With combine drills starting on Thursday, what better time to project what the first round will look like come April. This draft is already shaping up to be a chaotic one, with several top prospects sitting out the combine, and a lack of strong quarterback prospects with a lot of quarterback hungry teams. There are also only a handful of blue-chip prospects at the top of the draft, with a significant drop off for the rest of the draft. So how will the draft shape up for the 32 teams?
Tennessee Titans, Pick #1 – Abdul Carter, Penn State (EDGE)
The Tennessee Titans have a big need at the quarterback position, so taking either Cameron Ward or Shedeur Sanders would make sense here. However, the Titans have already come out and said that they won’t miss out on a can’t miss prospect to reach for a quarterback. The Titans struggled heavily with rushing the passer in 2024, with one of the lowest pass rush win rates in the league. Abdul Carter can come in and immediately fix those needs. Carter was moved from an off-ball linebacker to an edge rusher for the 2024 season, and he immediately produced, with 13 sacks and 43 hurries. Carter also has the speed and athleticism that former first-round Penn State edge rushers Micah Parsons and Chop Robinson possess. He won’t participate in the combine due to a lingering shoulder issue, but he should be ready to go come training camp.
Cleveland Browns, Pick #2 – Cameron Ward, Miami (QB)
The Cleveland Browns had the worst overall offense in the league in 2024, and much of that came down to poor quarterback play. As a result, Myles Garrett wants out of Cleveland. While I do think Garrett will be traded before the draft, I don’t think that the Browns will use this pick to get Garrett’s replacement. Ever since the team’s return to the NFL, the Browns have had a terrible track record with quarterbacks. Whether it’s through the draft, free agency, or trades, something always seems to go wrong. Ward could come in to try and rectify this problem. Ward was arguably the best quarterback throughout the 2024 season, but he did have his ups and downs. He has tremendous arm talent, but his accuracy could use work. His age could also be an issue, as he will be 23 before the start of the season. While older quarterback prospects have worked (Jayden Daniels, Bo Nix for example), Ward is not nearly as strong a prospect as those two. However, quarterback is the most important position in the league, and teams will reach on quarterback prospects in hopes of developing them into a long-term signal caller.
New York Giants, Pick #3 – Travis Hunter, Colorado (WR/CB)
The New York Giants are another team who are desperate for a quarterback. However, they have been in extensive talks with the Los Angeles Rams to acquire Matthew Stafford. So I think the Giants will pass up taking a quarterback to take the most intriguing draft prospect in this year’s class. Travis Hunter, incase you somehow didn’t know, is a two-way prospect who can play wide receiver and cornerback, which is reminiscent of his college coach Deion Sanders. Hunter will be working out at the combine as a defensive back, but that doesn’t mean he won’t play offense in the NFL. The Giants struggled both offensively and defensively in 2024, and Hunter offers a rare opportunity to improve both sides of the ball. I imagine New York will primarily use him as corner, while mixing him in for some offensive snaps. Hunter has the chance to be the Shohei Ohtani of the NFL, and the Giants surely will be willing to make it happen under the bright lights of New York.
*Trade* New England Patriots Trade Pick 4 to the Las Vegas Raiders
Las Vegas Raiders, Pick #4 – Shedeur Sanders, Colorado (QB)
The New England Patriots are in a unique situation. If one of the two big quarterback prospects are still on the board when they come on the clock, they could potentially move back to acquire more picks. One of those quarterback hungry teams is the division rival New York Jets, who will need to replace Aaron Rodgers this offseason. The Raiders are desperate for a quarterback, and they can potentially trade up to secure one. Shedeur Sanders is perhaps the most accurate quarterback in this class, particularly on his intermediate and deep passes. However, he does struggle heavily under pressure, which is something the Raiders will have to improve. Sanders has reportedly been a mixed bag for teams, but he has the talent to be a solid starting quarterback in the league.
Jacksonville Jaguars, Pick #5 – Mason Graham, Michigan (DT)
The Jaguars underwhelmed mightily on all sides of the ball in 2024. The best thing they could do in this position is take the best player on the board, who in this case is Mason Graham. Graham is an interior lineman who is 6’3 and 320 pounds, which is great size for the Jaguars system. He may be the most well-rounded defensive lineman in the draft, with a particular strength in defending the run. PFF rated Graham as the best run defender in the country in 2024 with a 92.6 rating, to go along with 5 sacks and 20 hurries. The Jaguars struggled to get any production from their interior lineman, so adding Graham will help bring some more results for the defense, as well as take some attention off Josh Hines-Allen.
*Traded* New England Patriots, Pick #6 – Will Campbell, LSU (OT)
If the NFL draft was a year ago, Campbell would’ve been a surefire top selection. However, Campbell struggled in his 2024 campaign compared to his stellar sophomore campaign. He gave up two sacks this season compared to 0 last season, but that doesn’t mean Campbell still isn’t a great prospect. In particular, he’s very good in pass protection, earning an 80.6 pass block grade for his 2024 campaign. One of the big goals for the New England Patriots this offseason is getting some help for Drake Maye, who showed flashes his rookie year despite a subpar supporting cast. I expect the Patriots will be adding some veteran pass catchers in free agency to aid Maye, but there’s a lack of solid offensive line options. I expect the Patriots to use the draft to bolster their line, as evident by their first pick.
New York Jets, Pick #7 – Tyler Warren, Penn State (TE)
The Jets come into the draft in an interesting situation. The team doesn’t have many needs outside of a quarterback. However, they aren’t in a great place to get one, especially with the top two options off the board. The next best thing they can do then is to improve the offense for whoever will be under center for the 2025 season. Tyler Warren comes into this draft class as arguably the best pass catcher. The Mackey Award winner had a reputation for lining up all over the formation on Penn State, whether it was at tight end, in the slot, out wide, or even in the wildcat. Warren racked up over 100 receptions and 1200 yards over his 2024 campaign, and is a handful to tackle in the open field. Warren has the ability to be a safety valve or a big play option for the Jets in the future.
Carolina Panthers, Pick #8 – Jalon Walker, Georgia (LB)
No matter what happens before this pick, the Carolina Panthers will be selecting defense. While the offense improved tremendously throughout the season, the defense was the worst in football. Part of this does come down to a couple key injuries, but that doesn’t mean that the defense doesn’t need addressing. Jalon Walker is part of a new generation of linebackers to enter the league. Similar to Micah Parsons, Jalon Walker can line up off ball or off the edge with great success. He has great bend off the edge, and is able to find gaps in the offensive line to get into the backfield. But where Walker really shines is his sideline to sideline speed. Carolina could use a strong presence to anchor the middle of their defense, and Walker can be just that and some.
*Trade* New Orleans Saints Trade Pick 9 to the Dallas Cowboys
Dallas Cowboys, Pick #9 – Ashton Jeanty, Boise State (HB)
From a distance, this seems like a crazy move for the Cowboys to make. They’re tight against the cap, they still have to pay Micah Parsons, and they have significant holes on defense and on the offensive line. However, the Dallas Cowboys have been known to be aggressive on draft day. Jerry Jones has been noted on several occasions to get top prospects, and he loves having star players in Dallas. And surely he can’t resist bringing Ashton Jeanty back home to Texas after his earth-shattering 2024 campaign that saw him rush for over 2500 yards over 14 games. Although not shown this season, Jeanty has shown to be a reliable pass-catcher, with 48 receptions and over 500 receiving yards during his sophomore season. His contact balance, elusiveness, and vision make him a handful to tackle, and he will hopefully bring new life into a Cowboys team who need it after an underwhelming season.
Chicago Bears, Pick #10 – Kelvin Banks, Texas (OT)
If there’s one thing that new head coach Ben Johnson learned from his time in Detroit, it’s building through the trenches is a recipe for success. And if the Chicago Bears are going to take a step forward in 2025, they’re going to need to protect Caleb Williams. The Chicago Bears struggled mightily in pass protection throughout the season, and Kelvin Banks can be a plug and play left tackle to pair alongside 2023 first rounder Darnell Wright on the right side of the line. While Banks can improve in the run game, he is arguably the best pass protector in this class. At 6’4 and 320 pounds, the Bears will hope that his skills can translate to the NFL to protect Caleb Williams’ blindside for years to come.
San Francisco 49ers, Pick #11 – Walter Nolan, Ole Miss (DT)
There’s a few different directions that the 49ers can go during this draft. But one thing I keep going back to is the team’s philosophy during their multiple Super Bowl runs. In particular, their defensive identity of rushing four players, and blitzing as little as possible to help out the secondary. Javon Hargrave will most likely be a cap casualty during this offseason, which will be a major loss for a defense that already struggled against the run in 2024. The 49ers are no stranger with drafting defensive lineman, and Walter Nolan fits the identity. He’s an athletic freak who was one of the best interior rushers in college this past season, generating 6.5 sacks and 17 pressures. He’s also very solid in run defense, which will help him pair nicely alongside Nick Bosa.
*Traded* New Orleans Saints, Pick #12 – Mike Green, Marshall (EDGE)
One of the biggest risers throughout this offseason has been Mike Green out of Marshall. He shone at the Senior Bowl, showing off his athleticism in front of NFL scouts. Green led the FBS in sacks with 17, and generated over 50 pressures. He has multiple pass rush moves in his arsenal, making him a threat when pass rushing. He also is very good at setting the edge in the run game, making him one of the most well-rounded edge rushers in the draft. The only knock on Green was level of competition, as he played in the FBS. The New Orleans Saints have shown in recent years they will turn to smaller schools to get pass rushers (Marcus Davenport, for example), and Mike Green fits an immediate position of need.
Miami Dolphins, Pick #13 – Armand Membou, Missouri (OT/OG)
Not only are the Dolphins losing some offensive lineman in this offseason, but last year proved that they need to protect Tua after he suffered yet another severe concussion. Membou might be the most versatile lineman available in the draft. He played nearly every snap in Missouri at right tackle, with only one coming at left guard, where he earned a 90.4 PFF grade, and only surrendered one sack. Membou is very explosive at the point of attack, which helps him with his pass protection. Due to his size, many scouts figure he will slide inside to play guard, but regardless of where he plays, he will be a phenomenal addition in pass protection.
Indianapolis Colts, Pick #14 – Malaki Starks, Georgia (S)
To this point in the draft, Starks may be the best value pick, with this situation being similar to Kyle Hamilton back in 2022, when he was also drafted at 14th overall mainly due to his position of safety. Much like Hamilton, Starks is a top prospect at the safety position. Unlike Hamilton, however, Starks is a true free safety. While he does have the ability to come down in the run game and make secure tackles, where he shines is in pass coverage. Starks has the speed and instincts to make some incredible pass breakups. He can also lineup in the slot if necessary. The Colts defense really struggled in 2024, particularly in pass coverage and tackling. Starks can come in and immediately help the team out in those two departments.
Atlanta Falcons, Pick #15 – Mykel Williams, Georgia (EDGE)
The story was too good to pass up. The Falcons have been mocked to take a top edge rusher for years, as they have continued to lack in the pass rush department. And what a way to break that streak by taking a Georgia Bulldog to keep him in the state. While the production hasn’t been there for Williams throughout his career, the potential he has is apparent. Being a Georgia defender, his athleticism off the edge is off the charts, with the ability to go from speed to power while rushing the passer. Williams was also solid against the run in his 2024 campaign. So while the consistency wasn’t necessarily there, Williams has all the talent to become the next great Georgia defender in the NFL.
*Trade* The Indianapolis Colts Trade Pick 16 to the Detroit Lions
Detroit Lions, Pick #16 – Will Johnson, Michigan (CB)
The fall of Will Johnson in this mock draft ends at 16. Johnson was the last blue-chip prospect left on my board, as he is arguably the best corner in the draft. I have the Lions moving up 12 spots with Arizona to keep the Wolverine in Michigan. While this is a big jump, the Lions are definitely in win now mode. Last season, their defense was ravaged by injuries, so it makes sense that they will try to add to that side of the ball. They have particularly struggled against the pass, where Will Johnson can come in and fill a hole. He has incredible instincts, with nine interceptions throughout his career in college, including returning both his picks in 2024 for touchdowns. While he did deal with a toe injury at the back end of the season, it shouldn’t effect him too much for his rookie season. The Lions traded up, and still scored one of the steals of the draft.
Cincinnati Bengals, Pick #17 – Jihaad Campbell, Alabama (LB)
The Cincinnati Bengals have a lot of questions coming into this offseason, particularly on offense. They have already committed to paying Jamarr Chase the highest non-QB salary in the league, which brings into question Tee Higgins future on the team. They could try to draft his successor if he is traded away this offseason. I instead opt for them to take Jihaad Campbell. Their defense was a mess this last season, and many blame that unit as the reason that Cincinnati didn’t make the playoffs. The Bengals will lose two of their starting linebackers in free agency, and Campbell can come in to not only be a replacement, but an upgrade. Campbell is a very good linebacker. He’s good in run defense, great in pass coverage, and is a tackle machine. He will be a massive addition for the Bengals defense.
Seattle Seahawks, Pick #18 – Tyler Booker, Alabama (G)
Once again, the Seahawks can go in a few different directions, particularly in the trenches. They could absolutely address the defensive line, but I instead have them trying to fix their offensive line. In particular, their interior line was a revolving door in 2024. Tyler Booker is the best pure guard in this class, thanks to his stellar pass protection. He has very sure feet, and is punchy at the point of attack. He’s also pretty solid as a run blocker, but he will need to improve in the NFL. Booker only gave up 2 sacks, despite logging over 2,000 career snaps at Alabama. Booker will be a very good guard in the NFL, and will hopefully bring some stability to the interior in Seattle.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Pick #19 – Shemar Stewart, Texas A&M (DE)
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers had a very solid 2024, coming back late in the season to secure the NFC South. Their defense was very middle of the back throughout the season, so I have them building up on that side of the ball with Shemar Stewart. Stewart is big, standing at 6’6 and 290 pounds. His ability to move at his size is his greatest strength going into the draft. He doesn’t necessarily have the college production, but the physical tools are there. His size also gives him great versatility entering the draft, as teams can realistically play him inside or on the edge. Throughout his time in college, Stewart showed signs that he could play both. This is an upside pick for sure, but if developed properly, the Aggie can be a game-wrecker.
Denver Broncos, Pick #20 – Tetairoa McMillan, Arizona (WR)
The Broncos seem to have finally hit on a quarterback since Peyton Manning rode off into the sunset, so this offseason will revolve around getting him some weapons. McMillan is a better version of the Broncos best receiver Courtland Sutton. Both are very physical, big bodied wide receivers with very sure hands. Despite not being the quickest receiver, he does have the ability to generate separation. But his contested catching will be key to his NFL success. He made his presence felt in the college football world in just the first week of the season, going for over 300 yards and 4 touchdowns. While I don’t think he will be generating that type of stat line in the NFL, he will be a good wide receiver, who I would compare to Drake London on the Atlanta Falcons.
Pittsburgh Steelers, Pick #21 – Emeka Egbuka, Ohio State (WR)
The Pittsburgh Steelers have a lot of questions this offseason at the quarterback position. Do you keep Russel Wilson or Justin Fields? Regardless of who they choose to keep, they will be lacking weapons next season. The running back pair of Jaylen Warren and Najee Harris will be hitting free agency, and there have been talks about disgruntled receiver George Pickens getting traded. Regardless if Pickens remains a Steeler or not, they’re going to need another weapon to help out their quarterback. Emeka Egbuka is an extremely polished route runner, probably the best in this class. He also is deceptively quick, and is a sure handed pass catcher. NFL teams have been raving about Egbuka recently, calling him the most pro-ready wideout. And coming out of the wide receiver factory Ohio State has become, it’s hard to argue against it.
Los Angeles Chargers, Pick #22 – Colston Loveland, Michigan (TE)
Jim Harbaugh did an amazing job with the Chargers in 2024. He managed to completely change the team’s culture, and turn the defense into a unit which produced the lowest points per game in the league. Now, he has an opportunity to improve the offense for superstar quarterback Justin Herbert. And what a better fit than reuniting with a former Michigan Wolverine in Colston Loveland. To start, being a former player for Harbaugh, Loveland can come in and immediately fit into the Chargers offensive scheme. They really tried leaning on the run in 2024, and Loveland is one of the better run blocking tight ends in the class. He’s also a threat in the passing game, as he consistently finds way to get open in man and zone. His sure hands and run after the catch ability will make a problem in the NFL.
Green Bay Packers, Pick #23 – Azareye’h Thomas, Florida State (CB)
Thomas becomes the third cornerback off the board, as the Packers take him at pick 23. There are questions surrounding Jaire Alexander’s future with the team, and while not a similar style, Thomas is still a great cornerback prospect. He has great size for a defensive back, at 6’2 and 220 pounds. He uses his size and length to make great plays on the ball. He is also deceptively quick, and can use his speed to recover if he makes a mistake in coverage. Despite only 2 career interceptions, he racked up 19 career pass breakups. He also was a star at the senior bowl, which has seen him elevate many teams draft boards.
Minnesota Vikings, Pick #24 – Grey Zabel, North Dakota State (OG/C)
The Minnesota Vikings where a surprising team in 2024, going 14-3 while reviving the career of Sam Darnold. While first-rounder JJ McCarthy will be returning for the upcoming season, the Vikings will need to fill in some holes that could be forming on the interior offensive line. Grey Zabel lined up all over the place in college, although he predominantly played either tackle throughout his time at North Dakota State. Many NFL scouts believe he will kick inside due to his size, and his success on the interior during the senior bowl. He had great tape throughout college, particularly in his pass protection. Zabel should be a strong addition to the Vikings offensive line.
Houston Texans, Pick #25 – Luther Burden III, Missouri (WR)
How the times have changed for the Houston Texans. Last offseason, many considered them as having the best wide receiver core, with Nico Collins, Stefon Diggs, and Tank Dell. Now, Diggs may be walking in free agency, and Dell’s devastating knee injury could cost him 2025. The Texans are going to need to find a replacement for the slot, and Burden can do just that. He is probably the best slot receiver in the draft, with quickness and solid route running. He is very good at finding the holes in defenses, and is particularly good at getting up field in the slot. He had a down year in 2024, but his 2023 college season had him slated as a top-10 pick in this draft. I believe that Houston are getting a great player here at 25 to help CJ Stroud going into year 3.
Los Angeles Rams, Pick #26 – Josh Simmons, Ohio State (T)
The Rams have lots of questions surrounding Matthew Stafford and Cooper Kupp going into the offseason, and it appears that the team will be parting ways with both players. The offense is going to need stability if those two franchise cornerstones are going out the door. Josh Simmons can come in immediately and anchor an offensive line that has struggled in recent years. He’s one of the most athletic tackles in the draft, with a great ability to get into the second level. He’s also extremely balanced in pass protection, and his footwork is second to none. Perhaps the only knock against Simmons is his season-ending knee injury against Oregon. But before he went down, he was playing like one of the best tackles in the country. Simmons should be ready to go before the 2025 season kicks off.
Baltimore Ravens, Pick #27 – James Pearce Jr, Tennessee (EDGE)
Another major faller throughout this draft process has been James Pearce. He had a relatively down year in 2024, only recording 8 sacks as opposed to 13 last season. But the talent still shows through. Pearce is extremely explosive off the edge in both run and pass defense. According to PFF, he has an 89.4 pass rush grade, and an 84.1 run defense grade. He also many pass rush moves in his arsenal, and he can beat you with speed and power. There have been rumors of character concerns with Pearce, which can see him slip out of the first round entirely. But the Baltimore Ravens are a well run organization, and I can see them taking in Pearce and putting those character concerns to rest, turning him into one of the most fearsome pass rushers in the league.
*Traded* Arizona Cardinals, Pick #28 – Kenneth Grant, Michigan (DT)
The Arizona Cardinals were one of the surprises at the beginning of the season. While they tapered of at the end of the year, there was a lot of great flashes by the offense in particular. Because of this, head coach Jonathan Gannon will look to add to the Cardinals defense. In particular, the big run stuffing defensive tackle of Kenneth Grant. The Cardinals didn’t really have a good run-stuffing interior defender in 2024, and Kenneth Grant can come in and do just that. Grant is big, standing at 6’3 and nearly 340 pounds. Not only can he eat up blocks inside during running plays, but he can also break through to get to the running back in the backfield. He isn’t too bad in pass defense as well, although I imagine him as more of an early down lineman in the NFL. Regardless, the Cardinals get a solid fit with this selection.
*Trade* Washington Commanders Trade Pick 29 to the Cleveland Browns
Cleveland Browns, Pick #29 – Nic Scourton, Texas A&M (EDGE)
This is where I see Myles Garrett going this offseason. The Commanders are one of the few teams in win now mode who have enough cap space to take on Garrett’s contract. This trade will obviously include more than just pick 29, but for now this is what I believe Cleveland will fetch in the deal. To replace Garrett, they turn to his alma mater to select Nic Scourton. Now, he did have a down year in 2024 with the Aggies, but he was extremely productive when playing at Purdue. He has incredible size for his position at 6’4 and 285 pounds. While he is nowhere near as athletic and polished as Garrett, he has potential to be a solid edge rusher for the Browns in the post Garrett era.
Buffalo Bills, Pick #30 – Jahdae Barron, Texas (DB)
After yet another heart-breaking loss to the Kansas City Chiefs in the playoffs, they have some problems to address. In particular, Rasul Douglas is a free agent this coming offseason, and the Bills already struggled with cornerback depth in the playoffs. Barron can come in and fit a variety of needs. He was a primarily a boundary corner at Texas, but he also played in the slot and at safety. Realistically, I believe that he has the talent to play at all those positions in the NFL. He is a very instinctive player with a nose for the football, as evident by his 5 interceptions throughout the 2024 college season. His size and age may be a concern, especially for a boundary corner, but I’m sure the Bills will be able to use his instincts to good use.
Kansas City Chiefs, Pick #31 – Josh Conerly Jr, Oregon (T)
The Chiefs had a major weakness exposed during their Super Bowl loss to the Philadelphia Eagles, and that was on the offensive line. In particular, Nolan Smith and Josh Sweat were able to wreak havoc off the edge and disrupt Patrick Mahomes. Conerly has very good footwork in pass protection, as he only gave up two sacks throughout his three seasons at Oregon. He does need to work on his skills in the run game, but his athleticism will help to make that challenge very easy. I believe that this is a slam dunk pick for Kansas City, as Conerly can come right in and help to protect Mahomes for years to come.
Philadelphia Eagles, Pick #32 – Darius Alexander, Toledo (DT)
The Philadelphia Eagles managed to climb the mountain in 2024, winning the Super Bowl in convincing fashion. Additionally, they had virtually zero holes in their roster, and most of their players will be returning in 2024. The two major free agents who the Eagles may not be able to replace are Milton Williams and Josh Sweat. And in typical Eagles fashion, the perfect replacement for Milton Williams falls directly into their lap. Darius Alexander is 6’4, over 300 pounds, and has very long arms. He was a phenomenal run defender for Toledo, and has shown that he can get after the quarterback with 11 combined sacks the last two seasons. He has even shown that he can rush off the edge if needed. GM Howie Roseman loves building in the trenches, and he takes the perfect scheme fit to close out the first round.
