The 2024 college football season is coming to an exciting close, with conference championship games, the highly anticipated 12-team playoffs, and bowl games just around the corner. As the college scene heats up, the NFL is also entering its final month, with many teams already looking ahead to 2025 and beyond. This is the perfect time to dive into the potential first-round picks for the upcoming 2025 NFL Draft.
NFL Draft Projections: A Look Ahead
As we gear up for the draft, it’s essential to consider how the current prospects are shaping up and what each team might need. The landscape can change dramatically between now and April, but getting an early glimpse can be both informative and exciting.
Top Picks for the 2025 NFL Draft
Let’s break down the latest first-round projections based on the current standings and team needs.
1. Jacksonville Jaguars (2-10)
- Travis Hunter, CB/WR, Colorado (6-1, 185 pounds)
The Jaguars have struggled with pass coverage this season. They need to bolster their defense and provide more support for rising star Trevor Lawrence. Hunter is a versatile player who would be a fantastic addition, regardless of any coaching changes.
2. Las Vegas Raiders (2-10)
- Shedeur Sanders, QB, Colorado (6-2, 215 pounds)
Mark Davis has made it clear he wants a flashy player to lead his franchise. Sanders fits the bill perfectly, and there’s speculation that this could be a package deal to bring Deion Sanders to Las Vegas as well.
3. New York Giants (2-10)
- Cam Ward, QB, Miami (6-2, 223 pounds)
With Daniel Jones likely on his way out, the Giants are in a prime position to draft their next franchise quarterback. Ward brings a dynamic dual-threat capability reminiscent of Jayden Daniels, who is making waves in the NFL.
4. New England Patriots (2-10)
- Mason Graham, DT, Michigan (6-3, 318 pounds)
Graham is a powerful run-stopper with potential as a pass rusher. He could become the cornerstone of the Patriots’ defense, making him an appealing choice for Jerod Mayo.
5. Carolina Panthers (3-9)
- Abdul Carter, EDGE, Penn State (6-3, 250 pounds)
The Panthers need to enhance their pass rush, and Carter has the potential to be a game-changer, excelling against both the pass and the run.
6. New York Jets (3-9)
- Will Campbell, OT, LSU (6-6, 323 pounds)
With aging tackles, the Jets need to invest in their offensive line. Campbell would provide the necessary protection for whoever is under center, be it Aaron Rodgers or a new face.
7. Tennessee Titans (3-9)
- Tetairoa McMillan, WR, Arizona (6-5, 210 pounds)
To support second-year QB Will Levis, the Titans need a top-tier playmaker. McMillan can be that all-around threat, complementing existing talents like Calvin Ridley.
8. Cleveland Browns (3-9)
- Jalen Milroe, QB, Alabama (6-2, 225 pounds)
With Deshaun Watson struggling, the Browns should consider a fresh start with a rookie quarterback. Milroe’s dual-threat abilities could be a significant asset in the competitive AFC North.
Mid to Late First-Round Predictions
As we move further down the draft order, the focus shifts to teams looking to fill specific gaps in their rosters.
9. Cincinnati Bengals (4-8)
- Luther Burden III, WR, Missouri (5-11, 208 pounds)
Burden is an ideal replacement for Tee Higgins, providing a reliable target opposite Ja’Marr Chase.
10. New Orleans Saints (4-8)
- Will Johnson, CB, Michigan (6-2, 202 pounds)
The Saints need to revamp their secondary, and Johnson is a dynamic playmaker who can step in immediately.
11. Chicago Bears (4-8)
- Mykel Williams, DT, Georgia (6-5, 265 pounds)
With a need for interior strength, Williams can be a versatile addition to the Bears’ defensive front.
12. Miami Dolphins (5-7)
- Malaki Starks, S, Georgia (6-1, 205 pounds)
Starks has the potential to be a game-changer in the Dolphins’ secondary, capable of excelling in multiple roles.
13. Dallas Cowboys (5-7)
- Ashton Jeanty, RB, Boise State (5-9, 215 pounds)
The Cowboys are looking for a dynamic back to complement their existing roster, and Jeanty fits the bill perfectly.
14. San Francisco 49ers (5-7)
- Nic Scourton, EDGE, Texas A&M (6-4, 285 pounds)
With Nick Bosa’s injury issues, Scourton could provide the youthful energy needed in the 49ers’ pass rush.
15. Indianapolis Colts (6-7)
- Isaiah Bond, WR, Texas (5-11, 190 pounds)
The Colts should add more speed to their receiving corps, and Bond would be a great fit alongside their existing talent.
As we look ahead, the excitement of the draft looms large, and teams will be eager to make their mark. With the college football season winding down, all eyes will be on how these young prospects perform in the final stretch and how they will shape the future of the NFL. The journey to the 2025 NFL Draft is just beginning, and it promises to be filled with surprises and standout performances!
