NFL Mock Draft 2025: Who Goes Where & Why It Makes Sense

The NFL Draft is always unpredictable and that’s exactly what makes it one of the most exciting times of the year. Every team enters with a different strategy, some are looking for a franchise quarterback, others are focused on building through the trenches, and a few are just one key piece away from true contention. No two front offices evaluate talent the same way, and that’s what makes mock drafts so fun to break down. This isn’t just about matching players to teams, it’s about understanding why each pick makes sense based on team needs, scheme fits, and the long-term vision of the organization. Whether it’s a win-now move or an investment in the future, every selection shapes the direction of a franchise.

With a deep and talented 2025 draft class featuring potential franchise quarterbacks, explosive playmakers, and dominant defensive prospects, teams will have plenty of tough decisions to make. Some front offices will stick to best player available while others will draft based on immediate needs to stay competitive. This mock draft takes all of that into account, balancing team philosophies, roster gaps, and player fits to create the most realistic scenarios. So, let’s dive in and see how this year’s draft could shake out!

Tennessee Titans	1. Cam Ward (QB), Miami: The Titans are in desperate need of a true franchise quarterback, and while they’ve tried to make things work with Will Levis, it’s clear they need a higher-upside passer to build around. Cam Ward has taken a massive step forward at Miami, improving his accuracy, decision-making, and ability to read defenses. With an improving offensive line, the Titans need Ward’s strong arm, elite mobility, and the ability to extend plays when the pocket collapses. He joins the list of developing young playmakers and gives Tennessee a long-term solution at quarterback in an AFC South that’s loaded with young QB talent.
Cleveland Browns	2. Abdul Carter (Edge), Penn State: Cleveland’s defense has been one of the best in the league, but every dominant unit needs a long-term plan to stay elite. Abdul Carter is a high-motor, explosive pass rusher who fits perfectly alongside Myles Garrett. He’s quick off the edge, can play multiple positions in the front seven, and has the raw tools to develop into a game-wrecker. The Browns have built their success on defense, and Carter ensures they keep that dominance going for years to come. However, I also would not be surprised if they draft a QB.
New York Giants	3. Shedeur Sanders (QB), Colorado: The Giants can’t keep ignoring the QB position forever with the move on from Daniel Jones. They need a true franchise QB, and Shedeur Sanders brings poise and pinpoint accuracy to the table. Playing behind a struggling offensive line at Colorado has only helped him develop an elite feel for pressure, and he can make NFL-level throws under duress. New York is a tough market, but Sanders has the confidence to thrive under the spotlight. The Giants need a reset at QB, and Sanders gives them just that.
New England Patriots	4.  Josh Simmons (OT), Ohio State: The Patriots might have their next franchise QB, whether that ends up being Drake Maye or Joe Milton III, and now it’s time to build around them. The offensive line has been a mess, and if New England wants to give either quarterback a real chance to succeed, they need to fix the protection first. Josh Simmons is an athletic, physical tackle who can handle elite pass rushers. This makes him a perfect fit for an offense in desperate need of stability. The Patriots saw firsthand how a bad O-line can ruin QB development, and this pick ensures they don’t make that mistake again. If they want to move forward and start competing again, it starts in the trenches.
Jacksonville Jaguars	5. Travis Hunter (CB/WR), Colorado: Travis Hunter is the most versatile, elite athlete in this draft, and Jacksonville would be crazy to pass on him. While he can play both receiver and corner, the Jags desperately need help in the secondary, and Hunter has all the tools to become a true lockdown CB1. He’s an explosive playmaker, can shadow WR1s, and has ridiculous ball skills. If Jacksonville wants a chance to start competing for the AFC South title, adding Hunter locks up a huge need in their secondary.
Las Vegas Raiders	6. Tetairoa McMillian (WR), Arizona: The Raiders need a true WR1 to anchor their passing attack, and Tetairoa McMillan fits the bill perfectly. At 6’5” with elite body control, strong hands, and crisp route running, he’s the kind of receiver who can make life easier for Geno Smith as he steps into the starting role. Vegas has some solid complementary pieces at wideout, but they lack a dominant, go-to target who can take over a game. McMillan gives them a big-play weapon who can win on the outside, stretch the field, and provide a reliable target in key situations. If the Raiders want to stay competitive in the AFC, they need a playmaker in the passing game, and McMillan is exactly that.
New York Jets	7. Mason Graham (DT), Michigan: The Jets’ defense was expected to be one of the best in the league, but finished 20th overall in 2024, as they struggled more than anticipated. One of their biggest weaknesses? Stopping the run. Adding Mason Graham gives them a powerful, high-motor defensive tackle who can anchor the interior alongside Quinnen Williams. Graham’s ability to disrupt the line of scrimmage, clog up rushing lanes, and push the pocket makes him a perfect fit for Aaron Glenns defense. If the Jets want to take the next step and compete in the AFC East, they need to start winning in the trenches. Graham brings the kind of toughness and physicality that can help them finally get over the hump.
Carolina Panthers	8. Mykel Williams (Edge), Georgia: The Panthers struggled mightily on defense in 2024, ranking near the bottom of the league in sacks after trading Brian Burns. They need to rebuild their pass rush, and Mykel Williams is the perfect piece to start with. He’s an explosive, technically sound pass rusher who wins with power, speed, and a relentless motor. Carolina is in full rebuild mode, and while their offense still needs work, building a dominant defensive front is key to their long-term success. Williams gives them an NFL-ready edge rusher who can start making an impact from Day 1.
New Orleans Saints	9. Shemar Stewart (Edge), Texas A&M: The Saints' defense has been the strength of their team, but their pass rush is aging and in need of fresh talent. With Cameron Jordan nearing the end of his career, New Orleans needs a young, disruptive edge rusher who can develop into their next defensive cornerstone. Shemar Stewart brings explosiveness, versatility, and power off the edge, fitting seamlessly into the Saints’ defensive system. In a division where the Saints need to pressure young quarterbacks like Bryce Young and Michael Penix Jr., Stewart gives them a long-term, pass-rushing presence they can build around.
Chicago Bears	10. Will Campbell (OT), LSU: The Bears finally have their franchise quarterback in Caleb Williams, so now they need to protect him at all costs. Will Campbell is one of the best pure left tackles in the draft. He brings excellent footwork, power, and pass-blocking technique to an offensive line that desperately needs help. Chicago has seen firsthand what happens when they fail to protect their QB, and they can’t afford to repeat that mistake. Campbell steps in as Williams’ blindside protector for the next decade.
San Francisco 49ers	11. Kelvin Banks (OT), Texas: Trent Williams is still playing at an elite level, but at 36, the 49ers need a long-term replacement. Kelvin Banks is a physical, high-upside tackle who moves extremely well in Kyle Shanahan’s zone-blocking scheme. He can start at right tackle immediately before eventually taking over the left side when Williams retires. The Niners are built through the trenches, and this pick ensures they stay dominant up front for years to come.
Dallas Cowboys	12. Ashton Jeanty (RB), Boise State: The Cowboys’ run game has been inconsistent. Ashton Jeanty gives them a versatile, explosive running back who can run between the tackles, catch passes, and make defenders miss in space. Dallas’ offense operates best when they have a true workhorse running back and Jeanty can be the guy to bring balance back to the Cowboys’ offense.
Miami Dolphins	13. Walter Nolen (DT), Ole Miss: The Dolphins’ defensive front took a hit in 2024, and adding more talent in the trenches is a priority heading into 2025. Walter Nolen is a dominant interior force who can clog running lanes and collapse the pocket, making life easier for Miami’s edge rushers. The Dolphins struggled to consistently stop the run. In a division where they must deal with Josh Allen’s mobility and Breece Hall’s power running, Nolen’s presence up front will be a game-changer.
Indianapolis Colts	14. Tyler Warren (TE), Penn State: Anthony Richardson is still developing as a passer, and the best way to help a young quarterback is to give him a reliable tight end. Tyler Warren is a big-bodied, athletic tight end who can stretch the field, work the seams, and serve as a go-to option in the red zone. The Colts need more weapons in the passing game, and Warren provides a security blanket for Richardson while also helping the run game as a strong blocker.
Atlanta Falcons	15. Jalon Walker (Edge), Georgia: The Falcons have needed pass-rush help for years, and they finally addressed it in a trade last year for Matthew Judon. However, with Judon aging they address the edge here with Jalon Walker. He’s an explosive edge rusher with great bend, power, and a high motor, all things Atlanta needs to improve their defensive front. The Falcons already upgraded their secondary in recent years, but their defense won’t take the next step until they have a consistent pass rush. Keeping Walker in Georgia just makes too much sense for a team that needs to start winning up front.
Arizona Cardinals	16. Will Johnson (CB), Michigan: The Cardinals need to rebuild their defense, and adding a shutdown corner like Will Johnson would be a huge step in the right direction. After signing Josh Sweat to bolster their pass rush, Arizona need secondary help, who can match up against top receivers and solidify their secondary. Johnson’s size, instincts, and fluid coverage ability make him an ideal fit, giving the Cardinals a young playmaker to build around. If they want to take the next step defensively, pairing an elite corner with their improved pass rush is the best move.
Cincinnati Bengals	17. Colston Loveland (TE), Michigan: The Bengals’ offense is built around Joe Burrow’s passing attack, but they’ve been missing a true difference-maker at tight end for years. Loveland is a big, athletic target who can stretch the field, win contested catches, and be a reliable red-zone threat. With defenses focused on Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins, adding Loveland forces defenses to account for another weapon. Cincinnati’s offensive line has improved, and Burrow needs another outlet over the middle to keep drives alive. This pick gives them an elite safety valve and makes an already explosive offense even more dangerous.
Seattle Seahawks	18. Matthew Golden (WR), Texas: Moving on from both Tyler Lockett and DK Metcalf this off season, the Seahawks need to start planning at wide receiver. Matthew Golden brings speed, deep-threat ability, and polished route running, making him an ideal complement to Jaxon Smith-Njigba. Adding him will help Sam Darnold QB with having another explosive target to attack defenses vertically. Golden can help with Seattle’s offense, which is best when they have multiple playmakers stretching the field.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers	19. Nic Scourton (Edge), Texas A&M: The Buccaneers’ defense has been the backbone of the team, but they need young talent on the edge to maintain their dominance. Nic Scourton is a powerful, high-motor pass rusher who wins with strength and quick hands, perfect for Todd Bowles’ aggressive system. Tampa Bay has some veteran pieces, but they lack a long-term solution at edge rusher. Scourton gives them a day-one impact player who can take advantage of interior pressure and finish plays in the backfield. If the Bucs want to remain competitive in the NFC South, reloading their pass rush is a must.
Denver Broncos	20. Emeka Egbuka (WR), Ohio State: With Bo Nix locked in as the new QB, the Broncos need to add weapons around him to maximize his success. They lack a reliable WR2 and need a young playmaker to grow alongside Nix. Emeka Egbuka is an elite route-runner with strong hands, quick separation, and the ability to play inside or outside, making him the perfect complement to Sutton. Sean Payton’s offense thrives on timing-based passing concepts, and Egbuka’s ability to create space quickly will make him a go-to target for Nix right away. If Denver wants to set their QB up for success, giving him a polished, NFL-ready receiver like Egbuka is the perfect move.
Pittsburgh Steelers	21. Benjamin Morrison (CB), Norte Dame: The Steelers need to rebuild their secondary, and adding Benjamin Morrison gives them a legitimate CB to pair with Joey Porter Jr. Pittsburgh’s defense thrives when it has physical, playmaking corners, and Morrison fits that mold perfectly with his elite ball skills, smooth coverage ability, and high football IQ. The AFC is stacked with elite quarterbacks and receivers, and if the Steelers want to keep up, they need corners who can lock down top targets and create turnovers. With a strong pass rush already in place, adding Morrison gives Pittsburgh a well-rounded, high-upside secondary that can help them compete in a loaded conference.
Los Angeles Chargers	22. Kenneth Grant (DT), Michigan: If the Chargers want to finally get over the hump and solve their long-term problem, they need to fix their run defense. Kenneth Grant is an absolute force on the interior, capable of eating up double teams while still collapsing the pocket. The AFC West is full of explosive offenses and if you’re going to compete with Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs, you need to create pressure without blitzing. Grant not only helps shore up the run defense but also gives the Chargers a much-needed presence in the middle of their defensive line.
Green Bay Packers	23.  Josh Conerly Jr. (OT), Oregon: The Packers need to solidify their offensive line, and Josh Conerly Jr. is the perfect fit to protect Jordan Love for the long haul. Green Bay has a strong foundation on offense, but adding a young, athletic tackle ensures they can continue to build around their franchise quarterback. Conerly thrives in zone-blocking schemes, making him an ideal fit for Matt LaFleur’s system, which relies on athleticism and mobility in the trenches. His quick feet, strong hands, and ability to handle top pass rushers will help keep Love upright and allow the offense to stay balanced. If the Packers want to maximize their young quarterback’s potential, ensuring he has elite protection is the best way to do it.
Minnesota Vikings	24. Shavon Revel Jr. (CB), East Carolina: The Vikings' defense has been their Achilles' heel in recent years, and if they want to be serious contenders in the NFC, they need to invest in their secondary. Shavon Revel Jr. is a fast-rising corner who has the size (6’2”), length, and physicality to thrive in an aggressive, man-heavy scheme. Minnesota’s defense, under Brian Flores, is built around pressure and tight coverage, and Revel fits that perfectly. The Vikings already took a big step forward by improving their pass rush, but it won’t matter if they can’t cover. Adding Revel gives them a long, athletic corner who can match up against the best receivers in the conference and help turn this defense around.
Houston Texans	25. Tyler Booker (OG), Alabama: C.J. Stroud is already playing at a high level, and now it’s time to protect him for the long haul. Booker is a powerful, nasty guard who can open running lanes and keep the pocket clean. Adding Booker continues their trend of building through the trenches. With a young, explosive offense forming, Houston needs to keep investing in the offensive line to make sure Stroud continues to develop at an elite level. This pick makes the Texans even more dangerous in the AFC.
Los Angeles Rams	26. Jihaad Campbell (LB), Alabama: The Rams’ defense is undergoing a transition, and they need young talent at linebacker to build around. Campbell is an athletic, sideline-to-sideline playmaker who can cover, blitz, and stop the run. The Rams reloaded their front seven with dynamic defenders, in Verse and Fiske. However, they had a hard time stopping the run. Campbell is a perfect fit for their aggressive scheme, giving them a high-IQ leader who can step in and contribute immediately.
Baltimore Ravens	27.  James Pearce Jr. (Edge), Tennessee: The Ravens thrive on defense, and adding James Pearce Jr. gives them another explosive pass rusher to wreak havoc in the AFC North. Baltimore’s defense has been one of the best in the league, but they need more depth and long-term stability off the edge, especially with some veterans aging and injuries always a factor. Pearce brings elite speed, length, and pass-rush instincts, making him a perfect fit in Baltimore’s aggressive, blitz-heavy scheme. With teams like the Bengals and Chiefs dominating through the air, the Ravens need game-changing edge rushers who can disrupt the pocket and force mistakes. Pearce has the potential to be a key piece in Baltimore’s defense, developing into a dominant force off the edge.
Detroit Lions	28. Jahdae Barron (CB), Texas: The Lions are one of the most exciting teams in the league, but if there’s one weakness, it’s their secondary. Barron is a versatile defensive back who can play outside, in the slot, or even at safety. Detroit loves tough, high-motor players and Barron fits that identity perfectly. With their offense already humming, adding a playmaker in the secondary makes them an even bigger threat in the NFC.
Washington Commanders	29. Donovan Jackson (OG), Ohio State: Washington is finally entering a new era and rebuilding the offensive line must be priority. No. 1. Jackson is a dominant interior lineman who brings physicality and pass-protection skills, exactly what the Commanders need to protect their quarterback. They must keep Jayden Daniels upright. Fixing the trenches is the key to building up their offense in Washington.
Buffalo Bills	30. Derrick Harmon (DT), Oregon: Buffalo’s defense took a step back last year and they need to reload their defensive line with young talent. They also released veteran pass rusher Von Miller. Harmon is a powerful interior defender who can hold up against the run while also providing pass-rush upside. The Bills have been heavily reliant on veterans, but it’s time to start building for the future on defense.
Kansas City Chiefs	31. Cameron Williams (OT/OG), Texas: Patrick Mahomes is going to need help in the trenches. The Chiefs' offensive line has been up and down and adding a versatile lineman like Williams gives them insurance at both guard and tackle. Mahomes took a lot of hits this past season, not to mention getting sacked 6 times in the SB with a zero perfect blitz rate is unacceptable. The Chiefs need to make sure they keep their franchise QB upright if they want to stay on top of the AFC.
Philadelphia Eagles	32. Malaki Starks (S) Georgia: With the trade of C.J. Gardner-Johnson, the Eagles have a clear need at safety and Malaki Starks would be the perfect addition to their secondary. Philadelphia has a well-documented history of drafting Georgia defenders: Jalen Carter, Jordan Davis, Nakobe Dean, and Kelee Ringo. Starks brings elite range, ball-hawking instincts, and the versatility to play deep or in the box, making him an ideal replacement for Gardner-Johnson. The Eagles thrive on building through the trenches and stacking defensive playmakers, making Starks a great fit to this identity. His high-IQ, physical, and dynamic qualities as a defender can keep this unit among the league’s best for years to come.