This 2025 NFL Mock Draft is my first attempt to predict the First Round of the 2025 NFL Draft. In mock drafts, I focus more on team fits than on player evaluations. If you want to read more about my player evaluations and descriptions, check out my preseason big board.
Editor’s note: The 2025 NFL Mock Draft by Bobby Bishop was published prior to the Week 10 NFL games. The mock draft order is based on the standings after Week 9.
As players put more on tape, evaluations change and adapt. Keep an eye out for an updated big board in the near future! Also, I will not have trades in this mock. It is too early to predict who will want to move up in the draft. Without further ado, this mock is an early view of how the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft could shake out.
2025 NFL Mock Draft | Picks 1-10
1. New England Patriots — Travis Hunter | WR | CB | Colorado
At the time of this publication, the New England Patriots control the 1st overall pick. With their franchise quarterback solidified, they may look to trade back. If no partner can be found, I think they will take Travis Hunter, the two-way superstar. Hunter has remained adamant that he can play both ways in the NFL—it’s all he knows. The Patriots could certainly use the help on both sides of the ball.
Immediately, Hunter would play opposite side of Christian Gonzalez, forming one of the best young corner duos in the NFL. On offense, Travis Hunter would be Drake Maye’s best receiving weapon. To save his long-term health and wellness, the Patriots may look to form a package of plays for Hunter offensively. It’s hard to imagine anyone could play both ways all the time at the NFL level, but Travis Hunter is one of one.
2. Jacksonville Jaguars — Will Johnson | CB | Michigan
The Jaguars fill a major need and get one of the best players in the draft in one scoop. At the moment, the Jaguars rank 31st in the league with 264.3 passing yards allowed per game. They clearly need to invest in the secondary, and Will Johnson is inarguably the best cornerback in the draft that doesn’t also play receiver. Hunter and Johnson would be a very tight battle at corner if Hunter only played defense.
Will Johnson is currently dealing with a lower body injury, but this won’t hurt his draft stock. He has refused to shut it down for the 2024 season despite the Michigan Wolverines’ struggles—a testament to his character and commitment. Will Johnson is a stud who has two pick-6’s on the season, even though quarterbacks rarely throw to his half of the field. The Jaguars could use a cornerback like Johnson that they can leave on an island against the best receivers in the game.
3. New Orleans Saints — James Pearce Jr. | EDGE | Tennessee
The New Orleans Saints snag the best edge rusher in the draft to replace future hall-of-famer Cam Jordan. I would be extremely surprised if Jordan doesn’t retire following what is now his 14th season in the NFL. His snap count has taken a huge step back this year, likely due to age and endurance, as he is now 35 years old. The Saints need a replacement and find one in James Pearce Jr.
A stat sheet scout may look at Pearce’s lack of production in 2024 and think he has fallen from grace. However, when you watch the film, you still see Pearce’s impact on the game despite a heavy dose of double teams. He has only converted 4.5 sacks on the season, but Pearce is consistently in the backfield causing havoc. The battle for the best edge rusher in the draft is becoming closer and closer, but at the moment, James Pearce Jr. is still the guy.
4. Carolina Panthers — Tetairoa McMillan | WR | Arizona
The Carolina Panthers have so many needs that it is difficult to make a selection. Even if Bryce Young is not the long-term starter, no quarterback could be successful throwing to the current Panthers’ receiving room. They need an upgrade, and they get their new “X” receiver in Tetairoa McMillan.
McMillan has already gone over 1,000 yards for the second-straight season. At 6’5”, McMillan would provide a huge target for whoever the quarterback will be for the Carolina Panthers next season. With Xavier Legette and McMillan, the Panthers would have two massive receivers in their young corp as they rebuild.
5. Cleveland Browns — Cam Ward | QB | Miami
The Browns are a talented football team with a quarterback problem. No matter where their pick ends up in the first round, they have no choice but to take a chance on a quarterback. They select Cam Ward here, who has emerged as the best quarterback in the 2025 draft class.
Ward looks like a genius for his decision to transfer instead of declaring. Many thought Ward would be a 3rd or 4th Round quarterback in the 2024 draft, but instead, he seems like the only quarterback to be a 1st-Round lock in 2025. He transformed the Miami Hurricanes into the best offense in the country. As Miami continues to win, Cam Ward will continue to have opportunities to cement himself down the stretch as the best quarterback in the draft.
6. Las Vegas Raiders — Will Campbell | OT | Louisiana State
Like the Panthers, the Raiders could definitely take a quarterback. But in this spot, I don’t think they will. Their rebuild is still a few steps away before they are ready to add a quarterback, so they go best player available and add elite offensive tackle Will Campbell. Kolton Miller will be a year from free agency in 2026, so this pick would allow them to consider trading Miller for a heavy dose of assets to jumpstart the rebuild.
Will Campbell has been a rock for the LSU Tigers’ offensive line. Since his true freshman season, Campbell has started every single game at left tackle, providing elite blindside protection. Campbell is the best offensive tackle in the 2025 NFL Draft. If the Raiders take him and keep Miller, Campbell will have to shift to the right side. However, Miller and Campbell would provide one of the best offensive tackle tandems in the NFL.
7. New York Giants — Shedeur Sanders | QB | Colorado
The New York Giants can go in many directions in the 2025 NFL Draft. They missed out on a quarterback in 2024, but here, they make sure they get one. Shedeur Sanders is the second and final quarterback in the 2025 NFL Draft who has a first-round grade in my eyes. If the Giants agree, they may reach for him.
Shedeur Sanders has a big personality that would fit this big city. Deion Sanders has referenced his son “pulling an Eli” but may not have to if Eli Manning’s old team takes Shedeur. Sanders will lean on Malik Nabers heavily if this is the case, as Nabers is the Giants’ sole elite weapon. The Big Apple would love to have Shedeur Sanders as its starting QB, and I think the feeling would be mutual.
8. Miami Dolphins — Kelvin Banks Jr. | OT | Texas
The Dolphins could use help in the trenches, and they get some with Kelvin Banks Jr. at tackle. The Miami Dolphins have struggled this season because Tua Tagovailoa missed a significant amount of time with a head injury. The Dolphins have to make protecting Tagovailoa their no. 1 priority.
Kelvin Banks Jr. moves really well for his size, which will allow him to be successful in the Dolphins’ outside zone run scheme. Banks will also hold his own in pass protection, allowing Tua Tagovailoa to have the time he needs to get the ball out. Banks is deep in the trenches of a battle with Will Campbell for the top offensive tackle in this class. Both should be top-10 picks. This draft pick would be a slam dunk for the Miami Dolphins.
9. Tennessee Titans — Abdul Carter | EDGE | Penn State
The Tennessee Titans are another team that could go in many directions, so I have them taking the best player available. The Titans’ defense is only sacking the quarterback 2.3 times a game, tied for 21st in the league. They could use a young stud off the edge.
Abdul Carter has shown much promise in his transition from a linebacker to an edge rusher this season. Despite it being a loss, Abdul Carter had one of his best games against the Ohio State Buckeyes, racking up two sacks. Carter is currently in competition with James Pearce Jr. for the top edge rusher in the draft. If it remains a tight battle, Carter will likely test better at the combine and surpass Pearce. The Tennessee Titans have many holes, but they fill one here.
10. New York Jets — Mason Graham | DL | Michigan
The New York Jets will continue to add win-now pieces until Aaron Rodgers calls it a career. I think 2025 will be Rodgers’ final year, so I’m drafting a win-now piece with that in mind. Mason Graham would start and contribute Day 1 to the interior of the Jets’ defensive line. Javon Kinlaw currently starts next to Quinnen Williams, but Kinlaw will be a free agent after this season.
Mason Graham won’t wow anyone with his stats. Defensive tackles face so many double teams on the interior, especially one of Graham’s quality. Graham was a big contributor for the Michigan Wolverines’ championship team last year, and he has continued to cause mayhem in the backfield. Alongside Quinnen Williams, Graham would help the Jets compete for best interior defensive line duo in the NFL.
2025 NFL Mock Draft – Picks 11-32
11. Dallas Cowboys — Luther Burden III | WR | Missouri
The Dallas Cowboys utilize the down year by adding an explosive receiver on the opposite side of CeeDee Lamb. While many predict the Dallas Cowboys will add Boise State’s Ashton Jeanty, I think receiver is a massive need as well. Luther Burden III would start as WR2 immediately and provide Dak Prescott another high-level option alongside Lamb.
12. Cincinnati Bengals — Nic Scourton, EDGE, Texas A&M
The Cincinnati Bengals need help on the defensive line, and they take the best pass rusher available. The Bengals are 27th in the league with only 1.9 sacks per game. They need to make the defensive line a priority in the offseason with additions on the interior and edge. Here, they take the opportunity to add an edge rusher that has been terrorizing the SEC. Scourton’s transfer from Purdue to Texas A&M has certainly paid off in making him a 1st-Round lock. With Sam Hubbard and Trey Hendrickson’s contracts expiring in 2026, Nic Scourton would be the perfect addition for the Cincinnati Bengals.
13. Indianapolis Colts — Mykel Williams | EDGE | Georgia
The Colts snag the best defensive player available. Indianapolis is currently in flux, but I think they’ll end up giving Anthony Richardson another chance to start next season. Additionally, there is not an available quarterback who is worthy of this pick. Mykel Williams would boost their defensive line. I love his versatility and ability to shift inside at times. Williams would be a huge addition to the Indianapolis Colts’ pass rush.
14. Tampa Bay Buccaneers — Emeka Egbuka | WR | Ohio State
The Buccaneers could use some youth injected into their receiver room. Mike Evans isn’t getting any younger, and Chris Godwin has dealt with many injury issues. Egbuka is the best receiver available. Emeka Egbuka is a crafty route runner who creates separation. Baker Mayfield is going to love slinging the rock in his direction.
15. Seattle Seahawks — Aireontae Ersery | OT | Minnesota
Seattle needs an upgrade at right tackle, and they have options. They could go with Emery Jones Jr. from LSU, a true right tackle, but I have them going with upside instead. Ersery is the best offensive tackle available. He is a perfectly sized prospect who has the movement skills to be an NFL caliber left tackle. I doubt that Seattle would move Charles Cross off of his proven position, which would force Ersery to switch sides. Ersery’s first start in college came at right tackle, so he is more than capable. Aireontae Ersery and Charles Cross would be one of the best, young tackle duos in the league.
16. Los Angeles Rams — Benjamin Morrison | CB | Notre Dame
The Rams add to their secondary with this draft selection. Benjamin Morrison is currently out for the season with a hip injury. I’m making this pick under the assumption that he will be back in time for the pre-draft process. If his injury is going to cause him to miss the combine and miss training camp, Morrison may return for his senior year. Ultimately, the Rams need to improve their secondary. They currently rank 23rd in the league in passing yards allowed per game. If Morrison is healthy, and the Rams make this pick, he would be a Day 1 starter at outside corner for them.
17. San Francisco 49ers — Deone Walker | DT | Kentucky
The 49ers select one of my favorite players in the draft, Deone Walker. The 49ers defensive line weakness is on the interior, where Jordan Elliot has caused only 3 pressures so far this season. Deone Walker has the ability to completely take over games at times. If the 49ers could add a defensive tackle of his ability, it’s only going to help Nick Bosa and the rest of the defense get to the opposing quarterback faster.
18. Chicago Bears — Emery Jones Jr. | OT | LSU
The Chicago Bears select the best offensive lineman available. The Bears’ offensive line has developed, but it isn’t done yet. Emery Jones Jr. is a versatile offensive lineman who has mostly played right tackle. Many analysts think that his future in the NFL is going to be at guard. I’m not sure where his future will be, but he’s a Day 1 starting offensive lineman who would improve this team. Likely beginning his career at right guard for the Bears, Emery Jones Jr. will be able to move to tackle if someone gets injured or underperforms.
19. Denver Broncos — Colston Loveland | TE | Michigan
The Denver Broncos believe in Bo Nix, who has certainly shown flashes during his rookie year. They need to make this draft all about making his life easier. I think a pass-catching tight end of Loveland’s caliber would do just that. Young quarterbacks love leaning on tight ends as their safety nets. The Broncos just don’t have that this year. Adam Trautman, their best tight end, is primarily a blocker. Adding Colston Loveland, the Denver Broncos’ offense would be a more dynamic unit.
20. Arizona Cardinals — Kenneth Grant | DT | Michigan
The Cardinals select the best interior defensive lineman available, Kenneth Grant. The Cardinals need help stopping the run. They have allowed 132.9 rushing yards per game, ranking them 22nd in the league. Someone like Grant could start right away and fill gaps. Whether edge rusher or defensive tackle, the Arizona Cardinals have to make an upgrade at defensive line their priority this offseason.
21. Los Angeles Chargers — Ashton Jeanty | RB | Boise State
The Chargers draft the best player available regardless of position. Jeanty may go much earlier than this, but analytics has devalued the running back position. J.K. Dobbins has played well for the Chargers this year, but he is a free agent. Would you rather pay a 27-year-old with an injury history or draft an All-Pro on a rookie contract? Seems like a no brainer to me. Herbert needs weapons, and Jeanty is absolutely an explosive dynamo that can impact the running and passing game. Give Ashton Jeanty 20-to-25 touches a game, and watch this offense explode.
22. Atlanta Falcons — Princely Umanmielen | EDGE | Ole Miss
The edge rushers after the top four are in an extremely tight race. With talent so similar, teams will have to make choices between production and traits; however, Umanmielen has both. Umanmielen has racked up 7.5 sacks so far this season. He is a freak athlete who can be seen squatting 700 lbs. Umanmielen is explosive off the line. For a team who is dead last in the league in sacking the quarterback (1.0 sacks per game), adding a starting edge rusher in the 1st Round is the correct choice.
23. Houston Texans — Jonah Savaiinaea | IOL | Arizona
C.J. Stroud has seemingly taken a step back during this sophomore slump. Other than a healthy receiving corp, the best way to help out Stroud would be to bolster the offensive line. Savaiinaea has potential to play anywhere on an offensive line, but guard seems to be his best fit. Savaiinaea could stop some of the interior pressure coming at Stroud, allowing the quarterback more time to surgically take apart defenses.
24. Green Bay Packers — Tyleik Williams | DT | Ohio State
Green Bay’s front office has shown a willingness over the years to invest in their interior defensive line. Devonte Wyatt, a 1st Round pick in 2022, just isn’t working out. He has a PFF grade of 58.3 on the season (ProFootballFocus). The Packers don’t have many holes, but they can help their team out by adding Tyleik Williams. Williams is a beast in the run game, eating double teams and plugging gaps. He went down with an ankle injury against Penn State, but it shouldn’t affect his draft stock.
25. Baltimore Ravens — Malaki Starks | S | Georgia
The Ravens’ secondary has allowed a whopping 280 passing yards per game, which is the worst in the league. One contributing factor is that the Ravens have had a lot of leads this year, causing many teams to pass the ball; however, their secondary hasn’t been good enough. With no cornerbacks worthy of this draft slot, the Ravens take Malaki Starks, the best safety in the draft. Starks would replace Marcus Williams, who has a potential out in his contract after this season. Malaki Starks and Kyle Hamilton would form the best, young safety duo in the league.
26. Philadelphia Eagles — Jalon Walker | LB | Georgia
Stop me when you’ve heard this before: the Eagles select a former Georgia Bulldog. Walker would be a great fit at inside linebacker for the Eagles. Zach Baun is a free agent, so the Eagles could look to draft a running mate for Nakobe Dean. Jalon Walker is a freak athlete who flies all over the field. After LSU’s Harold Perkins Jr. tore his ACL, Jalon Walker has emerged as the best linebacker in the draft.
27. Pittsburgh Steelers — Tre Harris | WR | Ole Miss
The Steelers have a massive need at wide receiver on the opposite side of George Pickens. Here, they take the best remaining receiver, Tre Harris. He has size and speed, and he has produced at a high level against talented SEC defenses. Facing teams’ second-best corner, Tre Harris will have many opportunities to be the next great Steelers wide receiver.
28. Minnesota Vikings — Tacario Davis | CB | Arizona
Nobody has jumped up and grabbed the 4th-best cornerback spot, ever since Shavon Revel tore his ACL. Davis is in competition with a few other corners for this late 1st-Round spot, but I favor Davis because of the size. You just don’t see 6’4” corners who move like he does very often. The Vikings desperately need cornerback help, so they take a shot on Tacario Davis’ upside here.
29. Washington Commanders — Jack Sawyer | EDGE | Ohio State
After the top 4, this edge class seems to be a mix of 5 or 6 very closely ranked guys. This tier will be pick your poison for NFL GMs. I have the Commanders taking Jack Sawyer, even though the last Ohio State edge rusher they took didn’t work out so well. Sawyer rushes with a lot of strength, often able to bull rush his blocker. He would immediately be the Commanders’ new best edge rusher.
30. Buffalo Bills — J.T. Tuimoloau | EDGE | Ohio State
With the Von Miller experiment likely over after this season, Buffalo is going to add edge rushers in the offseason. J.T. Tuimoloau would be a great addition. Even though he has never lived up to the hype as the number 2 player in the class of 2021, Tuimoloau has put together a solid college career. His athleticism is going to show up big time at the combine. The Buffalo Bills would be glad to add an edge rusher of his physical makeup and caliber this late in the 1st Round.
31. Detroit Lions — Kyle Kennard | EDGE | South Carolina
The run on edge rushers continues with the Lions prioritizing production in their choice. Kennard has impressive burst off the line and bend around offensive tackles. His choice to leave Georgia Tech for the SEC has paid off as Kennard currently leads the SEC in sacks per game. Once Aidan Hutchinson is healthy, he and Kennard will torment NFL quarterbacks for years to come.
32. Kansas City Chiefs — Cameron Williams | OT | Texas
It’s rare that a talented player at a premium position is still available this late in the draft. Kansas City takes advantage by drafting the rising right tackle in the late first round. With Josh Simmons’ knee injury, Williams has leapfrogged Ohio State’s left tackle to become the best offensive tackle available. With Patrick Mahomes making so much money, the Chiefs have to add expensive positions through the draft to take full advantage of the rookie contracts.
Notable Prospects Remaining
There are many important prospects still available who could rise into the first round. The best remaining quarterbacks are Jalen Milroe (Alabama), Garrett Nussmeier (LSU), Quinn Ewers (Texas), and Carson Beck (Georgia) after only two were selected in the first round. Some of the best running backs still available include Quinshon Judkins (Ohio State), Omarion Hampton (North Carolina), Treyveon Henderson (Ohio State), and Kaleb Johnson (Iowa).
Kyren Lacy (LSU), Evan Stewart (Oregon), and Isaiah Bond (Texas) are notable receivers not selected in my First Round mock. Tyler Warren (Penn State) is the best tight end that didn’t make it into the Top 32. The offensive tackles that missed the cut are Josh Simmons (Ohio State), Blake Miller (Clemson), and Wyatt Milum (West Virginia). Tyler Booker (Alabama) is the best interior offensive lineman who wasn’t selected in the 1st Round.
On defense, Donovan Ezeiruaku (Boston College) and Landon Jackson (Arkansas) are the two edge rushers that barely missed the 1st Round. The defensive tackle that wasn’t picked is Walter Nolen (Ole Miss). Harold Perkins Jr. (LSU) is the best unselected linebacker, with his torn ACL causing some unknowns about his draft position. Shavon Revel Jr. (East Carolina) and Denzel Burke (Ohio State) are the notable cornerback prospects that were left out. Finally, Nick Emmanwori (South Carolina) is the best safety in the draft still remaining, entering the 2nd Round.
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If you enjoyed my 2025 NFL Mock Draft, be sure to check out our College Content Director Tristan Cook‘s 2025 Rookie Big Board that was also recently released:
