There are only two months left in the 2024 NFL regular season, and the excitement is palpable! As college football heats up, fans are eagerly anticipating the new 12-team playoffs. This is the perfect moment to dive into the latest projections for the upcoming 2025 NFL Draft. With so many teams vying for the top spots, the landscape is shifting rapidly.
NFL Draft Projections: A Look Ahead
As we gear up for the draft night at Lambeau Field on April 24, anticipation builds. The Sporting News has released its first-round mock draft, and it’s packed with intriguing possibilities. While several non-playoff teams are in contention for the coveted No. 1 overall pick, the Jacksonville Jaguars, who previously picked at the top in both 2021 and 2022, currently hold that position for 2025.
Top Picks in the 2025 Draft
1. Jacksonville Jaguars 2-8
Travis Hunter, CB/WR, Colorado (6-1, 185 pounds)
The Jaguars have struggled with pass coverage this season, and they need to bolster their offense to support rising star Brian Thomas Jr. Hunter could be the game-changing non-QB pick they need, regardless of any coaching changes.
2. New York Giants 2-8
Shedeur Sanders, QB, Colorado (6-2, 215 pounds)
Daniel Jones’ inconsistent performance has left the Giants searching for answers. If they decide to part ways with Jones, Sanders stands out as the most polished pocket passer in this draft class. His arrival could energize the Giants’ youth movement alongside WR Malik Nabers and RB Tyrone Tracy Jr.
3. Tennessee Titans 2-7
Tetairoa McMillan, WR, Arizona (6-5, 210 pounds)
The Titans are weighing their options with Will Levis, wanting to see him flourish in the new offense. If he shows promise, they might look to replace DeAndre Hopkins with McMillan, a versatile WR who can make an immediate impact.
4. Cleveland Browns 2-7
Cam Ward, QB, Miami (6-2, 223 pounds)
With questions surrounding Deshaun Watson’s future, the Browns must consider a new direction. Ward offers a strong arm and the ability to thrive in their offensive system, making him a valuable asset for the future.
5. Las Vegas Raiders 2-7
Jalen Milroe, QB, Alabama (6-2, 225 pounds)
The Raiders need a franchise quarterback, and Milroe fits the bill perfectly. His dual-threat capabilities could be the cornerstone for a new offensive strategy.
Defensive Standouts and Key Players
6. New England Patriots 3-7
Mason Graham, DT, Michigan (6-3, 318 pounds)
Graham is a formidable run stopper with the potential to dominate as an inside pass rusher. He could become the new linchpin for the Patriots’ defense.
7. New Orleans Saints 3-7
Will Johnson, CB, Michigan (6-2, 202 pounds)
With Marshon Lattimore’s departure, the Saints need to revamp their secondary. Johnson is a big, active corner who can step in and make an immediate impact.
8. New York Jets 3-7
Will Campbell, OT, LSU (6-6, 323 pounds)
The Jets need to address their aging offensive line. Campbell’s size and strength will be crucial for protecting their quarterback and enhancing the running game.
9. Carolina Panthers 3-7
Malaki Starks, S, Georgia (6-1, 205 pounds)
The Panthers are looking to improve their defense, and Starks has the range and size to make a significant impact against the run and in coverage.
10. Miami Dolphins 3-6
Mykel Williams, EDGE, Georgia (6-5, 265 pounds)
The Dolphins need a disruptive pass rusher, and Williams can provide that while also being effective against the run.
More Notable Picks to Watch
11. Dallas Cowboys 3-6
Abdul Carter, EDGE, Penn State (6-3, 250 pounds)
Carter is a natural pass rusher with great range, making him a valuable asset for the Cowboys’ defense.
12. Indianapolis Colts 4-6
Benjamin Morrison, CB, Notre Dame (6-0, 190 pounds)
Morrison would bring much-needed coverage skills to the Colts’ secondary, helping to shore up their defense.
13. Cincinnati Bengals 4-6
Luther Burden III, WR, Missouri (5-11, 208 pounds)
Burden could be a great fit for the Bengals as they look to replace Tee Higgins with a dynamic playmaker.
14. Tampa Bay Buccaneers 4-6
James Pearce, EDGE, Tennessee (6-5, 243 pounds)
Pearce’s athleticism and versatility would be a welcome addition to the Buccaneers’ defense.
15. Seattle Seahawks 4-5
Nic Scourton, EDGE, Texas A&M (6-4, 285 pounds)
Scourton’s pass-rushing skills could help elevate the Seahawks’ defensive performance.
As we look ahead to the 2025 NFL Draft, the excitement is building. Teams are strategizing, players are preparing, and fans are eagerly awaiting the next wave of talent to enter the league. With so much at stake, every pick will be crucial in shaping the future of these franchises. Who will rise to the occasion and make their mark? Only time will tell, but one thing is for sure: the journey to the draft is just as thrilling as the event itself!
