ESPN’s Mel Kiper has unveiled his first NFL Mock Draft for 2025, igniting a wave of excitement and debate among college football fans and analysts alike. With the college football season still fresh in our minds, this draft preview offers a tantalizing glimpse into the future of the NFL. Who will rise to the occasion, and who might fall short? Let’s dive into Kiper’s latest predictions!
1. Tennessee Titans: Cam Ward, QB – Miami
The Tennessee Titans are poised to hit the reset button, and Kiper believes they’ll do so by selecting Cam Ward as the top pick in the draft. After a rollercoaster ride with Will Levis, the Titans are in desperate need of a fresh start at quarterback. Ward, who garnered significant Heisman buzz in 2024, has shown remarkable improvement throughout his college career, making him the ideal candidate to lead Tennessee into a new era.
3. New York Giants: Shedeur Sanders, QB – Colorado
It’s about time the New York Giants secure their future at quarterback. If the Cleveland Browns opt for Travis Hunter, Kiper suggests the Giants cannot afford to overlook Shedeur Sanders. With impressive stats and accuracy over his two years at Colorado, Sanders possesses the pedigree and charisma to revitalize the Giants’ offense. Could he be the spark they need?
2. Cleveland Browns: Travis Hunter, WR – Colorado
Following the selection of Ward, Kiper predicts that the Cleveland Browns will snag the Heisman winner, Travis Hunter. Despite a pressing need for a quarterback, the Browns have numerous gaps to fill on their roster. Hunter’s dual-threat capability—playing both wide receiver and cornerback—makes him an invaluable asset. Bringing in a superstar like Hunter could shift the dynamics in Cleveland significantly.
4. Jacksonville Jaguars: Mason Graham, DT – Michigan
The Jacksonville Jaguars faced challenges in the latter part of the 2023 season, indicating a need for reinforcements across the board. Kiper suggests they should focus on their defensive line by selecting Mason Graham. A dominant force at Michigan, Graham played a crucial role in their national championship success. His immediate impact could help solidify the Jaguars’ defense.
5. New York Jets: Jalon Walker, LB – Georgia
With the Jets potentially hiring Aaron Glenn as their new head coach, Kiper anticipates a defensive-first approach in the draft. Enter Jalon Walker, a standout linebacker from Georgia. The Jets’ defense showed promise last year but struggled at times. Adding Walker could enhance their defensive capabilities and provide the stability they need.
6. Chicago Bears: Olumuyiwa Campbell, OL – Alabama
The Chicago Bears have finally found their franchise quarterback in Caleb Williams, but now they must protect him. Kiper highlights Olumuyiwa Campbell as the top offensive lineman in this draft class. Ensuring Williams has a solid offensive line is crucial for his success in 2025. Will the Bears make the right choice to safeguard their investment?
7. Atlanta Falcons: Shemar Stewart, DE – Texas A&M
The Atlanta Falcons are looking to bolster their defensive line, and Kiper believes Shemar Stewart could be the answer. Known for his game-wrecking abilities, Stewart has drawn comparisons to Micah Parsons. With the Falcons needing an edge rusher, this pick could prove to be a game-changer.
8. Las Vegas Raiders: Jayden McMillan, WR – Oregon
The Raiders are in search of offensive weapons, and Kiper sees Jayden McMillan as a prime target. As one of the top wide receivers in the draft, McMillan is a deep-ball threat capable of changing the game in an instant. With uncertainty surrounding their head coach and quarterback situation, McMillan could provide a much-needed boost to the Raiders’ offense.
9. New England Patriots: Jared Carter, DE – Texas
The New England Patriots have a quarterback in place, allowing them to focus on strengthening their defense. Kiper suggests they should select Jared Carter, a dynamic edge rusher who can make an immediate impact. With Carter’s potential to disrupt opposing offenses, he could be a cornerstone of the Patriots’ defense for years to come.
Mel Kiper Mock Draft 2025: Picks 11-32
As we look further into Kiper’s mock draft, here are the remaining picks that could shape the future of the NFL:
11. San Francisco 49ers: Kelvin Banks Jr., OT – Texas
12. Dallas Cowboys: Luther Burden III, WR – Missouri
13. Miami Dolphins: Malaki Starks, S – Georgia
14. Indianapolis Colts: Tyler Warren, TE – Penn State
15. Atlanta Falcons: Shemar Stewart, DE – Texas A&M
16. Arizona Cardinals: Tyler Booker, G – Alabama
17. Cincinnati Bengals: Jihaad Campbell, LB – Alabama
18. Seattle Seahawks: Armand Membou, OT/G – Missouri
19. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Nick Emmanwori, S – South Carolina
20. Denver Broncos: Ashton Jeanty, RB – Boise State
21. Pittsburgh Steelers: Emeka Egbuka, WR – Ohio State
22. Los Angeles Chargers: Colston Loveland, TE – Michigan
23. Green Bay Packers: Mike Green, OLB – Marshall
24. Minnesota Vikings: Benjamin Morrison, CB – Notre Dame
25. Houston Texans: Josh Simmons, OT – Ohio State
26. Los Angeles Rams: Josh Conerly Jr., OT – Oregon
27. Baltimore Ravens: Shavon Revel Jr., CB – East Carolina
28. Detroit Lions: James Pearce Jr., OLB – Tennessee
29. Washington Commanders: Nic Scourton, DE – Texas A&M
30. Buffalo Bills: Maxwell Hairston, CB – Kentucky
31. Kansas City Chiefs: Walter Nolen, DT – Ole Miss
32. Philadelphia Eagles: Kenneth Grant, DT – Michigan
As we gear up for the 2025 NFL Draft, Kiper’s insights provide a thrilling preview of what’s to come. With college football talent on the rise, who will make the biggest splash in the NFL? Only time will tell!
