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A Defensive-Heavy Draft with Elite Talent
The 2025 NFL Draft is shaping up to be one of the most impactful in recent memory for teams in need of elite talent on the defensive side of the football. With elite prospects like Michigan’s Mason Graham and Will Johnson, as well as Colorado's two-way star Travis Hunter, this class offers transformative talent across the board.
Quarterback Class Lacks a Surefire Superstar
This year’s quarterback class doesn’t carry the same high-end punch as recent years. While players like Shedeur Sanders and Cam Ward have intriguing traits, their ceilings don’t measure up to the generational talents we’ve seen in prior drafts. J.J. McCarthy, who declared early for the 2024 cycle, would have easily been QB1 in this class.
Nevertheless, with several NFL teams desperate for a quarterback, we’re likely to see one or two prospects drafted higher than their grades suggest. This positional value dynamic could cause elite talents like Mason Graham, Travis Hunter, or Will Johnson to miss out on being the No. 1 overall pick—that’s simply the nature of the draft.
First Round 2025 NFL Mock Draft - Non-Playoff Teams Picks 1-18
1). Tennessee Titans – Travis Hunter | CB | Colorado
Primary Team Needs: (Quarterback, Offensive Line, Defensive Playmakers)
Titans Draft Capital: 1, 35, 102, 119, 140, 166, 177, 240
Pick Analysis: The Titans hold the highly coveted first overall pick, presenting a chance to draft a quarterback like Shedeur Sanders or Cam Ward. However, their roster deficiencies stretch far beyond the quarterback position. Trading down to amass additional draft capital for a full-scale rebuild could be the most strategic move. Alternatively, they could select one of the top three defensive prospects—Mason Graham, Travis Hunter, or Will Johnson—while targeting a developmental quarterback like Jalen Milroe, Carson Beck, or the NFL-ready and underrated Kyle McCord on Day 2. Adding a bridge QB such as Kirk Cousins or Sam Darnold would provide immediate stability, with Will Levis remaining a contingency plan as they look to the 2026 QB class.
2). Cleveland Browns – Mason Graham | IDL | Michigan
Primary Team Needs: (Quarterback, Defensive Line, Depth)
Browns Draft Capital: 2, 33, 67, 93, 103, 167, 178, 191, 203, 214, 215
Pick Analysis: Imagine the Browns' defense with a dominant force like Mason Graham anchoring the interior alongside 2023 Defensive Player of the Year Myles Garrett. Graham’s presence would alleviate double-teams on Garrett, allowing the rookie to thrive while bolstering Cleveland’s defensive front. With excellent draft capital, the Browns can still address quarterback or add depth on Day 2, making Graham the ideal choice to elevate their defense to elite status.
3). New York Giants – Will Johnson | CB | Michigan
Primary Team Needs: (Quarterback, Offensive Line, Future Assets)
Giants Draft Capital: 3, 34, 65, 104, 134, 153, 219, 245, 256
Pick Analysis: With the Daniel Jones era officially over, the Giants face a critical decision at quarterback. However, instead of reaching for a QB in a class with no clear elite talent, they opt for Michigan cornerback Will Johnson to address their defensive needs. Johnson’s lockdown coverage ability and elite athleticism give the Giants a cornerstone defender while they explore other options for QB—whether on Day 2 of the draft, free agency with Kirk Cousins or Sam Darnold, or even a trade for Joe Milton.
4). New England Patriots – Kelvin Banks Jr. | OT | Texas
Primary Team Needs: (Offensive Line, Skill Positions, Defensive Depth)
Patriots Draft Capital: 4, 38, 69, 77, 105, 143, 217, 220, 241
Pick Analysis: The Patriots prioritize protecting their investment in second-year QB Drake Maye by selecting Kelvin Banks Jr., the top offensive tackle in the 2025 class. Banks offers elite pass-blocking skills and the athleticism to thrive in New England’s scheme, solidifying a unit plagued by injuries and inconsistency. While elite prospects like edge rusher Abdul Carter and WR Tetairoa McMillan were on the board, building a stable offensive line around Maye is the foundation of the Patriots’ rebuild. This move ensures long-term success for their young quarterback.
5). Jacksonville Jaguars – Malaki Starks | S | Georgia
Primary Team Needs: (Defensive Secondary, Interior Defensive Line)
Jaguars Draft Capital: 5, 39, 72, 108, 142, 169, 193, 224, 246
Pick Analysis: With multiple impending free agents in the secondary, the Jaguars select Georgia’s Malaki Starks, a versatile safety capable of filling several defensive roles. Starks’ positional flexibility—logging snaps as a deep safety, nickel defender, off-ball linebacker, and even cornerback—makes him an ideal fit for Jacksonville’s evolving defensive needs. His high football IQ and ability to impact the game from anywhere on the field will elevate a unit that needs stability and playmaking in the secondary. Starks is a best-available option with the versatility to anchor the Jaguars’ defense for years to come.
6). Las Vegas Raiders – Shedeur Sanders | QB | Colorado
Primary Team Needs: (Quarterback, Defensive Line, Offensive Line)
Raiders Draft Capital: 6, 37, 68, 73, 107, 142, 179, 212, 216, 222
Pick Analysis: With the Antonio Pierce era officially over, the Raiders pivot to a new direction by selecting Shedeur Sanders as their quarterback of the future. While this is a speculative overdraft, Tom Brady’s role as a minority owner and vocal supporter of Sanders makes this pick logical for a franchise in need of a fresh face at QB. Sanders brings poise, accuracy, and athleticism to the table, giving the Raiders a cornerstone to build around as they address other critical needs at receiver, running back, and the trenches in later rounds.
7). New York Jets – Cam Ward | QB | Miami
Primary Team Needs: (Quarterback, Trade Assets)
Jets Draft Capital: 7, 42, 96, 109, 144, 158, 185, 206
Pick Analysis: With Aaron Rodgers likely out of the picture, the Jets address their quarterback uncertainty by selecting Cam Ward from Miami. Ward’s extensive experience and NFL-ready style make him a strong candidate to stabilize New York’s offense. While other options like pursuing Kirk Cousins, Sam Darnold, or trading for J.J. McCarthy or Joe Milton are in play, the Jets opt to secure their QB of the future in the first round. This pick gives them a foundation at the most critical position, while their remaining draft capital can be used to bolster other areas.
8). Carolina Panthers – Abdul Carter | EDGE | Penn State
Primary Team Needs: (Edge Rusher, Defensive Line, Secondary)
Panthers Draft Capital: 8, 54, 74, 110, 113, 139, 145, 162, 227
Pick Analysis: Despite the temptation to give Bryce Young a premier target like Tetairoa McMillan, the Panthers prioritize fixing one of the NFL’s worst defenses by selecting Abdul Carter. The explosive edge rusher fills a critical need, bolstering a pass rush that has struggled to complement star Derrick Brown. Carter’s dynamic ability to disrupt the backfield brings immediate impact to a defense that needs big bodies and difference-makers to contend. While adding McMillan would have helped the offense, this pick ensures the Panthers are more balanced and competitive heading into 2025.
9). New Orleans Saints – Mykel Williams | EDGE | Georgia
Primary Team Needs: (Defensive Line, Offensive Line, Wide Receiver)
Saints Draft Capital: 9, 40, 71, 90, 111, 128, 183, 253
Pick Analysis: With Cameron Jordan nearing the end of his illustrious career and the uncertain futures of Chase Young and Payton Turner, the Saints address their pass rush by selecting Mykel Williams from Georgia. A versatile and well-rounded defender, Williams excels against the run and as a pass rusher, bringing length and athleticism reminiscent of former Bulldog Travon Walker. While his rotational usage at Georgia limited his snap counts, his production and impact have surpassed expectations. Williams’ addition strengthens a defensive line in need of a new cornerstone to sustain success.
10). Chicago Bears – Will Campbell | OT | LSU
Primary Team Needs: (Offensive Line, Defensive Line, Wide Receiver)
Bears Draft Capital: 10, 39, 41, 72, 147, 197, 233, 244
Pick Analysis: After a season where Caleb Williams was sacked a team-record 68 times, the Bears take LSU’s Will Campbell to fortify their offensive line. Campbell’s athleticism, power, and positional versatility make him an ideal solution for Chicago’s depleted unit. A three-year starter at left tackle for LSU, Campbell projects effectively to guard or center if needed, offering flexibility to address multiple holes. His ability to anchor against power rushers and execute in both zone and power schemes provides immediate value. This pick ensures Chicago protects their franchise quarterback while adding a foundational piece for long-term success.
11). San Francisco 49ers – Nic Scourton | EDGE | Texas A&M
Primary Team Needs: (Defensive Tackle, Pass Rushers, Offensive Line)
49ers Draft Capital: 11, 43, 75, 100, 112, 137, 186, 226, 230, 249, 254
Pick Analysis: After being outmatched in the trenches throughout the season, the 49ers bolster their defensive line by selecting Nic Scourton, a versatile and powerful edge rusher from Texas A&M. Scourton’s size (6’4/285), length, and strength make him an ideal complement to Nick Bosa, with the flexibility to rotate inside on passing downs. His relentless motor, quick hands, and ability to collapse pockets add a dynamic presence to San Francisco’s defensive front. This pick helps restore the 49ers’ physical identity while addressing a critical need for a reliable pass-rushing partner for Bosa.
12). Dallas Cowboys – Ashton Jeanty | RB | Boise State
Primary Team Needs: (Defensive Line, Offensive Line, Running Back)
Cowboys Draft Capital: 12, 44, 76, 148, 168, 170, 171, 187, 209, 247
Pick Analysis: The Cowboys hit a home run by selecting Ashton Jeanty, the dynamic running back from Boise State. Jeanty’s combination of agility, vision, and contact balance makes him a perfect fit for Dallas’ zone-blocking schemes, particularly outside zone and pin/pull concepts. His record-setting 2,601 rushing yards in 2024, coupled with his exceptional receiving ability, provide Dallas with a dual-threat offensive weapon. With Jeanty in the backfield, the Cowboys add a game-changing playmaker who elevates their offensive ceiling and ensures balance for years to come.
13). Miami Dolphins – Tetairoa McMillan | WR | Arizona
Primary Team Needs: (Offensive Line, Defensive Line, Linebacker)
Dolphins Draft Capital: 13, 48, 98, 99, 115, 149, 156, 224, 231, 251
Pick Analysis: With Tyreek Hill likely on the move, the Dolphins draft his long-term replacement in Tetairoa McMillan, a true X receiver from Arizona. At 6’5” and 210 pounds, McMillan offers an elite catch radius, exceptional body control, and the versatility to align across formations. While his straight-line speed isn’t elite, his fluidity and smooth acceleration make him a matchup nightmare. Pairing McMillan with Jalen Waddle and Jonnu Smith provides franchise QB Tua Tagovailoa a dynamic, complementary receiving corps, ensuring Miami's offense remains among the league’s most explosive.
14). Indianapolis Colts – Shavon Revel Jr. | CB | East Carolina
Primary Team Needs: (Defensive Line, Linebacker, Offensive Line)
Colts Draft Capital: 14, 45, 80, 116, 150, 188, 232
Pick Analysis: The Colts address their struggling secondary by selecting East Carolina’s Shavon Revel Jr., a lengthy and physical cornerback who excels in press coverage. Despite an ACL tear in September 2024, Revel’s elite movement skills, competitiveness, and disruptive abilities in both coverage and run support make him a high-upside prospect. His physicality and length are perfect for divisional matchups against talented receivers like the Jaguars' Brian Thomas Jr. Adding Revel provides the Colts with a transformative talent to pair with their youthful defensive core while addressing a glaring weakness in pass defense.
15). Atlanta Falcons – James Pearce | EDGE | Tennessee
Primary Team Needs: (Pass Rushers, Defensive Line, Secondary)
Falcons Draft Capital: 15, 46, 117, 238
Pick Analysis: The Falcons address their longstanding pass-rush deficiencies by selecting James Pearce, a dynamic edge rusher from Tennessee. Pearce’s quick first step, fluid athleticism, and versatility to align in multiple positions make him an ideal fit for Atlanta’s defense. With impending free agency for key edge rushers like Matthew Judon and Lorenzo Carter, Pearce offers immediate impact and the potential to end Atlanta’s drought of double-digit sack seasons. His speed and inside counter moves provide the Falcons with a much-needed disruptive presence on the edge, revitalizing their pass rush.
16). Arizona Cardinals – Kenneth Grant | IDL | Michigan
Primary Team Needs: (Outside Linebacker, Cornerback, Interior Offensive Line)
Cardinals Draft Capital: 16, 47, 78, 114, 151
Pick Analysis: The Cardinals reinforce their defensive front with Kenneth Grant, a massive 6’6”, 340-pound interior lineman from Michigan. Grant’s ability to dominate the B gap, disrupt the pocket, and anchor against the run makes him a perfect addition to a defensive line facing significant turnover. His versatility to excel as a 3-technique in a 4-3 or as a defensive end in a 3-4 scheme ensures immediate impact in any alignment. With key contributors like Roy Lopez and L.J. Collier entering free agency, Grant provides Arizona with a cornerstone player to rebuild their defensive identity.
17). Cincinnati Bengals – Colston Loveland | TE | Michigan
Primary Team Needs: (Wide Receiver, Offensive Line, Defensive Back)
Bengals Draft Capital: 17, 49, 81, 118, 152, 192
Pick Analysis: The Bengals address a pressing need on offense by selecting Colston Loveland, a versatile and athletic tight end from Michigan. Loveland’s combination of size, speed, and physicality creates mismatch opportunities, making him an ideal fit within this Bengals offense.
With uncertainty surrounding Tee Higgins and Mike Gesicki’s futures, Loveland gives Cincinnati a reliable red-zone target and a field-stretching option in both traditional and spread formations. Paired with Ja’Marr Chase, Loveland has the potential to transform the Bengals’ offense into an unstoppable force, evoking comparisons to the Kelce-Hill connection in Kansas City.
18). Seattle Seahawks – Shemar Stewart | EDGE | Texas A&M
Primary Team Needs: (Offensive Line, Defensive Line, Secondary)
Seahawks Draft Capital: 18, 50, 82, 136, 173, 184, 210, 234
Pick Analysis: Despite significant offensive line needs, the Seahawks opt for Texas A&M’s Shemar Stewart, a blue-chip edge defender with rare size (6’6", 290 lbs), athleticism, and power. Stewart’s ability to reset the line of scrimmage and disrupt plays in the backfield makes him an ideal fit for Seattle’s aggressive defensive identity. While his college production doesn’t jump off the page, his impact as a run-stuffer and his potential as a pass-rusher are undeniable. With Boye Mafe stepping forward this season, Stewart provides another cornerstone for a defensive front looking to dominate in the trenches.
First Round 2025 NFL Mock Draft - Playoff Teams Picks 19-32
19). Houston Texans – Tyleik Williams | IDL | Ohio State
Primary Team Needs: (Wide Receiver, Offensive Line, Secondary)
Texans Draft Capital: 19, 55, 86, 122, 164, 239
Pick Analysis: The Texans strengthen their defensive front with Tyleik Williams, a powerful interior lineman from Ohio State. Williams’ ability to anchor in a two-gap system and disrupt run plays makes him an ideal fit for a Houston defense in need of stability. While his pass-rush skill set is limited, his explosiveness and heavy hands ensure he can collapse pockets and control the line of scrimmage. Pairing Williams with Houston’s young core helps address a critical need as the Texans aim to retool their defense while supporting CJ Stroud’s progression in year three.
20). Denver Broncos – Tyler Warren | TE | Penn State
Primary Team Needs: (Tight End, Wide Receiver, Defensive Line, Secondary)
Broncos Draft Capital: 20, 51, 87, 123, 190, 195, 205
Pick Analysis: The Broncos address a key offensive need with Tyler Warren, a versatile and dynamic tight end from Penn State. At 6’6” and 260 pounds, Warren offers a rare blend of size, athleticism, and blocking ability, making him a perfect fit for Denver’s offense. With 98 catches and just three drops in 2024, he’s a reliable receiving target, particularly in red-zone situations, and his ability to line up in multiple positions adds to his value.
21). Pittsburgh Steelers – Luther Burden III | WR | Missouri
Primary Team Needs: (Cornerback, Running Back, Wide Receiver, Offensive Line)
Steelers Draft Capital: 21, 53, 84, 120, 154, 223, 229, 242
Pick Analysis: The Steelers select Luther Burden III, a dynamic slot receiver who complements George Pickens perfectly. Burden specializes in turning short passes into big gains with his exceptional yards-after-catch ability. His physicality and thick lower body allow him to break tackles in space, adding much-needed versatility to Pittsburgh’s receiver room. Paired with Pickens’ deep-threat prowess, Burden provides balance to the Steelers’ offense by excelling in short and intermediate routes.
22). Tampa Bay Buccaneers – Jalon Walker | LB | Georgia
Primary Team Needs: (Wide Receiver, Offensive Line, Defensive Line)
Buccaneers Draft Capital: 22, 52, 83, 124, 157, 236
Pick Analysis: The Buccaneers address their need for youth and versatility at linebacker by selecting Jalon Walker, the reigning Butkus Award winner from Georgia. Walker is a downhill disruptor who excels as a run defender, blitzer, and edge rusher, making him an ideal fit for Todd Bowles’ hybrid defensive scheme. With Lavonte David, K.J. Britt, and Joe Tryon-Shoyinka potentially departing in free agency, Walker brings much-needed explosiveness and flexibility to Tampa Bay’s front seven. His ability to exploit mismatches and contribute in multiple roles makes him a slam-dunk pick for a defense in transition.
23). Los Angeles Rams – Benjamin Morrison | CB | Notre Dame
Primary Team Needs: (Offensive Line, Cornerback, Wide Receiver, Linebacker)
Rams Draft Capital: 23, 85, 101, 121, 189, 194, 198
Pick Analysis: The Rams bolster their secondary by selecting Benjamin Morrison, a polished and physical cornerback from Notre Dame. Despite a season-ending injury, Morrison’s ability to lock down receivers in man and press coverage makes him an excellent fit for Los Angeles’ defensive scheme. Over his college career, Morrison demonstrated elite ball skills with nine interceptions and allowed a catch rate of just 44% in 2024. His versatility to excel in both man and zone alignments provides the Rams with a reliable presence in the secondary as they continue to rebuild their roster post-Aaron Donald.
24). Los Angeles Chargers – Xavier Watts | S | Notre Dame
Primary Team Needs: (Edge, Wide Receiver, Offensive Line, Safety)
Chargers Draft Capital: 24, 57, 89, 126, 160, 180, 200, 208, 213, 218, 252
Pick Analysis: The Chargers address their need for secondary help by selecting Xavier Watts, an intelligent and versatile safety from Notre Dame. Watts has extensive experience playing both free safety and in the box, showcasing strong instincts and play recognition. At 6’0” and 205 pounds, Watts is a reliable defender against both the pass and run, making him a valuable addition to a defense looking to solidify itself against elite passing attacks. His maturity and positional flexibility align perfectly with the Chargers’ defensive goals heading into 2025.
25). Green Bay Packers – Jahdae Barron | DB | Texas
Primary Team Needs: (Defensive Line, Interior Offensive Line, Secondary, Wide Receiver)
Packers Draft Capital: 25, 56, 88, 125, 159, 199, 237, 250
Pick Analysis: The Packers address their secondary by selecting Jahdae Barron, the versatile and dynamic Jim Thorpe Award-winning defensive back from Texas. Barron’s ability to play outside, in the nickel, or at safety makes him an invaluable chess piece for Green Bay’s defense. His agility, instincts, and playmaking ability in zone coverage complement his physicality in run support. With Eric Stokes and Keisean Nixon’s futures uncertain, Barron provides Green Bay with a reliable, multi-positional defender who can seamlessly adapt to their defensive needs.
26). Washington Commanders – Emeka Egbuka | WR | Ohio State
Primary Team Needs: (Edge, Linebacker, Wide Receiver, Secondary)
Commanders Draft Capital: 26, 59, 79, 146, 202, 235, 246
Pick Analysis: To maximize Jayden Daniels’ rookie contract, the Commanders add Ohio State’s Emeka Egbuka, a versatile receiver with elite speed, precise route running, and dynamic playmaking ability. Egbuka can thrive in both the slot and outside roles, making him a perfect complement to Terry McLaurin. His ability to stretch defenses and create separation gives Daniels a potent weapon to elevate Washington’s passing game.
27). Baltimore Ravens – Aireontae Ersery | OT | Minnesota
Primary Team Needs: (Offensive Line, Wide Receiver, Edge, Secondary)
Ravens Draft Capital: 27, 58, 91, 127, 135, 174, 175, 182, 201, 211, 243
Pick Analysis: The Ravens secure their offensive future with Aireontae Ersery, a physically dominant and athletic tackle from Minnesota. At 6’6” and 330 pounds, Ersery combines size and agility, making him a natural fit for Baltimore’s power run game. With multiple offensive tackles nearing the end of their contracts, Ersery provides a long-term solution at left tackle and pairs seamlessly with rookie standout Roger Rosengarten on the right side.
28). Buffalo Bills – Mike Green | EDGE | Marshall
Primary Team Needs: (Defensive Line, Wide Receiver, Secondary)
Bills Draft Capital: 28, 60, 61, 108, 130, 169, 172, 176, 204, 207
Pick Analysis: The Bills address their pass-rushing woes by selecting Mike Green, a breakout edge rusher from Marshall who led FBS in sacks this season. Green’s quick-twitch athleticism and acceleration make him a dynamic threat off the edge, addressing Buffalo’s pressure rate and run defense issues. His rapid ascent from under-the-radar prospect to one of the draft’s premier pass-rushers gives the Bills a disruptive playmaker who can anchor their defensive line.
29). Philadelphia Eagles – Princely Umanmielen | EDGE | Ole Miss
Primary Team Needs: (Wide Receiver, Edge, Interior Offensive Line)
Eagles Draft Capital: 28, 62, 94, 133, 155, 161, 165
Pick Analysis: The Eagles address their defensive front by selecting Princely Umanmielen, a versatile edge rusher from Ole Miss. Umanmielen’s ability to play both as a traditional defensive end in a 4-3 alignment and as an outside linebacker in a 3-4 front makes him a perfect fit for Philadelphia’s hybrid defensive scheme. With Brandon Graham retiring and Josh Sweat entering the final year of his contract, Umanmielen provides the Eagles with a dynamic pass-rusher capable of stepping into a starting role and adding flexibility to their defensive line.
30). Minnesota Vikings – Derrick Harmon | IDL | Oregon
Primary Team Needs: (Secondary, Interior Defensive Line, Interior Offensive Line, Running Back)
Vikings Draft Capital: 28, 97, 138, 163
Pick Analysis: The Vikings bolster their defensive line with Derrick Harmon, a dominant interior defender from Oregon. At 6’5” and 310 pounds, Harmon excels at taking on double teams with his powerful base and pad level, making him a force against the run. With impending free agents along the defensive line and the need for more interior pass-rush production, Harmon brings both stability and upside to a position group in transition. His breakout season at Oregon has cemented him as one of the top defensive tackle prospects in this draft class.
31). Kansas City Chiefs – Josh Simmons | OT | Ohio State
Primary Team Needs: (Cornerback, Wide Receiver, Interior Defensive Line, Offensive Line)
Chiefs Draft Capital: 31, 63, 66, 95, 132, 255
Pick Analysis: The Chiefs address their left tackle concerns by selecting Josh Simmons, a versatile and athletic lineman from Ohio State. At 6’5” and 310 pounds, Simmons brings a muscular, well-rounded build with good length and play strength. With 18 starts at both tackle spots in Columbus, Simmons fits Kansas City’s need for an athletic and dependable lineman in their zone-heavy and pin-pull scheme. After struggles at the position in 2024, Simmons provides an immediate upgrade and a long-term solution to protect Patrick Mahomes’ blind side.
32). Detroit Lions – Landon Jackson | EDGE | Arkansas
Primary Team Needs: (Edge, Cornerback, Wide Receiver, Interior Offensive Line, Interior Defensive Line)
Lions Draft Capital: 32, 64, 131, 196, 225, 228, 248
Pick Analysis: The Lions bolster their defensive front by selecting Landon Jackson, a towering 6’7”, 280-pound edge rusher from Arkansas. Jackson excels at setting the edge in the run game with his length and strength, while his technically sound pass-rush moves add value on passing downs. Pairing Jackson with Aidan Hutchinson creates a formidable duo on the defensive line, addressing a critical need with Marcus Davenport leaving in free agency and Za’Darius Smith’s uncertain future. His relentless motor and potential for growth make him a perfect fit for Detroit’s physical defensive identity.