2025 NFL Mock Draft 2.0

By Matt Brandon

2025 NFL Mock Draft 2.0

This 2025 NFL Mock Draft is courtesy of Matt Brandon. Also, check out the previous 2025 NFL Mock Draft here.

As the 2025 NFL Draft nears, front offices league-wide are finalizing their evaluations. For many franchises—particularly those with early first-round picks—the draft is a pivotal moment that can define their future. This mock draft examines how each team might navigate the first round and projects how the next crop of elite prospects could transition to the NFL. The Tennessee Titans hold the No. 1 pick, and their direction seems clear as draft night approaches. Let’s dive into the selections!

1. Tennessee Titans: QB Cam Ward, Miami

The Titans are poised to select Miami’s Cam Ward with the top pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. Barring an irresistible trade offer from a team like the New York Giants, Tennessee will stay put and aim to revitalize the franchise with a dynamic new quarterback.

2. Cleveland Browns: WR/CB Travis Hunter, Colorado

Travis Hunter climbs to his highest spot yet in my mock drafts. While pairing Myles Garrett with Abdul Carter would terrify opposing offenses, Kevin Stefanski and the Browns won’t pass on the draft’s most electrifying talent. Hunter’s two-way brilliance begs the question: Will he focus on wide receiver or cornerback in the NFL?

3. New York Giants: EDGE Abdul Carter, Penn State

The Giants would leap at the chance to grab Ward or Hunter if either slips to No. 3, but with both likely gone, they’ll turn to the best available talent. Abdul Carter’s raw potential and upside make him irresistible, even with Brian Burns and Kayvon Thibodeaux already in tow. The Giants’ Super Bowl history underscores the value of a dominant defensive line—Carter could be the key to reclaiming that edge.

4. New England Patriots: OL Will Campbell, LSU

Will Campbell edges out Missouri’s Armand Membou as my top offensive lineman in this class. The Patriots will prioritize the LSU product’s ability to anchor left tackle, giving Drake Maye a reliable blindside protector. Campbell may not reach All-Pro heights, but his NFL readiness makes him a safe bet to bolster New England’s line.

5. Jacksonville Jaguars: DL Mason Graham, Michigan

Mason Graham is the only top-five constant across my four mock drafts. Jacksonville’s defensive front has talent but lacks a game-changing interior force. Graham, despite an injury-marred 2024, brings elite traits and pairs with Josh Hines-Allen and Travon Walker to form a fearsome pass-rush trio.

6. Las Vegas Raiders: RB Ashton Jeanty, Boise State

Taking a running back this high might raise eyebrows, but Ashton Jeanty’s explosiveness could transform the Raiders’ offense. Las Vegas craves a dependable playmaker, and while the position’s depth offers later value, Jeanty’s versatility makes him a tempting pick for an instant impact.

Read more about Jeanty to the Raiders.

7. New York Jets: OL Armand Membou, Missouri

With Justin Fields replacing Aaron Rodgers, the Jets gain a dual-threat QB who’s prone to sacks. Enter Armand Membou, a massive right tackle from Missouri, who’ll open lanes for Fields and Breece Hall while stabilizing the line.

8. Carolina Panthers: EDGE Mykel Williams, Georgia

The Panthers face a crossroads but land on Georgia’s Mykel Williams, a raw talent with star potential. Carolina’s defense struggled in 2024, and after trading Brian Burns, they’ve yet to fill the void. Williams, a stout run defender with untapped pass-rush upside, fits perfectly at No. 8.

9. New Orleans Saints: QB Shedeur Sanders, Colorado

Shedeur Sanders’ stock has dipped recently, with some projecting him outside the top 10—or even the first round. Still, the Saints, desperate for a post-Drew Brees franchise QB, will take the plunge. Sanders might not start immediately, but he could supplant Derek Carr by the season’s end.

10. Chicago Bears: OL Kelvin Banks Jr., Texas

After Caleb Williams absorbed an NFL-high 66 sacks in his rookie year, the Bears prioritize protection. Kelvin Banks Jr., a three-year starter at left tackle for Texas, brings athleticism and experience to revamp Chicago’s trenches and unlock their offense in 2025.

11. San Francisco 49ers: LB Javon Walker, Georgia

With Dre Greenlaw lost to Denver in free agency, the 49ers target Javon Walker to bolster their front seven. His speed and pass-rush ability make him a versatile weapon for Robert Saleh’s defense.

12. Dallas Cowboys: WR Matthew Golden, Texas

Dak Prescott needs more firepower beyond CeeDee Lamb. Texas’ Matthew Golden, with his blazing speed and slot/outside flexibility, outshines Arizona’s Tetairoa McMillan as a chain-moving complement for Dallas.

13. Miami Dolphins: S Malaki Starks, Georgia

Jevon Holland’s exit to the Giants leaves a gap in Miami’s secondary. While veteran signings provide stability, Malaki Starks adds a dynamic, adaptable playmaker to elevate the Dolphins’ backfield.

14. Indianapolis Colts: TE Tyler Warren, Penn State

The Colts haven’t had a tight end eclipse 500 receiving yards since Eric Ebron in 2018. Tyler Warren offers Anthony Richardson (or Daniel Jones) a versatile safety net, boosting both the pass and run games.

15. Atlanta Falcons: EDGE Shemar Stewart, Texas A&M

Atlanta’s defense takes priority, and Shemar Stewart’s freakish athleticism makes him a prime target. His college production leaned toward run-stopping, but his pass-rush potential will flourish in the NFL.