As the 2025 NFL Draft nears, trade speculation is heating up, and there’s still a wide range of opinions on this year’s top prospects. Unlike recent years, there isn’t a clear consensus, which could make for a chaotic opening night. With that in mind, here’s my final prediction for how the first round will shake out.
Draft Coverage Note: Watch Round 1 live on April 24 at 8 p.m. ET across NFL Network, NFL+, ABC, ESPN, ESPN2, and ESPN Deportes.
1. Tennessee Titans – Cam Ward, QB, Miami (Senior)
After Titans GM Mike Borgonzi’s recent comments, the secret might be out. Tennessee is ready to inject excitement into the franchise with Ward, a dynamic passer with a strong arm and mobility.
2. Cleveland Browns – Travis Hunter, WR/CB, Colorado (Junior)
The Browns can’t pass up on a player with Hunter’s two-way potential. While he can contribute on both sides of the ball, Cleveland views him primarily as a wide receiver to pair with Jerry Jeudy.
3. New York Giants – Abdul Carter, DL, Penn State
Although trade rumors surround this pick, if the Giants stay, they bolster their defensive front with Carter, giving the unit a serious upgrade.
4. New England Patriots – Will Campbell, OT, LSU (Junior)
Protecting QB Drake Maye is a priority. Campbell is a plug-and-play left tackle who can anchor the line for years.
5. Jacksonville Jaguars – Ashton Jeanty, RB, Boise State (Junior)
Insiders suggest the Jaguars are eyeing either Jeanty or WR Tetairoa McMillan here. Jeanty ranks higher on my board and brings explosive playmaking to the offense.
6. Las Vegas Raiders – Kelvin Banks Jr., OT, Texas (Junior)
With Jeanty gone, the Raiders focus on trench strength. Banks is a top-tier tackle and insurance for Kolton Miller, who’s seeking a new deal.
7. New York Jets – Armand Membou, OT, Missouri (Junior)
This pick likely came down to Membou or TE Tyler Warren. The Jets opt for Membou to finalize a long-running O-line overhaul.
8. Carolina Panthers – Mason Graham, DT, Michigan (Junior)
After striking out on Milton Williams in free agency, Carolina shores up the interior with the dominant Graham.
9. New Orleans Saints – Mykel Williams, EDGE, Georgia (Junior)
Though a QB pick is in play, the Saints go with a long, physical edge rusher who fits their prototype.
10. Chicago Bears – Tyler Warren, TE, Penn State (Senior)
With their top O-line options and Jeanty off the board, Warren gives the Bears another versatile weapon in an offense loaded with talent.
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