As we approach the highly anticipated 2025 NFL Draft, set to take place on April 24 at the iconic Lambeau Field in Green Bay, Wisconsin, mock drafts across various platforms are buzzing with predictions. A consensus has emerged that former Miami (Fla.) quarterback Cam Ward is likely to be the first player selected. However, the draft landscape is not as straightforward as it may seem, with other top prospects like edge rusher Abdul Carter and two-way sensation Travis Hunter also vying for top spots.
To provide clarity for fans of all 32 NFL teams, we have compiled insights from 16 different first-round mock drafts created by trusted sources, including USA TODAY, NFL.com, ESPN, and Pro Football Focus (PFF). The predictions span from the end of the 2024 regular season through the latest developments in free agency. This approach allows us to assess potential trends and player movements leading up to the draft.
A few trends have emerged from these mock drafts:
Offensive vs. Defensive Picks: Teams picking early in the first round are more inclined to select offensive players, while those picking later are likely to focus on defensive upgrades. Travis Hunter: Projected to play as a cornerback and/or wide receiver in the NFL, Hunter is expected to be selected no lower than fifth overall by the Jacksonville Jaguars. Many mock drafts have him going second to the Cleveland Browns. Abdul Carter: The Penn State edge rusher is a hot commodity, with many drafts predicting he will be the Tennessee Titans' first pick, although he could potentially drop to eighth with the Carolina Panthers.Here’s a breakdown of the expected selections based on each team's biggest needs, as analyzed shortly after the Super Bowl:
Mock drafts are unanimous in predicting Cam Ward as the Titans' first pick.
Biggest needs: Quarterback, wide receiver, edge rusher, offensive tackle, safety.
While some speculate whether the Browns will opt for Shedeur Sanders or Abdul Carter, Hunter has frequently appeared as the No. 2 pick.
Biggest needs: Edge rusher, quarterback, offensive tackle, wide receiver, running back.
Although many mock drafts suggest the Giants will select Sanders, recent activities, including signing Russell Wilson, could complicate their quarterback decision.
Biggest needs: Quarterback, offensive tackle, guard, cornerback, safety.
There is uncertainty over whether Hunter will fall to the Patriots or if they will prioritize bolstering their offensive line.
Biggest needs: Offensive tackle, wide receiver, edge rusher, cornerback, interior offensive line.
The Jaguars are expected to strengthen their defense with their first pick, possibly selecting defensive tackle Mason Graham.
Biggest needs: Cornerback, safety, interior offensive line, wide receiver, quarterback.
The Raiders are anticipated to add an offensive weapon, with wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan frequently mentioned as a likely pick.
Biggest needs: Quarterback, wide receiver, running back, cornerback, defensive tackle.
With the signing of Justin Fields, the Jets might still consider quarterback options or focus on their offensive and defensive lines.
Biggest needs: Quarterback, defensive tackle, offensive tackle, safety, cornerback.
Mock drafts suggest the Panthers will prioritize a defensive player, with linebacker Jalon Walker from Georgia emerging as a favorite.
Biggest needs: Edge rusher, defensive tackle, wide receiver, center, quarterback.
About 70% of mock drafts predict the Saints will bolster their defense, with cornerback Will Johnson from Michigan frequently appearing as a selection.
Biggest needs: Edge rusher, defensive tackle, wide receiver, center, quarterback.
The Bears have made significant moves to improve their offensive line, yet experts still see room for improvement, especially at running back.
Biggest needs: Offensive guard and tackle, center, edge rusher, wide receiver.
As we close in on the 2025 NFL Draft, team strategies and player evaluations will continue to evolve. Fans should keep an eye on these developments, as they could significantly impact the outcomes on draft day.
For more detailed insights into the mock drafts referenced in this article, check out the latest from USA TODAY, ESPN, NFL.com, and PFF.
