The 2025 NFL Draft wrapped up Saturday, April 26, 2025, with a whirlwind of selections that left fans buzzing and analysts scrambling to assess the outcomes. The most talked-about storyline of the draft was undoubtedly the surprising fall of Colorado quarterback Shedeur Sanders, who was drafted by the Cleveland Browns with the 144th overall pick in the fifth round.
Sanders, once a highly touted prospect projected to go in the first round, faced a shocking slide through the earlier rounds. Analysts and fans alike were left scratching their heads as other quarterbacks, such as Tyler Shough, Jalen Milroe, and Dillon Gabriel, were selected before him. This unexpected turn of events sparked a flurry of reactions across social media, with current NFL stars like Patrick Mahomes and Budda Baker expressing their disbelief that Sanders remained undrafted for so long.
Despite the long wait, the Browns' decision to trade up for Sanders signals their confidence in his potential. General Manager Andrew Berry emphasized that the draft is not just about immediate needs but about long-term planning. The addition of Sanders adds a new dynamic to the Browns' quarterback room, which already includes Dillon Gabriel, selected in the third round.
In addition to Sanders, several other notable quarterbacks found their new homes on the final day of the draft. Notre Dame's Riley Leonard was picked by the Indianapolis Colts, while Ohio State's Will Howard landed with the Pittsburgh Steelers. Texas' Quinn Ewers, who had been a highly anticipated prospect, was ultimately selected by the Miami Dolphins in the seventh round.
As the draft unfolded, the New England Patriots made headlines by concluding their selection process with Memphis defensive back Kobee Minor, who was chosen as Mr. Irrelevant with the 257th pick. The Patriots made significant moves on Day 3, focusing on defense and special teams after a proactive start that saw them select key offensive players in earlier rounds.
The Patriots' first four picks included LSU left tackle Will Campbell, Ohio State running back TreVeyon Henderson, Washington State wide receiver Kyle Williams, and Georgia center Jared Wilson. On Day 3, they shifted gears, selecting defensive players with their first three picks, including the first kicker off the board, Miami's Andres Borregales, and a long snapper, Vanderbilt's Julian Ashby.
Meanwhile, the Detroit Lions surprised many by trading up to grab LSU guard Miles Frazier with the 171st overall pick and followed it up by selecting Boise State edge rusher Ahmed Hassanein in the sixth round. The Lions' strategy of moving up in the draft reflects their commitment to strengthening their roster as they look to compete in the upcoming season.
Other teams also made significant selections, including the Philadelphia Eagles, who picked Kyle McCord, and the Dallas Cowboys, who added running back Jaydon Blue. The Miami Dolphins continued to bolster their squad by selecting running back Ollie Gordon II and cornerback Jason Marshall Jr.
The draft concluded with a total of 257 players selected, marking a historic event filled with surprises, trades, and standout performances. A total of 13 quarterbacks were drafted, showcasing the depth of talent at the position this year.
As the dust settles on the 2025 NFL Draft, teams will turn their attention to training camps and the upcoming season. The intrigue surrounding Shedeur Sanders will undoubtedly continue as he embarks on his professional career with the Browns, and fans will be eager to see how he develops alongside other promising quarterbacks.
With the draft now in the rearview mirror, the focus shifts to the teams' preparations for the upcoming season, where the impact of these new additions will soon be tested on the field.
