2025 NFL Mock Draft 6.0: Final 1st-Round Projection

From Mock Draft 1.0 to today, we’ve covered every twist, breakout, and draft riser in what’s become one of the most unpredictable classes in recent memory. Now, with free agency in the rearview mirror and the NFL Draft just days away, it’s time for our final 2025 NFL Mock Draft of the cycle.

Trenches Dominate the Top: 11 Defensive Linemen in Round 1

In this latest edition, I have 11 total defensive linemen flying off the board—7 edge rushers and 4 interior defensive linemen—in what is arguably one of the deepest combined front-line groups in recent draft history.

Skill Positions Spark Intrigue Beyond the Top Picks

As for the skill positions, I have two quarterbacks in round one. While the latest trend among mock drafters includes a third QB—often Jaxson Dart or Jalen Milroe—I’ve remained consistent with just two. I project both Dart and Milroe as early Day 2 selections, though Dart has a legitimate shot to sneak into the back end of round one.

At running back, I’m back to projecting two in the first round after including as many as three in earlier mocks. This is the deepest RB class since 2017. While it might not feature a generational RB1, the depth is extraordinary. Even with two coming off the board in round one, I expect a run of 3–5 more backs in round two, with that trend continuing into rounds three and four. I’ve graded over 25 running backs in this class—if there’s ever a year where an undrafted RB becomes a breakout star, this is it.

Quarterback Questions Shift Beyond the Top Pick

Quarterback uncertainty still looms—but not where most expected it. With Russell Wilson and Jameis Winston both signed by the New York Giants, and Cam Ward increasingly expected to go No. 1 overall to the Tennessee Titans, the spotlight now turns to Cleveland at No. 2. The Browns could opt to pass on a quarterback altogether and instead take the best available defender—Abdul Carter, Travis Hunter, or our top-graded player, Mason Graham.

Meanwhile, Shedeur Sanders’ landing spot remains one of the draft’s biggest wildcards, with potential suitors ranging from the Raiders to the Steelers depending on how the board shakes out.

You can check out all of the prior mock drafts below.

The Final 2025 NFL Mock Draft 6.0

1). Tennessee Titans – Cam Ward, QB, Miami

Summary: For weeks, the writing has been on the wall. All signs point to the Titans selecting Cam Ward with the No. 1 overall pick, and recent developments only reinforce that notion. Tennessee reportedly canceled a private workout with Shedeur Sanders, and while rumors swirled about a similar cancellation involving Travis Hunter, it’s unclear whether that was ever scheduled. Either way, the message is clear: the Titans are locked in on Ward.

Ward’s dual-threat ability, effortless velocity, and off-script creativity give Tennessee a potential face of the franchise. New head coach Brian Callahan gets a moldable QB with high-ceiling traits who can execute his aggressive vertical scheme while growing within the structure of an NFL system. With Ryan Tannehill gone and Will Levis traded, the runway is clear.

2). Cleveland Browns – Travis Hunter, CB/WR, Colorado

Summary: The Browns have been tied to multiple quarterbacks throughout the pre-draft cycle, but with Shedeur Sanders and Cam Ward still navigating uncertain draft ranges, Cleveland makes a bold pivot to secure the top non-QB talent in the class—Travis Hunter.

Hunter is a generational two-way playmaker with elite cornerback traits, dynamic ball skills, and positional versatility that could unlock new levels for Jim Schwartz’s defense. With Myles Garrett anchoring the front, Cleveland now adds a potential All-Pro cover man who can also provide gadget and return value on offense and special teams.

3). New York Giants – Abdul Carter, EDGE, Penn State

Summary: After aggressively addressing quarterback in free agency by signing both Russell Wilson and Jameis Winston, the Giants are free to pivot away from signal-caller in the first round. With Travis Hunter off the board to Cleveland, New York locks in Abdul Carter—the most explosive front-seven defender in the draft.

Carter’s combination of closing speed, bend, and violent hands makes him a nightmare off the edge. He fits seamlessly into Wink Martindale’s pressure-heavy scheme and offers immediate three-down value as a hybrid EDGE/OLB. With Kayvon Thibodeaux already on one side, this pick gives the Giants a fearsome pass-rush tandem that can finally disrupt the NFC East’s top offenses.

4). New England Patriots – Will Campbell, OT, LSU

Summary: After exploring trade-down scenarios, the Patriots ultimately stand firm at No. 4 and lock in one of the safest trench prospects in the class. Will Campbell gives new head coach Mike Vrabel a physical, polished presence at tackle—one who plays with a steady anchor, excellent awareness, and the versatility to shift sides if needed.

With questions still looming about the future at quarterback, the Patriots decide to take the best available lineman to protect Drake Maye and solidify their offensive front. Campbell is a plug-and-play starter who fits the long-term identity Vrabel and the new regime are trying to build: toughness, leadership, and consistency in the trenches.

5). Jacksonville Jaguars – Mason Graham, IDL, Michigan

Summary: The Jaguars stick with the most popular and logical projection throughout the draft cycle—Mason Graham. Despite a strong push for cornerback or offensive firepower, Jacksonville cannot pass on the top interior defensive lineman in the class. Graham brings elite leverage, violent hands, and a relentless motor to a front seven that desperately needs a tone-setter.

His fit next to Josh Allen and Travon Walker makes this defensive front significantly more dangerous in a division stacked with young quarterbacks. Jacksonville lands a foundational defender to reshape its identity in the trenches.

6). Las Vegas Raiders – Shedeur Sanders, QB, Colorado

Summary: The acquisition of Geno Smith hasn’t stopped the Raiders from doing extensive homework on this quarterback class—particularly on Shedeur Sanders. Despite Smith’s new two-year deal, Las Vegas is clearly thinking beyond 2025. With no guaranteed money in Smith’s contract beyond next season, Sanders provides a potential heir apparent with starter-level traits and the mental toughness to develop under a veteran.

While some scouts around the league remain divided on Sanders' ceiling, his accuracy, pocket poise, and leadership intangibles are undeniable. With Cam Ward projected to go No. 1 and quarterback-needy teams lined up in the second round, the Raiders make the move now to ensure they get their guy. In this mock, they don’t overthink it—they make Sanders their future.

7). New York Jets – Armand Membou, OT, Missouri

Summary: Membou is just 6-foot-3 … and the Jets simply do not care. One of the most reliable right tackles in college football during the 2024 season, Membou lacks ideal height for the position but plays with outstanding balance, elite movement skills, and strong hands. He’s a tone-setter who can stay at right tackle unless he proves otherwise, and worst-case scenario, he becomes a Pro Bowl-caliber guard.

With Morgan Moses departing in free agency and the Jets ranking just 23rd in pass block win rate last season, Membou gives New York an instant upgrade up front. The front office already added former 1st-rounder Olu Fashanu to protect Justin Fields’ blindside in 2024—now they bookend that with a powerful SEC-tested right tackle who fits perfectly in a wide-zone scheme.

8). Carolina Panthers – Mike Green, EDGE, Marshall

Summary: The Panthers break away from the hybrid linebacker trend and return to what’s long been projected in earlier mocks — a true edge rusher. Mike Green has made his case through a dominant 2024 campaign and a standout Senior Bowl, vaulting into the top-10 conversation. At 251 pounds with twitch, bend, and violent hands, Green has proven he can win consistently in one-on-one matchups and disrupt plays behind the line of scrimmage.

Carolina desperately needs pressure off the edge after finishing dead last in pressure rate and total sacks in 2024. Green is the specialist this defense needs — not a tweener, not a projection, but a proven pass rusher with a toolbox ready for the NFL. With Derrick Brown commanding attention on the interior, adding Green gives Carolina the bookend disruptor to finally jumpstart its defensive resurgence.

9). New Orleans Saints – Will Johnson, CB, Michigan

Summary: The Saints are rebuilding their secondary, and with Marshon Lattimore and Paulson Adebo no longer on the roster, the cornerback room is in need of a new alpha. Will Johnson fits that role seamlessly. A long, physical corner with elite ball production and shutdown ability, Johnson is tailor-made to step in as the team’s new CB1 alongside Kool-Aid McKinstry.

At nearly 6'2" and 200 pounds, Johnson has the frame and athleticism to thrive in both man and zone schemes. He didn’t allow a touchdown in either of the past two seasons and was a true difference-maker when healthy. While turf toe limited him to just six games in 2024, he was dominant when on the field and brings the competitive edge and football IQ that fits perfectly in Brandon Staley’s disguise-heavy, pattern-match coverage system.

10). Chicago Bears – Ashton Jeanty, RB, Boise State

Summary: The Bears took care of the offensive line in free agency, adding Joe Thuney, Jonah Jackson, and Drew Dalman to form one of the league’s best interior units. That shift opens the door to prioritize a game-breaking skill player — and Ashton Jeanty is that dude.

Jeanty’s production in 2024 was legendary: over 2,600 yards from scrimmage and 29 total touchdowns. He’s a true three-down back with elite vision, balance, and receiving chops. In Ben Johnson’s offense, Jeanty gives the Bears a dynamic weapon who can create explosive plays on the ground and in the passing game.

Pairing him with Caleb Williams would form one of the NFL’s most electric backfields. D’Andre Swift becomes a complementary piece, while Jeanty gets the lion’s share of the touches behind a retooled offensive line. This is a luxury pick with massive value — a foundational player who elevates Chicago’s entire offensive identity.

11). San Francisco 49ers – Jahdae Barron, CB, Texas

Summary: The 49ers pivot away from Will Johnson and select another cornerback whose stock continues to climb — Jahdae Barron. While his arm length (29 5/8") and height (just under 5’11”) place him well below prototype standards, his elite 4.39 speed, instincts, and positional versatility make up for it.

Barron thrived in both the slot and outside roles over the past two seasons, playing over 500 snaps out wide in 2024. His tape jumps off the screen: 4 interceptions, 7 PBUs, and a 38.0 opposing passer rating — all while consistently closing downhill, showing physicality, and reading route combinations at a high level.

The 49ers' defense values experience, discipline, and playmaking from the secondary — Barron checks every box. His plug-and-play potential and elite route recognition allow Robert Saleh to get creative with coverages while upgrading a cornerback room that lacked consistent production opposite Charvarius Ward.

12). Dallas Cowboys – Kenneth Grant, IDL, Michigan

Summary: Summary: Dallas turns its focus back to the defensive interior by adding one of the most physically dominant players in the draft. Kenneth Grant (6’3”, 339 lbs) offers rare movement skills for a nose tackle and was the most consistent run-stopper on Michigan’s title-winning defense. He’s a true one-tech with the size to eat double teams and the quickness to create disruption in a phone booth.

The Cowboys need more size and physicality up front, especially under new DC Matt Eberflus. Grant pairs well with Osa Odighizuwa as a complementary presence who can plug the run, collapse pockets, and help free up linebackers. While he missed Combine drills due to a hamstring injury, Grant’s tape and production make him a rock-solid investment in the trenches. He’s a plug-and-play anchor with Pro Bowl upside in the right scheme.

13). Miami Dolphins – Kelvin Banks Jr., OT, Texas

Summary: Terron Armstead’s retirement leaves the Dolphins with a gaping hole at left tackle, even with 2024 second-rounder Patrick Paul waiting in the wings. While some might argue Miami already drafted Armstead’s heir, the film on Kelvin Banks Jr. paints a different picture—he’s simply too talented to pass up.

At 6-foot-4, 320 pounds, Banks brings three years of high-level SEC experience, highlighted by an elite 90.7 pass-blocking grade over the past two seasons. He’s long, athletic, and tailor-made for Mike McDaniel’s wide zone scheme. His quick feet, strong hands, and recovery balance allow him to mirror top-tier pass rushers and redirect defenders in space.

14). Indianapolis Colts – Jalon Walker, EDGE/LB, Georgia

Summary: The Colts land a true defensive chess piece in Jalon Walker, the Butkus Award-winning EDGE/LB hybrid from Georgia. One of the most explosive and instinctive defenders in this class, Walker brings a disruptive presence to Lou Anarumo’s defense.

Standing at 6’1”, 243 pounds with elite get-off and powerful hands, Walker dominated SEC tackles with violent bursts, quick inside counters, and relentless pursuit. His production in 2024 (6.5 sacks, 12 TFLs) reflects a player ready to cause havoc at the next level. Though his coverage reps were limited at Georgia, his versatility as a blitzer and potential QB spy adds value to sub-package looks.

15). Atlanta Falcons – Jihaad Campbell, LB, Alabama

Summary: Atlanta’s pass rush woes (31 sacks, 31st in the NFL) have been well documented, but linebacker remains an equally pressing need. Jihaad Campbell brings the skill set to help in both areas. A modern off-ball linebacker prototype at 6'3", 235 pounds with 4.52 speed, Campbell’s ability to close space, trigger downhill, and contribute as a pressure player gives him multi-role upside in Jeff Ulbrich’s defense.

His 2024 breakout season (117 tackles, 11.5 TFLs, 5 sacks) at Alabama showcased his ability to impact all three downs. With Troy Andersen struggling to stay healthy and Nate Landman no longer under contract, Campbell gives Atlanta a foundational piece next to Kaden Elliss. The addition of Divine Deablo in free agency adds depth, but Campbell elevates the group with athletic range, coverage instincts, and long-term starter potential.

16). Arizona Cardinals – Matthew Golden, WR, Texas

Summary: The Cardinals have had one of the league’s most efficient offseasons—adding Josh Sweat, Dalvin Tomlinson, Baron Browning, and Calais Campbell to revamp the front seven—giving GM Monti Ossenfort the flexibility to shift his focus toward explosive playmakers. Enter Matthew Golden.

With Marvin Harrison Jr. drawing double coverage and Trey McBride continuing to develop into one of the league’s most dangerous tight ends, Golden’s 4.29 speed and refined route running gives Kyler Murray another true weapon. Golden posted 987 yards and nine TDs in 2024, showing an elite ability to win against single coverage and stack DBs vertically or create separation underneath.

17). Cincinnati Bengals – Malaki Starks, S, Georgia

Summary: The Bengals have remained quiet at the safety position this offseason, which could be a signal that they’re eyeing a premium defender in the first round. Malaki Starks fits the bill. A former five-star recruit and two-time All-American, Starks dazzled at the NFL Combine—posting top-end speeds in every key drill, including a class-best 18.74 mph in the Teryl Austin drill, according to NFL Next Gen Stats. He also clocked 18.66 mph in the line drill, 18.39 mph in the gauntlet, and 17.92 mph in the wave drill, cementing himself as the most fluid, explosive safety in the class.

With Jesse Bates long gone and new defensive coordinator Al Golden inheriting a secondary in need of range and instincts, Starks offers the ideal solution. He allowed just 53 completions on 90 targets over the past two seasons and missed only three tackles since 2023—an elite run support and coverage profile. For a Bengals defense looking to rebound in the post-Lou Anarumo era, Starks brings the closing speed, IQ, and ball skills to become an immediate difference-maker on the back end.

18). Seattle Seahawks – Tetairoa McMillan, WR, Arizona

Summary: With both Tyler Lockett and DK Metcalf gone, the Seahawks are entering a new era at wide receiver—and Tetairoa McMillan gives them the perfect outside anchor to build around. At 6’4”, 219 pounds, McMillan is a prototypical X-receiver with elite ball skills, body control, and production that jumps off the page: 3,423 receiving yards and 26 touchdowns in three seasons at Arizona.

Seattle's offense, now led by new OC Klint Kubiak, needs a true go-to target who can win in contested situations and stretch the field vertically. McMillan doesn’t separate like a burner, but he wins consistently with technique, timing, and toughness at the catch point. He’s the kind of WR1 who can reset the identity of Seattle’s passing game—and give Kubiak a legitimate mismatch on the perimeter from Day 1.

19). Tampa Bay Buccaneers – Shavon Revel Jr., CB, East Carolina

Summary: Cornerback was a glaring issue for Todd Bowles' defense in 2024, and with Jamel Dean’s injury history and the nickel role still unsettled, the Buccaneers could look to get aggressive in Round 1. Despite adding veterans like Kindle Vildor and Bryce Hall, Tampa Bay still needs a true long-term difference-maker on the boundary. That’s where Shavon Revel Jr. comes in.

Revel, who’s recovering from a torn ACL suffered in September, brings a rare combination of size (6'2", 195 lbs), wingspan (nearly 80 inches), and top-end coverage instincts. Even without testing at the Combine, his speed on film and ability to mirror receivers was evident throughout his college tape. In his last full season (2023), Revel held opposing QBs to a 57.1 passer rating when targeted, allowing just 42% completions and earning a 90.5 PFF coverage grade—top marks among Group of Five corners.

20). Denver Broncos – Colston Loveland, TE, Michigan

Summary: The Broncos return to the playoffs for the first time since 2015 and used free agency to strengthen the defense with Dre Greenlaw, Talanoa Hufanga, and D.J. Jones. Now, they turn their attention to the offense, which still lacks a true matchup weapon over the middle. Colston Loveland fills that void.

At 6'6", 248 pounds, Loveland is one of the most complete receiving tight ends in the class. Despite playing through injury in 2024, he led Michigan in receiving, earned Second-Team All-American honors, and showcased elite route-running nuance and body control. He’s a natural separator with a large catch radius—exactly the type of reliable target Bo Nix needs in the short and intermediate areas where he thrives.

21). Pittsburgh Steelers – Tyler Warren, TE, Penn State

Summary: The Steelers find themselves at a crossroads. With swirling speculation about Aaron Rodgers potentially landing in Pittsburgh, there's an urgency to add firepower—particularly in the passing game. While some mocks have linked the Steelers to Ole Miss quarterback Jaxson Dart, sources in the know have downplayed the likelihood of Pittsburgh taking a quarterback at No. 21. Dart could be an option if he slides into Day 2, but for now, the Steelers will likely focus on another aspect of its roster.

Enter Tyler Warren, a 6'6", 255-pound athletic specimen from Penn State, who is considered a top 15 lock. If he falls to the Steelers, why not add him to an offense that will already have DK Metcalf and George Pickens at WR? He’s a modern TE with rare versatility—capable of lining up in-line, flexed out wide, or as an H-back. The Steelers already have Pat Freiermuth, but pairing him with Warren would give new offensive coordinator Arthur Smith a true mismatch duo in two TE sets.

22). Los Angeles Chargers – Omarion Hampton, RB, North Carolina

Summary: Jim Harbaugh’s new-look Chargers continue their identity shift by landing the RB2 in the class. Omarion Hampton is a physical, downhill runner built for a power-gap scheme — exactly what Greg Roman will install in Los Angeles. At 5'11", 221 pounds with 4.46 speed, Hampton is tailor-made for an offense that leans on pulling linemen and defined run concepts.

Despite the presence of Najee Harris, Hampton’s explosiveness and production make him a legitimate threat to seize the starting role by midseason. He led the ACC in rushing in back-to-back seasons, piling up 1,660 yards and 15 touchdowns in 2024 while flashing pass-catching chops with 38 receptions. This is a plug-and-play three-down back with top-20 value who gives Justin Herbert much-needed balance on offense.

23). Green Bay Packers – Shemar Stewart, EDGE, Texas A&M

Summary: The Packers are no strangers to betting on traits over production, and Shemar Stewart fits that mold to a tee. At 6'5", 267 pounds with a freakish athletic profile, Stewart looks like he was built in a lab—clocking a 4.59 40, jumping 40 inches vertically, and posting a 10’11” broad jump. His blend of size, length, and explosion is rare, even by first-round standards.

The production at Texas A&M won’t blow anyone away—just 4.5 career sacks—but context matters. Stewart played in a scheme that prioritized run fits over attacking the quarterback, and despite the modest numbers, he still posted 40 pressures in 2024 with a 20.7% pass rush win rate on true pass sets. That’s a better indicator of his ceiling, and it tracks closely with where Rashan Gary was when he came out of Michigan in 2019.

24). Minnesota Vikings – Benjamin Morrison, CB, Notre Dame

Summary: Cornerback is the top need on Minnesota’s roster, and Benjamin Morrison is the perfect answer. A fluid, instinctive cover man with top-tier ball production, Morrison allowed a sub-50% completion rate in every college season and never gave up more than two touchdowns in a single year. He posted nine career interceptions and held his own against elite WRs like Marvin Harrison Jr., Jordan Addison, and Zay Flowers.

Though a hip labrum injury cut his 2024 campaign short, Morrison’s high-level tape from 2022 and 2023 speaks for itself. He’s a scheme-versatile defender with excellent route anticipation, quick feet, and the ability to play press or off-man in Brian Flores’ aggressive coverage system. With his pro day scheduled just days before the draft, a strong showing could push him firmly back into Round 1.

Morrison’s football IQ, poise, and ability to mirror top receivers give the Vikings a potential long-term CB1—and in a division featuring Amon-Ra St. Brown, D.J. Moore, and Rome Odunze, that’s a must-have.

25). Houston Texans – Josh Simmons, OT, Ohio State

Summary: The Texans have done a solid job reinforcing their offensive front this offseason, but after giving up 54 sacks in 2024, Houston can’t ignore tackle depth any longer. Cam Robinson and Trent Brown were smart veteran signings, but both are short-term solutions. At No. 25, they land a long-term answer in Ohio State’s Josh Simmons.

Simmons is 6’5”, 317 pounds with the athletic traits to develop into a premier blindside protector. While he’s still refining his technique and recovering from a torn patellar tendon, Simmons checks every box you want in a developmental starter. With C.J. Stroud entering Year 3, bolstering the line is a must—and Simmons could end up being a future cornerstone for Houston’s offense.

26). Los Angeles Rams – Mykel Williams, EDGE, Georgia

Summary: The Rams could easily trade back or target a corner like Trey Amos, but Mykel Williams falling into their lap at 26 is simply too good to pass up. Despite battling through a nagging ankle injury in 2024, Williams still posted 10.5 TFLs and 5 sacks—flashing the same dominance that once made him a top-10 projection. Now healthy, he fits the mold of what Les Snead calls a "math-changer" off the edge.

At 6'5", 265 pounds with 34-inch arms and elite length, Williams is a traits-based bet who aligns with how the Rams build their front. He won’t need to start immediately, but rotating behind Jared Verse and Byron Young gives him time to develop. Williams is tough, relentless, and offers long-term value for a defense that’s doubling down on explosive, twitchy pass rushers.

27). Baltimore Ravens – Walter Nolen, DL, Ole Miss

Summary: Baltimore reloads up front with one of the most physically gifted defensive linemen in the class. Walter Nolen brings rare size (6’3”, 305) and explosiveness, with 48 tackles and 6.5 sacks in his final season at Ole Miss. His get-off, power, and ability to disrupt from multiple alignments give the Ravens a flexible chess piece on early downs and passing situations.

This is a quintessential Ravens pick. With veterans like Michael Pierce retiring and Brent Urban unsigned, the defensive line needs fresh juice. Pairing Nolen with Roquan Smith allows the All-Pro linebacker to stay clean and do what he does best—diagnose, disrupt, and dominate. Nolen’s best football is still ahead of him, and Baltimore gives him the perfect developmental home.

28). Detroit Lions – James Pearce Jr., EDGE, Tennessee

Summary: James Pearce Jr. gives the Lions a high-upside edge rusher to pair with Aidan Hutchinson, addressing a major long-term need on the defensive front. While questions remain about his run defense and a few whispers around his intangibles, Pearce’s pass-rush ceiling is undeniable. In 2024, he posted 8.5 sacks, and a 21.3% pressure rate, flashing elite burst, bend, and the ability to threaten the edge consistently.

Pearce fits Detroit as a designated pass-rush specialist early, with the potential to grow into a three-down threat. Dan Campbell has taken swings on traits before—this is another bet on upside, and if it hits, the Lions could land one of the league’s most explosive sack artists.

29). Washington Commanders – Donovan Ezeiruaku, EDGE, Boston College

Summary: Washington adds a high-upside edge rusher to a defensive line in transition by selecting Donovan Ezeiruaku. The Boston College standout finished second in the FBS with 16.5 sacks in 2024, showcasing an elite motor, sharp instincts, and the kind of bend and burst that translate on Sundays. At 6'2", 248 pounds with an 82.75-inch wingspan, Ezeiruaku has the traits to outplay his size in the NFL.

While not a prototypical three-down DE, Ezeiruaku’s length and twitchy first step make him an ideal weapon for Dan Quinn's pressure-heavy system. He brings much-needed juice off the edge and should thrive early as a pass-rush specialist, with room to develop into a full-time force.

30). Buffalo Bills – Derrick Harmon, DT, Oregon

Summary: Buffalo lands a disruptive interior presence in Derrick Harmon, a Detroit native who transferred from Michigan State to Oregon in 2024 and took a major leap. In his lone season with the Ducks, Harmon racked up 55 pressures (most among FBS DTs), 10.5 tackles for loss, and five sacks—displaying twitch, power, and a relentless motor.

With questions about depth behind Ed Oliver and DaQuan Jones entering the final stages of their deals, Harmon gives the Bills a high-upside rotational rusher with starting potential. His explosive get-off and interior pressure traits align with Buffalo’s need to retool a defense that allowed a 68.5% completion rate in 2024—worst among playoff teams. This is a smart long-term investment in the trenches.

31). Kansas City Chiefs – Josh Conerly Jr., OT, Oregon

Summary: The Chiefs make a savvy move by selecting Josh Conerly Jr., a high-upside left tackle with elite athletic traits and pass protection potential. With Joe Thuney now in Chicago and recent experiments at left tackle underwhelming, Conerly offers a long-term solution on Patrick Mahomes’ blindside.

While Conerly needs to add play strength to handle NFL bull rushers, his footwork, agility, and ability to recover in space make him a strong fit for Kansas City’s movement-heavy offense. He may not check every box on paper — his arm length is slightly below the Chiefs' preferred threshold — but his upside and athletic makeup give Andy Reid and company a potential 10-year starter.

32). Philadelphia Eagles – Nick Emmanwori, S, South Carolina

Summary: The Eagles close out Round 1 by continuing to invest in what could soon be one of the league’s most dangerous secondaries. With second-year standouts Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean already on board, adding a freak athlete like Nick Emmanwori at safety gives Philly a rare mix of youth, range, and versatility on the back end.

At 6’3”, 220 with 4.38 speed and a 43" vertical, Emmanwori is the kind of physical, multi-role defender who fits perfectly into Vic Fangio’s scheme. After dealing C.J. Gardner-Johnson to Houston earlier this offseason, the Eagles have a real opportunity here to reload with a long-term answer—and potentially build one of the most complete secondaries in the NFL.