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HomeSport2025 NFL Mock Draft: Shedeur Sanders and Cam Ward Rise to the...

2025 NFL Mock Draft: Shedeur Sanders and Cam Ward Rise to the Top Five

 

2025 NFL Mock Draft: QBs Shedeur Sanders and Cam Ward Enter Top Five


The NFL season is well underway, yet we still have minimal insight into next year’s draft landscape.

 

The uncertainty is particularly evident among quarterbacks, where only two players—Colorado’s Shedeur Sanders and Miami’s Cam Ward—have proven themselves as first-round prospects. Other previously expected candidates, like Georgia’s Carson Beck and Texas’ Quinn Ewers, have lost some momentum. This unpredictability extends across numerous positions, resulting in a lack of obvious top-10 selections and making the draft order appear unstable, with 11 teams currently sitting at only two or three wins.

2025 NFL Mock Draft

1. Jacksonville Jaguars – Travis Hunter, WR/CB, Colorado

Enjoy these outstanding performances while they last, as the team that picks Hunter likely won’t have the luxury of using him for 161 plays in a single game like Colorado did recently against Texas Tech. Although he could excel as a cornerback for Jacksonville, which has the league’s worst defense, it seems more plausible he will be utilized at wide receiver due to the current demand at that position. The Jaguars should embrace this, as Hunter is a unique talent who can work alongside 2024 first-round talent Brian Thomas Jr. to help get quarterback Trevor Lawrence back on track after what looks like another challenging season.

 

2. New York Giants – Shedeur Sanders, QB, Colorado

If Deion Sanders’ earlier remarks about his son’s draft prospects were to become reality, it would transform the Giants’ approach. Selecting another standout player would enable the Giants to move on from Daniel Jones and bring in a confident passer capable of dissecting defenses with accuracy from the pocket. With coach Brian Daboll and GM Joe Schoen likely returning in 2025, Sanders would inherit a promising offense featuring talented rookies like wide receiver Malik Nabers and running back Tyrone Tracy Jr., plus a potentially improved offensive line upon left tackle Andrew Thomas’ return from injury.

 

3. Tennessee Titans – Tetairoa McMillan, WR, Arizona

The Titans are grappling with a passing game that ranks 31st in the league, which can’t be solved by one individual. While Tennessee probably can’t expect things to improve solely by sticking with Will Levis, the management may hesitate to select a quarterback in this uncertain class. The 6-5, 212-pound McMillan would make a powerful duo with Calvin Ridley, providing the next quarterback with strong options. He has already proven capable of enhancing an offense, as he’s currently second in the Football Bowl Subdivision with 1,066 receiving yards despite Arizona’s overall struggles.

 

4. Cleveland Browns – Mason Graham, DT, Michigan

From both a financial and team standpoint, shifting from the Deshaun Watson situation to a first-round quarterback in the spring doesn’t seem practical. Instead, the Browns should concentrate on securing foundational players for a long-term rebuild. Graham’s relentless playing style could set a strong tone as the franchise navigates potential changes in the coming seasons.

5. Las Vegas Raiders – Cam Ward, QB, Miami (Fla.)

It seems fitting that perhaps the biggest risk of this draft class would end up in Las Vegas. If Ward can harness his exceptional playmaking abilities showcased this season, this selection could yield significant rewards. However, transitioning to the NFL could be challenging for the transfer from Washington State and Incarnate Word, especially if he’s thrust into a starting role without sufficient preparation, as he has faced relatively weak competition and has had moments of struggling under pressure. That attitude may pose challenges with Antonio Pierce, but it should be clear that a dramatic overhaul is necessary after the team’s attempts to rely on Gardner Minshew II and Aidan O’Connell this season.

 

6. New England Patriots – Will Campbell, OT, LSU

With Drake Maye injecting some life into an otherwise stagnant offense, the pressure on executive vice president of player personnel Eliot Wolf to enhance the roster this offseason has intensified. Improving the offensive line and receiving corps will likely demand major investments in both the draft and free agency, especially as New England is expected to lead the league with a cap space of $130.8 million for 2025, per Over The Cap. While Campbell may not possess eye-catching physical skills, his experience as a pass protector would be highly valued by New England. Even if he winds up moving inside due to his build, he could help maintain Michael Onwenu’s position at right guard after the team considered shifting him around.

7. New Orleans Saints – Will Johnson, CB, Michigan

Will the Saints finally overhaul their aging roster after parting ways with Dennis Allen, or will they cling to hope for a quick resurgence? Given their history of manipulating the salary cap to stay competitive, it’s unlikely a complete rebuild is on the horizon. Yet, Johnson is a selection that any team would eagerly make regardless of its future plans. Encompassing 6-2 and 202 pounds, he has unfortunately missed considerable time this season due to shoulder and toe injuries, but his abilities as a shutdown corner are unquestionable. This could be an excellent direction for the Saints after trading Marshon Lattimore at the trade deadline.

8. New York Jets – Mykel Williams, DE, Georgia

The future of the Jets remains uncertain, especially with the fallout expected from this year’s disappointing season. However, there’s little incentive for them to offer a long-term deal to Haason Reddick, the two-time Pro Bowl pass rusher. The Jets could benefit from refreshing their edge rusher lineup with Williams,

his power, which makes him an excellent complementary player for breakout defensive end Will McDonald IV.

 

9. Carolina Panthers – Luther Burden III, WR, Missouri

Despite Bryce Young showing gradual progress since returning as the starter, the Panthers don’t seem very committed to their quarterback strategy. Investing in another top choice for a quarterback could backfire, especially since two recent victories have pushed them down the draft order. While Burden hasn’t had the standout junior year many anticipated, averaging just 11.3 yards per catch and with only one game surpassing 100 yards, he’s still a formidable run-after-catch talent. He would help rejuvenate the receiving core after the team moved on from Diontae Johnson and Jonathan Mingo.

 

10. Miami Dolphins – Malaki Starks, S, Georgia

Retaining soon-to-be free agent Jevon Holland might be challenging for a franchise already spending heavily on several positions, while Jordan Poyer and Marcus Maye are also heading towards free agency. Although it’s been since 2017 that a safety was drafted in the top 10, Starks could break that trend. He is a versatile defender who consistently finds opportunities to make significant plays.

11. Dallas Cowboys – Ashton Jeanty, RB, Boise State

Jerry Jones appears as eager to overhaul the roster as he is to decorate AT&T Stadium. However, the Cowboys’ owner must be frustrated with the team’s 31st-ranked rushing offense that hampers their overall performance. Selecting Jeanty could signal a much-needed adjustment. After attending high school in Frisco, Texas, where the Cowboys are based, the Heisman candidate has been evading defenders with ease, suggesting he could be a pivotal part of a far-reaching transformation for the Cowboys.

 

12. Indianapolis Colts – Benjamin Morrison, CB, Notre Dame

A serious hip injury could drop Morrison’s draft prospects significantly. However, with the Colts facing considerable issues in their secondary and cornerback Kenny Moore II criticizing his teammates’ effort, the 6-0, 190-pound corner’s skill and steadiness make him a compelling choice.

13. Cincinnati Bengals – Emeka Egbuka, WR, Ohio State

Improving a struggling defense should be a top priority for Cincinnati, but the potential exit of Tee Higgins also casts a long shadow. Egbuka may not match Higgins’ explosive play capability, yet the crafty 6-1, 203-pound receiver could become the No. 2 option alongside Ja’Marr Chase, acting as an upgraded Tyler Boyd who excels in creating opportunities through smooth route running.

 

14. Tampa Bay Buccaneers – Abdul Carter, DE/OLB, Penn State

The defense under Todd Bowles has been leaking points, allowing an average of 31.3 points per game over the last six outings, while also leading the NFL with 425.3 yards allowed per game. Addressing a struggling pass rush with Carter, a swift edge player who still has the potential to develop his skill set beyond just relying on speed, would be a significant step forward.

15. Seattle Seahawks – Kelvin Banks Jr., OT, Texas

The offensive line’s inability to protect Geno Smith has severely restricted offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb’s game plan this season. Standing at 6-4 and weighing 320 pounds, Banks possesses the attributes necessary to evolve into an effective pass protector at guard, provided he can adjust seamlessly after spending three years at left tackle in Texas.

 

16. Chicago Bears – Nic Scourton, DE, Texas A&M

While the Bears face immediate challenges on offense, the lack of elite defensive linemen could steer their first-round pick in a different direction. With a height of 6-4 and weight of 280 pounds complemented by an impressive spin move, Scourton could invigorate Chicago’s defense as a reliable partner to Montez Sweat.

17. Los Angeles Rams – Cameron Williams, OT, Texas

Ongoing concerns about the offensive line could jeopardize what’s left of Matthew Stafford’s career in Los Angeles, with the veteran quarterback facing continuous pressure, including four sacks in a recent game against the Dolphins. While Williams requires further development and may not be an immediate starter, his exceptional skills keep him in the first-round discussion.

 

18. San Francisco 49ers – Shavon Revel Jr., CB, East Carolina

Selecting a player recovering from a torn ACL might raise concerns among San Francisco fans, especially given the injury troubles the team has faced this season. However, if the 49ers are confident in his recovery, Revel presents an intriguing option due to his impressive size (6-3, 193 pounds) and skills that have drawn comparisons to Richard Sherman.

19. Denver Broncos – Colston Loveland, TE, Michigan

The approach for integrating Bo Nix focuses on limiting his responsibilities as a rookie quarterback in Denver. While Nix’s role is set to expand, bringing in Loveland aligns with this strategy. At 6-5 and 245 pounds, he poses a threat to defenses along the seam and could become a key target in an offense that has tallied just 28 receptions combined from its tight ends.

20. Houston Texans – Deone Walker, DT, Kentucky

Strengthening the interior lines should be a priority for Houston given the struggles at the line of scrimmage. The Texans can still find quality offensive guards later in the draft and could use their top pick on Walker, a substantial 6-6, 345-pound presence in the middle. Although he needs to develop more consistency and control to realize his Pro Bowl potential, his rare combination of power and surprising quickness is hard to come by.

21. Atlanta Falcons – James Pearce Jr., DE/OLB, Tennessee

The Falcons continue to grapple with longstanding issues in their pass rush, especially after their inability to sack Derek Carr during a disappointing loss to the Saints. Pearce has established himself as one of the top college players for pressuring quarterbacks with his impressive quickness and length, although he must strengthen his physique and refine his pass-rushing techniques to become a more consistent edge threat.

 

22. Arizona Cardinals – Jalon Walker, LB, Georgia

Recent performances have shown a resurgence in Jonathan Gannon’s previously struggling defense, which has collectively recorded nine sacks against top quarterbacks Caleb Williams and Aaron Rodgers over the past two weeks. Nevertheless, Arizona should remain cautious and not get too comfortable.

 

This analysis explores how the unit managed two struggling teams. Walker, who measures 6-2 and weighs 245 pounds, will need innovative deployment to reproduce the significant impact he has had on the Bulldogs this season. Nevertheless, Gannon has a proven track record of maximizing the potential of an undersized yet agile linebacker; he previously guided Haason Reddick to achieve a personal best of 16 sacks with the Eagles in 2022.

23. Los Angeles Chargers – Kenneth Grant, DT, Michigan

The Chargers allow an average of 110.6 rushing yards per game, ranking ninth, but they sit at 25th in yards given up per carry (4.7). To improve the team’s performance in this area, Jim Harbaugh can look no further than his former student Grant, who consistently disrupts plays in the backfield and often demands double coverage.

24. Green Bay Packers – Jahdae Barron, CB, Texas

Despite the strides made by defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley in his first year, the cornerback position opposite Jaire Alexander remains a concern. Barron might not fit Brian Gutekunst’s strict benchmarks for size and athleticism, but he has the ability to excel in any position in the secondary and demonstrates a talent for getting to the ball.

25. Washington Commanders – JT Tuimoloau, DE, Ohio State

Kudos go to coach Dan Quinn and defensive coordinator Joe Whitt Jr. for constructing a respectable pass rush without major investments. The determined Tuimoloau may not frequently achieve double-digit sack seasons, but his ability to push offensive tackles back and halt the run should not be underestimated.

 

26. Baltimore Ravens – Josh Simmons, OT, Ohio State

Though it may seem unexpected to project an offensive tackle for a team that is on pace to break the NFL record for total yards in a season, especially given Baltimore’s weak edge rush, the future of left tackle Ronnie Stanley is uncertain as he will be a free agent after the season. Simmons was on track for a first-round selection until a knee injury cut his season short.

27. Pittsburgh Steelers – Isaiah Bond, WR, Texas

With Russell Wilson on a short-term deal and approaching his 36th birthday, it’s challenging to determine the necessary changes for next season’s offense. Nevertheless, injecting serious speed into the receiving corps is beneficial, and Bond has shown glimpses of that kind of speed, averaging 16.7 yards per reception this season.

28. Minnesota Vikings – Derrick Harmon, DT, Oregon

The transfer from Michigan State is having arguably the most outstanding breakout season of any college defender, leading all interior defensive linemen in pressures. Standing at 6-5 and weighing 310 pounds, he is versatile enough to make a significant impact within Brian Flores’ defensive strategy.

29. Philadelphia Eagles – Shemar Stewart, DE, Texas A&M

Vic Fangio’s defense has thrived against weaker opponents post-bye week, but adding to the defensive front remains a priority for Howie Roseman. Stewart, who is 6-6 and weighs 290 pounds, ranks among the most formidable defensive prospects in this draft class, and his versatility alongside strong run defense capabilities should ensure he contributes right away.

 

30. Buffalo Bills – Walter Nolen, DT, Mississippi

In the near future, Buffalo will need to focus on building a roster capable of competing with Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs. This will likely involve strengthening their front four, especially the interior push. After transferring from Texas A&M, Nolen’s performances have reminded everyone why he was the top overall recruit in the 2022 class.

31. Detroit Lions – Jonah Savaiinaea, OT/G, Arizona

With Kevin Zeitler nearing the end of his one-year contract and turning 35 in March, the Lions may require an upgrade on their line, which has been crucial for propelling the second-highest scoring offense in the league. Savaiinaea, measuring 6-5 and weighing 330 pounds, has a punishing playing style that suits a return to guard after previously starting at that position before moving to right tackle.

32. Kansas City Chiefs – Tyleik Williams, DT, Ohio State

Always mindful of maximizing value in the draft, general manager Brett Veach can stick to his strategy while addressing a significant gap. With Chris Jones being the only defensive tackle signed through 2025, Williams can assist in collapsing the pocket while further developing his pass-rushing abilities.