.png){kind=small}
QB market uncertainty looms as Rodgers & Wilson weigh options. Titans locked on Cam Ward at No. 1, but will defense dominate the top 5? 🏈
Quarterback Uncertainty Looms Over the Top 5
The NFL free agency frenzy has reshaped team needs, but one major storyline remains unresolved—the quarterback market. Aaron Rodgers is still unsigned, weighing offers from the Steelers and Giants, while Russell Wilson has been linked to the Browns and Giants, leaving two of the top five teams uncertain at QB.
Meanwhile, the Titans appear locked in on Cam Ward at No. 1 overall, signaling their commitment to finding a franchise passer through the draft rather than free agency. If Cleveland or New York lands a veteran QB, it could shake up the entire top five, creating opportunities for elite defensive prospects like Mason Graham and Travis Hunter to rise.
How Many Quarterbacks Will Go in Round 1?
Despite QB being the most valuable position, only two remain locked into my first-round projection—Shedeur Sanders and Cam Ward, both top-five picks. The lack of consensus has created major variance across draft boards.
If Rodgers or Wilson lands in New York or Cleveland, could we see a defensive player go No. 2 or No. 3 instead of another QB? With so many unanswered questions, this draft remains as unpredictable as ever.
Keep in mind, Joe Milton’s name is being floated as a trade possibility—the Patriots are reportedly shopping him for a third-round pick. And with Kirk Cousins now in Atlanta, his situation could also shake up the top of this draft.
Defensive Talent Stacks the First Round
This class remains defense-heavy, with game-changing edge rushers, disruptive interior linemen, and shutdown corners dominating the top of the board. Since last summer, I’ve projected a defensive-first draft, and that trend continues. The top 20 is stacked with pass rushers, defensive linemen, and elite DBs, reinforcing that this draft is built on power, versatility, and playmaking on the defensive side of the ball.
Running Backs Back in the First Round?
Running backs remain a key storyline in this draft cycle, especially with a weak free-agent market pushing teams toward elite three-down prospects. Recent mocks have featured as many as three RBs in Round 1, drawing comparisons to the loaded 2017 class with Christian McCaffrey, Alvin Kamara, and Dalvin Cook. However, this time, we dial it back to two true first-rounders—Ashton Jeanty and Omarion Hampton—both possessing the size, vision, and versatility to be workhorses at the next level.
More 2025 NFL Draft Content
Catch Up on Previous Mock Drafts
Now, let’s dive Into Our 2025 NFL Mock Draft 5.0.
1. Tennessee Titans – Cam Ward, QB, Miami
Biggest Needs: QB, WR, EDGE, OT, S
Key Free Agency Moves: Signed LT Dan Moore, LB Cody Barton, S Xavier Woods
Analysis: Of all the quarterback movement that took place this offseason, the Titans surprisingly stayed out of the mix. That makes it more likely that they go all-in on drafting a signal-caller at No. 1 overall. Cam Ward brings elite arm talent, mobility, and off-platform playmaking. While he needs refinement in mechanics and decision-making, he fits best in an aggressive, vertical passing offense—something the Titans could embrace as they rebuild.
2. Cleveland Browns – Shedeur Sanders, QB, Colorado
Biggest Needs: EDGE, QB, OT, WR, RB
Key Free Agency Moves: Extended EDGE Myles Garrett, Signed DT Maliek Collins, OT Cornelius Lucas; Scheduled visit for QB Russell Wilson
Analysis: The Browns’ quarterback situation remains uncertain, but if they land a veteran like Russell Wilson, they could look to secure a long-term answer with Shedeur Sanders. A polished pocket passer with elite accuracy and poise, Sanders excels in rhythm-based offenses. His ability to dissect defenses with anticipation and touch makes him a strong fit for a West Coast-style scheme. With time to develop, Sanders could be Cleveland’s franchise QB of the future.
3. New York Giants – Travis Hunter, CB, Colorado
Biggest Needs: QB, OT, OG, CB, S
Key Free Agency Moves: Signed S Jevon Holland, WR Darius Slayton, DE Chauncey Golston
Analysis: While quarterback remains a need, the Giants may have their answer if they land Russell Wilson or another veteran. That allows them to take the best player available, and Travis Hunter fits the bill. An elite two-way talent, Hunter projects as a shutdown corner with top-tier ball skills, route anticipation, and versatility to play in both man and zone. He has the potential to transform the Giants’ secondary while still offering offensive upside as a gadget player if needed.
4. New England Patriots – Abdul Carter, ED, Penn State
Biggest Needs: OT, WR, EDGE, CB, IOL
Key Free Agency Moves: Signed DT Milton Williams, OT Morgan Moses, CB Carlton Davis, OLB Robert Spillane, EDGE Harold Landry, WR Mack Hollins
Analysis: The Patriots addressed multiple needs in free agency but still need a dominant edge presence. Abdul Carter brings an explosive pass-rush ability with the versatility to play as a stand-up rusher or in a hybrid linebacker role. His closing speed, power, and ability to disrupt the backfield make him an ideal fit for New England’s defensive scheme.
5. Jacksonville Jaguars – Mason Graham, IDL, Michigan
Biggest Needs: CB, S, IOL, WR, QB
Key Free Agency Moves: Signed CB Jourdan Lewis, G Patrick Mekari, S Eric Murray, C Robert Hainsey, WR Dyami Brown
Analysis: The Jaguars have focused heavily on building the trenches in free agency, and adding Mason Graham strengthens their defensive front. A dominant interior presence, Graham plays with violent hands, elite leverage, and short-area quickness. He’s a perfect fit for an attacking 4-3 scheme but has the versatility to play multiple spots in a three-man front. Jacksonville gets an immediate-impact lineman to bolster their pass rush and run defense.
6. Las Vegas Raiders – Ashton Jeanty, RB, Boise State
Biggest Needs: QB, WR, RB, CB, DT
Key Free Agency Moves: Traded for QB Geno Smith, Signed S Jeremy Chinn, DE Malcolm Koonce, DT Adam Butler, G Alex Cappa, CB Eric Stokes
Analysis: The Raiders secured a veteran quarterback in Geno Smith but still need an explosive playmaker in the backfield. Ashton Jeanty brings the complete package—vision, burst, contact balance, and elite receiving ability. He has the skill set to be a true three-down back, thriving in both zone and gap schemes. Jeanty gives the Raiders a game-changing weapon to complement their passing attack.
7. New York Jets – Will Johnson, CB, Michigan
Biggest Needs: QB, DT, OT, S, CB
Key Free Agency Moves: Traded for QB Justin Fields, Signed LB Jamien Sherwood, CB Brandon Stephens, S Andre Cisco, C Josh Myers
Analysis: With their quarterback situation settled after acquiring Justin Fields, the Jets look to bolster their secondary with Will Johnson. A true No. 1 corner, Johnson combines elite length, speed, and fluidity to match up against top receivers. His ability to play in both press-man and zone schemes makes him an ideal fit for a Jets defense that values versatility and physicality in coverage.
8. Carolina Panthers – Mike Green, ED, Marshall
Biggest Needs: EDGE, DT, WR, C, QB
Key Free Agency Moves: Signed DT Tershawn Wharton, CB Michael Jackson; Extended CB Jaycee Horn, S Tre’von Moehrig, LB Pat Jones II, DT Bobby Brown III, TE Tommy Tremble
Analysis: The Panthers made significant moves to improve their defense but still lack a true edge rusher who can consistently win one-on-one matchups. Mike Green is a relentless pass rusher with elite burst, hand technique, and a deep arsenal of counters. His ability to convert speed to power makes him a high-impact addition in either a 3-4 or 4-3 scheme.
9. New Orleans Saints – Tetairoa McMillan, WR, Arizona
Biggest Needs: EDGE, WR, TE, CB
Key Free Agency Moves: Signed TE Juwan Johnson, S Justin Reid, DE Chase Young
Analysis: With their defensive front addressed in free agency, the Saints turn their attention to upgrading the offense. Tetairoa McMillan gives them a long, explosive outside receiver with elite body control and strong hands. His ability to win in contested situations and create separation at all levels of the field makes him a perfect fit alongside Chris Olave and Rashid Shaheed.
10. Chicago Bears – Will Campbell, OT, LSU
Biggest Needs: OG, C, OT, EDGE, WR
Key Free Agency Moves: Signed C Drew Dalman, DE Dayo Odeyingbo, DT Grady Jarrett, Traded for G Joe Thuney & G Jonah Jackson
Analysis: The Bears overhauled their interior offensive line this offseason, but the tackle position remains a question mark. Will Campbell provides a long-term solution with his combination of balance, anchor strength, and athleticism. Whether at left or right tackle, he has the skill set to be a dominant force in both pass protection and run blocking, ensuring Caleb Williams has the protection he needs to succeed.
11. San Francisco 49ers – Jalon Walker, LB, Georgia
Biggest Needs: CB, DT, EDGE, LB, OG
Key Free Agency Moves: Signed TE Luke Farrell, WR Demarcus Robinson, CB Tre Brown, LB Luke Gifford, LB Curtis Robinson, S Richie Grant
Analysis: The 49ers need defensive versatility, and Jalon Walker provides that as a hybrid linebacker/edge rusher. His explosive burst and playmaking ability allow him to thrive in an attacking role, where he can blitz, set the edge, and disrupt plays in the backfield. While he offers positional flexibility, he fits best as a SAM linebacker in a 3-4 defense or an off-ball linebacker in multiple-front schemes.
12. Dallas Cowboys – Armand Membou, OT, Missouri
Biggest Needs: RB, OG, DT, CB, LB
Key Free Agency Moves: Signed DT Osa Odighizuwa, DT Solomon Thomas, RB Javonte Williams, WR KaVontae Turpin, G Robert Jones, CB Kaiir Elam via trade
Analysis: With the Cowboys' interior offensive line in transition, Armand Membou offers immediate versatility. His smooth footwork, functional power, and elite body control allow him to play both tackle and guard. While he lacks prototypical height for a tackle, his strong hand placement and ability to mirror edge rushers make him a viable option on the outside. Dallas could start him at right tackle but has the flexibility to transition him inside if needed.
13. Miami Dolphins – Jahdae Barron, CB, Texas
Biggest Needs: S, DT, OG, LB, QB
Key Free Agency Moves: Signed QB Zach Wilson, G James Daniels, LB Tyrel Dodson, S Ifeatu Melifonwu, S Ashtyn Davis
Analysis: Miami continues to invest in its secondary with the addition of Jahdae Barron. An instinctive defensive back with elite zone coverage ability, Barron thrives in reading quarterbacks and making plays on the ball. His versatility allows him to play both cornerback and safety, adding much-needed flexibility to Miami’s defensive backfield. His ability to contribute in run support further enhances his value as a chess piece in multiple coverages.
14. Indianapolis Colts – Tyler Warren, TE, Penn State
Biggest Needs: IOL, TE, CB, LB, S
Key Free Agency Moves: Signed QB Daniel Jones, CB Charvarius Ward, S Camryn Bynum, DT Neville Gallimore
Analysis: The Colts add a reliable tight end in Tyler Warren, a versatile prospect who excels as both a blocker and a red-zone target. His ability to line up in multiple spots—whether in-line, in the slot, or split out wide—adds value to an Indianapolis offense that needs a dependable pass-catching threat at the position. His physicality and route-running skills make him a perfect complement to the Colts' offensive scheme.
15. Atlanta Falcons – Colston Loveland, TE, Michigan
Biggest Needs: EDGE, S, CB, C, WR
Key Free Agency Moves: Signed DE Leonard Floyd, LB Divine Deablo, CB Mike Hughes, WR KhaDarel Hodge, Extended LT Jake Matthews
Analysis: Atlanta lands a premier tight end prospect in Colston Loveland, a dynamic athlete with size, speed, and an elite catch radius. His ability to stretch the field vertically and create mismatches against linebackers and safeties makes him an ideal fit for Arthur Smith’s offense. While he needs refinement in his blocking technique, his upside as a receiving weapon is undeniable.
16. Arizona Cardinals – Kelvin Banks, OT, Texas
Biggest Needs: EDGE, DT, WR, OG, OT
Key Free Agency Moves: Signed QB Jacoby Brissett, G Evan Brown, DT L.J. Collier, WR Zay Jones
Analysis: The Cardinals address their offensive line with the selection of Kelvin Banks Jr., a premier tackle prospect with elite athleticism, refined hand technique, and versatility. Banks' lateral agility and strength make him a top-tier pass protector, and his ability to fit in both zone and gap schemes ensures his long-term success. With the Cardinals looking to protect their future franchise quarterback, Banks provides a foundational piece on the offensive line.
17. Cincinnati Bengals – Malaki Starks, S, Georgia
Biggest Needs: WR, TE, OT, CB, OG
Key Free Agency Moves: Signed DT B.J. Hill, DT T.J. Slaton, RB Samaje Perine, LB Oren Burks
Analysis: The Bengals land a dynamic playmaker in Malaki Starks, an elite, scheme-versatile safety with exceptional range, physicality, and ball skills. He thrives in single-high and split-zone alignments, bringing elite route anticipation and tackling ability. While he has the athleticism for man coverage, he needs to refine his eye discipline and pursuit angles to maximize his impact. Starks immediately elevates Cincinnati’s secondary and provides a long-term solution at safety.
18. Seattle Seahawks – Tyler Booker, IOL, Alabama
Biggest Needs: OG, QB, LB, DT, OT
Key Free Agency Moves: Signed QB Sam Darnold, DE DeMarcus Lawrence, DT Jarran Reed, LB Ernest Jones IV, OT Josh Jones
Analysis: Seattle lands a dominant interior lineman in Tyler Booker, a mauler with elite size, power, and an aggressive mentality in the trenches. His ability to anchor against power rushers and create movement in the run game makes him an ideal fit for a power-heavy offensive scheme. Booker’s combination of nastiness and technical refinement gives the Seahawks a long-term solution at guard.
19. Tampa Bay Buccaneers – Jihaad Campbell, LB, Alabama
Biggest Needs: WR, OG, LB, EDGE, OT
Key Free Agency Moves: Signed WR Chris Godwin, G Ben Bredeson, LB Lavonte David, LB Haason Reddick
Analysis: Tampa Bay bolsters its linebacker corps with Jihaad Campbell, an explosive athlete with elite range and coverage ability. He fits best as a WILL linebacker in a 4-3 system or a hybrid off-ball linebacker in a 3-4 scheme, where he can utilize his speed and pass-rush versatility. While he needs to refine his run fits and block-shedding ability, his coverage skills and sideline-to-sideline range make him an immediate asset.
20. Denver Broncos – Omarion Hampton, RB, North Carolina
Biggest Needs: TE, WR, LB, S, DT
Key Free Agency Moves: Signed TE Evan Engram, WR Trent Sherfield, LB Dre Greenlaw, S Talanoa Hufanga, DT D.J. Jones, QB Jarrett Stidham
Analysis: The Broncos add a physical presence in the backfield with Omarion Hampton, a bruising, downhill runner with elite contact balance and power. Hampton thrives in gap and power run schemes, where he can build momentum and wear down defenses. While his top-end speed isn’t elite, his ability to finish runs and handle a heavy workload makes him a three-down workhorse at the next level.
21. Pittsburgh Steelers – Matthew Golden, WR, Texas
Biggest Needs: QB, CB, RB, WR, OT
Key Free Agency Moves: Traded for WR DK Metcalf, Signed CB Darius Slay, CB Brandin Echols, RB Kenneth Gainwell, LB Malik Harrison; Reported offer to QB Aaron Rodgers
Analysis: Pittsburgh continues to build around its passing attack by adding Matthew Golden, an explosive and well-rounded receiver who can play at all three levels. His speed, route-running, and YAC ability make him an ideal fit for a Steelers offense that now features DK Metcalf and George Pickens. Golden’s ability to win vertically and in space complements the Steelers’ evolving offensive scheme, giving them another weapon in the passing game.
22. Los Angeles Chargers – Walter Nolen, IDL, Ole Miss
Biggest Needs: EDGE, DT, C, S, TE
Key Free Agency Moves: Signed RB Najee Harris, CB Donte Jackson, LB Khalil Mack, CB Benjamin St-Juste
Analysis: The Chargers bolster their defensive line with Walter Nolen, a powerful and explosive interior disruptor. Nolen has quick hands, violent upper-body strength, and the ability to collapse the pocket with his speed-to-power conversion. His lateral quickness and agility make him effective on stunts, though he needs to refine his leverage and hand placement to shed blocks more efficiently. He projects best as a 3-tech in a 4-3 but has the versatility to play 4i or 5-tech in odd fronts.
23. Green Bay Packers – Mykel Williams, ED, Georgia
Biggest Needs: CB, EDGE, DT, C, WR
Key Free Agency Moves: Signed G Aaron Banks, CB Nate Hobbs, LB Isaiah McDuffie
Analysis: The Packers add a versatile pass rusher in Mykel Williams, who possesses the physical traits and technique to develop into a premier NFL edge defender. Williams has experience playing multiple positions along the defensive front, making him a valuable asset in Green Bay’s hybrid defensive scheme. His ability to generate pressure both as a stand-up edge and from the interior gives the Packers a disruptive force to pair with Rashan Gary and Lukas Van Ness.
24. Minnesota Vikings – Derrick Harmon, IDL, Oregon
Biggest Needs: CB, DT, RB, OG, S
Key Free Agency Moves: Signed DT Jonathan Allen, DT Javon Hargrave, G Will Fries, CB Byron Murphy Jr., RB Aaron Jones, C Ryan Kelly, CB Isaiah Rodgers, Extended S Theo Jackson
Analysis: Minnesota adds a dominant run defender in Derrick Harmon, a powerful and versatile defensive tackle who can control the line of scrimmage. Harmon has the size, strength, and technique to anchor against double teams, shed blocks, and generate interior disruption. While not a pure pass rusher, he wins with power and leverage, making him a valuable piece in both even and odd fronts. He projects best as a 2i-tech but has the versatility to line up anywhere from nose tackle to 3-tech.
25. Houston Texans – Aireontae Ersery, OT, Minnesota
Biggest Needs: WR, OG, DT, CB, OT
Key Free Agency Moves: Acquired S C.J. Gardner-Johnson via trade, Signed DT Mario Edwards, CB Tremon Smith, G Laken Tomlinson, LB Nick Niemann, DE Darrell Taylor, DE Derek Barnett, WR Braxton Berrios, DT Sheldon Rankins
Analysis: The Texans solidify their offensive line with Aireontae Ersery, a long, athletic tackle with impressive footwork and power. Ersery has excelled in zone-heavy run schemes and is best suited for a play-action-based offense that allows him to use his length and movement skills. While his hand usage and anchor need refinement, he has all the physical tools to develop into a quality starter at either tackle spot.
26. Los Angeles Rams – Shemar Stewart, ED, Texas A&M
Biggest Needs: OT, WR, CB, LB, TE
Key Free Agency Moves: Signed C Coleman Shelton, DT Poona Ford, WR Davante Adams
Analysis: The Rams continue to bolster their defensive front by selecting Shemar Stewart, a high-upside edge rusher with an elite combination of size, explosiveness, and power. Stewart is a prototype NFL edge defender with a strong ability to collapse the pocket and disrupt the run game. While his sack production has been underwhelming, his raw physical gifts are undeniable. With NFL coaching, Stewart has the potential to become a dominant pass rusher in the Rams’ defensive system.
27. Baltimore Ravens – Kenneth Grant, IDL, Michigan
Biggest Needs: OT, WR, EDGE, OG, S
Key Free Agency Moves: Signed WR DeAndre Hopkins, OT Ronnie Stanley, WR Tylan Wallace
Analysis: Baltimore fortifies its defensive line with Kenneth Grant, a massive and athletic interior presence with impressive quickness for his size. Grant has the ability to collapse the pocket with his power and first-step explosiveness, making him an effective run defender and interior pass-rush presence. While he needs to refine his pad level and hand usage, he projects as a dominant 1-tech or 3-tech in multiple defensive schemes.
28. Detroit Lions – Donovan Ezeiruaku, EDGE, Boston College
Biggest Needs: EDGE, CB, WR, OG, DT
Key Free Agency Moves: Signed CB D.J. Reed, LB Derrick Barnes, DE Marcus Davenport, LB Anthony Pittman, OT Dan Skipper
Analysis: The Lions add an explosive edge rusher in Donovan Ezeiruaku, who brings an aggressive pass-rushing mentality and high motor. Ezeiruaku has a deep arsenal of pass-rush moves and excellent hand usage, allowing him to win against tackles in one-on-one situations. While he lacks elite length and could improve his play strength, his ability to bend and corner gives him significant upside in a 4-3 or hybrid scheme.
29. Washington Commanders – Azareye’h Thomas, CB, Florida State
Biggest Needs: EDGE, OT, WR, LB, CB
Key Free Agency Moves: Signed DT Javon Kinlaw, LB Bobby Wagner, TE Zach Ertz, RB Jeremy McNichols, DB Will Harris, TE John Bates, DT Eddie Goldman, CB Jonathan Jones, DE Deatrich Wise
Analysis: The Commanders reinforce their secondary with Azareye’h Thomas, a long, athletic cornerback with the tools to develop into a high-end starter. Thomas excels in press and zone coverage, using his length and fluidity to challenge receivers at the line and disrupt passing lanes. While he needs to refine his technique and add play strength, his ball skills and physicality make him a strong fit in Washington’s evolving defensive scheme. He projects as a potential lockdown outside corner with the versatility to play in both man and zone-heavy systems.
30. Buffalo Bills – Luther Burden, WR, Missouri
Biggest Needs: DT, WR, EDGE, CB, S
Key Free Agency Moves: Signed WR Joshua Palmer, DE Michael Hoecht, RB Ty Johnson, DE Joey Bosa, DT Larry Ogunjobi, S Darrick Forrest
Analysis: The Bills inject explosive playmaking into their offense with Luther Burden, one of the most dynamic wide receivers in the draft. Burden is a yards-after-catch machine, capable of turning short throws into game-breaking plays with his elite acceleration and agility. His physicality at the catch point and ability to win in the open field make him a versatile weapon in Buffalo’s attack.
31. Kansas City Chiefs – Josh Conerly Jr., OT, Oregon
Biggest Needs: DT, OG, OT, WR, EDGE
Key Free Agency Moves: Signed CB Kristian Fulton, RB Elijah Mitchell, OT Jaylon Moore
Analysis: Kansas City strengthens its offensive line with Josh Conerly Jr., a smooth-moving left tackle with elite pass protection skills and high-end athleticism. Conerly thrives in zone-based run schemes, using his mobility and angles to gain leverage. While he needs to add more play strength and anchor ability against power rushers, his footwork, strong hands, and mirror skills give him Pro Bowl upside as a starting left tackle.
32. Philadelphia Eagles – Nick Emmanwori, S, South Carolina
Biggest Needs: EDGE, WR, LB, OG, K
Key Free Agency Moves: Signed LB Zack Baun, LB Joshua Uche, LB Ben Van Sumeren, OL Kenyan Green via trade, RB AJ Dillon
Analysis: The Eagles close out the first round with Nick Emmanwori, a hybrid safety-linebacker with an imposing frame and excellent tackling ability. His length, range, and physicality allow him to match up against tight ends, play in the box, and contribute in zone coverage. While he isn’t a true deep-field safety due to some hip tightness, he projects as an ideal big nickel defender or a strong safety in a multiple-front defense.