Now that the 2024 NFL season has wrapped up with the Philadelphia Eagles triumphing 40-22 over the two-time defending champion Kansas City Chiefs in Super Bowl LIX, the focus shifts to the future. The excitement of the NFL Draft is just around the corner, and anticipation is building for what the 2025 class will bring.
Looking Ahead: The 2025 NFL Draft
NFL.com draft analyst Chad Reuter has already begun to stir the pot with a comprehensive three-round mock draft for the 2025 NFL Draft. With five first-round trades projected, Reuter forecasts that four quarterbacks could be selected within the first 33 picks, with a total of seven QBs making their way off the board in the first three rounds. This is a pivotal moment for teams like the New York Jets, who have recently decided to move on from 41-year-old quarterback Aaron Rodgers. The Jets are poised to trade back into the bottom of Round 1 to secure their next franchise quarterback.
1. Tennessee Titans: Cam Ward, QB, Miami
Starting off the draft, the Tennessee Titans are expected to stay put at No. 1 and select their future franchise QB, Cam Ward. Despite new GM Mike Borgonzi hinting at the possibility of drafting a “generational talent,” Ward is seen as the crown jewel of the 2025 QB class. Last season, he led the FBS with 39 passing touchdowns and ranked second nationally with 4,313 passing yards.
Reuter emphasizes the need for the Titans to secure a quarterback to regain their playoff competitiveness. He states, “Ward’s five years of starting experience in college and ability to make plays in and outside the pocket give him a chance to replicate the success of 2024’s ‘experienced rookies’ like Jayden Daniels and Bo Nix.”
2. Cleveland Browns: Hunter Eskew, WR, Colorado
Despite their quarterback woes, Reuter believes the Cleveland Browns will opt for a different strategy. Instead of going all-in for a new QB, they are projected to take the reigning Heisman Trophy winner, Hunter Eskew, at No. 2 overall. Eskew’s versatility is undeniable; he amassed 96 receptions for 1,258 yards and 15 touchdowns on offense while also contributing defensively with four interceptions and 36 total tackles.
Reuter notes, “The Browns pass on a quarterback at No. 2 to select a true two-way star in Eskew. I expect the Heisman winner to focus on offense at the next level because of his special ball skills and athleticism, both of which are lacking in the Browns’ wideout room.”
3. New York Giants: Shedeur Sanders, QB, Colorado
The New York Giants are in dire need of a quarterback, and they might just find their answer in Shedeur Sanders at No. 3 overall. Sanders has been a polarizing figure among NFL scouts, but his impressive stats from 2024—leading the FBS with a 74.0 completion percentage, 4,134 passing yards, and 37 touchdowns—speak volumes.
Reuter remarks, “As the son of Coach Prime, Sanders has lived in the spotlight his entire life. So I don’t think the New York stage will be too big for him. For the Giants to maximize their new QB’s talents, they must improve the offensive line and find more playmakers to team with Malik Nabers.”
4. Chicago Bears: Will Campbell, OT, LSU
After a dismal season where they allowed a league-high 68 sacks, the Chicago Bears are expected to prioritize protection for their quarterback. They’ll likely select Will Campbell, the standout offensive tackle from LSU. Standing at 6-foot-6 and weighing 323 pounds, Campbell allowed just two sacks on 524 pass-block snaps in 2024.
Reuter emphasizes, “Chicago lands a legitimate starting left tackle to protect Caleb Williams and move defenders in the run game. He’ll be the best player they’ve had at that spot since … the 1983 NFL Draft.”
5. New York Jets: Mason Graham, DT, Michigan
As the Jets navigate a turbulent offseason, they are projected to focus on bolstering their defense by selecting Mason Graham, a powerful defensive tackle from Michigan. Graham, who stands 6-foot-3 and weighs 320 pounds, had an impressive season with 52 tackles, 26 pressures, and 3.5 sacks.
Reuter describes Graham as “one of the safest picks around,” noting that his strength and quickness allow him to play multiple spots on the line, which can be taxing on opposing offensive lines.
6. Jacksonville Jaguars: Quentin Johnson, CB, Michigan
The Jacksonville Jaguars faced significant challenges in their pass defense last season, finishing at the bottom of the league. To address this, they are projected to select Quentin Johnson at No. 6 overall. Despite battling injuries, Johnson made a name for himself with nine interceptions, showcasing his playmaking ability.
Reuter points out, “If healthy and able to prove he possesses the long speed to keep pace with NFL receivers, he has the height, length, and ball skills to remind everyone why he was a blue-chip prospect entering the 2024 campaign.”
As we look ahead to the 2025 NFL Draft, it’s clear that teams are gearing up to make strategic moves. With a wealth of talent available, the decisions made in the coming months will shape the future of franchises and the careers of young athletes. Who will rise to the occasion? Only time will tell, but the excitement is palpable!
