2025 NFL mock draft: Travis Hunter rises all the way to top of first round
With the conclusion of the first month of the NFL season, it’s time to revisit our mock draft predictions.
The landscape of the league is still very much in flux as teams continue to hold onto hopes for a successful season and the draft order is yet to solidify. However, as team standings begin to crystallize, organizations and fans alike will soon confront the realities of their seasons. This scenario is prompting many to glance ahead toward the upcoming draft.
With that in mind, here’s YSL News Sports’ current projection for the 2025 NFL mock draft, with the first-round order determined by team records and strength of schedule tiebreakers available via Tankathon.com:
1. Jacksonville Jaguars – Travis Hunter, WR/CB, Colorado
The question remains: is he a wide receiver or a cornerback? For the Jaguars, is it really a concern? Hunter has proven to be the most electrifying player in college football, showcasing his unique ability as a dual-threat who can change the course of a game with a single play. If he takes on the receiver role—potentially the smarter choice considering the lucrative contracts at that position—he could play a crucial part in reinvigorating Trevor Lawrence’s game amid some struggles. Conversely, as a cornerback, his big-play instincts could significantly enhance the Jaguars’ underwhelming defense. While typically, quarterbacks and pass rushers dominate the top draft picks, Hunter’s exceptional skills could propel him to the first overall spot.
2. Miami Dolphins – Will Johnson, CB, Michigan
The Dolphins find themselves amid uncertainty, facing the prospect of a challenging season unless Tua Tagovailoa can return swiftly from another concussion. Given the precarious situation, Miami needs to focus on acquiring the best talent available rather than simply filling immediate needs. Standing at 6’2″ and 200 pounds, Johnson has been impressive since his freshman year at Michigan, showcasing his skills as potentially the most well-rounded cornerback prospect in years. Drafting him would mark a significant milestone, making him the highest-drafted cornerback in the common draft era, surpassing notable players like Jeff Okudah and Shawn Springs. Bringing in a potential shutdown corner opposite Jalen Ramsey could prove invaluable for Miami.
3. New England Patriots – Tetairoa McMillan, WR, Arizona
Jerod Mayo appears hesitant to throw Drake Maye into the mix with the current state of the Patriots’ offense. However, a change is necessary, which means Eliot Wolf has to ramp up efforts to enhance the offense. McMillan, standing tall at 6’5″ and weighing 212 pounds, would offer Maye a reliable target capable of outmuscling defensive backs and reigniting the struggling downfield offense.
4. Cincinnati Bengals – Mason Graham, DT, Michigan
Despite concerns about Ja’Marr Chase’s contract negotiations and Tee Higgins possibly leaving after this season, a pressing issue for the Bengals has been their underperforming defense. Currently, they rank tied for 27th, allowing an average of 26 points per game. Among defensive prospects, Graham stands out as a potential game-changer. He has a knack for disrupting plays in the backfield and pursuing quarterbacks, which could be a great asset for Lou Anarumo’s defensive scheme. He would also reunite with his former Michigan teammate, Kris Jenkins Jr., who the Bengals picked in the second round this year.
5. Cleveland Browns – Will Campbell, OT, LSU
Deshaun Watson has been sacked 19 times over four games, threatening to surpass David Carr’s single-season record of 76 sacks. While one new lineman won’t solve all the issues—especially in a struggling offense—the need for a solid protection plan is evident. Campbell may face challenges against quicker pass rushers but has shown a strong ability to remain composed and composed in his blocks. This could be what Cleveland needs at left tackle, especially with Jedrick Wills Jr. being injury-prone and set to enter free agency after this season.
6. Tennessee Titans – Quinn Ewers, QB, Texas
With the quarterback draft landscape appearing uncertain—particularly after last year’s influx of top signal-callers—it makes sense for Tennessee to explore available options. Will Levis has struggled with turnovers, posting a league-high nine in just 13 quarters of play this year (six interceptions and three fumbles lost). Ewers is still refining his aggressive playing style, but he has been improving at the start of this season before dealing with an abdominal strain. Possessing a powerful arm and a knack for play-making, Ewers could add an explosive dimension to the Titans’ passing game while offering a more flexible option at quarterback.
7. Carolina Panthers – Shedeur Sanders, QB, Colorado
Shifting to Andy Dalton has sparked some much-needed momentum.
For this franchise, remaining in a state of uncertainty at quarterback will not help alleviate the disappointment of the regrettable Bryce Young selection. If Carolina is looking for another young quarterback, Sanders’ ability to thrive despite challenging situations might make him a good candidate for a franchise that is still working on its offensive strategy. However, considering Deion Sanders’ warning about keeping his son away from teams the family does not favor, Carolina’s unfortunate history in recent years could be a significant concern.
8. Los Angeles Rams – Kelvin Banks Jr., OT, Texas
The Rams are difficult to gauge due to their lack of personnel at the beginning of the season. Nevertheless, their offensive line appears to be far from stable, even when fully healthy. Banks exhibits all the qualities of a top-tier pass protector, thanks to his intelligence and footwork.
9. Arizona Cardinals – James Pearce, DE, Tennessee
In his second year at the helm of the Arizona Cardinals, following a record-setting 70 sacks with the Philadelphia Eagles in 2022, Jonathan Gannon still lacks a genuine pass-rushing threat. Pearce, with his remarkable explosiveness and flexibility, could finally provide the defense with a player who has the potential to rack up double-digit sacks.
10. New York Giants – Carson Beck, QB, Georgia
This matchup topped our first 2025 mock draft back in April. While Beck’s performance during a game with four turnovers against Alabama shouldn’t be overly scrutinized, demonstrating better composure under pressure will be crucial for his draft prospects. Quarterbacks measuring 6-4 and 220 pounds, with strong arms and accuracy, usually receive favorable consideration from teams. The Giants should consider how to maximize Malik Nabers’ potential, and bringing in Beck could foster a strong long-term partnership.
11. Indianapolis Colts – Benjamin Morrison, CB, Notre Dame
General Manager Chris Ballard is looking for a breakthrough from his young cornerbacks, but there’s no indication that one is coming soon, especially with 2023 second-round pick JuJu Brents sidelined for the season due to a knee injury. Although Morrison’s size (6-0, 190 pounds) and speed are not typical of what Ballard usually seeks, his calm demeanor and ability to create turnovers (nine in the last two seasons) should be very appealing.
12. Los Angeles Chargers – Abdul Carter, DE/OLB, Penn State
The Chargers did not pursue a complete overhaul of their expensive pass-rush unit this past offseason, but significant changes are likely coming. Khalil Mack, who turns 34 in February, is in the last year of his contract, while Joey Bosa is facing a staggering $36.5 million cap hit in 2025. A wise move would be to look to Carter, who has drawn high praise and comparisons to former Penn State standout Micah Parsons due to his exceptional ability to pursue quarterbacks.
13. New Orleans Saints – Mykel Williams, DE, Georgia
With Carl Granderson delivering impressive results and solid depth in their roster, the Saints may not seem like a team needing a premier edge rusher. However, with Chase Young on track to be a free agent again this offseason and eight-time Pro Bowler Cameron Jordan transitioning into a backup role at age 35, New Orleans could benefit from looking past Williams’ relative inexperience and see his outstanding athletic abilities, securing a defensive end with significant potential.
14. Dallas Cowboys – Luther Burden III, WR, Missouri
The top-scoring offense from last season is struggling to regain its former explosiveness, with CeeDee Lamb being the lone skill position player making an impact. While one player alone won’t be a solution, Burden represents one of the best options for the draft. At 5-10 and 211 pounds, he has drawn comparisons to Deebo Samuel due to his strength and ability to evade tackles, making him a serious threat after the catch, as well as vertically.
15. Chicago Bears – Deone Walker, DT, Kentucky
Gervon Dexter Sr. has shown promise this season for the Bears, recording three sacks in four games. However, if Walker is available, head coach Matt Eberflus and GM Ryan Poles might struggle to pass up on the 6-6, 345-pound defensive tackle, whose blend of raw power and pursuit ability could dramatically enhance the front line of the defense.
16. Green Bay Packers – Jonah Savaiinaea, OT/G, Arizona
Does this move seem familiar? After selecting Jordan Morgan to bolster their offensive line last year, the Packers might return to the Wildcats’ talent pool. With experience playing both right guard and right tackle, the sturdy Savaiinaea would further bolster Green Bay’s mission to maximize their promising young offensive talent.
17. San Francisco 49ers – Malaki Starks, S, Georgia
With one of the most well-rounded rosters in the league, the 49ers can afford to take risks that others cannot. Even if safety is not the most urgent need for San Francisco, Starks makes a compelling case for being among the top 10 players in this draft class, thanks to his versatile and impressive athletic capabilities.
18. Baltimore Ravens – Emery Jones Jr., OT, LSU
Inconsistent offensive line performance has been the primary challenge hindering Baltimore’s offensive success, despite a resurgence in the last two weeks following an 0-2 start. Although his recruitment may require some reorganization of a unit that might be losing veteran left tackle Ronnie Stanley, who is in the last year of his contract, Jones could be a powerful addition capable of creating even more opportunities for Lamar Jackson and Derrick Henry in the running game.
19. Philadelphia Eagles – Nic Scourton, DE, Texas A&M
What once appeared to be a robust group of edge rushers now seems uncertain, as Philadelphia has managed only six sacks over the course of four games. The 6-4, 285-pound Scourton has continued his strong performance since transferring from Purdue, racking up three sacks and showcasing a devastating spin move over four games.
20. New York Jets – Colston Loveland, TE, Michigan
If Aaron Rodgers sticks to his intention of playing beyond this current season, the New York Jets should remain focused on winning now for their star quarterback. To further bolster Rodgers’ supporting cast, the team may consider drafting Loveland, who can serve as a significant weapon for the Jets in their passing game.
21. Las Vegas Raiders – Ashton Jeanty, RB, Boise State
Although the Raiders would greatly benefit from acquiring an elite quarterback prospect, they are not in a position to secure one of this year’s top passers. Nonetheless, they can enhance their rushing attack. Jeanty boasts an impressive average of 10.3 yards per carry along with 13 touchdowns this season, showcasing his talent to fend off defenders due to his strength, balance in contact, and agility. With the Raiders having the 31st-ranked running game struggling to make progress, Jeanty could help reinvent their offensive approach.
22. Denver Broncos – Emeka Egbuka, WR, Ohio State
Bo Nix is working through his inaugural year as a starter, but major adjustments are necessary in the offseason to promote his development. Egbuka is rebounding well this season after recovering from an ankle injury incurred in 2023; the 6-1, 205-pound receiver is becoming a smooth and refined option, greatly benefiting Nix and the Broncos’ overall offense.
23. Atlanta Falcons – Tyleik Williams, DT, Ohio State
After making a significant effort in enhancing their stagnant pass rush with the addition of Matthew Judon, the Falcons still need more support in their defensive line. Williams excels in stopping the run and disrupting the quarterback, making him a valuable addition to a defense that is preparing for the future beyond Grady Jarrett and David Onyemata, both of whom are 31.
24. Detroit Lions – JT Tuimoloau, DE, Ohio State
Adding a Buckeye opposite a Wolverine – especially in Michigan – typically leads to exciting outcomes. In this instance, it might spell trouble for rival teams. Tuimoloau’s instincts as a pass rusher and his strength against the run would make him an excellent counterpart to Aidan Hutchinson.
25. Washington Commanders – Princely Umanmielen, DE, Mississippi
Despite the impressive rebuild led by Dan Quinn and Adam Peters, highlighted by rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels’ remarkable start, the Commanders’ lacking edge rush could hinder their progress without a significant upgrade. Umanmielen’s swift first step and explosive movements allow him to challenge offensive tackles, presenting the dynamic boost the unit needs.
26. Buffalo Bills – Denzel Burke, CB, Ohio State
Buffalo’s defense has managed to perform well this season despite adverse circumstances from injuries and salary cap issues—except for last week’s loss to the Ravens. Adding a versatile cornerback like Burke would better equip the secondary to take on top contenders such as the Chiefs and Texans, who are likely to remain significant competition in the AFC for the foreseeable future.
27. Seattle Seahawks – Harold Perkins Jr., LB, LSU
At just 6-1 and 225 pounds and recovering from a recent torn ACL, Perkins may become a controversial prospect for NFL teams. However, his knack for playmaking could be eagerly utilized by Mike Macdonald, whose complex defensive schemes could position the adaptable linebacker in various roles to enhance the team’s overall disruption.
28. Pittsburgh Steelers – Shavon Revel Jr., CB, East Carolina
Similar to Perkins, Revel is recovering from a torn ACL, which could impact his draft position. Nevertheless, Steelers GM Omar Khan has taken chances on injury-prone players in the past, and Revel’s aggressive playing style would likely resonate well with Mike Tomlin and the Pittsburgh fans.
29. Houston Texans – Kenneth Grant, DT, Michigan
The pairing of Danielle Hunter and Will Anderson Jr. is likely one of the most daunting defensive duos in the NFL. However, the team still needs additional support in the middle. While Grant is still refining his technique in his first full year as a starter, his size and surprising quickness for a 6-3, 340-pound player make him difficult for blockers to manage.
30. Tampa Bay Buccaneers – Jalon Walker, OLB, Georgia
Though Walker’s statistics (15 tackles, 1.5 sacks) may not stand out, his capability to generate pressure is evident to any viewers this season. The 6-2, 245-pounder may require a creative approach to maximize his potential in the NFL, but with Todd Bowles at the helm, that will likely not be an issue.
31. Minnesota Vikings – Tacario Davis, CB, Arizona
Brian Flores has effectively neutralized opponents this season through his diverse blitz-heavy strategy. The possibilities for expanding his defense become more favorable with a 6-4, 190-pound ball magnet who can fortify the secondary.
32. Kansas City Chiefs – Tyler Booker, G, Alabama
There are limitations to how much a top contender can invest in its interior offensive line, especially since the Chiefs decided to appoint Creed Humphrey as the NFL’s highest-paid center during the offseason. This decision may suggest that Trey Smith could be on the verge of departing for a more lucrative free agency opportunity, as well as Joe Thuney, who has just one year left on his current contract. Booker could seamlessly step into Smith’s role as a powerful lineman.