect. His dominant performances against top-tier teams, including multiple sacks against Texas and Alabama, highlight his capability as a game-wrecking defender.
The New York Jets could enhance their offensive line by drafting Armand Membou. His impressive combine performance, which included a 4.91-second 40-yard dash, demonstrates his athleticism and potential. Coaches have noted his strong football IQ and ability to dominate opposing players, making him an intriguing prospect for the Jets.
The Carolina Panthers are expected to select Mykel Williams, another talented player from Georgia. Despite injuries limiting his playtime in 2024, Williams showcased his potential with standout performances, including multiple sacks against top teams. His size and pass-rushing ability will provide a much-needed boost to the Panthers' defense.
The New Orleans Saints might opt for Will Campbell to strengthen their offensive line. Campbell's physical playstyle and impressive combine metrics position him as a strong candidate to protect the quarterback. His ability to dominate in the run game makes him a valuable asset for the Saints, particularly as they look to improve their offensive strategy.
The Chicago Bears are likely to select Ashton Jeanty, a dynamic running back from Boise State. Jeanty's outstanding 2024 season, where he rushed for over 2,600 yards and 29 touchdowns, underscores his potential as a game-changer. Pairing him with D’Andre Swift would provide the Bears with a formidable rushing attack.
With a need for defensive depth, the San Francisco 49ers are expected to draft Jahdae Barron, a versatile cornerback from Texas. Barron’s impressive ball skills and football IQ make him a strong candidate to fill the void left by departing players. His ability to play multiple positions in the secondary adds significant value to the 49ers' defense.
If Jeanty is off the board, the Dallas Cowboys could turn to Omarion Hampton, a powerful running back from North Carolina. Known for his size and versatility, Hampton has the potential to be a significant contributor to the Cowboys' offense with his ability to catch passes out of the backfield.
The Miami Dolphins might select Will Johnson, a talented cornerback from Michigan, to strengthen their secondary. His impressive performance in college, including a standout showing in the national title game, makes him a valuable addition to the Dolphins' defense.
The Indianapolis Colts are likely to choose Tyler Warren, a versatile tight end from Penn State. Warren's ability to contribute both as a receiver and a blocker will greatly aid the Colts' offensive strategy, especially as they look to develop their quarterback situation.
The Atlanta Falcons may opt for Jihaad Campbell, a linebacker from Alabama with a proven track record of making impactful plays. His speed and versatility make him an ideal fit for a team looking to bolster its defense.
The Arizona Cardinals are expected to select Derrick Harmon, a talented defensive tackle from Oregon. Harmon’s impressive combine results and production on the field make him an excellent choice to strengthen the Cardinals' front seven.
The Cincinnati Bengals could benefit from drafting Mike Green, an edge rusher from Marshall known for his disruptive play on the field. His impressive sack totals and ability to pressure quarterbacks make him a valuable addition to the Bengals' defense.
The Seattle Seahawks might select Tetairoa McMillan, a wide receiver from Arizona with exceptional ball skills. His ability to make contested catches and create separation makes him an attractive option for the Seahawks' passing attack.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are expected to draft Donovan Ezeiruaku, an edge rusher from Boston College. His impressive athleticism and burst off the line will bolster the Buccaneers' pass rush, providing them with a formidable presence on defense.
The Denver Broncos could opt for Matthew Golden, a speedy wide receiver from Texas. His explosive performance at the combine and ability to create big plays make him a valuable weapon for the Broncos' offense.
The Pittsburgh Steelers may consider drafting Jaxson Dart, a quarterback from Ole Miss with impressive leadership qualities. His ability to perform under pressure and his strong arm make him an intriguing option for the Steelers' future.
The Los Angeles Chargers are likely to draft Colston Loveland, a versatile tight end from Michigan. His ability to stretch the field and provide a reliable target for Justin Herbert will enhance the Chargers' offensive capabilities.
The Green Bay Packers are expected to select Grey Zabel, an offensive lineman from North Dakota State. His position flexibility and impressive combine performance make him a valuable addition to the Packers' offensive line.
The Minnesota Vikings might choose Nick Emmanwori, a safety from South Carolina known for his exceptional athleticism. His ability to cover ground and make plays will enhance the Vikings' secondary.
The Houston Texans are likely to draft Kelvin Banks Jr., an offensive tackle from Texas. His experience and skill set will help solidify the Texans' offensive line as they look to improve their blocking schemes.
In a potential trade with the Rams, the Cleveland Browns could select Josh Simmons, a talented offensive tackle from Ohio State. His athleticism and strong performance before injury make him a promising option for the Browns.
The Baltimore Ravens may opt for Malaki Starks, a safety from Georgia known for his playmaking ability. His experience and skill set align perfectly with the Ravens' defensive philosophy.
The Detroit Lions could select Nic Scourton, an edge rusher from Texas A&M. His ability to disrupt plays and perform at a high level will greatly enhance the Lions' defensive line.
The Washington Commanders are likely to draft James Pearce Jr., an edge rusher from Tennessee. His impressive athleticism and production make him a valuable addition to bolster the Commanders' pass rush.
The Buffalo Bills may choose Kenneth Grant, a defensive tackle from Michigan. His size and strength will provide a formidable presence in the Bills' defensive line, enhancing their ability to stop the run.
The Kansas City Chiefs are expected to select Shemar Stewart, an edge rusher from Texas A&M. His impressive combine performance and potential as a disruptive force on defense make him an exciting pick for the Chiefs.
In a trade with the Eagles, the Las Vegas Raiders might select Emeka Egbuka, a talented wide receiver from Ohio State. Known for his route-running skills and competitive nature, Egbuka has the potential to make an immediate impact in the NFL.
This NFL mock draft provides a comprehensive look at potential team strategies and player selections for the upcoming draft. As team needs evolve and player evaluations continue, the landscape of the draft will undoubtedly shift, making it an exciting event for fans and teams alike.
