The NFL draft is still a few months away, but for fans and teams, anticipation is already building.

December marks the end of playoff dreams for some, as four teams – the New York Giants, Las Vegas Raiders, New England Patriots, and Jacksonville Jaguars – are already out of contention this year. With little to look forward to in the remaining weeks, many are turning their attention to the upcoming draft and the potential it holds.

This is our latest projection for how the first round might unfold, based on the current standings and tiebreaker strength of schedule provided by Tankathon.com.

2025 NFL Mock Draft

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

As discussions continue on whether Hunter should specialize in one position or play both, he caused a stir by stating his desire to play both roles in the draft. Although it’s unlikely he can maintain that versatility at the professional level, the Heisman Trophy candidate has showcased his ability with 1,152 receiving yards and 14 touchdown catches, alongside four interceptions. Pairing him with Tyson Campbell could significantly strengthen Jacksonville’s defense, while his talents on offense could be a perfect match for quarterback Trevor Lawrence.

2. Las Vegas Raiders – Shedeur Sanders, QB, Colorado

While Las Vegas has struggled with an eight-game losing streak, they find themselves in a favorable position to select one of the top quarterbacks in the draft. Sanders may not possess the elite traits of last year’s top QB prospects, but his experience and accuracy make him a valuable asset for a Raiders team that has relied heavily on rookie tight end Brock Bowers.

3. New York Giants – Cam Ward, QB, Miami (Fla.)

If John Mara remains committed to keeping Brian Daboll and Joe Schoen, their priority should be to find a quarterback who can breathe life into the NFL’s least productive offense. Ward has been a dynamic force under center, throwing an impressive 36 touchdowns in the Football Bowl Subdivision. Although his tendency for risk might need refining, a veteran mentor could guide Ward as he transitions into the starter role.

4. New England Patriots – Tetairoa McMillan, WR, Arizona

While New England is encouraged by rookie quarterback Drake Maye, his eight interceptions highlight his need for better decision-making. Selecting McMillan could address both this issue and the team’s struggling receiving corps. Standing at 6-5 and 212 pounds, McMillan excels at overpowering smaller defensive backs and can turn receptions into big plays.

5. Carolina Panthers – Abdul Carter, DE/OLB, Penn State

With Bryce Young’s recent improvements, discussions about replacing him seem premature. Instead, the Panthers can bolster their pass rush, which greatly misses Pro Bowler Brian Burns, by drafting Carter. He is tied for second in the Big Ten with 10 sacks and has considerable upside as a former linebacker transitioning to a pass-rushing role.

6. New York Jets – Will Johnson, CB, Michigan

The Jets have been searching for their identity this season, which likely won’t change until a new coaching staff is in place. In the interim, Johnson is a proven asset in coverage. With Sauce Gardner expected to sign a significant extension this offseason, Johnson could emerge as a formidable complementary corner if D.J. Reed doesn’t return.

7. Tennessee Titans – Mykel Williams, DE, Georgia

Despite Will Levis showing improvement recently, trusting in his long-term development is risky for a Titans team looking to progress in Year 2. With the top quarterbacks expected to be gone by the time they pick, Tennessee should maximize their choice elsewhere. Williams is a powerful player who can shed blockers effectively, but he still needs to refine his pass-rushing skills.

8. Cleveland Browns – Kelvin Banks Jr., OT, Texas

Due to Deshaun Watson’s contract situation, the Browns may be in a holding pattern for a while, making it wise to strengthen their offensive line in the meantime. Banks has three years of experience as a starter at left tackle and is known for his solid and smooth pass protection.

9. Cincinnati Bengals – Mason Graham, DT, Michigan

Cincinnati’s defensive struggles this season have reached a critical point. The Bengals now share the record with the 2002 Chiefs for the most losses (four) in games where they scored 30 or more points. Regardless of how extensive the defensive overhaul is this offseason, Graham could provide significant help with his ability to penetrate the backfield due to both strength and agility.

10. New Orleans Saints – Malaki Starks, S, Georgia

While safety may not seem like an obvious concern for New Orleans following the firing of coach Dennis Allen, Starks could fill a critical gap.

11. Chicago Bears – Will Campbell, OT, LSU

It might seem a stretch to pick an offensive guard this high, especially one transitioning from a three-year stint at left tackle. However, moving inside could optimize Campbell’s blocking capabilities, and given that Caleb Williams has faced an astounding 49 sacks this season, addressing the line is crucial.

12. Miami Dolphins – Derrick Harmon, DT, Oregon

The Dolphins have faced significant challenges with their pass rush lately, exacerbated by Jaelan Phillips tearing his ACL and Bradley Chubb’s ongoing recovery from a similar injury. Harmon has emerged as a first-round contender following a standout season after transferring from Michigan State. At 6-5 and 310 pounds, he could join forces with Zach Sieler and a potential 2024 first-round pick, Chop Robinson, to revitalize the defense.

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

As one of college football’s leading rushers, Jeanty is likely to be associated with his local team leading up to the draft. There’s a genuine chance he could be the second running back drafted in the top 10 since 2019, following Bijan Robinson. With his recent comments on the “Kickin’ it with Dee” podcast regarding his desire to play in Dallas, the link seems even stronger. Despite the plethora of issues facing the Cowboys, Jeanty could help rejuvenate their struggling rushing attack, which currently ranks 31st in the league.

14. San Francisco 49ers – James Pearce, DE, Tennessee

San Francisco has had its fair share of problems this season, likely leading to them missing the playoffs for the first time since 2020. Although strengthening the middle of the defensive line is essential, selecting Pearce—one of the draft’s top edge rushers—could be an enticing option.

15. Indianapolis Colts – Colston Loveland, TE, Michigan

Should the Colts continue with Anthony Richardson as their quarterback, they need to make critical adjustments to better support him. Bringing in a talented tight end could be a key move, especially since they currently rank 31st in receiving yards from tight ends with just 343. Loveland, given his speed and ability to create mismatches, could be valuable in generating yardage after receptions.

16. Tampa Bay Buccaneers – Luther Burden III, WR, Missouri

Should the Buccaneers invest further in their impressive offense, despite their defense showing vulnerability? If Burden is still available, choosing him might tempt them to focus less on defense. With Chris Godwin sidelined for the season due to an ankle injury, Burden could serve as a reliable slot receiver, capable of making significant gains off quick passes.

17. Los Angeles Rams – Shavon Revel Jr., CB, East Carolina

Following the brief experiment with Tre’Davious White and a recent acquisition of former Commanders cornerback Emmanuel Forbes, it’s clear the Rams are seeking answers for their secondary issues. Revel, despite recovering from a torn ACL sustained in September, offers the Rams a much-needed playmaker who can make an impact in the defensive backfield, especially after trading away Jalen Ramsey.

18. Arizona Cardinals – Cameron Williams, OT, Texas

This season, Arizona’s subpar pass protection has been a hindrance to their offense. Despite being relatively inexperienced as a starter this year, Williams possesses exceptional physical attributes and could pair with Paris Johnson Jr. to create a formidable tandem of tackles for the future.

19. Atlanta Falcons – Jalon Walker, OLB, Georgia

Despite recording a season-high four sacks against the Chargers, Atlanta’s pass rush remains in desperate need of improvement. They would likely benefit from making a significant addition to address this need. Walker, while not the ideal prototype at 6-2 and 245 pounds, has displayed explosive talent and determination, regularly disrupting opposing offenses in the SEC.

20. Seattle Seahawks – Jonah Savaiinaea, OT/G, Arizona

Currently leading the NFC West unexpectedly, the Seahawks still struggle to establish a strong running game, as Kenneth Walker III averages just 3.7 yards per carry and hasn’t broken the 100-yard mark since the season opener. At 6-5 and 330 pounds, Savaiinaea can bolster their line by providing options at either right tackle or guard.

21. Washington Commanders – Nic Scourton, DE, Texas A&M

Scourton is a 6-4, 280-pound defensive end with a relentless style that might not suit every scheme, yet he could attract the attention of Dan Quinn, who would likely appreciate a physical and versatile player capable of disrupting opposing offenses. If he can become more consistent, his potential for game-changing plays may warrant serious consideration from a team searching for impactful edge players.

22. Houston Texans – Kenneth Grant, DT, Michigan

With C.J. Stroud’s protection reaching critical levels, Houston might need to consider adding experienced veterans along the line instead of relying solely on rookies to develop rapidly. The Texans also face challenges defensively at the line’s interior, and the dependable Grant can provide stability while Danielle Hunter and Will Anderson Jr. continue to pressure from the edges.

23. Denver Broncos – Tyler Warren, TE, Penn State

As Bo Nix has showcased remarkable progress.

After winning three consecutive Offensive Rookie of the Week awards and with Denver averaging an impressive 36 points per game during their winning streak, both the rookie quarterback and the Broncos’ offensive unit are exceeding expectations. Providing Nix with an additional deep threat could significantly speed up his development. Since Sean Payton has demonstrated his ability to effectively utilize a dynamic tight end in his offense, much like he did with Jimmy Graham, Warren emerges as a prime candidate to enhance the receiving options further.

24. Baltimore Ravens – Shemar Stewart, DE/DT, Texas A&M

Despite achieving 41 sacks, the Ravens face challenges with their pass rush, ranking 19th in pressure rate at 21.2%, based on Pro Football Reference. The 6-foot-6, 290-pound Stewart could emulate Nnamdi Madubuike and unlock his considerable potential once he joins the Ravens.

25. Los Angeles Chargers – Walter Nolen, DT, Mississippi

Under the leadership of John Harbaugh and Jesse Minter, the Chargers boast the league’s toughest defense in terms of scoring. However, they recently allowed 57 points combined against the Bengals and Ravens. Adding Nolen, a former top recruit who impressed with 6 ½ sacks after his transfer from Texas A&M, could bolster the defensive line and reduce their reliance on Poona Ford.

26. Pittsburgh Steelers – Jahdae Barron, CB, Texas

The Steelers’ defense has seen outstanding performances across the board, except at the cornerback position, where Joey Porter Jr. has struggled with 14 penalties this season. Barron, a smart defender and reliable tackler who can be used in various roles, could fulfill the Steelers’ needs in the secondary, despite not having elite physical attributes.

27. Green Bay Packers – Tyleik Williams, DT, Ohio State

While it would be ideal for the Packers to draft a cornerback to pair with Jaire Alexander, the diminishing quality of available options means they’ll need to look in another direction. Williams is highly dependable against the run and would provide valuable depth and versatility to the Packers’ defensive front.

28. Minnesota Vikings – Deone Walker, DT, Kentucky

Could Brian Flores be interested in a massive 6-foot-6, 345-pound player? If Walker can refine his technique and become a consistent presence on the defensive line, he’d be an excellent fit for the Vikings’ front, providing the thump they need.

29. Philadelphia Eagles – J.T. Tuimoloau, DE, Ohio State

The Eagles’ pass rush has recently sprung back to life, with a strong unit keeping Lamar Jackson under pressure. Nevertheless, they will likely need to enhance their rotation next season, and Tuimoloau can disrupt opposing offenses while also being effective against the run.

30. Buffalo Bills – Landon Jackson, DE, Arkansas

Strengthening their pass rush is crucial for a team in pursuit of Patrick Mahomes. By selecting the 6-foot-7, 280-pound Jackson to join forces with the 6-foot-6, 266-pound Greg Rousseau, the Bills could form one of the tallest and most dynamic edge-rushing duos in the league.

31. Kansas City Chiefs – Josh Simmons, OT, Ohio State

With Patrick Mahomes suffering five sacks against the Raiders, the Chiefs’ left tackle dilemma became glaringly apparent, leading Andy Reid to shift left guard Joe Thuney to tackle to assist the struggling Wanya Morris. Given that Kansas City is already investing heavily in Thuney and center Creed Humphrey, while right guard Trey Smith is expected to secure a lucrative deal in the near future, it might be necessary to address this gap in the draft, especially after selecting Kingsley Suamataia in the second round this year. Simmons, who suffered a season-ending knee injury in October, was on a first-round progression before the incident.

32. Detroit Lions – Jack Sawyer, DE, Ohio State

Given their edge rush has been severely affected by a wave of injuries, Detroit certainly won’t want to find themselves short-handed next season. Sawyer, who plays with determination and physicality rather than just speed and agility, embodies the type of player that fits Dan Campbell’s vision for the team.