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The 2025 NFL Draft is right around the corner, and as in every year, all 32 NFL teams have several holes to fill. Whether due to free agency, the need to upgrade a position, or a desire to add depth, the NFL Draft remains a cost-effective way to address these needs. Deciding whether it’s better to draft or sign free agents depends on various factors, including a team’s budget, the player’s success, and the round in which they were drafted.
Each year, I conduct an analysis of team needs for all 32 NFL teams. I also include a quick evaluation of primary and secondary team needs, which helps gauge the importance of each position group in that particular year’s draft.
Here is a breakdown of all 32 teams' primary needs combined. The data confirms what we already know: quarterback (QB) is by far the most important position in football, and that remains true for this year’s draft. Other top positions of need include cornerbacks (CB), edge rushers (Edge), and offensive linemen (OL).
The QB Position Remains the Most Valuable Position In Football
The QB position is undeniably the most critical, and in recent years, the wide receiver (WR) position has grown significantly in importance. Similarly, the demand for offensive tackles has increased because of their role in protecting the QB and supporting an effective passing game. Investing in these positions provides the best value in today’s NFL.
As the WR position has grown in prominence, so too has the need for elite cornerbacks to cover these receivers. The demand for top-tier pass rushers has also risen. Teams want players who can disrupt the QB, but they also need defensive backs who can capitalize on hurried throws. Additionally, the importance of interior defensive line pressure is increasing, as teams look for ways to collapse the pocket from the inside.
The good news in the 2025 NFL Draft is the abundance of defensive talent. This draft class offers depth across multiple defensive positions, including cornerbacks, pass rushers, and interior defensive linemen. Notably, this may be one of the deepest interior defensive line classes ever, with as many as three players projected to be drafted in the first 15 picks.
2025 NFL Draft Team Needs Analysis
Below is a categorized list of all 32 NFL teams' primary and secondary needs. These assessments are subject to change as we approach the conclusion of the 2024 NFL season.
1). New York Giants - Primary Need: QB
Secondary Needs: OT, CB, WR, IOL
Needs Analysis
The Giants’ offense is in dire need of a franchise quarterback and a reliable offensive line to protect him. Their secondary also requires improvement, as the lack of a strong cornerback presence has hindered defensive performance. Bolstering the wide receiver corps and guard positions will help provide offensive stability and create a stronger foundation for future success.
2). Las Vegas Raiders - Primary Need: QB
Secondary Needs: WR, RB, IDL, CB
Needs Analysis
The Raiders' offense has struggled due to inconsistency at quarterback and a lack of playmakers. Upgrading at wide receiver and running back is critical to jump-starting their 32nd-ranked offense. Defensively, adding a dynamic defensive tackle and cornerback will address their issues in the trenches and coverage.
3). Jacksonville Jaguars - Primary Need: CB
Secondary Needs: S, WR, IDL, IOL
Needs Analysis
The Jaguars' defensive struggles are evident, with the secondary needing immediate attention to limit big plays. A strong interior defensive lineman is essential for improving run defense and generating pressure. Offensively, adding a reliable wide receiver and versatile guard will enhance their overall effectiveness and support Trevor Lawrence.
4). New England Patriots - Primary Need: OT
Secondary Needs: CB, Edge, WR, IOL
Needs Analysis
The Patriots need significant upgrades at offensive tackle to protect Drake Maye and support their ground game. The lack of a consistent pass rush highlights the need for an edge defender, while improvements at cornerback and wide receiver are crucial for both defensive stability and offensive production.
5). Carolina Panthers - Primary Need: WR
Secondary Needs: Edge, IDL, LB, CB
Needs Analysis
While Bryce Young has shown promise, the Panthers must address edge-rushing deficiencies to improve their defensive pass rush. They are still searching for a reliable wide receiver to complement Bryce Young. Defensive line depth will be critical, and adding another LB will also be a key need.
6). Cleveland Browns - Primary Need: QB
Secondary Needs: OT, WR, Edge, IDL
Needs Analysis
The Browns require a dynamic edge rusher to enhance their pass rush alongside Myles Garrett. They also need wide receiver improvements while they try to address the uncertain quarterback situation and fortify both the offensive and defensive lines to strengthen the overall roster.
7). New York Jets - Primary Need: QB
Secondary Needs: IDL, OT, TE, Edge
Needs Analysis
The Jets may prioritize quarterback if Aaron Rodgers departs after two seasons. Boosting defensive tackle and offensive tackle positions will enhance their run defense and quarterback protection. Reinforcements in the secondary are key to addressing potential free-agent losses. These moves aim to strengthen the team overall.
8). Tennessee Titans - Primary Need: WR
Secondary Needs: IOL, Edge, OT, S
Needs Analysis
The Titans must add explosive wide receivers to boost their passing game and improve offensive consistency. Defensively, adding an edge rusher will enhance their front-seven impact. Upgrading at offensive tackle and guard is critical to improving line play, while safety depth is also a pressing need.
9). Cincinnati Bengals - Primary Need: CB
Secondary Needs: IDL, TE, RB, WR
Needs Analysis
The Bengals need upgrades at cornerback to improve their pass defense and limit big plays. Offensively, adding a dynamic wide receiver and a reliable tight end will support their quarterback and bolster the passing game. Running back depth and offensive tackle improvements are also critical for sustaining offensive balance.
10). Chicago Bears - Primary Need: IOL
Secondary Needs: CB, IDL, LB, WR
Needs Analysis
The Bears’ offensive line remains a glaring weakness, with upgrades at guard and center necessary to establish consistency in both pass protection and the run game. Defensively, adding a disruptive defensive tackle and edge rusher will help improve their ability to control the line of scrimmage and pressure opposing quarterbacks.
11). New Orleans Saints - Primary Need: IDL
Secondary Needs: Edge, CB, S, OT
Needs Analysis
The Saints need to focus on acquiring a pass rusher to enhance their defensive line. They also require reinforcements at cornerback and safety to prepare for future exits and strengthen the secondary. On the offensive side, bringing in an offensive tackle will offer essential support for their quarterback.
12). Miami Dolphins - Primary Need: S
Secondary Needs: IOL, IDL, LB, QB
Needs Analysis
The Dolphins need immediate reinforcements at safety to shore up their pass defense. Guard play on the offensive line has been inconsistent, requiring upgrades to support their high-powered offense. Depth at defensive tackle and linebacker is crucial for improving run defense, while quarterback depth remains a long-term consideration.
13). Dallas Cowboys - Primary Need: RB
Secondary Needs: Edge, IDL, CB, WR
Needs Analysis
The Cowboys need to address their defensive line struggles by adding a versatile edge rusher and a stout defensive tackle. Cornerback reinforcements will help solidify their secondary. On offense, a reliable running back and an additional playmaking wide receiver are key to improving their offensive balance.
14). San Francisco 49ers - Primary Need: DT
Secondary Needs: CB, Edge, IOL, LB
Needs Analysis
The 49ers must upgrade their cornerback position to strengthen their pass defense against high-powered offenses. Depth at offensive tackle and guard will improve their offensive line’s durability and consistency. A disruptive defensive tackle and linebacker depth are also critical for maintaining defensive dominance.
15). Indianapolis Colts - Primary Need: S
Secondary Needs: IOL, Edge, CB, LB
Needs Analysis
The Colts might need to add a safety to bolster their secondary. Improvements on the interior offensive line are necessary to protect their quarterback and enhance the run game. Adding an edge rusher and linebacker depth will address defensive deficiencies, while safety upgrades are also a priority.
16). Los Angeles Rams - Primary Need: CB
Secondary Needs: LB, IOL, WR, LB
Needs Analysis
The Rams must prioritize offensive line depth to ensure stability for their quarterback. Adding a shutdown cornerback and linebacker will improve defensive consistency. Offensively, the team needs a reliable wide receiver to complement their passing game, while quarterback depth remains a concern for the future.
17). Tampa Bay Buccaneers - Primary Need: WR
Secondary Needs: IOL, LB, Edge, OT
Needs Analysis
The Buccaneers need a wide receiver to enhance their passing attack and replace aging players. Upgrades at offensive guard are critical for improving the run game and pass protection. On defense, depth at linebacker and edge rusher will bolster their ability to stop the run and pressure opposing quarterbacks, while tackle depth is also a long-term consideration.
18). Arizona Cardinals - Primary Need: Edge
Secondary Needs: WR, IOL, IDL, CB
Needs Analysis
The Cardinals require a pass rusher to generate consistent pressure and improve their defense. Additional depth at wide receiver is crucial to support their offense and account for potential departures. Upgrades at guard and defensive tackle will help solidify the trenches, while a reliable cornerback is needed to strengthen the secondary.
19). Atlanta Falcons - Primary Need: IOL
Secondary Needs: Edge, S, CB, WR
Needs Analysis
The Falcons need to find a center who can anchor the offensive line and improve interior blocking. An edge rusher and safety are necessary to address defensive shortcomings, while cornerback depth is needed to cover high-powered passing attacks. Adding a playmaking wide receiver will help balance their offense.
20). Seattle Seahawks - Primary Need: Edge
Secondary Needs: LB, OT, IOL, QB
Needs Analysis
The Seahawks must add an edge rusher to improve their pass rush and defensive front. Linebacker depth will solidify their ability to stop the run, while upgrades at offensive tackle and guard are crucial for protecting their quarterback. A long-term quarterback solution should also be explored.
21). Washington Commanders - Primary Need: WR
Secondary Needs: Edge, LB, CB, OT
Needs Analysis
The Commanders need a wide receiver to add firepower to their passing game. On defense, an edge rusher and linebacker depth are required to improve versatility and effectiveness. Upgrades at cornerback will strengthen their pass defense, while additional offensive tackle depth is necessary for protection.
22). Denver Broncos - Primary Need: OT
Secondary Needs: LB, TE, S, RB
Needs Analysis
The Broncos must prioritize offensive tackle upgrades to protect their quarterback. Depth at linebacker and safety will bolster defensive flexibility, while a reliable tight end is needed to provide an additional offensive weapon. Running back depth is also critical for offensive balance.
23). Houston Texans - Primary Need: IOL
Secondary Needs: IDL, CB, WR, Edge
Needs Analysis
The Texans need offensive guard reinforcements to improve interior blocking and run game effectiveness. Defensively, a disruptive defensive tackle and a cornerback are critical to solidifying their unit. Adding a wide receiver and edge rusher will provide playmaking ability on both sides of the ball.
24). Baltimore Ravens - Primary Need: OT
Secondary Needs: WR, Edge, IOL, CB
Needs Analysis
The Ravens must strengthen their offensive line by adding tackle and guard depth to protect their quarterback and improve the run game. A dynamic wide receiver is needed to complement their passing attack, while an edge rusher and cornerback will enhance defensive versatility.
25). Los Angeles Chargers (8-4) - Primary Need: Edge
Secondary Needs: IDL, IOL, WR, S
Needs Analysis
The Chargers need an edge rusher to provide consistency opposite Joey Bosa and improve defensive pressure. A disruptive defensive tackle is crucial for stopping the run. Depth at center will solidify their offensive line, while adding a wide receiver and safety will enhance their playmaking ability on both sides of the ball.
26). Pittsburgh Steelers (9-3) - Primary Need: QB
Secondary Needs: CB, OT, RB, WR
Needs Analysis
The Steelers might look into a long-term solution at quarterback. A reliable cornerback is needed to improve pass defense, while upgrades at offensive tackle will bolster protection. Depth at running back and wide receiver is also critical to add versatility to their offense.
27). Green Bay Packers (9-3) - Primary Need: CB
Secondary Needs: Edge, OT, IDL, WR
Needs Analysis
The Packers need cornerback depth to handle high-powered offenses and an edge rusher to complement Rashan Gary. Offensive tackle and defensive tackle upgrades are crucial to reinforce both trenches. Adding a wide receiver will provide an additional weapon for their young quarterback.
28). Philadelphia Eagles (10-2) - Primary Need: WR
Secondary Needs: Edge, TE, LB, IOL
Needs Analysis
The Eagles must find a wide receiver to pair with A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith to maintain offensive balance. An edge rusher will bolster their already strong defensive line, while adding a tight end and linebacker will improve offensive versatility and defensive flexibility. Guard depth is also needed for the offensive line.
29). Minnesota Vikings (10-2) - Primary Need: CB
Secondary Needs: IDL, RB, IOL, OT
Needs Analysis
The Vikings need a cornerback to strengthen their secondary and a defensive tackle to improve their run defense. Depth at running back will ensure offensive stability, while upgrades at guard and offensive tackle will solidify their protection for the quarterback.
30). Buffalo Bills (10-2) - Primary Need: CB
Secondary Needs: WR, Edge, IDL, S
Needs Analysis
The Bills must prioritize cornerback depth to handle playoff-caliber offenses. An edge rusher will complement their defensive line, while a defensive tackle is necessary to reinforce the interior. Wide receiver depth is critical to support Josh Allen, and safety depth will provide defensive flexibility.
31). Kansas City Chiefs (11-1) - Primary Need: CB
Secondary Needs: IDL, IOL WR, LB
Needs Analysis
The Chiefs need a cornerback to anchor their secondary and a defensive tackle to solidify their defensive front. Upgrades at offensive guard will enhance their offensive line, while adding a wide receiver and linebacker will provide additional playmakers on both sides of the ball.
32). Detroit Lions (11-1) - Primary Need: Edge
Secondary Needs: CB, WR, IOL, IDL
Needs Analysis
The Lions must add an edge rusher to complement Aidan Hutchinson and a cornerback to strengthen their secondary. Wide receiver depth will support their passing attack, while upgrades at offensive guard and defensive tackle are necessary to improve both trenches.