As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, teams are finalizing their big boards in a class defined by a lack of elite quarterback talent but an abundance of defensive linemen and offensive playmakers. This mock draft for the first round, assuming no trades, projects how the 32 picks might unfold based on team needs, prospect rankings, and recent trends. From a franchise quarterback in Tennessee to a versatile two-way star in Cleveland, here’s a look at how the first round could shake out on April 24, 2025, in Green Bay, Wisconsin, according to AI.
1. Tennessee Titans: Cam Ward, QB, Miami (FL)
The Titans, desperate for a franchise quarterback, make Cam Ward the No. 1 overall pick. Ward’s four years of starting experience, combined with his 2024 performance (93.7 PFF passing grade on intermediate throws), showcase his playmaking ability and toughness. Tennessee sees him as the cornerstone to compete in the AFC South, even if he needs time to adjust to the NFL.
2. Cleveland Browns: Travis Hunter, CB/WR, Colorado
In a draft short on can’t-miss prospects, Travis Hunter’s two-way brilliance makes him a no-brainer for the Browns. Compared to Shohei Ohtani for his rare versatility, Hunter projects primarily as a cornerback but offers offensive upside. Cleveland, starving for playmakers, gets a game-changer who can impact both sides of the ball.
3. New York Giants: Abdul Carter, EDGE, Penn State
With Daniel Jones’ future uncertain, the Giants pivot to the draft’s top pass rusher. Abdul Carter’s explosive first step and versatility fit Brian Daboll’s defensive rebuild. His ability to disrupt quarterbacks addresses a glaring need for a team looking to bolster its front seven.
4. New England Patriots: Tetairoa McMillan, WR, Arizona
The Patriots’ offense lacks a true WR1 to support their young quarterback. Tetairoa McMillan, with his mismatch size (6’5”) and freakish athleticism, fills that void. His ability to dominate contested catches gives New England a foundational piece for their passing game.
5. Jacksonville Jaguars: Ashton Jeanty, RB, Boise State
Running backs are back in vogue, and Ashton Jeanty’s contact balance and top-five projection make him a bold pick. The Jaguars, seeking offensive spark, pair Jeanty with Trevor Lawrence to create a dynamic backfield that can alleviate pressure on their passing game.
6. Las Vegas Raiders: Shedeur Sanders, QB, Colorado
The Raiders, under Pete Carroll, need a long-term quarterback. Shedeur Sanders’ accuracy and poise make him a fit, though he may sit behind Geno Smith for a year. His polish and football IQ give Las Vegas hope for a post-Davante Adams era.
7. New York Jets: Mason Graham, DT, Michigan
With Justin Fields as their new quarterback, the Jets focus on the trenches. Mason Graham, a disruptive interior lineman, strengthens their defensive front. His ability to collapse pockets and stop the run makes him a cornerstone for Robert Saleh’s defense.
8. Carolina Panthers: Jalon Walker, EDGE/LB, Georgia
The Panthers need a replacement for Brian Burns. Jalon Walker’s speed off the edge and linebacker versatility align with Dave Canales’ defensive vision. His ability to impact both the pass and run games makes him a Day 1 starter.
9. New Orleans Saints: Mykel Williams, EDGE, Georgia
With Derek Carr’s injury concerns looming, the Saints double down on defense. Mykel Williams, a toolsy pass rusher, fits GM Mickey Loomis’ love for defensive linemen. His upside could transform New Orleans’ front.
10. Chicago Bears: Kelvin Banks, OT, Texas
Protecting Caleb Williams is priority No. 1 for the Bears. Kelvin Banks, a versatile tackle capable of playing four positions, brings elite pass protection to a shaky offensive line. His addition ensures Chicago’s franchise quarterback has time to operate.
11. San Francisco 49ers: Kenneth Grant, DT, Michigan
The 49ers bolster their defensive line with Kenneth Grant, a powerful run-stuffer. At 6’3” and 340 pounds, Grant’s size and athleticism make him a steal at No. 11, reinforcing San Francisco’s dominant front.
12. Dallas Cowboys: Matthew Golden, WR, Texas
Jerry Jones can’t resist Matthew Golden’s 4.29 speed and 2024 playoff heroics. Paired with CeeDee Lamb, Golden becomes a home-run threat for Dak Prescott, giving Dallas a much-needed deep weapon.
13. Miami Dolphins: Jahdae Barron, CB, Texas
With Jalen Ramsey’s future uncertain, the Dolphins draft Jahdae Barron, whose 4.39 speed and versatility make him a Day 1 starter at corner or nickel. His ball skills add a new dimension to Miami’s secondary.
14. Indianapolis Colts: Tyler Warren, TE, Penn State
The Colts add a dynamic tight end to complement Anthony Richardson. Tyler Warren’s size (6’6”) and receiving ability create matchup nightmares, giving Shane Steichen a versatile weapon.
15. Atlanta Falcons: Omarion Hampton, RB, North Carolina
The Falcons, thin at running back, grab Omarion Hampton’s workhorse potential. His leadership and local ties to North Carolina make him a fan favorite and a perfect fit for Atlanta’s ground game.
16. Arizona Cardinals: Will Johnson, CB, Michigan
The Cardinals need a lockdown corner to shore up their secondary. Will Johnson’s size and coverage skills, despite injury concerns, make him the draft’s top defensive back and a steal at No. 16.
17. Cincinnati Bengals: James Pearce Jr., EDGE, Tennessee
The Bengals’ pass rush needs a boost. James Pearce Jr.’s explosiveness off the edge addresses a critical weakness, giving Cincinnati a dynamic complement to Trey Hendrickson.
18. Seattle Seahawks: Grey Zabel, OL, North Dakota State
The Seahawks, thin on the interior line, draft Grey Zabel, a college left tackle with elite athleticism for his 312-pound frame. His versatility strengthens Seattle’s offensive front.
19. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Jihaad Campbell, LB, Alabama
With Lavonte David aging, Jihaad Campbell’s high-level play and leadership make him a perfect successor. His ability to anchor Tampa’s defense ensures their front seven remains stout.
20. Denver Broncos: Colston Loveland, TE, Michigan
The Broncos add a receiving threat for Bo Nix. Colston Loveland’s speed and upside as a pass-catcher elevate Denver’s offense, giving Sean Payton a versatile weapon.
21. Los Angeles Chargers: Derrick Harmon, DT, Oregon
The Chargers need interior defensive line help. Derrick Harmon, a run-stuffer with a high motor, fits Jim Harbaugh’s physical style and bolsters Los Angeles’ front.
22. Baltimore Ravens: Donovan Jackson, OG, Ohio State
With key linemen hitting free agency, the Ravens draft Donovan Jackson, a powerful guard to anchor their run-heavy scheme. His addition keeps Baltimore’s offensive line elite.
23. Pittsburgh Steelers: Jalen Milroe, QB, Alabama
The Steelers take a high-upside quarterback to develop behind their current roster. Jalen Milroe’s tools and draft invite suggest first-round potential, giving Pittsburgh a long-term option.
24. Minnesota Vikings: Luther Burden, WR, Missouri
The Vikings add a dynamic receiver to complement Justin Jefferson. Luther Burden’s speed and playmaking ability boost Minnesota’s offense, creating a lethal passing attack.
25. Green Bay Packers: Shemar Stewart, DE, Texas A&M
The Packers stay true to their defensive roots, drafting Shemar Stewart to rotate with their edge rushers. His elite run-defense grade (88.2 PFF) makes him a perfect fit.
26. Houston Texans: Josh Conerly Jr., OT, Oregon
The Texans secure a long-term left tackle in Josh Conerly Jr., whose rapid improvement and athleticism protect C.J. Stroud. His addition solidifies Houston’s offensive line.
27. Los Angeles Rams: Shavon Revel Jr., CB, East Carolina
The Rams bolster their secondary with Shavon Revel Jr., a riser with CB1 potential despite an ACL recovery. His lockdown tape makes him a steal for Sean McVay’s defense.
28. Detroit Lions: Nic Scourton, EDGE, Texas A&M
The Lions target a pass rusher to complement Aidan Hutchinsons. Nic Scourton’s size and production make him a natural fit for Dan Campbell’s gritty defense.
29. Washington Commanders: Treveyon Henderson, RB, Ohio State
The Commanders add a dynamic running back to balance their offense. Treveyon Henderson’s speed pairs perfectly with Jayden Daniels, creating a versatile backfield.
30. Buffalo Bills: Jalon Amos, CB, Mississippi
With Tre’Davious White aging, the Bills draft Jalon Amos, a tall, physical corner with CB1 upside. His pre-draft visit to Buffalo signals strong interest.
31. Kansas City Chiefs: Josh Simmons, OT, Ohio State
Despite a knee injury, Josh Simmons’ pre-injury tape shows top-15 talent. The Chiefs plan for a long-term left tackle solution to protect Patrick Mahomes.
32. Philadelphia Eagles: Nick Emmanwori, S, South Carolina
The Eagles, needing a playmaking safety, select Nick Emmanwori, whose perfect 10.0 Relative Athletic Score screams upside. His addition bolsters Philly’s secondary.
Key Takeaways
- Quarterback Scarcity: Only three quarterbacks—Cam Ward, Shedeur Sanders, and Jalen Milroe—go in the first round, reflecting the 2025 class’s weakness at the position. Teams like the Giants and Steelers may target Day 2 prospects like Jaxson Dart.
- Running Back Renaissance: Ashton Jeanty, Omarion Hampton, and Treveyon Henderson highlight the depth at running back, with teams valuing their immediate impact in a pass-heavy league.
- Defensive Line Dominance: Over 10 defensive linemen and edge rushers are selected, showcasing the class’s strength and addressing widespread needs across the NFL.
- Trade Potential: While this mock assumes no trades, teams like the Browns, Giants, or Bills could move down, especially in a draft lacking top-tier talent.
The 2025 NFL Draft promises to be a fascinating blend of strategic gambles and value picks. With a deep defensive class and a surge of offensive playmakers, teams have a chance to reshape their rosters for the future.
