The first round of the 2025 NFL Draft was nothing short of electrifying, filled with unexpected selections and trades that had fans and analysts buzzing. Each year, the draft is a showcase of teams making bold choices, but this round in particular had its share of head-scratchers that will be debated for years to come.
As we dissect the most surprising moves from Thursday night, it’s crucial to understand the implications these picks have not just on the immediate outlook for each team, but also on the long-term development of the players involved. Let’s break down the five selections that truly stood out in a night filled with excitement and intrigue.
Carolina Panthers Select Tetairoa McMillan, WR, at Pick 1.08
31st Overall on My Rankings
Selecting Tetairoa McMillan as the first wide receiver off the board, especially with the eighth pick, raised eyebrows in the Panthers’ war room and beyond. Carolina has glaring defensive needs, particularly along their edge, which makes this decision puzzling. McMillan has shown flashes of ability, but questions linger about his ability to consistently separate from defenders and his overall speed. This pick could potentially hinder the growth of quarterback Bryce Young if he lacks the reliable options necessary to flourish.
New Orleans Saints Choose Kelvin Banks Jr., OT, at Pick 1.09
76th Overall on My Rankings
When the Saints called Bank’s name, it sent shockwaves through the draft community. Banks is projected well below this spot on many boards, primarily due to lateral movement concerns and a propensity for lunging, which can compromise leverage in both pass protection and the run game. With pressing needs at other positions, such as linebacker and receiver, this pick raises questions about the Saints’ strategic direction and whether they have overestimated Banks’ potential to contribute right away.
Dallas Cowboys Draft Tyler Booker, OG, at Pick 1.12
63rd Overall on My Rankings
The Cowboys’ selection of Tyler Booker at twelfth overall was surprising—guards seldom go this high. While Booker is known for his strength and sound pass-blocking prowess, he was largely viewed as a second-round talent before the draft. His limited lateral mobility and capabilities in second-level blocking could make him a square peg in round holes regarding some offensive schemes. With the Cowboys needing to prioritize higher-impact positions, this selection feels like a reach that could have been avoided.
Arizona Cardinals Opt for Walter Nolen, DT, at Pick 1.16
91st Overall on My Rankings
The Cardinals’ first-round choice of Walter Nolen certainly raised eyebrows, not in the least because I had him pegged as my 91st overall prospect. Although he has considerable athletic ability and the potential to be disruptive, his tape reveals a mixed bag of performances, particularly in handling double teams and stabilizing his pad level. Given other viable options on the board like Derrick Harmon, this choice might come back to haunt Arizona, as they risk overpaying for raw potential.
New York Giants Go for Jaxson Dart, QB at Pick 1.25
NR in My Overall Top 100 Rankings
Trading up to snag Ole Miss quarterback Jaxson Dart was a bold and surprising move by the Giants. Dart didn’t make it onto my top 100 list, and while his collegiate stats are eye-catching, he has significant hurdles to clear at the professional level. His experience in a simplify-friendly offensive scheme raises questions about his readiness to navigate the complexity of NFL defenses. His reliance on first reads and inconsistent footwork adds to the concern that he may need considerable time to develop. The Giants have staked a significant claim by selecting Dart, but whether they’ll provide the necessary time for his growth remains to be seen.
As the dust settles on the chaos of the first round, these selections will be subjects of intense scrutiny and discussion. With such varied implications for both teams and players, the ripple effects from these decisions will be felt throughout the league for the foreseeable future.
