2025 NFL Draft: First Round Mock Draft and Analysis

1. Tennessee Titans – Cam Ward, QB, 6’2”, 223lbs, Miami, Fla.

04/11/25 - Cam Ward, QB, Miami, Fla.

02/23/15 - Abdul Carter, Edge, Penn State

02/15/25 - Abdul Carter, Edge, Penn State 

Brian Callahan took over for Mike Vrabel in Tennessee for the 2024 season but struggled to find any success, finishing the year at 3-14 with three fewer wins. Callahan is now firmly on the hot seat as new GM Mike Borgonzi steps in for Ran Carthon. Borgonzi has come out and said he wouldn’t pass on a generational talent at No. 1 overall but is also listening to offers for the top pick. If Tennessee really saw Abdul Carter or Travis Hunter as a generational pick, would Borgonzi also be on the record saying he wants as many picks in the top 100 as possible?  Despite having the number two-ranked defense, the Titans were among the league’s worst in scoring defense, sacks and pressure rate while the offense finished 26th in the league. Hunter’s play at both WR and CB for Colorado could be seen as the definition of a generational talent. The Heisman Trophy winner would fit well on both sides of the ball as Calvin Ridley needs a WR to team with, especially with Treylon Burks now being seen as a 1st Round bust after managing just 53 receptions over his three years in the league and Titans could be on the market for a corner opposite L’Jarius Sneed, especially after Chidobe Awuzie left in free agency.  As for Carter, he could provide the pass rush with some much-needed juice especially with Harold Landry, the team's leader in sacks a season ago with 9.5, is now in New England.  Dre'Mont ones and Lorenzo Carter were brought in as free agents, but neither is the type of difference maker Tennessee needs, especially after finishing with just 32 sacks as a team which tied them with Carolina for 29th in the league.  Carter started his career in Happy Valley as an off-ball linebacker before becoming a full-time edge rusher this past season and has Nittany Lions fans drawing comparisons to Micah Parsons. At the same time, at the top of Borgonzi’s list should be making a decision at the QB position, where Will Levis showed flashes but ultimately was benched during the season and does not appear to be the guy to lead the turnaround in Tennessee. Cam Ward is widely regarded as the top QB in this year's draft.  What sets Ward apart would be his playmaking ability, especially on 3rd downs. 

2. Cleveland Browns – Travis Hunter, CB/WR 6’1”, 185lbs, Colorado, Jr.

04/11/25 - Travis Hunter, CB/WR, Colorado

02/23/25 - Cam Ward, QB, Miami, Fla.

02/15/25 - Travis Hunter, CB/WR, Colorado

Deshaun Watson has been a distraction both on and off the field since his arrival from Houston in 2021. The deal saw Cleveland lose substantial draft capital to the Texans and Watson ultimately landed a fully guaranteed deal worth $230 million over five years. According to Spotrac, Watson’s contract still constitutes 26.5% of Cleveland’s salary cap in 2025. And now after his second Achilles tear in one year, Cleveland is approaching the 2025 season without the enigmatic QB in their plans and the Browns have been actively searching for his replacement during the offseason. They’ve already traded for Kenny Pickett to handle backup duties and had their sights on Russell Wilson, who opted to sign with the Giants. This pick is destined to be whichever QB is left on the board between Cam Ward and Shedeur Sanders, right? It sure seems that way given the lack of QBs on the market. However, Cleveland also signed veteran Joe Flacco who could assume the starter duties for the time being.  There is no doubt that the Browns have to find an answer at the QB position as the organization has started 40 different signal callers since 1999, but it doesn’t necessarily have to be at No. 2 if they’re not completely sold on Sanders. Why? This draft has two potent,ially generational defensive standouts the Browns will still consider. Future Hall of Famer Myles Garrett, whose 14.0 sacks this past season was his seventh straight season with double-digit sacks, signed a four-year $160 million deal to remain in Cleveland, but he needs help getting after the passer. Cleveland’s roster is sorely lacking pass rush help, especially with the trade of ZaDarius Smith to Detroit, a move that left Obo Okoronkwo and Isaiah McGuire to fill the void opposite Garrett and they responded with just a combined 5.5 sacks. Even with the free agent signing of Joe Tryon-Shoyinka, adding an edge like Abdul Carter would make a lot of sense. Then there’s Travis Hunter, himself a generational talent with the ability to play over 100 snaps a game at both WR and CB. Most teams are convinced he’ll have to decide on specific side of the ball and the Browns came out at the Combine to say they see Hunter as a WR and could line him at CB in specific packages at a minimum but why not let him be like Shohei Ohtani where the Angels and Dodgers both gave him the opportunity to both pitch and hit, something that this generation hasn't seen before? Jerry Jeudy had 1,229 receiving yards in a career season with the Browns, but Elijah Moore, who finished the season third in receptions and yards, is now with the Jets. Cedric Tillman came on nicely after Amari Cooper was traded away to the Bills in October. However, Cleveland could use another explosive athlete to line opposite Jeudy and Hunter would fit the bill. That would also allow Hunter to potentially battle Martin Emerson for the starting spot on the outside opposite Denzel Ward with Greg Newsome II handling the nickel.  Even if Hunter isn’t an every-down player on defense, DC Jim Schwartz would find creative ways to utilize his skillset on defense. And picking Hunter here doesn’t keep the Browns from potentially landing Sanders later on in Round 1. I mean, it wouldn’t be the first time we’ve seen it. Just two years ago we saw the Houston Texans draft CJ Stroud as their QB of the future, then traded with Arizona to get to No. 3 to take edge rusher Will Anderson Jr., a move that allowed the Texans to immediately impact both sides of the ball at the top of the draft.  GM Andrew Berry could be setting up a similar move in Cleveland.  At the same time, Cleveland could be listening to trade offers for teams looking to trade up but would only make such a deal if they received a truckload of picks.  If it happens, the Browns could focus on numerous draft needs and would then put them in position to target a QB later in Round One.  

3. New York Giants – Abdul Carter, Edge, 6’3”, 252lbs, Penn State, Jr.

04/11/25 - Abdul Carter, Edge, Penn State

02/23/15 - Shedeur Sanders, QB, Colorado

02/15/25 - Cam Ward, QB, Miami, Fla.

2024 is a year that GM Joe Schoen would like to forget. It all started by allowing Saquon Barkley to sign with NFC East rival Philadelphia who then went on to rush for over 2,000 yards and played a vital role in the Eagles’ Super Bowl winning season. Then, after a 2-8 start to the season, New York let their QB Daniel Jones go, ultimately ending their relationship with the former 6th pick of the 2019 draft. The trio of Drew Lock, Tommy Devito and Tim Boyle finished the season with a 1-6 record with the lone victory over Indianapolis during Week 17 which ultimately dropped their draft position two spots to No. 3 overall. Schoen has to come away with a top QB from this year’s draft class, especially after missing out on the likes of Michael Pennix Jr., JJ McCarthy and Bo Nix a season ago. Bringing in veterans Russell Wilson and Jameis Winston gives New York a couple of stopgap QBs and actually buys Schoen time to find the QB of the future. The free agency moves doesn’t mean the Giants won’t draft a QB early. In fact, if Cleveland selects Travis Hunter at No. 2, then Shedeur Sanders could be the pick. I just expect New York to use this pick on either of the two potentially generational talents on defense. Hunter would not only team with Paulson Adebo and the newly signed Jevon Holland to give the G-men a formidable secondary but would also be a dynamic pairing with Malik Nabers in the passing game. But if Hunter is gone, then adding Abdul Carter to a pass rush that already includes Kayvon Thibodeaux, Brian Burns and Dexter Lawrence would give the Giants a scary pass rush, reminiscent of the NASCAR package former DC Steve Spagnuolo used to implement with the likes of Michael Strahan, Justin Tuck and Osi Umeniyora. Carter began his career as an off-ball LB, where he was able to show off his sideline-to-sideline range, an ability to drop into coverage and a knack for triggering downhill in a hurry to pressure the QB while working as a spy. Then Carter moved to a full-time edge rusher for the 2024 season and Carter responded with 12.5 sacks, 23.5 TFL, 61 total pressures and a pass rush win rate of 22.9%. Carter’s first-step quickness is so explosive that he’s already on the OT and attacking the outside shoulder before the blocker has a chance to set up, but he also has the agility from his time as an off-ball LB to shoot gaps and slip blocks when working inside. Carter’s flexibility allows him to bend and flatten at the top of the rush and has a lethal spin move counter that causes problems. Wilson and Winston on the roster wouldn’t keep Schoen and Daboll from selecting Sanders, but it also means they can focus on best player available now and potentially look at the QB either later in the 1st Round or on Day 2. Either way, owner John Mara wants the QB of the future on the roster asap. We saw what Arthur Blank’s influence had last year on Atlanta’s selection of Michael Penix Jr. despite the Falcons needing pass rush help. Could Mara impact this pick and have Sanders land in New York?  The only way I see that happening is if, like Cleveland, the Giants get an offer they just can't refuse which then allows them to select Sanders later on in the 1st Round.  They may even be patient enough to w

4. New England Patriots – Will Campbell, OT, 6’6”, 320lbs, LSU, Jr.

04/11/25 - Will Campbell, OT, LSU

02/23/25 - Travis Hunter, CB/WR, Colorado

02/15/25 - Mason Grahan, DT, Michigan

Jerod Mayo struggled to move New England forward after the departure of Bill Belichick in his first year as head coach and rather than being given another season, the band-aid was pulled off and Mayo was let go and in steps Mike Vrabel, a proven head coach with a 56-48 record and three playoff appearances during six seasons in Tennessee. The former New England LB has his work cut out for him with a roster that is in desperate need of playmakers on both sides of the ball. New England has been busy in free agency to start the overhaul.  The Patriots finished last in the league with just 28 sacks this past season, with only DE’s Keion White and Deatrich Wise Jr. finishing with more than 2.5 sacks on the year (each finished with 5.0 sacks), while also finishing 23rdin the league against the run. White and NT Christian Barmore are entrenched as starters up front, but the free agent signing of Milton Williams was huge and essentially rules out Mason Graham here. The Pats may be secretly hoping the Giants take Shedeur Sanders at No. 3, which would mean Mike Vrabel would get his dominant edge rusher in Abdul Carter.  Having Carter and Harold Landry bending the edge with Milton Williams and Christian Barmore working the inside immediately improves a defense that finished dead last in sacks last year. Vrabel would have the ability to line Carter up all over the field and would bring a dynamic element not currently on the roster. If Carter is off the board here, New England could opt for a weapon for Drake Maye, meaning Tetairoa McMillan could also be an option to team with Stefon Diggs and Tyler Warren would be an upgrade over the aging Henry. However, protecting Maye may actually be the bigger need as the O-line finished tied for 26th in the league with 50 sacks given up and Will Campbell would be an immediate upgrade over Vederian Lowe at LT. There were concerns about his shorter than ideal arms for an OT, but as it turns out, his arms measured in at 33 inches at his Pro Day, which is just a half inch shorter than Penei Sewell and is comparable to Rashawn Slater’s arm length, both of whom are Pro Bowl OTs. Campbell’s play on the field is also proof he can be a starting LT in the NFL. A big part of that is the footwork and Campbell is extremely light on his feet, showing an effortless kick slide, an ability to change directions quickly to mirror the DE and does a good job of having his hands and feet in sync. Campbell is a technician with good flexibility but is also incredibly strong and once he gets his hands on a rusher, he’s able to keep him square and can also anchor with tremendous leverage. Campbell can also generate a lot of movement in the running game.

5. Jacksonville Jaguars – Ashton Jeanty, RB, 5’9”, 215lbs, Boise State, Jr.

04/11/25 - Mason Graham, DT, Michigan

02/23/25 - Mason Graham, DT, Michigan

02/15/25 - Will Johnson, CB, Michigan

Doug Pederson had back-to-back nine-win seasons and a playoff berth, but that start in Jacksonville couldn’t save him from an abysmal 4-13 season in 2024. In steps Liam Coen who should bring an innovative to an offense to hopefully bring Trevor Lawrence along in much the same light as we saw Baker Mayfield shine in Tampa. Coen will likely want to surround Lawrence with weapons, and he did have Mike Evans and Chris Godwin to complement each other in Tampa, so Tetairoa McMillan could be a nice fit opposite Brian Thomas Jr., especially with the trade of Christian Kirk, but would we really see the Jags targeting a WR in consecutive drafts, even with HC in the fold? If Liam Coen is looking for his Mike Evans, then McMillan is his guy. McMillan’s height and weight measurements are comparable to Evans, who measured in at 6’4 ¾” and 225 pounds, though Evans does have about a four-inch reach advantage over McMillan. The big wideout from Arizona also ran in the 4.52-4.57 range at his Pro Day, which is right in line with the 4.53 40 that Evans ran back in 2014. Now, Evans left school with two years of eligibility remaining, but if we look at their production over the final two seasons in college, Evans finished with 151 receptions for 2,499 yards and 17 TD while McMillan’s final two seasons with the Wildcats netted him 174 catches for 2,721 yards and 18 TD. Evans ended up as the No. 7 overall pick of Tampa Bay and McMillan could come off the board here at No. 5 to the Jags. If there ever was a prospect who could fill the Mike Evans role in a Liam Coen offense, McMillan could be just that. The defense is in desperate need of help, especially after finishing dead last in passing yards given up (4,605) and 26th in sacks (34). When it comes to defending the pass, not only did the Jags give up the most yards, but they also gave up the most plays over 20 yards as well as the big plays over 40 yards. Not only that, but the Jaguars lacked playmakers on the back end, finishing with the 3rd fewest Int. with just 6. Tyson Campbell is entrenched as the starter at one spot, but Jacksonville has struggled to find a corner to line up opposite him. Montaric Brown and Ronald Darby struggled this past season and now Darby is gone while Brown is only under contract for one more year, while rookie Jarrian Jones seems to be best suited as the nickel. You can expect the Jags to get the pick to Roger Goodell in a hurry if Travis Hunter is still on the board as he would not only lock down the side of the field opposite Campbell but would also give Lawrence another weapon teaming with BTJ. Travon Walker and Josh Hines-Allen combined for 54.4% of the team’s 34 sacks this past season, but after those two, only rookie DT Maason Smith finished with more than 2.0 sacks. To make matters worse, the Jags were in the bottom third in the league against the run. Adding a disruptive force along the interior of the line like Mason Graham would not only help the run defense, but his ability to collapse the pocket from within would also bolster the pass rush.  However, how can an offensive-minded HC like Coen not target an offensive difference maker with his first pick in the top five?  I think GM James Gladstone is going to be making a statement when he pairs Lawrence with Ashton Jeanty, who just missed out on Barry Sanders' single season rushing record after totaling 2,601 yards, with 1,970 of those coming after contact.  While Travis Etienne had back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons on the ground coming into this season, he managed just 558 yards while starting 15 games and was outgained on the ground by Tank Bigsby.  Jeanty would absolutely bring a completely different dynamic to the Raiders offense with his ability to run with power and speed while also being a factor in the passing game. Jeanty’s versatility as a three-down back and his ability to wear down defenses is just what the doctor ordered if you're a Jaguars fan.

6. Las Vegas Raiders – Armand Membou, OT, 6’4”, 332lbs, Missouri, Jr.

04/11/25 - Ashton Jeanty, RB, Boise State

02/23/25 - Ashton Jeanty, RB, Boise State

02/13/25 - Ashton Jeanty RB, Boise State

Las Vegas was the epitome of making lemonade out of the lemons they were served in last year’s draft as they were targeting a QB at No. 13 yet all six of the top-ranked signal callers came off the board in the first 12 picks. That left the Raiders opting for the best player available and used the pick on Georgia TE Brock Bowers, who set rookie records for receptions (112) and receiving yards for a TE (1,194). Could lightning strike the Silver and Black twice in back-to-back years? It’s entirely possible, especially with the Raiders trading for Geno Smith, who had a relationship with new HC Pete Carroll during their time in Seattle.  The Raiders have needs up front on the OL, at the WR position and in the secondary, but if they target the best player available again, this year it could very well be Ashton Jeanty, and the pick makes a lot of sense. Vegas finished last in rushing after managing just 1,357 yards on the ground and the duo of Alexander Mattison and Ameer Abdullah combined for just 731 of those yards. Granted, the two were a vital part of a passing offense that finished 9thin the league in yards as they finished 4th and 5th on the roster in receptions. Now, Mattison and Abdullah are out and Raheem Mostert was added to team with Sincere McCormick, Zamir White, Dylan Laube and Isaiah Spiller, none of whom would provide the type of impact the reining Heisman Runner-Up would make in a Raider uniform.  In fact, Ashton Jeanty's game is reminiscent of Marshawn Lynch, who played a key role for Carroll during his time in Seattle.  However, it looks like Vegas is yet again one pick shy of the player they covet.  Now last year the Raiders were eyeing a QB, but when even Bo Nix was taken at N0. 12 overall, the Raiders were forced to go BPA and took Bowers, but we saw the impact he made as a rookie in the Silver and Black.  Missing out on Jeanty would still allow the Raiders to go BPA and take Armand Membou, whom many feel is the top OT in this year's draft.  Membou has largely been seen as a candidate to kick inside because there have been concerns about his size, but he has more length than expected measuring in at 6’4” with 34-inch arms at the Combine and his play against top SEC edge rushers proved he has the chops to remain at OT. In fact, Membou didn’t give up a single sack while only surrendering nine pressures a season ago. He’s also incredibly physical in the running game and is looking to maul defenders before driving them into the ground with an emphatic finish. Membou’s tenacity, physicality and footwork make him an ideal fit to start right away at RT opposite Kolten Miller and would give Smith a pair of bookends to keep him upright.  

7. New York Jets – Tyler Warren, TE, 6’6”, 257lbs, Penn State

04/11/25 - Armand Membou, OT, Missouri

02/23/25 - Will Johnson, CB, Michigan

02/15/25 - Shedeur Sanders, QB, Colorado

Just two years ago there was a buzz in New York with the signing of Aaron Rodgers who was supposed to return the Jets to the playoffs. However, a season-ending Achilles injury followed by a disappointing 2024 season unceremoniously ended Rodgers’ time in a Jets uniform. Now the franchise is in the hands of Justin Fields. A key this offseason has been to surround Fields with other offensive weapons besides Garrett Wilson and Breece Hall. TE Tyler Conklin was fourth on the team in receptions and receiving yards, but he’s now an LA Charger. It’s no secret the Jets are interested in Tyler Warren as Yahoo Sports reported New York set up multiple meetings with the Nittany Lions TE. New head coach Aaron Glenn utilized a Cover 1 defense in Detroit to take advantage of corners’ ability to play in man coverage. Sauce Gardner is a bonafide star, but with DJ Reed now in Detroit, I would expect the defensive-minded head coach to look to pair Gardner with a top-flight cover corner at some point in the draft, so don’t rule out Will Johnson.  However, the Jets put the No. 3-ranked defense on the field a season ago and Glenn was able to elevate the Lions’ defense during his time as the DC in Detroit, so it may make more sense for the Jets to focus on addressing the offensive side, which finished 24th in the league in total offense. The OL will absolutely get a focus early. Olu Fashanu is the long-term answer at LT, but Morgan Moses signed with New England and there are few options at RT in free agency.  Armand Membou is the pick here if he's still on the board.  If he's gone, then I think the Jets target a weapon in the passing game for Fields.  Davante Adams' time in New York was short lived and the Jets really haven't found a No. 2 option as Josh Reynolds and Allen Lazard won't exactly fit the bill.  However, the WR class isn't strong enough to select one here.  However, the TE is stocked with two prospects who are not only locks for the 1st Round, but there's an outside chance they both get selected in the top 10.  This pick should be used on Tyler Warren who is a different type of athlete at the TE position as an often-dominant receiving weapon as well as a strong blocker in the running game. Warren has tremendous size but is very light on his feet, runs routes well, has tremendous ball skills and is dynamic after the catch. Warren proved to be an elite receiver as the Mackey Award winner finishing the 2024 campaign with 104 receptions for 1,233 yards and 8 TD. He also has experience carrying the football as a Wildcat QB and, as a former high school QB, was even a passer for the Nittany Lions. Warren is also a physical presence as a blocker in the ground game, which will only help Hall and Braelon Allen. Warren gives the Jets the type of chess piece not currently on the roster and would immediately become a perfect complement for the explosive Wilson.

8. Carolina Panthers – Jalon Walker, Edge/LB, 6’2”, 245lbs, Georgia, Jr.

04/11/25 - Jalon Walker, Edge/LB, Georgia

02/25/25 - Jalon Walker, Edge/LB, Georgia

02/13/25 - Jalon Walker, Edge/LB, Georgia

Dave Canales knew he had his work cut out for him after taking over for a team that was just 2-15 the year prior and his Panthers got off to a rocky start winning just one game in their first eight. However, something clicked with Bryce Young under Canales’ and Carolina closed the season with a 4-5 record. Canales is hoping to ride the wave of momentum into the offseason, but there are definitely key need areas that need to be sorted out. Offensively, Adam Thielen is now 35 years of age and is entering the final year of his deal while last year’s 1st Round pick Xavier Legette finished 2nd on the team in both receptions and receiving yards. Young still needs a No. 1 wideout, meaning Tetairoa McMillan will get a long look here. Tommy Tremble was re-signed to a two-year deal but he’s not a starting-caliber TE as he’s known more as a blocker and managed just 23 catches for a career-high 234 yards a season ago. Ja’Tavion Sanders is the current backup who has shown flashes, but a neck injury in Week 12 seemed to slow his momentum. Young is in desperate need of playmakers and one of the best is Penn State’s Tyler Warren. In fact, NFL.com reported Canales was raving about Warren because of his versatility. I just think the team has to look defense here. The team really struggled up front when Derrick Brown went down to a season-ending knee injury in Week 1. In fact, Carolina finished last in rush defense as the only team giving up more than 3,000 yards on the ground and finished the year giving up 653 more yards than the next closest team. That just won’t get it done. However, the additions of Bobby Brown III and Tershawn Wharton likely mean this pick won’t be used on Mason Graham. With Graham likely off the board anyway, expect the Panthers to shift their focus to the pass rush after finishing the season 29th in the league in sacks with OLBs Jadeveon Clowney and DJ Wonnum combining for just 9.5 sacks to lead the team. Walker is instinctive, quick to diagnose plays and is a violent tackler. He has quite a bit of experience as an off-ball LB where he can read-and-react and make plays in space. Walker is also tremendous when spying the QB, showcasing a knack for triggering downhill to shoot gaps and get after the QB trying to vacate the pocket. I could easily see Walker taking over the role Shaq Thompson played as an off-ball LB, then get after the QB with Clowney and Wonnum on obvious passing downs.

9. New Orleans Saints – Kelvin Banks Jr., OT, 6’4, 320lbs, Texas, Jr.

04/11/25 - Shedeur Sanders, QB, Colorado

02/23/25 - Tetairoa McMillan, WR, Arizona

02/15/25 - Tetairoa McMillan, WR, Arizona

The Saints, like many teams in the top 10, have questions about the QB position heading into the offseason. New head coach Kellen Moore has decisions to make on the offensive side of the ball, especially considering he’s been noncommittal about Derek Carr leading the team in 2025. Carr has a dead cap hit over $50 million in each of the next two seasons and has a no-trade clause that he’d need to waive in order to be traded. If Moore is attached to Carr for the next two seasons, we could see him look for a rookie to groom as his eventual replacement.  However, things are actually more dire in New Oreleans with the leaked intel that Carr has a major shoulder injury that could require surgery, which puts his availability for the 2025 season in jeopardy.  Even if the Saints target Aaron Rodgers or Kirk Cousins to take over in 2025, adding Moore's QB of the future should be a priority.  Of course, that may only a consideration in Round One if Shedeur Sanders were to slide. If he’s off the board, the focus may be on surrounding him with weapons. Chris Olave was off to a hot start in New Orleans with back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons to begin his career before concussions ended his 2024 campaign after just eight games. Even still, Olave led all WRs in receptions and receiving yards with a trio of TE’s (Juwan Johnson, Foster Moreau and Taysom Hill) were more productive than the trio of Marques Valdes-Scantling, Rasheed Shaheed and Cedrick Wilson Jr. The Saints must add a go-to WR to take the pressure off Olave and Tetairoa McMillan is a physical specimen who has drawn comparisons to Drake London, himself a former top 10 pick. The addition of veteran Brandin Cooks to team with Olave and Shaheed gives the Saints a trio of WRs for Carr, so the Saints could use this pick to focus on another position. The Saints have been searching for a game-wrecking presence up front defensively to be an eventual replacement for the aging Cam Jordan, who is likely in his final year. Carl Granderson was one year removed from racking up 8.5 sacks in 2023, but he managed just 5.5 this past season, though he tied Chase Young for the team lead among DEs, though the overall lead went to DT Bryan Bresee, who finished with 8.5 sacks. Young was re-signed to a three-year deal, but he has yet to crack the double-digit sack total. Mykel Williams has the ability to be the first Saints edge rusher to hit 10.0+ sacks since Jordan racked up 12.5 in 2021.  The Saints could even opt to still address the QB position by pursuing Jaxson Dart, though selecting the former Ole Miss Rebel would be a significant reach at No. 9.  All that said, there is a chance Sanders slides and if he does, expect teams to be posturing to move ahead of the Saints to secure his services.  GM Mickey Loomis may also decide to move up to ensure he gets his QB.  Keep in mind, Ryan Ramczyk officially retired, meaning second-year pro Taliese Fuaga, who played on the right side in college at Oregon State, is expected to start at LT in 2025.  That then means that Trevor Penning, who has largely been a disappointment, will would be the RT.  However, the Saints should likely move on from Penning meaning this pick could easily be used to fortify the trenches.  This OT draft class has depth in the frist two rounds, btu then it begins to tail off after tha, so it may behoove the Saints to get their OT here, then consider moving back into Round One to land either Dart or Sanders.  That then means this pick could be used on Banks Jr., who has the athleticism to play either OT position and was a technician at Texas and was one of the more consistent OTs over the couple of seasons. 

10. Chicago Bears – Mason Graham, DT, 6’3”, 320lbs, Michigan, Jr.

04/11/25 - Tyler Warren, TE, Penn State

02/23/25 - Will Campbell, OT, LSU

02/15/25 - Will Campbell, OT, LSU

Expectations were high in the Windy City prior to the start of the 2024 season. The Bears were fresh off of drafting franchise QB Caleb Williams with the No. 1 overall pick, surrounded him with a ton of weapons in DJ Moore, Keenan Alen, Rome Odunze and Cole Kmet, not to mention a solid RB in D’Angelo Swift. Plus, Chicago boasted the league’s 12th-ranked defense. Then reality set in. After a 4-2 start to the year, the Bears came off their bye week losing ten straight games and finished with a lowly 5-12 record. The defense that was once formidable finished the season 27th in total defense and Montez Sweat needs a running mate and Chicago may not be done even after signing Dayo Odeyingbo in free agency, especially after releasing Demarcus Walker and both Jacob Martin and Darrell Taylor entering free agency. Senior Bowl and Combine star Shemar Stewart may have put himself in top 10 consideration despite his lack of production, while Mykel Williams could be a nice fit as well based more on the traits than overall production. However, the defensive regression was due in large part because of a sputtering offense. It’s never a good sign when your punter finishes second in the league in total punts (82). Sure, there were growing pains with Williams, who struggled at times to get rid of the ball quickly, but he still managed to throw for 3,541 yards and 20 TD to just 6 Int. and even went 353 passes without an Int., the fourth longest streak in NFL history. What needs to happen is giving Williams time to make plays within the pocket and he can’t do that behind an OL that gave up a whopping 68 sacks to lead the league. Chicago addressed the interior of the OL with trades for Joe Thuney and Jonah Jackson plus the signing of Drew Dalman to man the pivot and with Darnell Wright entrenched at RT, new HC Ben Johnson has already made vast improvements up front. However, you have to imagine he and GM Ryan Poles aren’t done as LT Braxton Jones is coming off a broken fibula and is entering the final year of his rookie deal. You have to imagine there will be competition in training camp. Johnson’s offense in Detroit was built around a physically dominant OL and Will Campbell can be physically dominant up front. Campbell would be the final piece for Poles and Johnson in upgrading the OL and he would instantly challenge Jones for the starting LT spot. If Campbell’s off the board, then the Bears would need to consider whether Armand Membou, who spent his career lining up at RT at Missouri, would work at LT. One position that we should keep an eye on is at RB where Swift proved to be a solid back, drafting Omarion Hampton here would give Johnson the same two-headed monster in the backfield that he had in Detroit with David Montgomery and Jahmyr Gibbs. However, given the depth of this year’s RB class, Johnson could still get an impact RB on Day 2, giving Johnson the ability to target his own Sam LaPorta with this pick, especially considering if Tyler Warren is still on the board.  There are some who feel like Colston Loveland is the better comp to LaPorta, so he's also an option here.  I just think that if a talent like Mason Graham falls to the Beas here, Poles decides to draft the best player available and lands a DT who can be a dominant presence pairing with Grady Jarrett.  Graham is not only stout at the point of attack, but his quickness off the ball allows for quick penetration to blow up run plays before they can begin. Graham also had 3.5 sacks and 29 pressures as an interior pass rusher, so his presence up front should take pressure off Sweat and Odeyingbo getting after the passer.

11. San Francisco 49ers – Walter Nolen, DT, 6'4", 296lbs, Mississippi, Jr.

04/11/25 - Kelvin Banks Jr., OT, Texas

02/23/25 - Kelvin Banks Jr., OT, Texas

02/15/25 - Kelvin Banks Jr., OT, Texas

One year after suffering a 14-6 overtime loss to the Chiefs in Super Bowl LVIII, the 49ers, decimated by injury, finished last in the NFC West. John Lynch and Kyle Shanahan hope to put the 2024 season in the rear-view mirror and getting healthy is a good start. The DT position has regressed and with Maleik Collins and Javon Hargrave no longer on the roster, the Niners should be on the market for a quick penetrator. Mason Graham is a violent disruptor who plays with a tremendous burst, hands and leverage to wreak havoc along the interior of the line should he fall out of the top 10.   San Francisco could also use help at LB and at DE with Dre Greenlaw and Leonard Floyd leaving in free agency. While the Niners could consider Mykel Williams or Jihaad Campbell here, Jalon Walker’s versatility could give him the nod if his stock slides a bit. Future Hall of famer Trent Williams is coming off a season that saw him play in just ten games, but he has said he wants to play beyond his contract, which runs out at the end of next season. Opposite him is Colton McKivitz, who has given up 21 sacks in his two seasons as the starter on the right side, including 8 of the team’s 36 sacks this past season. The Niners must pursue an upgrade over McKivitz and won’t find one in free agency. Kelvin Banks Jr. would not only immediately take over for McKivitz but could be an eventual successor to Williams on the left side.   Josh Simmons could also garner consideration, but the question really comes down to how long it will take him to regain his athleticism after the torn patellar tendon, which could drop his draft stock to the end of Round One.  Robert Saleh also needs to target his lockdown CB of the future on the outside.  This pick could be Michigan corner Will Johnson but there are injury concerns surrounding Johnson and as Albert Breer of Sports Illustrated indicated Johnson had a knee injury flagged that could impact him in the long term, so Lynch and Shanahan could instead opt for Jahdae Barron.  I just think that hole at DT is so glaring that it has to be addressed at some point in the first two days of the draft and getting an impact DT like Walter Nolen makes a lot of sense.  Nolen is a twitched-up DT with violent, heavy hands that he uses to get the blocker off balance off the snap, then uses his quickness to get penetration and wreak havoc in the backfield.  Nolen also has some nuance to his game with nice hand work and has a devastating push-pull move that he uses to get the IOL off balance in a hurry.  Nolen is rising up draft boards and I think he could be the disruptive force the Niners need to team with Nick Bosa.

12. Dallas Cowboys –  Tetairoa McMillan, WR, 6’5”, 212lbs, Arizona, Jr. 

04/11/25 - Matthew Golden, WR, Texas

02/23/25 - Mykel Williams, Edge, Georgia

02/15/25 - Tyler Warren, TE, Penn State

Mike McCarthy had the best three-year span record-wise for the Cowboys since their Super Bowl run in the 1990’s after putting up three straight 12-win seasons. However, after a 7-10 season in 2024 that saw Dak Prescott go on IR for the season after just eight games, apparently Jerry Jones had seen enough. In steps Brian Schottenheimer who was the team’s OC last season, a move that feels underwhelming, especially considering the Dallas offense finished in the middle of the pack in total offense. Dallas has made moves in free agency that seem to be ruling out positions of need. The Ezekiel Elliott experiment didn’t pan out, but Rico Dowdle surprised in his stead, putting up a 1,000-yard season, but he’s now in Carolina. The additions of Javonte Williams and Miles Sanders could temper the need for a complementary back until at least Day 2. Micah Parsons led the team and finished tied for 5th in the league with 12.0 sacks, but his running mate Demarcus Lawrence signed with Seattle. The Cowboys did sign Dante Fowler Jr. and Payton Turner to team with Parsons, Sam Williams and Marshawn Kneeland. That could be enough to keep Dallas from selecting an edge rusher here, though I wouldn’t rule out Mykel Williams. Trevon Diggs went down with his second injury on his right knee in as many seasons, first missing most of the 2023 season after an ACL tear then missed the final six games of this past season before having knee surgery in January. Diggs’ availability is in question for the start of the season and his long-term health now has to be a question. DaRon Bland is in the final year of his contract and could command a big payday after 14 Int. in the last three seasons. A flyer was taken on Kaiir Elam who never lived up to his 1st Round status with the Bills. Losing Jourdan Lewis in free agency to Jacksonville may be the final straw. Will Johnson would be a perfect addition to the secondary. Keeping Prescott healthy has to be a top priority and with the retirement of Zack Martin and the subpar play of OTs Tyler Guyton and Terence Steele, this pick has to be used to upgrade the OL. Steele signed a five-year $86.8 million contract at the start of the 2023 season. However, Steele has not played up to expectations and could be falling out of favor in Dallas. Per Spotrac.com, there is an out in 2026 that carries a $9.375 million dead cap hit. Armand Membou has the versatility to step in for Steele or Martin immediately should he fall. Kelvin Banks Jr. or Tyler Booker would also be options up front. CeeDee Lamb finished 2024 with his fourth straight 1,000-yard season, but Jalen Tolbert and KaVontae Turpin are not No. 2 WR’s and with Brandin Cooks entering free agency this offseason, the Cowboys will be on the market for a complement to Lamb. Matthew Golden has the blazing speed that the Cowboys just haven't had, but it's hard to pass on McMillan, a big-bodied WR with skills that have drawn comparisons to Mike Evans and Drake London.   McMillan had a breakout 2023 season with 90 catches for 1402 yards and 10 TD, but his performance to kick off this past season showed a glimpse of his ability to take over a game, finishing with 10 catches for 304 yards and 4 TD against New Mexico. McMillan has good size, a huge catch radius and strong hands that allow him to make highlight-reel catches. However, he’s a nuanced route runner using his hands well not only releasing off the line of scrimmage, but also at the top of his route to create separation and does a good job feeling the coverage and adjusting his route to get himself open.
 

13. Miami Dolphins – Jahdae Barron, CB, 5’11”, 200lbs, Texas 

04/11/25 - Jahdae Barron, CB, Texas

02/23/25 - Malaki Starks, S, Georgia

02/15/25 - Nick Emmanwori, S, South Carolina

The Dolphins came into the 2024 season with high expectations, especially after putting up an eye-popping 5,411 total yards on offense to lead the league. However, concussions limited Tua Tagovailoa to just 11 games under center and, as a result, the offensive production dropped to 18th in the league. The O-line may have given up just 21 sacks, but the interior line play suffered, especially as evidenced by an abysmal 4.0 yards-per-carry average in the run game, good for a tie for 29th in the league. The Fins clearly missed Robert Hunt, who left for Carolina in free agency, and now starters Robert Jones, Liam Eichenberg and Isaiah Wynn are free agents and due to their disappointing play likely won’t be back. Even with the addition of James Daniels, Tyler Booker, who was a stalwart along the interior of the Bama OL for three seasons, is in the running here. Or would Miami target another edge rusher in Round One after selecting Chop Robinson a season ago? It’s entirely possible considering Jaelen Phillips tore his ACL in 2024, just one season after he went down to a ruptured Achilles and Bradley Chubb took the entire season off after tearing his ACL, meniscus and patellar tendon in 2023. Both have a chance to be ready to go by the start of the 2025 season, but given their injury history, adding another pass rusher would be a much-needed insurance policy, so Mykel Williams, Mike Green and Shemar Stewart will also be on Miami’s short list. Zach Sieler had a breakout season two years ago with 10.0 sacks and was able to rack up the same sack total this past season proving 2023 wasn’t a fluke. However, Calais Campbell and Da’Shawn Hand aren’t on the roster and the Fins can do better than Benito Jones at NT. Kenneth Grant would be an ideal fit up front for the Fins. Then there’s the safety position as Jevon Holland left for the Giants in free agency and Jordan Poyer is not expected back. Miami did sign Ifeatu Melifonwu and Ashtyn Davis, but the former has battled injuries while the latter has largely been a backup throughout his career. Malaki Starks will gather serious consideration here. The secondary is also lacking playmakers. Jalen Ramsey and Kader Kohou combined for just 4 Int. with no other DB picking off a single pass. In fact, the Int. leader was LB Tyrel Dodson, who was signed midseason and managed to pick off 3 passes in just 8 games. Ramsey is still one of the better corners in the league but ESPN is reporting the Fins are interested in trading him, which seems to be a tell that this pick will be used on a corner and the Dolphins opt to target Texas’ Swiss Army Knife instead of Will Johnson here.  Barron, who has drawn comparisons to Brian Branch with his ability to play all across the back end of the defense, is able to come up in run support, can be disruptive on short to intermediate routes driving on the football and displays tremendous ball skills at the catch point.

  14. Indianapolis Colts – Colston Loveland, TE, 6’5”, 245lbs, Michigan, Jr.

04/11/25 - Colston Loveland, TE, Michigan

02/23/25 - Tyler Warren, TE, Penn State

02/15/25 - Armand Membou, OT, Missouri 

After two seasons at the helm in Indy, Shane Steichen is right at a .500-win percentage, and he’s largely done so with uncertainty at the QB position. Anthony Richardson was the primary starter with a 6-5 record in 11 games, but questions remained about his dedication when he was benched in favor of Joe Flacco during the season. The offense fell just outside the top 10 in total yards but boasted a 1,400-yard runner in Jonathan Taylor and the WR trio of Michael Pittman, Jr., Josh Downs and Alec Pierce each racked up 800 yards receiving. The defense was a different story, finishing 29th in the league in total yards given up.  Even after landing Laiatu Latu with the 15th pick in last year’s draft, getting more difference makers on the defensive side of the ball. Addressing the secondary was a priority this offseason with Indy signing CB Charvarius Ward and safety Camryn Bynum. However, with EJ Speed a free agent, the Colts could target Jihaad Campbell to start next to Zaire Franklin. If RG Will Fries leaves in free agency, could we see Tyler Booker here even though he doesn’t fit the athletic profile GM Chris Ballard normally drafts? However, the TE position was nonexistent in the passing game last year with Kylen Granson and Mo Alie-Cox, both of whom are now free agents, finished 9th and 10th on the team in receptions.  If Tyler Warren isn’t on the board here, not to worry as Colston Loveland would also fit the bill. Loveland is a dynamic pass catcher at the TE position and his 56 receptions this past season was 29 more than the next highest total at Michigan. His ability to get open down the field and his playmaking ability after the catch would make him a favorite target of either Richardson and Daniel Jones. Loveland is also underrated as a blocker, opening holes for the likes of Blake Corum, Donovan Edwards and Kalel Mullings during his time with the Wolverines.  

15. Atlanta Falcons – Mike Green, Edge, 6’3”, 251lbs, Marshall, RS Soph.

04/11/25 - Mike Green, Edge, Marshall

02/23/25 - Mike Green, Edge, Marshall

02/15/25 - Mykel Williams, Edge Georgia

The Falcons went into win-now mode last offseason with the signing of Kirk Cousins to a 4-year $180-million contract. Then they doubled down for the future with the selection of Michal Penix Jr. with the 8th overall pick. Drafting Penix Jr. marked the fourth straight year the ATL spent their 1st Round pick on a skill position player, following Kyle Pitts, Drake London and Bijan Robinson. However, Cousins struggled to rebound from a torn Achilles and ultimately gave way to Penix Jr. as the Falcons missed out on the playoffs. What has been neglected for Atlanta for some time has been the pass rush, especially considering the Falcons have finished in the bottom two in the league in sacks in three of the last four years. To further the argument that the focus has been heavy on the offensive side over the pass rush, the last time an edge rusher was selected was back in 2017 with the selection of Takkarist McKinley, but in the eight years that followed, Atlanta drafted on the offensive side of the ball in seven of the next eight drafts. Last season, Arnold Ebiketie led the team with 6.0 sacks, but the only other player with more than 3.0 sacks was Matthew Judon who is now a UFA. Leonard Floyd was signed to be reunited with Raheem Morris, for whom he played with the Rams when Morris was the DC. Still, adding a dynamic edge rusher like Mike Green, Mykel Williams, Shemar Stewart or James Pearce Jr. would be just what the doctor ordered. AJ Terrell is one of the better corners in the league and Mike Hughes was re-signed, but the Falcons could use someone like Will Johnson to ultimately start opposite Terrell, allowing Hughes to slide to the nickel. The defensive line will also look drastically different in 2025, especially after long-time Falcon Grady Jarrett was released. Ruke Orhorhoro was drafted in the 2nd Round a season ago to be the team’s DT, which could make David Onyemata ultimately expendable as he’s now 33 years of age and is entering the final year of his deal. DE Morgan Fox was signed to push for a starting spot up front. Adding Derrick Harmon or Kenneth Grant up front would solidify the DL. I just think that even with the addition of Floyd, the Falcons are desperate to find pass rush help and should be all-in on finding someone with double-digit sack potential here. Mike Green is a polished edge rusher who can get after the QB in a combination of speed and power and was able to rack up 89 pressures in the last two seasons at Marshall with a pass rush win rate of 20.1% per Pro Football Focus. Green also led the FBS in sacks with 17.0, but there were concerns about the level of competition Green faced in the Sun Belt, though he did register 3.0 sacks against Virginia Tech and Ohio State in early non-conference games. Multiple news outlets, NFL.com, reported Green was questioned at the Combine about two sexual assault allegations he faced, one of which ultimately led to his dismissal from Virginia before transferring to Marshall. Green said he’s not worried about the allegations affecting his draft stock, but teams will need to do their due diligence. After watching his performance at the Senior Bowl, especially the rep where he was able to convert speed to power and absolutely run over Josh Conerly Jr. and then the show he put on at his  Pro Day, running a 6.85 three-cone drill and a 4.25 short shuttle to go along with 28 reps in the bench press, if the Falcons are satisfied with Green’s denial of any wrongdoing, he’d be an ideal pick to jumpstart an anemic pass rush. 

16. Arizona Cardinals – Matthew Golden, WR, 5’11”, 191lbs, Texas, Jr.

04/11/25 - Will Johnson, CB, Michigan

02/23/25 - James Pearce Jr., Edge, Tennessee

02/15/25 - James Pearce Jr., Edge, Tennessee

To say Arizona had an up-and-down 2024 is putting it mildly. After a 2-4 start to the season, the Cards racked up four straight wins and things were looking up heading into the bye week. Then the bottom fell out as Arizona finished the season by losing five of their final seven games, finishing with an 8-9 record. Kyler Murray finished the year in the top ten in QBR and he threw for more yards in 2024 (3,851) since his first Pro Bowl season in 2020 (3,971 while James Conner eclipsed the 1,000-yard mark for the second consecutive season for an offense that finished 11th in total yards. That said, the Cards are expected to move on from RT Jonah Williams, who battled knee injuries last season, so expect Kelvin Banks Jr. and Josh Simmons to garner consideration. Defensively, the Cards are lacking a playmaker who can consistently get to the QB off the edge. Zaven Collins led the team with just 4 sacks on the year, while 2023 sack leader Dennis Gardeck finished with just 3.0 sacks and is now a UFA. Arizona attempted to improve their pass rush by trading for Baron Browning in November, but he managed just 2.0 sacks for the Cardinals, though he was re-signed to a two-year deal.  Then there’s last year’s 1st Round pick Darius Robinson, who injured his calf before the season and didn’t see the field until December 1st and managed to get to the QB just once in six games. Oh, and let’s not forget BJ Ojulari, who was taken in the 2ndRound of the 2023 draft but tore his ACL prior to the start of this past season. The addition of Josh Sweat allows the Cards to pivot and look to address other needs. The Cardinals signed Justin Jones and Bilal Nichols last offseason but both were hit with season-ending injuries so the jury is still out on what either will bring to the table. NT Dalvin Tomlinson was signed to a two-year deal this offseason to be a veteran presence up front. Adding Kenneth Grant would solidify the line up front, adding an upgrade over Justin Jones. Garrett Williams led the Cards in total passes defended (2 Int., 9 PBU) while Sean Murphy-Bunting led the team with 3 Int. Max Melton and Starling Thomas IV are solid depth pieces, but Arizona is lacking a long corner on the outside and   According to Stat Muse, Arizona ranked second in the league among teams lining up in zone.  This feels like it could be a perfect fit if Will Johnson is still on the board.   Then there's the WR position where Marvin Harrison Jr. is looking to build upon a rookie campaign that was not as productive as many expected.  That said MHJ and Michel Wilson need a No. 2 WR to complement them and Matthew Golden has the explosiveness to attack all three levels of the field and would be the perfect fit. Golden emerged as the top receiving option at Texas, especially during the back half of the season, displaying crisp route running to complement his big-play ability. Then Golden turned heads at the Combine, running a blistering 4.29 40 all but solidifying his status as a top WR prospect for this year’s draft.  WR may not be the top need, but the draft is deep at DT and CB but not at WR, at least at the top of the draft, so securing one of the draft's top two WRs here would allow the Cards to get value picks on Day 2 to address their key needs.

17. Cincinnati Bengals – Mykel Williams, Edge, 6’5”, 265lbs, Georgia, Jr.

04/11/25 - Mykel Williams, Edge, Georgia

02/23/25 - Walter Nolen, DT, Mississippi

02/15/25 - Walter Nolan, DT, Mississippi

While Josh Allen and Lamar Jackson battled for MVP, it was actually Joe Burrow who led the league in passing yards (4,918) and passing TD (43). So, what kept Cincy from the playoffs? A big reason was a defense that ranked 25th in the league in total yards which is why, while potentially losing Tee Higgins in free agency would create a huge hole opposite Ja’Marr Chase, this pick has to be used to improve the defense. Trey Hendrickson led the league in sacks racking up 17.5 for the second consecutive season. That said, Hendrickson has been given an opportunity to explore trade options after Maxx Crosby and Myles Garrett reset the market for non-QB’s. Couple that with Sam Hubbard’s retirement and then former 1st Round pick Myles Murphy and Joseph Ossai, who is now a UFA, failed to provide support for Hutchinson at DE. The Bengals appear to have decided not to trade their sack artist, but even still Cincy will still need to find an edge rusher to pair with him. Williams battled an ankle injury this past season but like former Georgia prospect Travon Walker, he is already a polished run defender with the ability to attack the backfield either from the outside or from within. And, like Walker, he’s one of the better athletes with tremendous traits bending the edge with a blend of power and speed and can develop into a pass rusher who can get home with regularity.

18. Seattle Seahawks – Nick Emmanwori, S, 6’3”, 227lbs, South Carolina, Jr.

04/11/25 - Tetairoa McMillan, WR, Arizona

02/23/25 - Tyler Booker, OG, Alabama

02/15/25 - Armand Membou, OT, Missouri 

The Seahawks missed the playoffs for the second consecutive season and their third in four years, but in his first season as head coach Mike MacDonald’s 10 wins were the most in Seattle since 2020. That said, there are changes happening on the offensive side of the ball. Ryan Grubb is out after one season at OC after being brought in from the college ranks and in steps Klint Kubiak to take his place.  Seattle traded Geno Smith to Vegas and went all-in on Sam Darnold, signing him to a three-year $100 million contract after a career year with the Vikings last season. According to Pro Football Focus, Seattle gave up a 39.4% pressure rate (30th in the league) and an 8.3% sack rate (24th in the league), so you can expect GM John Schneider to consider target the OL this offseason. OT’s Charles Cross and Abraham Lucas were drafted in the 1st and 3rd Rounds of the 2022 draft and were each named starters at LT and RT, respectively. However, fast forward a couple of seasons and while Cross has been a fixture up front starting 48 games over his three seasons in the league, after starting every game his rookie season Lucas battled knee injuries and managed to only see the field in 13 games these past two seasons. Now Lucas is a free agent at the end of the season and unless the long-term health of his knee improves, the Seahawks may decide to move on from him at RT at season’s end. Adding an OT here can’t be ruled out. Then there’s the interior of the line as Seattle needs to replace Laken Tomlinson at LG. The jury is also still out on OG’s Sataoa Laumea and Anthony Bradford along with center Olu Oluwatimi. Grey Zabel could provide an immediate lift at LG who could slide inside to center if needed. Seattle does have a trio of corners making an impact in Devon Witherspoon, Riq Woolen and Josh Jobe, though Woolen and Jobe are entering the season on expiring contracts. Jobe began last season on the practice squad and due to injuries found his way into the starting lineup and had a solid season, though Seattle could also use an upgrade as Jobe really should be seen more as a depth piece. Will Johnson and Jahdae Barron could fit what Seattle is looking for on the outside. The Hawks’ receiving corps will look much different for Darnold than it did for Smith as DK Metcalf was traded away to Pittsburgh while Tyler Lockett was released, leaving Jaxon Smith-Njigba as the lone remaining starter from a season ago. Cooper Kupp and Marquez Valdes-Scantling have been brought in to fill out the WR room, but you can expect the Seahawks to target a WR at some point in the draft. Emeka Egbuka grew up in Steilacoom, WA and said at the Combine that he grew up a huge Seahawks fan. If he’s the target, maybe Seattle can trade back. However, there is a chance Tetairoa McMillan could fall and if that happens, Seattle could team the prototypical X receiver with Kupp and Jaxon Smith-Njigba in the slot with MVS providing depth to provide a formidable receiving corps for Darnold to work with.  However, with a defensive-minded HC like Mike MacDonald, you have to expect him to be looking for the right fits for his defense and there is a need at the safety position.  Nick Emmanwori has emerged as a versatile playmaker who would pair well with Metellus long term. This past season, Emmanwori led South Carolina with 88 tackles, but was also second on the team with 4 Int., two of which he returned to the house. Emmanwori is instinctive, covers a lot of ground on the back end of the defense, but also has the size and strength to be a factor in the box and has tremendous ball skills attacking the ball at the catch point. Then he put on a show at the Combine, running a 4.38 40 and posted a vertical leap of 43 inches and a broad jump of 11 feet, 6 Inches while measuring at 6’3” and 220 pounds, solidifying a spot in the 1st Round.

19. Tampa Bay Buccaneers – Jihaad Campbell, LB, 6’3”, 235lbs, Alabama, Jr.

04/11/25 - Jihaad Campbell, LB, Alabama 

02/23/25 - Jihaad Campbell, LB, Alabama

02/15/25 - Mike Green, Edge, Marshall

Tampa was another team that really experienced a tale of two halves to their season as they were 4-6 heading into their bye on Week 11 before emerging to win six of their last seven games to win the NFC Central before a close loss to the Commanders in the Wild Card game. Baker Mayfield continued to enjoy a career resurgence finishing 3rd in the league in passing yards (4,500) and tied for second in passing TD (41) while Bucky Irving emerged as a top-flight back after finishing in the top ten in rushing with 1,133 yards on the ground. Not to mention Mike Evans tied Jerry Rice’s record of 11th straight seasons with at least 1,000-yard receiving yards. However, a freak ankle injury to Chris Godwin changed the path of the pass offense. However, Godwin will be running it back in Tampa after being re-signed, so while adding another WR to team with Evans, Godwin and Jalen McMillan is expected at some point in the draft, it’s not happening at No. 19. Defensively, the Bucs finished 4th in the league against the run, but their pass defense was a different story. Tampa was 30th in the league giving up 4,464 yards through the air, something that won’t sit well with HC Todd Bowles, so you can expect a focus on that side of the ball this offseason. Lavonte David has been a mainstay since being drafted in the 2nd Round of the 2012 season and is ready to run it back again after signing another one-year deal. The 35-year-old again led the team in tackles with 122 while showing off his range, nose for the football and ball skills that have made him a favorite in Tampa for all these years. However, the Bucs have to begin thinking about life without David and at some point, and you can expect Jason Licht to find his eventual replacement at some point in this draft. Jihaad Campbell could easily be the target here. I think having David, SirVocea Dennis and the free agent pickup Anthony Walker Jr. at LB, the Bucs could easily turn their attention elsewhere. While Tampa finished tied for 6th in the league with 46 sacks, production from the rush OLB position left a lot to be desired. Yaya Diaby has shown promise as a young edge rusher, and he led the position group with just 4.5 sacks. Anthony Nelson managed to get to the QB 4 times this past season and did enough to be brought back. However, the same can’t be said for Joe Tryon-Shoyinka, a former 1st Round pick who managed just 15.0 sacks in 4 seasons in a Bucs uniform, including just 2.0 this past season. Haason Reddick was brought in on a one-year deal after a lackluster performance last season with the Jets, where he held out through OTA’s then came in out of shape and ultimately ended with just 1 sack. Reddick is looking to redeem himself, so it feels like a low-risk, high-reward situation. However, even with the addition of Reddick here, I feel like Bowles isn’t done as he’s going to continue to search for someone who can get to the QB consistently to pair with Diaby long term. Watch out for Shemar Stewart, Mykel Williams, James Pearce Jr., Jalon Walker, Donovan Ezeiruaku and Mike Green here. However, Campbell is the type of player who has the versatility to impact the game in a number of ways, including rushing the passer. There are many who think Campbell could be off the board in the top 10, but he did have surgery to repair a torn labrum and his timetable for return is not quite known, which could impact his draft stock, making him in play for the Bucs. Campbell has tremendous range to play sideline to sideline and is tremendously instinctive against the run. He’s quite fluid in coverage and shows off tremendous ball skills. And he will not only be a QB spy in the middle of the defense and can take off and explode into the backfield shooting gaps to disrupt the passer but also displays explosiveness and bend to get to the QB off the edge. So, while Tampa already has David, Dennis and Walker Jr., adding Campbell would not only bolster the LB group for the present, but they’d also be securing a lasting presence on the roster for years to come.

20. Denver Broncos – Omarion Hampton, RB 6’0”, 221lbs, North Carolina, Jr.

04/11/25 - Omarion Hampton, RB, North Carolina

02/23/25 - Colston Loveland, TE, Michigan

02/15/25 - Colston Loveland, TE, Michigan

After an 8-9 season in his first year in Denver, Sean Payton found a gem to fit his offense as he drafted Bo Nix with the 12thoverall pick. While it was a bit of a surprise that Nix came off the board so high, it was clear that Nix was the perfect QB for Payton’s offense and after starting 61 games at Auburn and Oregon he showed maturity beyond his years under center while taking the Broncos to an 10-7 season and a playoff berth. Nix also played behind one of the most consistent offensive lines in the country, helped rejuvenate Courtland Sutton who had his first 1,000-yard season since 2019, and the young WR trio of Devaughn Vele, Marvin Mims, Jr. and Troy Franklin emerged as the season went along. If you look at production across the roster, the one position group that was in desperate need of an upgrade is the TE position, where the trio of Lucas Krull, Adam Trautman and Nate Adkins finished 8th-10th on the team in receptions. Colston Loveland was seen as the favorite here, but the signing of Evan Engram likely signals Denver will look elsewhere with this pick. I still think this pick stays on the offensive side of the ball, but the focus could very well turn to the ground game as leading rusher Javonte Williams, who managed just 513 yards, has moved on in free agency, leaving Jaleel McLaughlin and Audric Estime, who teamed for 806 yards on the ground, in the Denver backfield. Sean Payton likes to use multiple RBs, but what he’s lacking is a true RB1 and Omarion Hampton could fill that void. At 6’0 and 221 pounds, Hampton ran a 4.47 40 and leaped 38 inches in the vertical at the Combine. That was after an impressive three-year career at UNC where he rushed for over 1,500 yards in each of the last two seasons along with 30 TD while also hauling in 67 passes. Hampton runs with a low pad level and displays impressive contact balance, averaging 4.35 yards after contact and forced 73 missed tackles, per Pro Football Focus, so he can be physical between the tackles, can make you miss in the open field and has the speed to take it the distance.

21. Pittsburgh Steelers – Derrick Harmon, DT, 6’5”, 310lbs, Oregon, Jr.

04/11/25 - Derrick Harmon, DT, Oregon

02/23/25 - Luther Burden III, WR, Missouri

02/15/25 - Luther Burden III, WR, Missouri

Pittsburgh made the playoffs despite splitting the starting QB job between Russell Wilson and Justin Fields. Now Fields is in New York with the Jets and Wilson is with the Giants, leaving Pittsburgh waiting on a decision from Aaron Rodgers, who seemingly is now faced with the decision of either signing with the Steelers or retiring. With Mason Rudolph reuniting with the franchise and the signing of Skylar Thompson there isn’t a long-term answer on the roster. That’s why Pittsburgh will be keeping a close eye on Shedeur Sanders, and should he begin to slide, the Steelers could ultimately pull the trigger on trading up to land the Heisman finalist of a year ago. If Sanders does end up off the board, then Jaxson Dart could also be the pick here. At first glance, it would seem like Pittsburgh may be gearing up to select a QB of the future as plenty of needs that have been filled in free agency. Veterans Darius Slay, Kenneth Gainwell and DK Metcalf were all brought in to address needs at CB, RB and WR, respectively. However, neither Gainwell nor Jaylen Warren are every-down backs, WR George Pickens is in the final year of his deal and there’s no guarantee he’ll be brought back, and Darius Slay is now 34 years of age and was signed to just a one-year deal. I would expect Omarion Hampton, Emeka Egbuka and Will Johnson/Jahdae Barron/Azareye’h Thomas/Shavon Revel/Trey Amos to be potential fits with the Steelers. Pittsburgh could also be on the market for an impact disruptor along the defensive line that would allow TJ Watt and Alex Highsmith to attack off the edge against the pass and could be a quick penetrator to free up Patrick Queen and Payton Wilson behind him against the run. That player could be Harmon who, in his only season in Oregon after transferring from Michigan State, proved to be a force behind the line of scrimmage, racking up 5 sacks and added 35 pressures from the DT position while also finishing with 11 TFL. Teaming Harmon with Keeanu Benton and Cameron Heyward up front would be a nice fit.  And Pittsburgh has experience with forcing a 1st Round pick on a QB in a weak draft for signal callers when they selected Kenny Pickett just a couple of years ago.  Does Mike Tomlin really want to take that leap here or select a layer who can make an impact rigtht away?

22. Los Angeles Chargers – Kenneth Grant, DT, 6’4”, 331lbs, Michigan, Jr.

04/11/25 - Emeka Egbuka, WR, Ohio State

02/23/25 - Kenneth Grant, NT, Michigan

02/15/25 - Kenneth Grant, NT. Michigan

In his first year in LA, Jim Harbaugh had the Chargers looking like a much different team than the one that managed to make the playoffs just once in the previous five seasons. After a 2-2 start, Harbaugh’s Bolts finished the year with a 9-4 record with all but one of those losses coming by seven points or less. On the defensive side of the ball, Poona Ford left for the Rams, but Teair Tart was brought back and is in line to be the starter at NT with Naquan Jones offering depth, while DaShawn Hand was signed to start up front with Tart and Otito Ogbonnia. If the Chargers want to improve the depth up front, maybe Harbaugh opts for a familiar face in the uber-athletic DT Kenneth Grant. Asante Samuel Jr. and Kristian Fulton are gone at the CB position, but Donte Jackson and Benjamin St-Juste were signed to line up with youngsters Cam Hart and Tarheeb Still, so while Jahdae Barron, Will Johnson, Azareye’h Thomas and Maxwell Hairston could be options here, I think there’s enough to wait to bring in depth at the position. Offensively, Harbaugh loves to implement a power running game and JK Dobbins returned from a torn Achilles in Week One of the 2023 season to rush for over 900 yards in 13 games. Dobbins is now in Baltimore so we can expect LA to target a RB at some point in the draft. Najee Harris was brought in to fill in, but that signing was on just a one-year deal and the Bolts can’t expect Harris to be a long-term solution. TreVeyon Henderson has a chance to be this year’s Jahmyr Gibbs. Would the Chargers really take a RB here? I think the Chargers could be patient and wait until the 2nd Round to land their RB of the future with either Quinshon Judkins or Cam Skattebo ultimately teaming with Harris in Harbaugh's power running scheme.  Justin Herbert threw for 3,870 yards with 23 TD and only 3 Int. while rookie Ladd McConkey became his favorite target and finished the year with a 1,000-yard season.  There is a chance Harbaugh could stick to familiar territory in selecting his former Michigan TE Colston Loveland if he were to fall. However, with the signing of Tyler Conklin to pair with Will Dissly, I think the Bolts could focus their attention on the WR position. While McConkey was a revelation in 2024, the team is still lacking a true vertical threat, especially with Quentin Johnston still largely a disappointment. Mike Williams is back, but injuries have slowed him up and he doesn’t possess deep speed. Emeka Egbuka is the type of complementary receiver who could step in and start right away on the outside in LA. Egbuka is an extremely reliable and clutch receiver, though he could be available on Day 2 of the draft.  I just think that Harbaugh won't pass on the opportunity to reunite himself with a former Michigan Wiolverin.  If it's not Loveland, then Grant would be a logical pick here.  Harbaugh knows the type of player he's getting in Grant who would be intriguing because he’s a NT by trade but definitely does not move like one. Grant displays tremendous lateral agility and short area burst to get quick penetration to disrupt both the run and the pass. While he didn’t get to work out at the Combine, Grant made Bruce Feldman’s Freaks List and Feldman noted: “His ability to fly up Michigan’s reactive plyo stairs test, a series of seven 26-inch-high stairs that players attempt to jump up as fast as possible, is truly freakish. This offseason, Grant pressed a 115-pound dumbbell 34 times on his right and 27 times on his left. He vertical-jumped 29 inches and did a Turkish get-up with a 150-pound dumbbell.” If that’s not impressive enough, Grant was repeatedly chasing down RBs from behind down the field. While Grant isn’t an edge rusher, he can absolutely affect the game from within.  

23. Green Bay Packers – Shemar Stewart, Edge, 6’5”, 267lbs, Texas A&M, Jr.

04/11/25 - Shemar Stewart, Edge, Texas A&M

02/23/25 - Jahdae Barron, CB, Texas

02/15/25 - Shemar Stewart, Edge, Texas A&M

Green Bay was one of the top teams in the NFC all season long and finished the year with both the offense and defense ranked in the top five in total yards. Josh Jacobs was dominant on the ground in his first year with the Pack while Jordan Love showed flashes of brilliance without a true No. 1 wideout. The biggest position of need that must be addressed this offseason is at CB as the Packers need to decide what to do with Jaire Alexander, who signed a four-year $80-million deal in 2022 but missed 20 games over the last two seasons. On top of that, former 1st Round pick Eric Stokes, who was largely seen as a disappointment, left in free agency, leaving Carrington Ballentine to pick up the slack. Then there’s the play of Keisean Nixon, who started 15 games last season but, according to Pro Football Focus, struggled throughout the season and gave up 464 yards and 3 TD. Nate Hobbs was signed as a free agent, but he’s seen as a nickel, meaning the Packers have some work to do in order to land a lockdown corner on the outside. Expect the Packers to consider Jahdae Barron or Will Johnson if either were to fall. The Packers should also be on the market for another edge rusher. Lukas Van Ness has yet to start a game for the team and has managed just 7.0 sacks in his first two seasons in the league after being drafted in the 1stRound in 2023. Green Bay should target an edge rusher early to team with Rashan Gary and Shemar Stewart just might be available when they’re on the clock. Stewart is intriguing because he can not only bring the physicality to the table, especially against the run, but he also has the explosiveness to get quick penetration into the backfield to be a disruptor on all three downs. While you can point to his lack of sack production as a concern as he did register only 4.5 sacks in three seasons with the Aggies, Stewart was lining up in more of a read-and-react defense. Stewart also has something that Jared Verse, last year’s Defensive Rookie of the Year, displayed all season long and that’s an impressive ability to convert speed to power and absolutely destroy even the top OTs off the edge. Plus, that ability to play the run is similar to that of Travon Walker, who never consistently got to the QB while at Georgia, but his incremental development with the Jaguars led to 10.5 sacks this past season. Stewart has a similar skill set and could thrive at the next level. 

24. Minnesota Vikings – Will Johnson, CB, 6'2", 194lbs, Michigan, Jr.

04/11/25 - Nick Emmanwori, S, South Carolina

02/23/25 - Shemar Stewart, Edge, Texas A&M

02/15/25 - Jahdae Barron, CB, Texas

The Minnesota Vikings were one of the more dominant teams in the league in 2024 and lost all four of its games to just two teams. Sam Darnold had a career year, but after he struggled in the Vikes final two games against the Lions and Rams, the Vikes let him walk and will be turning the reins over to JJ McCarthy, who is coming off a torn ACL in his rookie season, in 2025. Aaron Rodgers is still deciding where he wants to go, so he could come in and be a bridge QB until McCarthy is fully healthy. The Vikings have been active this offseason to address a multitude of potential needs. On offense, the Vikes re-signed Aaron Jones to be their starter, but they could be on the market for an upgrade over Ty Chandler and TreVeyon Henderson has to be on their radar here. Kevin O’Connell came out at the Combine and said they have to do a better job of taking care of the QB, so they signed OG Will Fries and center Ryan Kelly to take over along the interior of the OL. On defense, NT Harrison Phillips definitely needed help up front, so Minnesota signed Jonathan Allen and Javon Hargrave to shore up the DL group. The secondary will look different as Stephon Gilmore, Shaq Griffin and Fabian Moreau are out, while Isaiah Rodgers and Tavierre Thomas were signed to team with Mekhi Blackmon and Byron Murphy Jr., who was re-signed this offseason. Maxwell Hairston and Shavon Revel could be in play. Why so many moves in free agency? Well GM Kwesi Adofo-Mensah is currently only working with three draft picks plus one compensatory pick, so he had no choice but to be active and fill some holes. Even with the additions of Fries and Kelly, I think O’Connell could look to solidify the line with the addition of Tyler Booker, who would be an upgrade over Blake Brandel at LG. Harrison Smith is now 36 years of age and is entering the final year of his contract and he can’t play forever, while Camryn Bynum left for Indianapolis in free agency, so Minnesota does have a need at safety next to Josh Metellus, so Nick Emmanwori would be a logical pick as well.  Minnesota's lack of picks could also mean this pick could be shopped to a team looking to trade back into Round One to select either Shedeur Sanders or Jaxson Dart.  If that happens, Minnesota is then picking at the top of Round 2, meaning this pick more than likely becomes a corner as there is depth on Day 2 of the draft.  Azareye'h Thomas is a long, athletic corner who is one of the best young press corners in this year's draft and would give the Vikes much-needed length at the position.  If the Vikings stay at No. 24, there is a chance that Will Johnson falls into their laps given the injury concerns.  Johnson could be the target here as he not only has good length but also possesses incredible instincts and ball skills. Johnson can be a press corner on the outside, but he may be even better when he can read the QB’s eyes so he can plant and drive quickly on the football to make a play. He’s picked off 9 passes in three seasons at Michigan, returning three of those for TD, including two this past season. In fact, the two pick-sixes this year against Fresno State and USC came facing the QB and showed off his anticipation to jump the route to the outside and take it to the house. There are concerns about his durability after battling a shoulder contusion and turf toe during the season, then a hamstring strain kept him from working out at the Combine and at Michigan’s Pro Day. At his private workout, Johnson participated in all the drills but the 40.  Why?  Todd McShay reported he was hearing Johnson was running in the high 4.5's to low 4.6's, which is what we see on tape as he struggles to keep pce with speedy WRs when he has to turn and run, often resulting in big plays or pass interference calls.  Johnson did run a short shuttle of 4.33 which, according to Marcus Mosher of the 33rd Team, was in the 13th percentile for CBs.  Johnson has to go to a team that plays a lot of Zone coverage to take advantage of his ability to trigger on throws in front of him.  

25. Houston Texans – Grey Zabel, 6’6”, 305lbs, OL, North Dakota State 

04/11/25 - Josh Conerly Jr., OT, Oregon

02/23/25 - Tyler Booker, OG, Alabama

02/15/25 - Derrick Harmon, DT, Oregon

The Texans won the AFC Central for the second consecutive season and did so by two full games over the Indianapolis Colts, but not without a regression on the offensive side of the ball. Houston saw a dip in CJ Stroud’s production, where he saw a drop of 54.7 passing yards per game and threw 7 more picks. Injuries to Nico Collins and Tank Dell during the season also slowed Stroud’s production. Now with Stefon Diggs and Robert Woods hitting free agency, the Texans were very active in free agency, signing Christian Kirk, Justin Watson and Braxton Berrios to bolster the position. Tank Dell suffered a serious knee injury when he not only dislocated the knee, but also tore his ACL, MCL, LCL and meniscus and underwent two surgeries to repair the damage, putting his 2025 season in jeopardy. The Texans need to find a No. 2 WR to complement Collins and Kirk. Stroud would be very happy with a WR room consisting of Collins, Luther Burden III, Kirk, Xavier Hutchinson, John Metchie III, Watson and Berrios. It was clear that Nick Caserio and DeMeco Ryans wanted to prioritize protecting Stroud this offseason after he was sacked 54 times which tied the Texans for 3rd most in the league and was 15 more than the season prior. LT Laremy Tunsil was traded to Washington, opening the door for Tytus Howard to slide to the left side, a position he played in college, which also allows Blake Fisher to return to RT where he is more comfortable having played the position at Notre Dame and will be backed up by free agent acquisition Trenton Brown. Laken Tomlinson was signed to replace Kenyon Green, struggled mightily at LG giving up 5.0 sacks to lead all OGs prior to going in November. Juice Scruggs, who is still developing as a center, was forced to take over for Green, though he’ll be pushed for playing time at RG by Ed Ingram. Scruggs would also compete with Jarrett Patterson for the start at center. Caserio’s signing of Cam Robinson to battle Tytus Howard for the LT position is an indicator that Houston will focus on another position in the trenches, right? Not so fast. Robinson, Brown and Tomlinson were all signed to one-year deals while Ingram, for whom the Texans traded with Minnesota, so there aren't any guarantees any of these veterans will be on the roster beyond this season.  I think Houston targets OL in this draft and I think a player with five-position versatility like Grey Zabel makes a lot of sense given the uncertainty all across this line.   Zabel is this year’s version of Graham Barton, an athletic OT in college with five-position versatility who will be sliding inside at the next level. Zabel displayed excellent movement skills while at North Dakota State, but it was his dominant play at the Senior Bowl where he lined up all along the interior of the line that solidified his status as a 1stRounder. Against top-level competition, Zabel stood out with his athleticism, displaying tremendous body control, strong hands to stay connected to the defender and quick feet to easily mirror the DT. He was also able to sink his hips and anchor to nullify any bull rush inside. Zabel didn’t lose a single rep in the 1-on-1’s and solidified his status as the top interior lineman in the draft.  

26. Los Angeles Rams – Carson Schwesinger, LB, 6'2", 242lbs, UCLA, Jr.

04/11/25 - Jaxson Dart, QB, Mississippi

02/23/25 - Azareye'h Thomas, CB, Florida State

02/15/25 - Josh Simmons, OT, Ohio State

Well, Sean McVay did it again. For the second consecutive season, the Rams were sub-.500 going into their bye week, only to close the season strong and make it into the playoffs. 2024 was especially impressive as LA started 1-4 before rattling off nine wins in 12 games to win the NFC West then, after a win over Minnesota in the Wild Card game, nearly took down the eventual Super Bowl Champion Eagles in the Divisional Playoff game. Matthew Stafford is back, but the same can’t be said for Cooper Kupp, who is now with NFC West rival Seattle. McVay and GM Les Snead didn’t waste time finding a replacement, bringing in Davante Adams to team with Puka Nacua. Luther Burden and Emeka Egbuka are options here even after the Rams re-signed Tutu Atwell to a one-year deal/ However, given the team’s success finding WRs on Days 2 and 3 of the draft (Kupp was taken in Round 3 in 2017, and Nacua was a 5th Round pick in 2023), I’d expect Snead and McVay to wait to address the WR position. Defensively, the Rams have some of the top young talent in the league with the reining Defensive Rookie of the Year Jared Verse teaming with Braden Fiske, Kobie Turner and Byron Young to give LA one of the more formidable groups up front. There is no question the Rams needed ILB help going into the offseason and could use an injection of size and athleticism next to Omar Speights, who surprised last season as an undrafted rookie.  Do I think Jihaad Campbell or Jalon Walker will be available at No. 26? No, but the Rams have shown they don’t mind getting aggressive to move up in the draft to target key pieces. You just have to look at last year’s draft as the Rams moved up to No. 55 overall to select DT Braden Fiske. Don’t be surprised if LA moves up to land an off-ball LB to compete with Troy Reeder for a starting spot. On the back end of the defense, rookie safeties Kam Kinchens and Jaylen McCullough each had breakout seasons registering 4 Int. apiece. However, the CB position is an area of need even with Ahkello Witherspoon re-signing, especially with Decobie Durant and Derion Kendrick entering the final year of their deals. Los Angeles could opt to select Maxwell Hairston, a sticky corner on the outside with 6 Int. the past two seasons, returning half of those for TD, who ran a blistering 4.28 40 at the Combine, or Azareye'h Thomas, one of the top young press corners in this draft, to challenge Witherspoon and Darious Williams for playing time. Now while Stafford is back after a restructured deal, the former No. 1 overall pick is now 37 years of age and will be a free agent at the end of the 2026 season. Plus, there were trade rumors surfacing before the deal got done. You have to expect Snead and McVay will be planning for the future at some point. This year may be the year to do it and the Rams could walk away with Dart with this pick.  Or they could be another team that looks to trade down with a team looking to come up for a QB.  I think the need at LB is real as that has been the largest glaring hole left on the LA defense and Schwesinger would be tremendous value in the 2nd Round if the Rams decide to trade down, but he's also not a reach here at No. 26.  Schwesinger came to Westwood as a walk-on, but blossomed into an All-American heat-seeking missile flying around to the football, finishing with a staggering 90 solo tackles and 136 total tackles on the year to go along with 9 TFL, 4 sacks and 2 Int.  What sold me on his chances to coe off the board in Round 1 were the testing numbers.  Schwesinger started by leaping 39.5 inches in the vertical jump at the Combine, then posted a 7.05 second three-cone drill and a 4.25 second short shuttle, both of which display his explosiveness and quickness.  His size, length and athleticism would be ideal next to Speights in the middle of the Rams defense and could be that missing link to take LA to the next level.

27. Baltimore Ravens – Malaki Starks, S, 6’1”, 205lbs, Georgia, Jr. 

04/11/25 - Kenneth Grant, DT, Michigan

02/23/25 - Josh Simmons, OT, Ohio State

02/15/25 - Josh Conerly Jr., OT, Oregom

The Ravens found themselves atop the AFC Central for the fourth time in the past seven seasons but were bounced from the Divisional round of the playoffs by the Bills. Lamar Jackson had another MVP-caliber season and Derrick Henry nearly eclipsed the 2,000-yard mark on the ground in his first season in Baltimore. The defense was dominant against the run and finished second in the league in sacks but struggled against the pass. Would Baltimore really select a corner in back-to-back drafts? Keep in mind Nate Wiggins went 30th overall to the Ravens a season ago, but with Brandon Stephens, Tre’Davious White and Trayvon Mullen all leaving in free agency, adding a CB like Trey Amos or Maxwell Hairston shouldn’t be ruled out, though I could easily see them targeting a corner on Day 2. I wouldn’t rule out Nic Scourton or Donovan Ezeiruaku to be the eventual successor to Kyle Van Noy who led the team with 12.0 sacks but is 34 years of age and is entering the final year of his contract. Even though their O-line tied for the third-fewest sack total last season, would Baltimore really consider a lineman in Round 1? Baltimore was able to re-sign Ronnie Stanley, but with Patrick Mekari leaving in free agency, the Ravens may opt to select an upgrade over Andrew Vorhees. Tyler Booker is such a physical presence up front with a mauler mentality as he’s looking to punish defenders, making him a perfect fit opposite mammoth RG Daniel Faalele if he’s still on the board. Then there’s the DL, where NT Michael Pierce announced his retirement, and DE Brent Urban is entering free agency. That leaves All-Pro Nnamdi Madubuike to team with Broderick Washington and Travis Jones, who was a pleasant surprise filling in for Pierce at NT last year.  Kenneth Grant could be a nice complement to Madubuike.  Safety Marcus Williams was let go, but ArDarius Washington was extended a low exclusive rights tender and is penciled in as the starter at safety next to Kyle Hamilton. However, I can see the Ravens bringing in some competition at the position if Nick Emmanwori or Malaki Starks were to fall.  Malaki Starks is a versatile safety who has the range to play over the top, drives quickly on passes thrown in front and displays tremendous ball skills, but can also trigger and drive downhill in a hurry against the run. Then there’s Starks’ ability to cover receivers in the slot. Starks didn’t blow anyone away with a 4.5 40 at the Combine, but he was so smooth in the drills, showing loose hips that allow him to transition effortlessly. 

28. Detroit Lions – James Pearce Jr., Edge, 6’5”, 243lbs, Tennessee, Jr.

04/11/25 - Grey Zabel, OL, North Dakota State

02/23/25 - Nic Scourton, Edge, Texas A&M

02/15/25 - Nic Scourton, Edge, Texas A&M

Heading into the 2024 season, the Detroit Lions were one of the favorites to win the NFC and for much of the season they looked like a dominant force. The Lions’ offense finished second in total yards, Jared Goff had a career year with 4,629 passing yards, just 249 yards from Joe Burrow’s lead, while the WR tandem of Aman-Ra St. Brown and Jameson Williams eclipsed 1,000 receiving yards while the RB duo of Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery totaled 2,100 yards on the ground. The defense, on the other hand, just couldn’t catch a break with players going down to injury seemingly every week. No injury was bigger than Aidan Hutchinson, who suffered a gruesome broken leg five games into the season yet still led the team with 7.5 sacks. LB Alex Anzalone broke his left forearm in November and missed seven games, CB Terrion Arnold suffered a leg injury that cost him three games, Carlton Davis suffered a broken jaw in Week 15 that ended his season, while rookie Ennis Rakestraw Jr.’s hamstring injury had him out of action until the divisional playoff game. Perhaps no position saw as many injuries as the DE position where, in addition to Hutchinson, Marcus Davenport suffered a triceps injury in September that ended his season; John Cominsky tore his MCL before the season even began; and Josh Paschal suffered a knee injury that knocked him out of three games. The Lions were so desperate for pass rush help that they traded for Za’Darius Smith, who finished second on the team in sacks with 4.0 despite only playing in eight games with the team. Hutchinson will be ready by training camp and Davenport was brought back, but Smith was released, opening the door for the Lions to target an edge rusher early. Davenport is currently penciled in as the starter opposite Hutchinson, but he was just signed to a one-year deal worth $2.5 million including $300,000 guaranteed according to Spotrac.com and has yet to live up to his 2021 form where he recorded 9.0 sacks that season with the Saints, especially after managing to play in just six games over the last two seasons. Then there’s Paschal, who has yet to play a full slate of games in his three seasons in Detroit and has managed just 5.0 sacks during that time. James Pearce Jr., Donovan Ezeiruaku or Nic Scourton could be the pick here.  THe question really is which of these players is the right fit in Detroit.  According to Football Insights, Pearce Jr. has been the only edge rusher with back-to-back seasons with a pressure rate of over 20%. In fact, while some point to the regression in his sack total from 10.0 in 2023 to 7.5 in 2024, Pearce Jr. actually generated 59 total pressures this past season, six more than his 2023 total, so he was still a disruptive force against the QB. Pearce Jr. then displayed his explosiveness with a 4.47 40 at the Combine but it’s his first three steps that are so dynamic as he gets off the ball as if he’s shot out of a cannon. Pearce Jr. also has quick hands to attack the OT’s hands, uses his length to keep blockers at bay and is incredibly flexible to bend the edge. He’s also a lot more powerful than his frame would suggest as Pearce Jr. can convert speed to power to drive the OT into the backfield as a pass rusher and sets a strong edge playing the run.

 29. Washington Commanders – Donovan Ezeiruaku, Edge, 6’2”, 247lbs, Boston College

04/11/25 - Donovan Ezeiruaku, Edge, Boston College

02/23/25 - Emeka Egbuka, WR, Ohio State

02/15/25 - Emeka Egbuka, WR, Ohio State

Jayden Daniels had a rookie season for the ages, throwing for over 3,500 yards and completing 69.0% of his passes with 25 TD and 9 Int. while also leading the team in rushing with 891 yards and 6 TD on the ground while leading Washington to the NFC Championship game. The Commanders were active this offseason trading for WR Deebo Samuel and LT Laremy Tunsil to fill key needs. Defensively, Jonathan Allen was released, but Javon Kinlaw and Eddie Goldman were signed to team with Daron Payne and Johnny Newton inside. While Samuel was brought in to team with Terry McLaurin, Jaydon Daniels needs more weapons in the passing game, so don’t rule out Emeka Egbuka or Luther Burden III. If you look at the CB position in Washington, you have two starting positions set with Marlon Humphrey and Mike Sainristil, who will line up at the nickel. Benjamin St-Juste is gone, so Noah Igbinoghene was re-signed, and Jonathan Jones was brought in to fill the void, though you could argue that Igbinoghene is better served at nickel, where he flourished with the Commanders last year. Adding another corner on the outside is a must and Maxwell Hairston could be the pick. Dante Fowler Jr., the team’s leader in sacks with 10.5, signed with Dallas and while Jacob Martin and Deatrich Wise Jr. were signed to provide depth at the DE position, returners Dorance Armstrong and Clelin Ferrell combined for just 8.5 sacks. So, while Washington has plenty of depth at the DE position but is lacking a playmaker who can get home consistently. Donovan Ezeiruaku can be that weapon. Ezeiruaku tremendously explosive off the edge with a quick first step and a wide array of pass rush moves. His high football IQ is evident with the different ways he looks to attach the OT in front of him. While he’s not the biggest edge rusher, Ezeiruaku has tremendous length with 34-inch arms that he uses to his advantage to create separation, and he has the flexibility to bend and get underneath the OT’s pad level while flattening out in a hurry to get to the QB. Ezeiruaku finished the 2024 season with 16.5 sacks, which was good for second in the FBS, and had a staggering 25.8% pass rush win rate, according to Pro Football Focus. But don’t expect Ezeiruaku to be a situational pass rush specialist as he does a great job using his length to set the edge against the run.

30. Buffalo Bills – Maxwell Hairston, CB, 5'11", 183lbs, Kentucky

04/11/25 - Malaki Starks, S, Georgia

02/23/25 - Nick Emmanwori, S, South Carolina

02/15/25 - Malaki Starks, S, Georgia

The Bills won the AFC East for the 5thconsecutive year but still couldn’t find their way back to the Super Bowl. What has to be frustrating for Sean McDermott is he has a pretty balanced roster without many holes. If the Bills opt to draft from the No. 30 spot, DT could easily be a target. Ed Oliver and Daquan Jones are solid starters, and Larry Ogunjobi was signed to provide depth, but he’s suspended for the first six games of the season, so a lot will be asked of second-year pro Dewayne Carter. Adding another DT to the rotation in Derrick Harmon, Kenneth Grant or Walter Nolen would not only add depth to the position but would also soften the blow of not having Ogunjobi to start the year. Then there’s the WR position as MVP Josh Allen could use another playmaker on the outside. Keon Coleman is a big, physical wideout who is counted on to be the No. 1 WR while Khalil Shakir is likely to do most of his damage from the slot. Emeka Egbuka would be the perfect complementary WR to attack the field both on the outside and over the middle. The CB position is another area of need. Christian Benford and nickel Taron Johnson each hauled in 2 Int., but with Rasul Douglas moving on in free agency, Dane Jackson was brought back after playing in just nine games last year for Carolina. Jackson hasn’t played a full slate of games since 2021, so he should really be seen more as a veteran depth piece than a viable option as a starter. Hairston is a sticky corner with excellent ball skills and his 4.28 40 at the Combine moved his draft stock into Round One.  He has the ability to compete for a starting spot immediately in Buffalo.

31. Kansas City Chiefs – Josh Simmons, OT, 6’5”, 317lbs, Ohio State, Jr.

04/11/25 - Josh Simmons, OT, Ohio State

02/23/25 - Josh Conerly Jr., OT, Oregon

02/15/25 - Aireontae Ersery. OT. Minnesota

The Chiefs were the dominant team throughout the 2024 season, finishing with a 15-2 record and climbed all the way to the Super Bowl in a quest to win a record three straight titles. In falling short to the Eagles, KC was exposed offensively as the Eagle front put constant pressure on Patrick Mahomes, not allowing him to be the playmaker he’s been his entire career. Joe Thuney is an All-Pro OG, but it was obvious he was playing out of position, struggling to hold up against the likes of Josh Sweat, Nolan Smith, Jalyx Hunt and Brandon Graham. LG Mike Caliendo also struggled to hold the point against Jalen Carter, Jordan Davis and Milton Williams. Wanya Morris and Kingsley Suamataia each tried their hand but were benched due to poor play. Suamataia may be the eventual replacement for Jawaan Taylor, who led the NFL in penalties for the second consecutive season and may wind up at OG for the short term. Jaylon Moore, who backed up All-Pro LT Trent Williams in San Francisco, was signed to get a shot at LT. If KC isn’t convinced, expect the Chiefs to try and target Josh Conerly Jr. The WR corps was largely unreliable in 2024. Rashee Rice, who is looked at as the team’s WR1, had off-field issues stemming from fleeing the scene when he crashed his Lamborghini and then tore his ACL in Week 4, Hollywood Brown had surgery on a sternoclavicular injury he suffered in the preseason and managed to play in just two games, while last year’s 1st Round pick Xavier Worthy provided a bright spot with 59 receptions for 638 yards but this offseason a woman accused him of attacking her and was granted a protective order against him. That turmoil doesn’t instill confidence in the position, meaning the Chiefs could decide to go WR in Round 1 for the second consecutive year and target Emeka Egbuka, who is as smooth as they come at the wideout position, or opt for in-state product Luther Burden III, who is one of the most explosive WRs in this year’s draft class. Up front defensively, Tershawn Wharton and Derrick Nnadi are gone up front, but the addition of Jerry Tillery to push Mike Pennel for playing time gives Chris Jones support up front, but Walter Nolen or Derrick Harmon would give Jones a true athletic runnign mate along the interior of the DL.  If KC isn’t sold, that Moore can be their long-term option at LT, then Josh Simmons could be the pick. Simmons did suffer a season-ending knee injury when he tore his patellar tendon on October 12th against Oregon. However, he received great news at the Combine as the medicals indicated he was ahead of schedule and should be ready for the start of the season. Simmons is such an easy mover in pass protection but can also generate movement in the running game and would be the right pick here. 

32. Philadelphia Eagles – Nic Scourton, Edge, Texas A&M, 6'3", 257lbs, Texas A&M, Jr.

04/11/25 - James Pearce Jr., Edge, Tennessee

02/23/25 - Donovan Ezeiruaku, Edge, Boston College

02/15/25 - Donovan Ezeiruaku, Edge, Boston College

The Eagles dominated Super Bowl LIX behind the efforts of game MVP Jalen Hurts both on the ground and through the air. Heading into the offseason, the offense is expected to mainly stay intact, with RG Mekhi Becton as the only offensive starter leaving in free agency, but his spot can be filled by Tyler Steen, who has starting experience. That’s why this pick will be used on the defensive side of the ball. Josh Sweat was dominant at times getting after Patrick Mahomes in the Super Bowl, finishing the game with 2.5 sacks, and he received a large payday leaving for Arizona. Brandon Graham is 37 years of age and coming off a biceps injury from which he recovered just enough to play in the final game of the year, could very well retire. That leaves Nolan Smith and Jalyx Hunt to get after the passer off the edge, though the Eagles did sign Josh Uche in free agency, but they shouldn’t be done and if Mike Green slides due to his off-field issues, Philly is the type of well-run organization that hasn’t been afraid to take on players with a checkered past, just look at Carter who was taken in the top 10. Philly has yet to replace DE Milton Williams this offseason, so adding Walter Nolen would feel like a natural replacement. However, that would be three DTs taken in Round 1 in the last four drafts, with Jordan Davis and Jalen Carter being the other two. Would Howie Roseman pull the trigger again? Walter Nolen has the type of talent that the Eagles love up front, and you’d have to wonder if the league would really allow the talented DT to fall to Philly.  I think the Eagles can be patient and allow the board to play out in front of them and then select the best DL on the board.  In this case, it's Scourton, who was a double-digit sack performer while at Purdue, but saw his sack production drop when he transferred to Texas A&M.  That defense was really predicated on stopping the run more than it was on allowing Scourton and Shemar Stewart to pin their ears back.  Scourton played at about 280 pounds while with the Aggies but looked much leaner at the Combine where he weighed in at a slender 257 pounds and he looked much more explosive.  Scourton could prove to be a sleeper in this Edge class and could be a natural replacement for Sweat.

*NOTE - My mock draft does not consider trades.  However, I do expect both the Giants and Browns to move back into Round One to target a QB.  Here are my expectations on the QBs they target.

New York Giants - Jaxson Dart, QB, 6'2", 223lbs, Mississippi, Jr.

Cleveland Browns - Shedeur Sanders, QB, 6'1 1/2, 212lbs, Colorado