The 2025 NFL draft is just days away, where teams are finalizing their draft boards before things kick off in Green Bay on April 24.
There are plenty of storylines to monitor heading into the first round, including how the Top 10 unfolds behind the Tennessee Titans (who are expected to select quarterback Cam Ward at first overall), how far quarterback Shedeur Sanders falls and which teams are looking to make trades (perhaps to move up for Sanders).
We’re unveiling our final NFL Wires mock draft of the 2025 offseason. Our editors made player selections for all 32 picks in the first round. Here are the results.
1. Tennessee Titans: Cam Ward, QB, Miami
There are only two scenarios facing the Titans at No. 1 overall: Select Miami quarterback Cam Ward or trade down. Although Tennessee remains open to such a trade, it’s becoming increasingly less likely. Ward will be the pick when things kick off in Green Bay and then the true madness of the NFL draft will begin. – Dan Benton, Titans Wire
2. Cleveland Browns: Travis Hunter, WR/CB, Colorado
The stars are aligning for the Browns to land the best player in the draft. With Cam Ward going first overall to the Titans, the Browns keep it simple here and take the blue-chip player, Travis Hunter, rather than trying to force the pick on a quarterback despite their need. Their offense gets a dynamic playmaker, and their defense gets an elite lockdown corner who will come on the field in obvious passing situations. This is the best-case scenario. – Cory Kinnan, Browns Wire
3. New York Giants: Abdul Carter, LB, Penn State
With Ward and Hunter going off the board 1-2, the Giants are set up for what has rapidly become the ideal scenario. Despite all the work done on the quarterback class, general manager Joe Schoen will likely wait until later in the draft (possibly a trade back into Round 1) to nab one. Instead, they land arguably the best prospect available in Penn State edge rusher Abdul Carter, who naked up for missing out on Micah Parsons in 2021. You can never have too many pass rushers. – Dan Benton, Giants Wire
4. New England Patriots: Will Campbell, OT, LSU
The chances of a trade-down scenario feel unlikely for the Patriots, and with both Travis Hunter and Abdul Carter gone, it makes sense to finally address the left tackle position. They manage to do so by taking the best offensive tackle on the draft board, LSU’s Will Campbell. Protecting second-year quarterback Drake Maye is more important than the offensive weapons at his disposal. The fun stuff will come later. – Jordy McElroy, Patriots Wire
5. Jacksonville Jaguars: Armand Membou, OT, Missouri
The Jaguars added four offensive linemen in free agency, but none of those additions or contracts should stop them from further adding to this unit. The floor of the offensive line unit was addressed in free agency, but adding Membou to the mix helps address the ceiling. There are still unknowns when it comes to what the Jaguars actually have along their expected starting offensive line unit, so when there are question marks, turn up the competition and give yourself as many options as possible. Consistent success for Trevor Lawrence and the offense as a whole starts up front with the offensive line providing a strong run game to lean on and time in the pocket. – Paul Bretl, Jaguars Wire
6. Las Vegas Raiders: Tetairoa McMillan, WR, Arizona
The mini run on tackles just before this pick takes that position out of the conversation. That’s the only other position that lines up need and position value as much as taking McMillan here. Opinions seem to vary considerably on McMillan as a prospect, but that’s how draft season often works. Most agree he is a top ten caliber talent in this draft who happens to be exactly the type of receiver (X) the Raiders need. Best not to overthink it. – Levi Damien, Raiders Wire
7. New York Jets: Tyler Warren, TE, Penn State
In a surprise, this selection is made easier for the Jets because of how the board falls in front of them. Membou is the prospect projected to head to New York the most during the pre-draft process because of his experience at right tackle, the largest “need” for the Jets heading into the event. Then there’s potentially a world where a decision could be made between Membou or Campbell to fill out the last missing piece on the offensive line… but both are already selected. That leaves the Jets going right up to the stage with Warren’s name on their card, who would be a reliable option in Justin Fields’ first year under center for the team. – Nick Wojton, Jets Wire
8. Carolina Panthers: Mason Graham, DT, Michigan
Sure, the Panthers might’ve already signed former Kansas City Chiefs defensive tackle Tershawn Wharton to a three-year, $45 million deal this offseason. But that contract, which actually has a fairly easy out after 2026, shouldn’t get in the way of securing one of the very few blue-chip talents in this class. The powerful, relentless and explosive Graham checks all the boxes, and can immediately help patch up a defense that was the NFL’s worst at both stopping the run and generating pressure. So sign us up for a future of him and Pro Bowler Derrick Brown absolutely bulldozing opposing offensive lines. – Anthony Rizzuti, Panthers Wire
9. New Orleans Saints: Ashton Jeanty, RB, Boise State
Six out of every eight mock drafts seem to agree the Saints will take Shedeur Sanders here, but I wouldn’t bet on it. They’ve had limited contact with the QB this season and aren’t positioned well to reach on anyone. Maybe they throw us a curve ball here and take Michigan tight end Colston Loveland with Tyler Warren off the board, but I really like Jeanty’s fit in Kellen Moore’s offense. He can split touches with Alvin Kamara his rookie year, transition to the lead role in 2026, and run the show himself once AK retires in 2027; just like Kamara himself did when he joined Mark Ingram II in the backfield all those years ago. Jeanty is a big-play threat they’ve been missing. Only the Houston Texans have fewer carries of 15 or more yards than the Saints do since 2021. Whoever the quarterback is in 2025, he can count on Jeanty and Kamara lightening his workload. – John Sigler, Saints Wire
10. Chicago Bears: Omarion Hampton, RB, North Carolina
This is the worst case scenario for the Bears, where their top options (Will Campbell, Ashton Jeanty, Armand Membou, Tyler Warren) are all off the board. Given there were no trade candidates, it came down to Ben Johnson adding a playmaking running back to the roster. Ashton Jeanty is the clear-cut RB1 in this draft class, but Omarion Hampton is no slouch. Last season with the Tarheels, Hampton had a career year with 281 carries for 1,660 yards and 15 touchdowns while adding 38 receptions for 373 yards and two scores. Hampton is clearly on Chicago’s radar as he recently had a Top 30 visit. Is it a bit of a reach at No. 10? Perhaps, but it could come down to which player is highest on the Bears’ draft board. –Alyssa Barbieri, Bears Wire
11. San Francisco 49ers: Jalon Walker, DE, Georgia
It’s not a perfect marriage from a schematic perspective since Walker is likely more of a 3-4 outside linebacker than he is a three-down defensive end in a 4-3 base defense. However, Walker can flat out rush the passer and there’s upside with him as an off-ball linebacker where the 49ers can use him in a variety of ways that don’t require him to line up with his hand in the dirt on a regular basis. This is a pure value pick where Walker can help the 49ers rush the passer – one of their biggest issues last season. Upgrading their ability to affect quarterbacks has to be the top priority for San Francisco in the draft, and Walker may wind up being the best edge rusher in this year’s class. – Kyle Madson, Niners Wire
12. Dallas Cowboys: Matthew Golden, WR, Texas
The Cowboys need help on offense, and in a multitude of spots. If things fall in their favor, there will be a wide selection of guys to choose from, but that wasn’t the case in this mock. Preferred targets were Tetairoa McMillan and Ashton Jeanty, and a case would’ve been made on how Tyler Warren could’ve helped. Golden isn’t a consolation prize, however. The speedster would certainly warrant a reconfiguration of how defensive coordinators plan to attack Dallas, and film study shows a player with co-WR1 abilities. – KD Drummond, Cowboys Wire
13. Miami Dolphins: Jahdae Barron, CB, Texas
Even before news broke that the Dolphins are shopping for a trade partner to send away Jalen Ramsey, a cornerback was a logical direction for Miami. The team cut ties with Kendall Fuller earlier in the offseason, leaving Storm Duck, Kader Kohou, Cam Smith, and Artie Burns as the top options to compete for a starting role. It’s very possible the Dolphins need to find not one but two starting cornerbacks in the next few months. Barron would be a good place to start. – Adam Stites, Dolphins Wire
14. Indianapolis Colts: Tyler Booker, OL, Alabama
Naturally, all eyes will be on the quarterback competition, but I’m not sure it matters who the winner is if the offensive line play isn’t good enough this season, and right now, there are some unknowns. On paper, Matt Goncalves sliding over to right guard makes sense, but Chris Ballard assuming that position change will be seamless comes with obvious risks. The prudent move would be bringing in competition for that starting spot, and at worst, the depth of the entire unit is improved. Consistent success on offense starts with the offensive line providing a steady running game to lean on and time in the pocket for the quarterback. Without that, not much else matters. – Paul Bretl, Colts Wire
15. Atlanta Falcons: Mike Green, EDGE, Marshall
In a class full of high-upside edge prospects who lack production, Green is one of the rare exceptions. The Marshall standout led the nation with 17 sacks last season and has the athleticism to be an impact player at the next level. The Falcons signed veteran outside linebacker Leonard Floyd, but they still need more help on the edge. Green brings it on every snap, which is something this team needs after a year of questionable defensive effort. Assuming Atlanta is okay with his off-the-field concerns, Green will likely be the pick if he’s still on the board. – Matt Urben, Falcons Wire
16. Arizona Cardinals: Mykel Williams, EDGE, Georgia
While the Cardinals used free agency to fill the defensive interior and the defensive edge, adding Dalvin Tomlinson, Calais Campbell and Josh Sweat and re-signing L.J. Collier and Baron Browning, based on the number of top-30 pre-draft visits they have used on defensive front-seven players, this has to be the direction they are going. Williams has the build, frame and length. He has the athleticism. He produced, albeit not at an elite level last season, but he takes to coaching, is a very good edge setter and is still only 20 years old. There is a lot of potential here with Williams. – Jess Root, Cards Wire
17. Cincinnati Bengals: James Pearce, EDGE, Tennessee
The Bengals need more talent across the defense. Better pressure rates, though, can have a positive effect on the entire unit right away. Pearce is an ideal rotational contributor as the unit with a new coordinator hopes to get something from former first-rounder Myles Murphy and the ascending Joseph Ossai. After the retirement of Sam Hubbard, this is the ideal move regardless of what happens with Trey Hendrickson’s contract drama. – Chris Roling, Bengals Wire
18. Seattle Seahawks: Kelvin Banks Jr., OT, Texas
While the focus has been squarely on the interior of Seattle’s offensive line – namely the guard and center positions – the Seahawks should not use this as a reason to pass up drafting a player of Kelvin Banks Jr’s caliber. Best case scenario is the Seahawks draft Banks and move the versatile player inside to play guard. However, Seattle needs to be mindful of starter Abe Lucas’ health since he has played in only 13 games across the last two seasons. Drafting Banks would give the Seahawks an immediate upgrade at guard and provide legitimate insurance for Lucas. Two birds, one stone. – Kole Musgrove, Seahawks Wire
19. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Jihaad Campbell, LB, Alabama
The Bucs linebacker group was awful, even with Lavonte David adding another Hall of Fame-worthy year to his career. He needs more help in what could be his final year with the team, so in a move that helps now and in the future, they get the defensive leader from Alabama. Campbell also boasts pass-rush ability which will help the Bucs in that department as well. – Andrew Harbaugh, Bucs Wire
20. Los Angeles Chargers (from DEN): Colston Loveland, TE, Michigan
Trade details:
- Broncos receive: No. 22 (1st) and No. 125 (4th)
- Chargers receive: No. 20 (1st)
The Chargers jump up two spots to get their guy. Los Angeles hasn’t had a good pass-catching tight end since Hunter Henry a few years back. When Henry was with the Chargers, he and Justin Herbert had a strong chemistry, so adding a receiving TE is imperative. Loveland could step in and serve as a weapon in the passing game from Day 1. It also helps that he’s familiar with Jim Harbaugh, who coached him at Michigan. – Gavino Borquez, Chargers Wire
21. Pittsburgh Steelers: Shedeur Sanders, QB, Colorado
If the Steelers can land Sanders without mortgaging the future to go up and get him, the pick here makes sense. With Aaron Rodgers’ future up in the air and his obvious disinterest in playing for the Steelers on full display in a recent interview, the Steelers need to cut their losses, focus on Mason Rudolph starting in 2025 and hope they can hit on their quarterback of the future. – Curt Popejoy, Steelers Wire
22. Los Angeles Rams (from DEN): Will Johnson, CB, Michigan
Trade details:
- Broncos receive: No. 26 (1st) and No. 101 (3rd)
- Rams receive: No. 22 (1st)
With cornerback being one of the Rams’ biggest needs, I decided to move up for arguably the best pure corner in the class – Travis Hunter excluded. There’s a chance Johnson slips on draft night because of concerns about his medical history but this is far enough for him to fall. The Rams would be thrilled to come away with a 6-2 cornerback with his ball skills and coverage ability at this point in the first round. The cost to move up would be a third-round pick, but the Rams are in position to potentially trade up with how well they’ve done building out their roster already this offseason. – Cameron DaSilva, Rams Wire
23. Green Bay Packers: Shemar Stewart, DE, Texas A&M
Stewart is an alien athlete (perfect 10.0 RAS) at a premium position, and the Packers must come out of this draft with help for the defensive front – making it difficult to believe Brian Gutekunst would pass on Stewart if he’s still there at 23. Some have him as a top-10 player in the class because his ceiling is so high. Does Stewart need to get better as a finisher? Yes. But 270-pound edge rushers with his athleticism and potential are so rarely available to teams picking in the back half of the first round. Patience might be required, but Stewart is absolutely worth the gamble here. – Zach Kruse, Packers Wire
24. Minnesota Vikings: Nick Emmanwori, S, South Carolina
It won’t be a popular pick, but it is one that I think makes the most sense for the Vikings. They need to have a playmaker in the secondary opposite of Byron Murphy Jr., because they are going to miss Camryn Bynum. Emmanwori is a great athlete with the size and ball skills to make him an instant favorite and ultimate chess piece in the Vikings defense. – Andrew Harbaugh, Vikings Wire
25. Houston Texans: Emeka Egbuka, WR, Ohio State
Yes, the Texans should take an offensive lineman here and call it a day, but there are reasons for concerns with the remaining names left. Josh Simmons is coming off a leg injury. Donovan Jackson might be limited to the guard spot in the pros. Josh Conerly has potential, but scouts have criticized his ability to finish blocks. And like it or not, Nick Caserio doesn’t target small-school players in Round 1, taking Grey Zabel out of the conversation.
Houston needs receiver help and Egbuka is someone who thrived with hauling in passes from C.J. Stroud in Columbus. Two years later, he put up another 1,000-yard season as a No. 2 weapon in a passing-centric offense. That’s what the Texans are looking to accomplish with Nick Caley as the new OC. Caserio can go offensive line the rest of the draft, but adding Egbuka essentially does help out Stroud, so consider the mission accomplished. – Cole Thompson, Texans Wire
26. Detroit Lions (from DEN): Josh Simmons, OT, Ohio State
Trade details:
- Broncos receive: No. 28 (1st) and No. 130 (4th)
- Lions receive: No. 26 (1st)
Moving up requires having a specific target in mind, and the idea of sacrificing a fourth-round pick to land Simmons was worth it. Had he not suffered a patellar tendon injury last fall, Simmons could very well have been a top-5 pick in this class. Lions GM Brad Holmes has never shown an aversion to injuries, seeing them as creating value. Getting a Pro Bowl-caliber prospect who fits the grit at this point in the draft was too tempting to pass up. Simmons could take his time getting back and serve as the swing tackle as a rookie. – Jeff Risdon, Lions Wire
27. Baltimore Ravens: Malaki Starks, DB, Georgia
The Ravens tendered defensive back Ar’Darius Washington and have second-year safeties Beau Brade and Sanoussi Kane as potential starters. Starks played three seasons for the Bulldogs, recording 197 total tackles, 17 pass deflections, and six interceptions in his collegiate career. In the 2024 season, he had 77 total tackles, four for loss, and one interception. He was an All-American in 2023, and would allow Kyle Hamilton to put his dynamic versatility on display even more. – Glenn Erby, Ravens Wire
28. Philadelphia Eagles (from DEN): Donovan Ezeiruaku, EDGE, Boston College
Trade details:
- Broncos receive: No. 31 (1st), No. 134 (4th), No. 161 (5th)
- Eagles receive: No. 28 (1st), No. 208 (6th)
The Eagles have to replace edge rusher Josh Sweat, who signed with the Cardinals after getting 2.5 sacks in Super Bowl LIX. Ezeiruaku is a bit undersized (6-3, 248 pounds) but uses his 34-inch arms and elite first-step speed to get around the edge and under the hands of offensive tackles. He was highly productive this past season, with 80 tackles and 16.5 sacks, the second-best mark in the FBS. – Glenn Erby, Eagles Wire
29. Washington Commanders: Josh Conerly Jr., OT, Oregon
After seeing a run on edge rushers, the Commanders chose to continue fortifying their offensive line in front of Jayden Daniels. Conerly can immediately compete with Brandon Coleman at right tackle, or if Washington wants Coleman at guard, Conerly is the immediate starting right tackle. The good news is that Washington isn’t picking based on need and can take the best available player. Conerly would give the Commanders another young building block on their offensive line. – Bryan Manning, Commanders Wire
30. Buffalo Bills: Kenneth Grant, DL, Michigan
With the addition of Joey Bosa, the idea of a pass rusher becomes less needed but another option in the middle of the defensive front is still something that would be welcomed in Sean McDermott’s defense. Over the years, general manager Brandon Beane has tabbed vets as the space-eating player next to Ed Oliver at tackle. Buffalo will still have that in DaQuan Jones in 2025, but that will allow Grant to work his way into the rotation slowly and build chemistry with Oliver for the long haul. – Nick Wojton, Bills Wire
31. Kansas City Chiefs: Luther Burden III, WR, Missouri
Six months ago, it would have been unconscionable to think that Burden could fall all the way to the Chiefs here in Round 1. If Brett Veach gets a chance to take Burden and passes him up, fans in Kansas City might riot. The Chiefs have many needs to address in this draft, and wide receiver isn’t necessarily the most pressing. But Buden is a blue-chip prospect at a premium position who could immediately help get Kansas City’s air attack back on track. – John Dillon, Chiefs Wire
32. Denver Broncos (from PHI): TreVeyon Henderson, RB, Ohio State
- Trade: Broncos receive: No. 22 (1st) and No.125 (4th), Chargers receive: No.20 (1st)
- Trade: Broncos receive: No.26 (1st) and No.101 (3rd), Rams receive: No.22 (1st)
- Trade: Broncos receive: No.28 (1st) and No.130 (4th), Lions receive: No.26 (1st)
- Trade: Broncos receive: No.32 (1st), No.134 (4th), No.161 (5th), Eagles receive: No.28 (1st), No.208 (6th)
The Broncos could take one of the defensive linemen that have fallen – including Walter Nolen and Derrick Harmon – or even lightning-fast first-round cornerback prospect Maxwell Hairston, but their biggest remaining need is running back.
With the top two backs already off the board, Denver lands TreVeyon Henderson. He’s speedy (4.43), a shifty runner, an excellent pass blocker and a capable receiver out of the backfield. That’s exactly what Sean Payton’s offense needs, and adding him in the first round would give the Broncos the choice of exercising a team-friendly fifth-year option on his rookie contract.
After trading down four times in the first round, Denver has acquired three additional fourth-round picks and another third-round pick. Between the second and fourth rounds, the Broncos now hold picks Nos. 51, 85, 101, 122, 125, 130 and 134. That will allow the team to stockpile additional talent and build around young QB Bo Nix going into Year 2. – Jon Heath, Broncos Wire
This article originally appeared on Touchdown Wire: 2025 NFL mock draft: Final first-round projections with trades
The 2025 NFL draft is just days away, where teams are finalizing their draft boards before things kick off in Green Bay on April 24.
There are plenty of storylines to monitor heading into the first round, including how the Top 10 unfolds behind the Tennessee Titans (who are expected to select quarterback Cam Ward at first overall), how far quarterback Shedeur Sanders falls and which teams are looking to make trades (perhaps to move up for Sanders).
We’re unveiling our final NFL Wires mock draft of the 2025 offseason. Our editors made player selections for all 32 picks in the first round. Here are the results.
1. Tennessee Titans: Cam Ward, QB, Miami
There are only two scenarios facing the Titans at No. 1 overall: Select Miami quarterback Cam Ward or trade down. Although Tennessee remains open to such a trade, it’s becoming increasingly less likely. Ward will be the pick when things kick off in Green Bay and then the true madness of the NFL draft will begin. – Dan Benton, Titans Wire
2. Cleveland Browns: Travis Hunter, WR/CB, Colorado
The stars are aligning for the Browns to land the best player in the draft. With Cam Ward going first overall to the Titans, the Browns keep it simple here and take the blue-chip player, Travis Hunter, rather than trying to force the pick on a quarterback despite their need. Their offense gets a dynamic playmaker, and their defense gets an elite lockdown corner who will come on the field in obvious passing situations. This is the best-case scenario. – Cory Kinnan, Browns Wire
3. New York Giants: Abdul Carter, LB, Penn State
With Ward and Hunter going off the board 1-2, the Giants are set up for what has rapidly become the ideal scenario. Despite all the work done on the quarterback class, general manager Joe Schoen will likely wait until later in the draft (possibly a trade back into Round 1) to nab one. Instead, they land arguably the best prospect available in Penn State edge rusher Abdul Carter, who naked up for missing out on Micah Parsons in 2021. You can never have too many pass rushers. – Dan Benton, Giants Wire
4. New England Patriots: Will Campbell, OT, LSU
The chances of a trade-down scenario feel unlikely for the Patriots, and with both Travis Hunter and Abdul Carter gone, it makes sense to finally address the left tackle position. They manage to do so by taking the best offensive tackle on the draft board, LSU’s Will Campbell. Protecting second-year quarterback Drake Maye is more important than the offensive weapons at his disposal. The fun stuff will come later. – Jordy McElroy, Patriots Wire
5. Jacksonville Jaguars: Armand Membou, OT, Missouri
The Jaguars added four offensive linemen in free agency, but none of those additions or contracts should stop them from further adding to this unit. The floor of the offensive line unit was addressed in free agency, but adding Membou to the mix helps address the ceiling. There are still unknowns when it comes to what the Jaguars actually have along their expected starting offensive line unit, so when there are question marks, turn up the competition and give yourself as many options as possible. Consistent success for Trevor Lawrence and the offense as a whole starts up front with the offensive line providing a strong run game to lean on and time in the pocket. – Paul Bretl, Jaguars Wire
6. Las Vegas Raiders: Tetairoa McMillan, WR, Arizona
The mini run on tackles just before this pick takes that position out of the conversation. That’s the only other position that lines up need and position value as much as taking McMillan here. Opinions seem to vary considerably on McMillan as a prospect, but that’s how draft season often works. Most agree he is a top ten caliber talent in this draft who happens to be exactly the type of receiver (X) the Raiders need. Best not to overthink it. – Levi Damien, Raiders Wire
7. New York Jets: Tyler Warren, TE, Penn State
In a surprise, this selection is made easier for the Jets because of how the board falls in front of them. Membou is the prospect projected to head to New York the most during the pre-draft process because of his experience at right tackle, the largest “need” for the Jets heading into the event. Then there’s potentially a world where a decision could be made between Membou or Campbell to fill out the last missing piece on the offensive line… but both are already selected. That leaves the Jets going right up to the stage with Warren’s name on their card, who would be a reliable option in Justin Fields’ first year under center for the team. – Nick Wojton, Jets Wire
8. Carolina Panthers: Mason Graham, DT, Michigan
Sure, the Panthers might’ve already signed former Kansas City Chiefs defensive tackle Tershawn Wharton to a three-year, $45 million deal this offseason. But that contract, which actually has a fairly easy out after 2026, shouldn’t get in the way of securing one of the very few blue-chip talents in this class. The powerful, relentless and explosive Graham checks all the boxes, and can immediately help patch up a defense that was the NFL’s worst at both stopping the run and generating pressure. So sign us up for a future of him and Pro Bowler Derrick Brown absolutely bulldozing opposing offensive lines. – Anthony Rizzuti, Panthers Wire
9. New Orleans Saints: Ashton Jeanty, RB, Boise State
Six out of every eight mock drafts seem to agree the Saints will take Shedeur Sanders here, but I wouldn’t bet on it. They’ve had limited contact with the QB this season and aren’t positioned well to reach on anyone. Maybe they throw us a curve ball here and take Michigan tight end Colston Loveland with Tyler Warren off the board, but I really like Jeanty’s fit in Kellen Moore’s offense. He can split touches with Alvin Kamara his rookie year, transition to the lead role in 2026, and run the show himself once AK retires in 2027; just like Kamara himself did when he joined Mark Ingram II in the backfield all those years ago. Jeanty is a big-play threat they’ve been missing. Only the Houston Texans have fewer carries of 15 or more yards than the Saints do since 2021. Whoever the quarterback is in 2025, he can count on Jeanty and Kamara lightening his workload. – John Sigler, Saints Wire
10. Chicago Bears: Omarion Hampton, RB, North Carolina
This is the worst case scenario for the Bears, where their top options (Will Campbell, Ashton Jeanty, Armand Membou, Tyler Warren) are all off the board. Given there were no trade candidates, it came down to Ben Johnson adding a playmaking running back to the roster. Ashton Jeanty is the clear-cut RB1 in this draft class, but Omarion Hampton is no slouch. Last season with the Tarheels, Hampton had a career year with 281 carries for 1,660 yards and 15 touchdowns while adding 38 receptions for 373 yards and two scores. Hampton is clearly on Chicago’s radar as he recently had a Top 30 visit. Is it a bit of a reach at No. 10? Perhaps, but it could come down to which player is highest on the Bears’ draft board. –Alyssa Barbieri, Bears Wire
11. San Francisco 49ers: Jalon Walker, DE, Georgia
It’s not a perfect marriage from a schematic perspective since Walker is likely more of a 3-4 outside linebacker than he is a three-down defensive end in a 4-3 base defense. However, Walker can flat out rush the passer and there’s upside with him as an off-ball linebacker where the 49ers can use him in a variety of ways that don’t require him to line up with his hand in the dirt on a regular basis. This is a pure value pick where Walker can help the 49ers rush the passer – one of their biggest issues last season. Upgrading their ability to affect quarterbacks has to be the top priority for San Francisco in the draft, and Walker may wind up being the best edge rusher in this year’s class. – Kyle Madson, Niners Wire
12. Dallas Cowboys: Matthew Golden, WR, Texas
The Cowboys need help on offense, and in a multitude of spots. If things fall in their favor, there will be a wide selection of guys to choose from, but that wasn’t the case in this mock. Preferred targets were Tetairoa McMillan and Ashton Jeanty, and a case would’ve been made on how Tyler Warren could’ve helped. Golden isn’t a consolation prize, however. The speedster would certainly warrant a reconfiguration of how defensive coordinators plan to attack Dallas, and film study shows a player with co-WR1 abilities. – KD Drummond, Cowboys Wire
13. Miami Dolphins: Jahdae Barron, CB, Texas
Even before news broke that the Dolphins are shopping for a trade partner to send away Jalen Ramsey, a cornerback was a logical direction for Miami. The team cut ties with Kendall Fuller earlier in the offseason, leaving Storm Duck, Kader Kohou, Cam Smith, and Artie Burns as the top options to compete for a starting role. It’s very possible the Dolphins need to find not one but two starting cornerbacks in the next few months. Barron would be a good place to start. – Adam Stites, Dolphins Wire
14. Indianapolis Colts: Tyler Booker, OL, Alabama
Naturally, all eyes will be on the quarterback competition, but I’m not sure it matters who the winner is if the offensive line play isn’t good enough this season, and right now, there are some unknowns. On paper, Matt Goncalves sliding over to right guard makes sense, but Chris Ballard assuming that position change will be seamless comes with obvious risks. The prudent move would be bringing in competition for that starting spot, and at worst, the depth of the entire unit is improved. Consistent success on offense starts with the offensive line providing a steady running game to lean on and time in the pocket for the quarterback. Without that, not much else matters. – Paul Bretl, Colts Wire
15. Atlanta Falcons: Mike Green, EDGE, Marshall
In a class full of high-upside edge prospects who lack production, Green is one of the rare exceptions. The Marshall standout led the nation with 17 sacks last season and has the athleticism to be an impact player at the next level. The Falcons signed veteran outside linebacker Leonard Floyd, but they still need more help on the edge. Green brings it on every snap, which is something this team needs after a year of questionable defensive effort. Assuming Atlanta is okay with his off-the-field concerns, Green will likely be the pick if he’s still on the board. – Matt Urben, Falcons Wire
16. Arizona Cardinals: Mykel Williams, EDGE, Georgia
While the Cardinals used free agency to fill the defensive interior and the defensive edge, adding Dalvin Tomlinson, Calais Campbell and Josh Sweat and re-signing L.J. Collier and Baron Browning, based on the number of top-30 pre-draft visits they have used on defensive front-seven players, this has to be the direction they are going. Williams has the build, frame and length. He has the athleticism. He produced, albeit not at an elite level last season, but he takes to coaching, is a very good edge setter and is still only 20 years old. There is a lot of potential here with Williams. – Jess Root, Cards Wire
17. Cincinnati Bengals: James Pearce, EDGE, Tennessee
The Bengals need more talent across the defense. Better pressure rates, though, can have a positive effect on the entire unit right away. Pearce is an ideal rotational contributor as the unit with a new coordinator hopes to get something from former first-rounder Myles Murphy and the ascending Joseph Ossai. After the retirement of Sam Hubbard, this is the ideal move regardless of what happens with Trey Hendrickson’s contract drama. – Chris Roling, Bengals Wire
18. Seattle Seahawks: Kelvin Banks Jr., OT, Texas
While the focus has been squarely on the interior of Seattle’s offensive line – namely the guard and center positions – the Seahawks should not use this as a reason to pass up drafting a player of Kelvin Banks Jr’s caliber. Best case scenario is the Seahawks draft Banks and move the versatile player inside to play guard. However, Seattle needs to be mindful of starter Abe Lucas’ health since he has played in only 13 games across the last two seasons. Drafting Banks would give the Seahawks an immediate upgrade at guard and provide legitimate insurance for Lucas. Two birds, one stone. – Kole Musgrove, Seahawks Wire
19. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Jihaad Campbell, LB, Alabama
The Bucs linebacker group was awful, even with Lavonte David adding another Hall of Fame-worthy year to his career. He needs more help in what could be his final year with the team, so in a move that helps now and in the future, they get the defensive leader from Alabama. Campbell also boasts pass-rush ability which will help the Bucs in that department as well. – Andrew Harbaugh, Bucs Wire
20. Los Angeles Chargers (from DEN): Colston Loveland, TE, Michigan
Trade details:
- Broncos receive: No. 22 (1st) and No. 125 (4th)
- Chargers receive: No. 20 (1st)
The Chargers jump up two spots to get their guy. Los Angeles hasn’t had a good pass-catching tight end since Hunter Henry a few years back. When Henry was with the Chargers, he and Justin Herbert had a strong chemistry, so adding a receiving TE is imperative. Loveland could step in and serve as a weapon in the passing game from Day 1. It also helps that he’s familiar with Jim Harbaugh, who coached him at Michigan. – Gavino Borquez, Chargers Wire
21. Pittsburgh Steelers: Shedeur Sanders, QB, Colorado
If the Steelers can land Sanders without mortgaging the future to go up and get him, the pick here makes sense. With Aaron Rodgers’ future up in the air and his obvious disinterest in playing for the Steelers on full display in a recent interview, the Steelers need to cut their losses, focus on Mason Rudolph starting in 2025 and hope they can hit on their quarterback of the future. – Curt Popejoy, Steelers Wire
22. Los Angeles Rams (from DEN): Will Johnson, CB, Michigan
Trade details:
- Broncos receive: No. 26 (1st) and No. 101 (3rd)
- Rams receive: No. 22 (1st)
With cornerback being one of the Rams’ biggest needs, I decided to move up for arguably the best pure corner in the class – Travis Hunter excluded. There’s a chance Johnson slips on draft night because of concerns about his medical history but this is far enough for him to fall. The Rams would be thrilled to come away with a 6-2 cornerback with his ball skills and coverage ability at this point in the first round. The cost to move up would be a third-round pick, but the Rams are in position to potentially trade up with how well they’ve done building out their roster already this offseason. – Cameron DaSilva, Rams Wire
23. Green Bay Packers: Shemar Stewart, DE, Texas A&M
Stewart is an alien athlete (perfect 10.0 RAS) at a premium position, and the Packers must come out of this draft with help for the defensive front – making it difficult to believe Brian Gutekunst would pass on Stewart if he’s still there at 23. Some have him as a top-10 player in the class because his ceiling is so high. Does Stewart need to get better as a finisher? Yes. But 270-pound edge rushers with his athleticism and potential are so rarely available to teams picking in the back half of the first round. Patience might be required, but Stewart is absolutely worth the gamble here. – Zach Kruse, Packers Wire
24. Minnesota Vikings: Nick Emmanwori, S, South Carolina
It won’t be a popular pick, but it is one that I think makes the most sense for the Vikings. They need to have a playmaker in the secondary opposite of Byron Murphy Jr., because they are going to miss Camryn Bynum. Emmanwori is a great athlete with the size and ball skills to make him an instant favorite and ultimate chess piece in the Vikings defense. – Andrew Harbaugh, Vikings Wire
25. Houston Texans: Emeka Egbuka, WR, Ohio State
Yes, the Texans should take an offensive lineman here and call it a day, but there are reasons for concerns with the remaining names left. Josh Simmons is coming off a leg injury. Donovan Jackson might be limited to the guard spot in the pros. Josh Conerly has potential, but scouts have criticized his ability to finish blocks. And like it or not, Nick Caserio doesn’t target small-school players in Round 1, taking Grey Zabel out of the conversation.
Houston needs receiver help and Egbuka is someone who thrived with hauling in passes from C.J. Stroud in Columbus. Two years later, he put up another 1,000-yard season as a No. 2 weapon in a passing-centric offense. That’s what the Texans are looking to accomplish with Nick Caley as the new OC. Caserio can go offensive line the rest of the draft, but adding Egbuka essentially does help out Stroud, so consider the mission accomplished. – Cole Thompson, Texans Wire
26. Detroit Lions (from DEN): Josh Simmons, OT, Ohio State
Trade details:
- Broncos receive: No. 28 (1st) and No. 130 (4th)
- Lions receive: No. 26 (1st)
Moving up requires having a specific target in mind, and the idea of sacrificing a fourth-round pick to land Simmons was worth it. Had he not suffered a patellar tendon injury last fall, Simmons could very well have been a top-5 pick in this class. Lions GM Brad Holmes has never shown an aversion to injuries, seeing them as creating value. Getting a Pro Bowl-caliber prospect who fits the grit at this point in the draft was too tempting to pass up. Simmons could take his time getting back and serve as the swing tackle as a rookie. – Jeff Risdon, Lions Wire
27. Baltimore Ravens: Malaki Starks, DB, Georgia
The Ravens tendered defensive back Ar’Darius Washington and have second-year safeties Beau Brade and Sanoussi Kane as potential starters. Starks played three seasons for the Bulldogs, recording 197 total tackles, 17 pass deflections, and six interceptions in his collegiate career. In the 2024 season, he had 77 total tackles, four for loss, and one interception. He was an All-American in 2023, and would allow Kyle Hamilton to put his dynamic versatility on display even more. – Glenn Erby, Ravens Wire
28. Philadelphia Eagles (from DEN): Donovan Ezeiruaku, EDGE, Boston College
Trade details:
- Broncos receive: No. 31 (1st), No. 134 (4th), No. 161 (5th)
- Eagles receive: No. 28 (1st), No. 208 (6th)
The Eagles have to replace edge rusher Josh Sweat, who signed with the Cardinals after getting 2.5 sacks in Super Bowl LIX. Ezeiruaku is a bit undersized (6-3, 248 pounds) but uses his 34-inch arms and elite first-step speed to get around the edge and under the hands of offensive tackles. He was highly productive this past season, with 80 tackles and 16.5 sacks, the second-best mark in the FBS. – Glenn Erby, Eagles Wire
29. Washington Commanders: Josh Conerly Jr., OT, Oregon
After seeing a run on edge rushers, the Commanders chose to continue fortifying their offensive line in front of Jayden Daniels. Conerly can immediately compete with Brandon Coleman at right tackle, or if Washington wants Coleman at guard, Conerly is the immediate starting right tackle. The good news is that Washington isn’t picking based on need and can take the best available player. Conerly would give the Commanders another young building block on their offensive line. – Bryan Manning, Commanders Wire
30. Buffalo Bills: Kenneth Grant, DL, Michigan
With the addition of Joey Bosa, the idea of a pass rusher becomes less needed but another option in the middle of the defensive front is still something that would be welcomed in Sean McDermott’s defense. Over the years, general manager Brandon Beane has tabbed vets as the space-eating player next to Ed Oliver at tackle. Buffalo will still have that in DaQuan Jones in 2025, but that will allow Grant to work his way into the rotation slowly and build chemistry with Oliver for the long haul. – Nick Wojton, Bills Wire
31. Kansas City Chiefs: Luther Burden III, WR, Missouri
Six months ago, it would have been unconscionable to think that Burden could fall all the way to the Chiefs here in Round 1. If Brett Veach gets a chance to take Burden and passes him up, fans in Kansas City might riot. The Chiefs have many needs to address in this draft, and wide receiver isn’t necessarily the most pressing. But Buden is a blue-chip prospect at a premium position who could immediately help get Kansas City’s air attack back on track. – John Dillon, Chiefs Wire
32. Denver Broncos (from PHI): TreVeyon Henderson, RB, Ohio State
- Trade: Broncos receive: No. 22 (1st) and No.125 (4th), Chargers receive: No.20 (1st)
- Trade: Broncos receive: No.26 (1st) and No.101 (3rd), Rams receive: No.22 (1st)
- Trade: Broncos receive: No.28 (1st) and No.130 (4th), Lions receive: No.26 (1st)
- Trade: Broncos receive: No.32 (1st), No.134 (4th), No.161 (5th), Eagles receive: No.28 (1st), No.208 (6th)
The Broncos could take one of the defensive linemen that have fallen – including Walter Nolen and Derrick Harmon – or even lightning-fast first-round cornerback prospect Maxwell Hairston, but their biggest remaining need is running back.
With the top two backs already off the board, Denver lands TreVeyon Henderson. He’s speedy (4.43), a shifty runner, an excellent pass blocker and a capable receiver out of the backfield. That’s exactly what Sean Payton’s offense needs, and adding him in the first round would give the Broncos the choice of exercising a team-friendly fifth-year option on his rookie contract.
After trading down four times in the first round, Denver has acquired three additional fourth-round picks and another third-round pick. Between the second and fourth rounds, the Broncos now hold picks Nos. 51, 85, 101, 122, 125, 130 and 134. That will allow the team to stockpile additional talent and build around young QB Bo Nix going into Year 2. – Jon Heath, Broncos Wire
This article originally appeared on Touchdown Wire: 2025 NFL mock draft: Final first-round projections with trades
