Post-NFL free agency mock drafts bring excitement as teams reassess their rosters and look to grab top talent from the draft. With many players changing teams, the focus now shifts to the incoming prospects for the 2025 season. This year’s draft has intensified competition, especially for quarterbacks.
Here’s a look at how the first round could play out for some of the teams looking to strengthen their squads, along with a few insights that could influence their decisions.
1. Tennessee Titans: Cam Ward, QB, Miami
The Titans are likely to prioritize a quarterback. Ward, known for his strong arm and agility, could become the first QB off the board. His performance at Miami has made him a top candidate, though teams will debate the value he brings compared to last year’s top passers.
2. Cleveland Browns: Shedeur Sanders, QB, Colorado
The Browns face pressure to choose wisely. Sanders could fit their needs. His accuracy is impressive, but some view him as a second-round pick. Will they go bold and select him at No. 2, or opt for another position?
3. New York Giants: Travis Hunter, CB/WR, Colorado
The Giants are on the hunt for a quarterback, but Hunter’s versatility might tempt them. If they decide to play it safe, they could draft Hunter and trade for a second first-round pick.
4. New England Patriots: Abdul Carter, DE, Penn State
The Patriots might lean towards Carter, a standout defensive end. His ability to impact games aligns with their current roster needs, especially with the opportunity to snag a top player.
5. Jacksonville Jaguars: Mason Graham, DT, Michigan
Graham’s size and strength could address Jacksonville’s defensive gaps. His collegiate experience provides a solid foundation for an NFL career.
6. Las Vegas Raiders: Ashton Jeanty, RB, Boise State
The Raiders could benefit from Jeanty’s quickness and vision, adding much-needed depth to their backfield.
7. New York Jets: Armand Membou, OT, Missouri
Membou’s rise during the pre-draft process puts him on the Jets’ radar, especially after a standout combine performance.
8. Carolina Panthers: Jalon Walker, Edge, Georgia
With a pressing need for improved pass rush, the Panthers may look to Walker, who could bring immediate impact.
9. New Orleans Saints: Tyler Warren, TE, Penn State
Warren’s receiving ability would enhance the Saints’ offense, providing quarterback options with a reliable target.
10. Chicago Bears: Mykel Williams, Edge, Georgia
The Bears may target Williams to bolster their defense after recent adjustments to their roster.
Expert Insight
According to former NFL coach and analyst John Fox, the draft is critical for team-building. "Finding the right players who fit your system can change the trajectory of a franchise," Fox notes. The NFL is increasingly a passing league, making quarterback selection more pivotal than ever.
Recent Trends
Statistics from the 2024 season show that teams with stronger pass defenses significantly outperformed those without. This data pushes many teams to prioritize defensive players, especially edge rushers.
As the draft inches closer, anticipation will grow. The decisions made in these early picks could shape the teams for years to come. Observers will be keen to see how team needs influence selections and how trades might further shuffle player placements.
For fans, every pick matters. It’s a fresh start, filled with hope and potential. How will your team fare? The draft day drama is just around the corner, and it’s bound to be thrilling.
Check out this related article: UConn’s Offseason Roadmap: 3 Crucial Decisions Ahead for Dan Hurley After March Madness Exit
Source linkArizona Cardinals, Atlanta Falcons, Baltimore Ravens, Buffalo Bills, Carolina Panthers, Chicago Bears, Cincinnati Bengals, Cleveland Browns, Dallas Cowboys, Denver Broncos, Detroit Lions, Green Bay Packers, Houston Texans, Indianapolis Colts, Jacksonville Jaguars, Kansas City Chiefs, Miami Dolphins, Minnesota Vikings, New England Patriots, New Orleans Saints, New York Giants, New York Jets, Las Vegas Raiders, Philadelphia Eagles, Pittsburgh Steelers, Los Angeles Chargers, Seattle Seahawks, San Francisco 49ers, Los Angeles Rams, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Tennessee Titans, Washington Commanders, NFL
