The excitement surrounding the NFL Draft is palpable, especially with the East-West Shrine Game recently concluded and the Senior Bowl just around the corner. As we inch closer to the 2025 NFL Draft, mock drafts are buzzing with predictions and potential player movements.
The NFL Draft Process Heats Up
With the draft date set for April 24-26 in Green Bay, Wisconsin, college football fans are eagerly anticipating which players will hear their names called. The atmosphere is charged with speculation, and analysts are working overtime to project the next wave of NFL stars. Eric Edholm of NFL.com has already released his first mock draft for 2025, stirring up discussions among fans and analysts alike.
Top Picks in Edholm’s Mock Draft
Edholm’s mock draft features some intriguing selections. He predicts that the Tennessee Titans will take Abdul Carter, an EDGE rusher from Penn State, with the first overall pick. Carter has seen his stock soar recently, thanks to a stellar season where he recorded 23.5 tackles for loss and 12 sacks. His performance in the College Football Playoff semifinal against Notre Dame showcased his resilience, as he played through pain and still managed to dominate on the field.
Following Carter, the Cleveland Browns are projected to select Travis Hunter, a versatile WR/CB from Colorado, at No. 2. Hunter, who won the Heisman Trophy, had an impressive season with 1,258 receiving yards and 15 touchdowns, along with 36 tackles and four interceptions on defense. His dual-threat capability makes him a valuable asset for any team.
Quarterback Needs at the Top of the Draft
The New York Giants are in desperate need of a quarterback and are projected to select Cam Ward from Miami at No. 3. Ward had a standout season, leading the nation with 39 passing touchdowns and totaling 4,313 yards with just seven interceptions. His ability to connect with star receiver Malik Nabers could bring a new level of excitement to the Giants’ offense.
At No. 4, the New England Patriots are expected to choose Mason Graham, a defensive lineman from Michigan. Graham was a force on the field, earning All-American honors and finishing with 45 tackles, 7 tackles for loss, and 3.5 sacks. His addition would bolster the Patriots’ defensive line, especially under new head coach Mike Vrabel, who has a strong defensive background.
Offensive Options in the Top 5
The Jacksonville Jaguars are projected to select Tyler Warren, a tight end from Penn State, at No. 5. Warren had a remarkable season, catching 104 passes for 1,233 yards and eight touchdowns, while also contributing on the ground. His versatility would provide quarterback Trevor Lawrence with another dynamic weapon.
Following Warren, the Las Vegas Raiders are expected to pick Ashton Jeanty, a running back from Boise State, at No. 6. Jeanty finished second in the Heisman race with an astonishing 2,601 rushing yards and 29 touchdowns last season. His explosive playmaking ability would add significant firepower to the Raiders’ offense.
Shedeur Sanders and the Jets
In a surprising twist, Shedeur Sanders, the talented quarterback from Colorado, is projected to slide to No. 7, landing with the New York Jets. Despite being touted as a potential No. 1 overall pick, Sanders’ remarkable accuracy—completing 74% of his passes for 4,134 yards and 37 touchdowns—could make him a valuable asset for a Jets team looking to solidify its quarterback situation amid uncertainty surrounding Aaron Rodgers.
The Carolina Panthers are expected to select Jalon Walker, an EDGE rusher from Georgia, at No. 8. Walker’s impressive stats, including 60 tackles and 10.5 tackles for loss, along with winning the Butkus Award, make him a prime candidate to help bolster the Panthers’ defense.
Wide Receiver Options in the Draft
At No. 9, the New Orleans Saints are projected to take Tetairoa McMillan, a wide receiver from Arizona. McMillan ranked third in the nation with 1,319 receiving yards and eight touchdowns last season. His addition would provide quarterback Derek Carr with a top target, especially as the Saints navigate their coaching changes.
Finally, the Chicago Bears are expected to round out the top ten by selecting Will Campbell, an offensive lineman from LSU. Campbell’s versatility and strong performance, earning him consensus All-American honors, would be crucial in protecting quarterback Caleb Williams and strengthening the Bears’ offensive line.
As the NFL Draft approaches, the excitement continues to build. With the Senior Bowl wrapping up, all eyes will soon shift to the NFL Scouting Combine in late February, where players will have one last chance to impress scouts and solidify their draft stock. The stage is set for a thrilling draft season!
