2025 NFL Mock Draft 1.0
Mock Master Jeremy Bissett is at it again
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See early player ratings by Hall of Football / NFL Draft Scout
2025 Round 1 Mock, Feb. 14, 2025
Tennessee Titans: Travis Hunter, Colorado, CB, 6'1", 185, JR
Team Needs: QB, CB, EDGE, WR, OT, IOL, DL
There is only one true once-in-a-generation talent in this draft—Travis Hunter. In 2023, he played over 1,100 snaps on offense and defense combined for the Colorado Buffaloes, only to shatter that mark last season with more than 1,300 total snaps. His dominance as a two-way player earned him the Biletnikoff Award as the nation’s top wide receiver, the Chuck Bednarik Award as the country’s best defensive player, the Paul Hornung Award as the nation’s most versatile player (for the second straight year), AP College Football Player of the Year and the coveted Heisman Trophy.
Cleveland Browns: Ashton Jeanty, Boise State, RB, 5'8", 210, JR
Team Needs: QB, EDGE, CB, DL, RB, WR, OT
With an assist from the 2024 Offensive Player of the Year—Saquon Barkley (2018, No. 2 selection)—whose Super Bowl-winning season with the Eagles proved that, yes, teams can rely on a running back to carry an offense to a championship in today’s NFL. As the No. 2 selection, Jeanty now finds himself among Hall of Famers Tony Dorsett (1977), Eric Dickerson (1983) and Marshall Faulk (1994), as No. 2 overall picks. This decision reflects head coach Kevin Stefanski’s track record as an OC and head coach — he wants his teams to feature a dominant rushing attack. Expect the Browns to hold off on drafting a quarterback for now, with former Alabama OC Tommy Rees in the same role for the Browns—potentially setting the stage for Alabama’s Jalen Milroe to be their QB1 of the future.
New York Giants: Cameron Ward, Miami (FL), QB, 6'3", 220, RSR
Team Needs: QB, CB, EDGE, OT, DL, IOL, WR
It was a season of Hard Knocks for the Giants. They not only refused to pay Saquon Barkley but also passed on drafting Michael Penix Jr., J.J. McCarthy and Bo Nix in last year’s draft—all while committing $40 million to Daniel Jones, who is no longer on the team. Yet, despite these blunders, GM Joe Schoen and HC Brian Daboll have somehow retained their jobs heading into the 2025 season.
Cameron Ward has begun to separate himself from Shedeur Sanders, thanks to his lightning-quick release and higher upside as a dual-threat QB. However, his gunslinger mentality can lead to careless turnovers—something Daboll has experience managing from his time as the Bills' offensive coordinator with Josh Allen.
Could Miami QB Cam Ward end up in New York? New England Patriots: Abdul Carter, Penn State, EDGE, 6'2", 249, JR
Team Needs: OT, EDGE, CB, WR, DL, IOL, LB
With Mike Vrabel back in Foxborough leading the charge, expect New England to reestablish its identity—the “Patriot Way”—built on tough, disciplined football. Abdul Carter embodies that mindset perfectly, bringing instant physicality and playmaking ability to the defense.
While Travis Hunter’s unique two-way skill set makes him the early favorite for the No. 1 overall pick, Carter’s impact on the field is undeniable. If he continues to impress through the pre-draft process, it wouldn’t be shocking to see him challenge for the top spot in final mock drafts.
Jacksonville Jaguars: Will Johnson, Michigan, CB, 6'2", 202, JR
Team Needs: CB, DL, IOL, OT, WR, S, EDGE
Legacy turned legend—that’s the story of Will Johnson at Michigan. Following in his father Deon’s footsteps to Ann Arbor, he didn’t just uphold the family name—he elevated it. Across three dominant seasons, Johnson earned All-American honors each year and was crowned the team’s Defensive MVP during their national championship run.
While he may not match Travis Hunter’s versatility, Johnson can immediately contribute as a return specialist. Now, he brings his elite playmaking skills to a Jaguars secondary that desperately needs a difference-maker after finishing dead last in pass defense, allowing 257.4 yards per game.
Las Vegas Raiders: Shedeur Sanders, Colorado, QB, 6'2", 215, SR
Team Needs: QB, WR, CB, RB, EDGE, DL, OT'
The son of Prime Time is set to take center stage under the bright lights of Vegas. With Tom Brady as a part-owner of the Raiders, Shedeur Sanders will have the opportunity to learn from the greatest quarterback of all time while stepping into a franchise in need of a true leader under center.
Sanders possesses legitimate franchise-quarterback potential. His combination of accuracy, poise and leadership—along with the ability to rise in clutch moments—makes him an irresistible pick for the Raiders at this spot.
New York Jets: Kelvin Banks Jr., Texas, OT, 6'4", 324, JR
Team Needs: OT, DL, EDGE, CB, WR, S, TE
Aaron Glenn becomes the first of two coordinators from the Dan Campbell coaching tree to implement the blueprint that helped transform the Lions into winners. That foundation begins with building a dominant offensive line—one that protects the quarterback and establishes control with a strong run game. The key question leading up to the draft is whether this pick will be Kelvin Banks Jr., the 2024 Outland Trophy winner, or Will Campbell, a decision that could be determined through Combine performances and pre-draft workouts.
Carolina Panthers: Mason Graham, Michigan, DL3T, 6'3", 318, JR
Team Needs: EDGE, WR, CB, DL, S, TE, RB
The Panthers showed progress towards the end of 2024, with Bryce Young quieting bust narratives, at least for the time being. However, their defense remained a major concern, surrendering 179.8 rushing yards per game (and an alarming 211.7 yards per game over the final three weeks). Adding Graham immediate bolsters that run defense. His ability to control the line of scrimmage and generate consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks makes him a game-changing presence in the trenches.
New Orleans Saints: Tetairoa McMillan, Arizona, WR, 6'4", 210, JR
Team Needs: EDGE, WR, CB, OT, S, TE, IOL
Coming off a Super Bowl victory as Philadelphia’s offensive coordinator, new head coach Kellen Moore will look to anchor his offense with a dependable wide receiver — no matter who lines up at quarterback. Ideally, McMillan will serve as a complement to Chris Olave, but given Olave’s history with concussions, McMillan could ultimately emerge as the focal point of the passing attack.
Chicago Bears: Will Campbell, LSU, OT, 6'6", 325, JR
Team Needs: OT, EDGE, RB, IOL, DL, WR, S
New head coach Ben Johnson, the second coordinator from the Lions' coaching staff, takes the same approach as Aaron Glenn’s Jets did back at No. 7. Johnson will prioritize protecting his franchise quarterback, last year’s No. 1 overall pick, Caleb Williams. At this point, it’s a tight race between Banks Jr. and Campbell to determine which offensive tackle comes off the board first.
LSU offensive tackle Will Campbell San Francisco 49ers: Mykel Williams, Georgia, EDGE, 6'4", 265, JR
Team Needs: OT, EDGE, CB, DL, IOL, S, LB
Hit with the dreaded Super Bowl hangover, the 49ers finished below .500 and joined 11 other Big Game losers since 1989 to watch the following postseason from the couch. The offense struggled in Christian McCaffrey’s absence, and with Deebo Samuel potentially on the trade block, that unit could take another hit this offseason.
However, the bigger issue was on the defensive side of the ball, particularly against the run. Poor tackling plagued the unit, which finished 19th in tackling efficiency. Williams provides much-needed versatility to the defensive front. He can rush off the edge from a two-point stance but also has the size and strength to put his hand in the dirt and slide inside as a 3-tech defensive tackle when needed. His flexibility makes him an ideal fit for a 49ers defense looking to regain its dominant form.
Dallas Cowboys: Luther Burden III, Missouri, WR, 5'11", 208, JR
Team Needs: RB, WR, EDGE, OT, TE, DL, IOL
Dallas hopes that Ashton Jeanty falls to them, but with Jeanty gone, they pivot for an explosive playmaker to complement CeeDee Lamb on the outside. Burden compensates for his lack of height and length with strength, elite athleticism and natural playmaking ability. He’s elusive after the catch, demonstrating great balance to maximize yards after contact. That elusiveness makes him a threat at all levels of the field.
Miami Dolphins: Malaki Starks, Georgia, S, 6'1", 205, JR
Team Needs: S, OT, DL, EDGE, TE, IOL, LB
The Miami Dolphins' 2024 season revealed a major vulnerability in their defense — the safety position. Inconsistent coverage, missed tackles, and a lack of impact plays from the position exposed the overall defense to high-powered offenses.
Starks playmaking and versatility — whether patrolling the deep middle, shifting outside to corner, or covering the slot — will give the Dolphins back end a dynamic presence in the middle to support All-Pro Jalen Ramsey. Starks could solidify the Miami secondary in a way similar to what Brian Branch did for Detroit’s.
Indianapolis Colts: Tyler Warren, Penn State, TE, 6'6", 257, SR
Team Needs: TE, S, CB, EDGE, WR, IOL, LB
With quarterback Anthony Richardson still struggling to find consistency as a passer, the Colts must give him a dependable target over the middle. Ty Warren fits that role perfectly, while also contributing as a solid blocker in the run game. The big tight end’s reliability and versatility will be a welcomed addition to the Colts’ offense.
Atlanta Falcons: Jalon Walker, Georgia, OLB, 6'2", 245, JR
Team Needs: EDGE, DL, OT, WR, CB, IOL, LB
The Falcons’ 2024 season was a tale of two halves, as they stumbled to an 8-9 finish after a promising 6-3 start. While the defense had its bright spots—allowing the third-fewest passing touchdowns (19) and ranking in the top 10 in interceptions (15) — it also had glaring breakdowns, giving up 30+ points to rookie quarterbacks Bo Nix and Jayden Daniels and over 40 points to both Sam Darnold and Bryce Young.
To become a playoff team, Atlanta must add a pass rusher who can consistently disrupt quarterbacks and improve upon a sack total (31) that ranked dead last in the league. Enter Walker, who capped off his career at Georgia with 13 sacks and 73 QB pressures, to provide the kind of edge presence the Falcons desperately need.
Arizona Cardinals: Emeka Egbuka, Ohio State, WR, 6'1", 205, SR
Team Needs: EDGE, DL, OT, WR, CB, IOL, RB
After selecting Marvin Harrison Jr. in the first round of last year’s draft, the Cardinals return to Columbus for another elite playmaker. While Egbuka has shown he can play on the outside, his skill set is best suited for the slot, where his sharp route running and ability to create separation can help quarterback Kyler Murray sustain drives.
Former Ohio State wide receiver Emeka Egbuka Cincinnati Bengals: Nic Scourton, Texas A&M, DL5T, 6'4", 280, JR
Team Needs: EDGE, WR, DL, S, CB, TE, IOL
This pick serves the Bengals well in a couple of ways. If Cincinnati manages to secure a contract extension with NFL sack leader Trey Hendrickson, Scourton provides valuable depth and a potential long-term complement on the edge. If Hendrickson is traded or turns down a deal, Scourton will be tasked with stepping in and filling the void left by an elite pass rusher. Either way, his addition helps ensure that Cincinnati fields a strong pass-rushing presence on the edge in 2025.
Seattle Seahawks: James Pearce Jr., Tennessee, EDGE, 6'4", 242, JR
Team Needs: OT, IOL, EDGE, S, QB, LB, DL
During his time as DC with Baltimore, Mike Macdonald benefited from elite defensive prospects unexpectedly falling to the Ravens in the first round, think linebacker Patrick Queen at 28th overall in 2020 and safety Kyle Hamilton at 14th overall in 2022.
History repeats itself for Macdonald, now in rainier climes, as Seattle lands a high-upside defender in Pearce, considered a potential No. 1 overall pick in preseason mocks. While Uchenna Nwosu, Boye Mafe, and Derick Hall are solid pass rushers, none possess the speed to consistently generate pressure off the edge on third downs. The rangy, athletic Pearce fills that gap, giving the Seahawks a dynamic weapon to disrupt opposing quarterbacks.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Shavon Revel Jr., East Carolina, CB, 6'2", 188, SR
Team Needs: EDGE, CB, WR, LB, S, DL, TE
Head coach Todd Bowles built his reputation on defense, so it’s a safe bet that the Buccaneers will focus on shoring up that side of the ball in the upcoming draft. Though East Carolina is not a CFB power, Revel projects as an early-round pick. His combination of length, speed, and physicality makes him well-equipped to match up on the outside against big-bodied receivers, and to defend vertical routes. While his average ball skills and eye discipline will likely keep him from generating turnovers, Revel shows a knack for blanketing receivers and disrupting plays at the line of scrimmage. With further refinement, Revel could develop into a high-level starting NFL cornerback.
Denver Broncos: Nick Emmanwori, South Carolina, S, 6'3", 220, JR
Team Needs: TE, WR, RB, S, CB, LB, OT
In the 1989 NFL Draft, the Denver Broncos used the 20th overall pick to select a 6’3”, 220-pound safety out of Arkansas. That player, Steve Atwater, would go on to earn a spot in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. While no one is handing him a gold jacket just yet, Emmanwori’s athleticism and physicality, along with Denver’s position in the draft order, do inspire a certain déjà vu. Place him in the same secondary with DPOY Patrick Surtain II and Denver’s pass defense stands to be formidable.
Pittsburgh Steelers: Walter Nolen, Ole Miss, DL3T, 6'3", 293, JR
Team Needs: WR, CB, DL, QB, RB, OT, S
The Pittsburgh Steelers have a history of tough, physical defensive fronts; adding Nolen would help restore some forcefulness to a defense that struggled down the stretch last season. Agile, mobile, with a relentless motor, the former Ole Miss standout excels at stuffing the run and creating negative plays with his combination of active hands, strength, and play recognition. He will need to develop some countermoves if he wants to make an impact as a pass rusher at the next level.
Los Angeles Chargers: Colston Loveland, Michigan, TE, 6'5", 245, JR
Team Needs: TE, DL, WR, EDGE, IOL, RB, OT
The return of the EA Sports College Football franchise in 2025 reignited excitement for the virtual game, but Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh gets to play the real-life version—developing talent in college before drafting them to his Madden team. Adding Colston Loveland would be an immediate upgrade over Will Dissly, who had his best pro season with 50 catches. Loveland’s combination of size, athleticism, and receiving ability would give Justin Herbert another dynamic possession receiver to complement last year’s draft steal, Ladd McConkey.
Green Bay Packers: Jahdae Barron, Texas, CB, 5'11", 192, RSR
Team Needs: CB, EDGE, DL, WR, OT, IOL, RB
Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian praised Barron when the corner returned for a fifth year at Texas, stating, “I think Jahdae has made himself a ton of money this year by coming back.” Now, the Green Bay Packers have the chance to cash in on his versatility.
Still feeling the sting of essentially trading Brian Branch to a division rival two years ago, the Packers land a defensive back who can play anywhere in the secondary. Barron’s willingness to step up in run support, as evidenced by his 60 tackles in 2024, adds to his value, making him a strong fit for a defense looking for playmakers on the back end.
Minnesota Vikings: Kenneth Grant, Michigan, DL1T, 6'3", 342, JR
Team Needs: CB, DL, IOL, S, RB, EDGE, OT
If you laid money on the Vikings finishing this past season with a 14-3 record, we hope you enjoy your early retirement. Quarterback Sam Darnold may have been the headline story for Minnesota in 2024, but it was DC Brian Flores’ defense that powered the team’s meteoric success. Grant showcases a rare blend of size, explosiveness and raw power. A dominant run defender—just the kind of player Flores covets — the former Wolverine standout also possesses upside as a pass rusher, making him a perfect addition to Minnesota’s revitalized defensive front.
Big man in the middle: former Wolverine lineman Kenneth Grant Houston Texans: Aireontae Ersery, Minnesota, OT, 6'6", 339, RSR
Team Needs: IOL, OT, DL, WR, EDGE, CB, TE
Whether it was injuries, inconsistency, or overly complex blocking schemes, the Texans' offensive line issues were impossible to ignore as C.J. Stroud endured 52 sacks in 17 games. With needs at both right tackle and right guard, adding Aireontae Ersery could help solidify the unit. Ersery brings size, strength, and mobility, making him a potential fit at either position. In the run game, he’s a true people mover, while his solid foundation and strong base make a reliable pass blocker — exactly what Houston needs to keep Stroud upright.
Los Angeles Rams: Wyatt Milum, West Virginia, OT, 6'6", 315, SR
Team Needs: OT, CB, LB, WR, TE, EDGE, DL
Wyatt Milum is an ideal target for a Rams team needing to protect an aging Matthew Stafford. Milum’s track record speaks for itself—zero sacks allowed in three seasons at West Virginia, a testament to his technique and consistency. Wilum is also a dominant run blocker and sports the versatility to play anywhere along the offensive line, assets that the Rams will greatly appreciate.
Baltimore Ravens: Derrick Harmon, Oregon, DL3T, 6'5", 310, RJR
Team Needs: OT, EDGE, CB, IOL, S, WR, DL
The Ravens will be looking to reinforce both the offensive and defensive lines in this draft, but will prioritize adding a dominant interior pass rusher. Harmon brings a blend of power and agility, though the former Duck’s greatest strength might be hands that deliver powerful and efficient punches to disengage from blockers. With quick-twitch explosiveness, Harmon consistently penetrates the A-gap to upset plays in the backfield, making him an ideal fit to help Pro Bowl tackle Nnamdi Madubuike man the interior. If the Ravens reunite with the venerable Calais Campbell, Harmon will have the perfect mentor to help him realize a substantial upside.
Detroit Lions: Shemar Stewart, Texas A&M, EDGE, 6'5", 281, JR
Team Needs: EDGE, DL, CB, IOL, OT, WR, S
Just when it seemed Detroit was bound for the Super Bowl, the team’s depleted defense was taken apart by Jayden Daniels in a stunning Divisional Round loss. Detroit never quite recovered from the midseason loss of DE Aidan Hutchinson, and the selection of Stewart will add both much-need depth and a forceful complement to Hutchinson who’s expected to make a healthy return in 2025. Stewart is a pocket-collapsing edge rusher with an elite blend of size and explosiveness. With the right coaching — and with Hutchinson demanding attention on the other side — Stewart could develop into an unbridled force.
Look for ex-Aggie end Shemar Stewart to end up a Lion. Washington Commanders: Jihaad Campbell, Alabama, ILB, 6'3", 244, JR
Team Needs: OT, EDGE, WR, CB, LB, IOL, DL
Even during his time as Dallas' defensive coordinator, Dan Quinn lacked a true elite inside linebacker to lead his defense. This season, he relied on an aging Bobby Wagner, who showed signs of decline — most evident when the Eagles ran wild in the NFC Championship Game. Enter Campbell, a versatile hybrid defender built for an aggressive, blitz-heavy scheme. With the athleticism to handle coverage duties and the size to shut down the run, Campbell could be the missing piece Quinn has long needed.
Buffalo Bills: Deone Walker, Kentucky, DL1T, 6'7", 340, JR
Team Needs: DL, EDGE, CB, WR, S, LB, IOL
Another season, another playoff heartbreak for Josh Allen and the Bills. Under head coach Sean McDermott and GM Brandon Beane, Buffalo has prioritized versatile defensive linemen over traditional run-stuffing nose tackles. But with some signs of NFL offenses returning to the run game, it may be time for the Bills to adjust. At first glance, Walker seems to be the perfect 1-technique to anchor Buffalo’s defensive front, as he uses his massive frame and power to clog running lanes. In a draft class lacking his unique blend of size and gravity, no other prospect fits Buffalo’s needs better.
Kansas City Chiefs: Cameron Williams, Texas, OT, 6'5", 335, JR
Team Needs: OT, DL, IOL, CB, TE, WR, RB
The Kansas City Chiefs’ offensive line struggles were on full display in the Super Bowl, as they were overwhelmed by a bigger, faster and stronger Philadelphia defensive front. In his second year with Kansas City, tackle Jawaan Taylor failed to meet expectations, and Williams would be an immediate upgrade. A plug-and-play pass protector, Williams offers scheme versatility, making him a solid fit in a Chiefs attack heavy with play-action concepts. If the Chiefs fail to retain Pro Bowl guard Trey Smith, Williams could slide inside to guard, which would be a sensible option early in his career.
Philadelphia Eagles: Mike Green, Marshall, EDGE, 6'3", 251, RSO
Team Needs: EDGE, OT, IOL, DL, WR, LB, S
The Super Bowl champs face the likely departure of linebacker Josh Sweat in free agency and the probable retirement of Brandon Graham, making edge rusher a need in this draft. Green dominated for the Thundering Herd in 2024, posting 84 tackles (23 for loss) and 17 sacks, production that has him soaring up draft boards. His explosiveness and relentless motor make him a steal for the Elgses — uhhhh, Eagels … or however Philly fans want to spell it these days.
Jints love Shedeur!