As the 2025 NFL Draft unfolds at Lambeau Field in Green Bay, Wisconsin, excitement continues to build among fans and teams alike. The first round concluded on April 24, with a staggering 205,000 attendees flocking to the iconic venue, setting the stage for a thrilling second day filled with anticipation and surprises.
The draft kicked off with significant viewership, drawing in 13.6 million viewers, marking the second-highest number for an opening day in NFL Draft history, just shy of the 2020 record. This year’s event has not only captivated the nation but also transformed Green Bay into a bustling hub of football fervor.
Round two began at 7 p.m. ET on April 25, broadcasted live across multiple channels including ABC, ESPN, and the NFL Network. Fans eagerly awaited the picks, particularly as several teams with pressing quarterback needs, including the Cleveland Browns, Las Vegas Raiders, and New Orleans Saints, were positioned to make moves. However, the spotlight remained on Shedeur Sanders, the highly touted quarterback from Colorado, who surprisingly remained unselected after three rounds.
Despite the buzz surrounding other quarterbacks, the Saints opted for Tyler Shough, a 25-year-old from Louisville, while the Browns surprised many by selecting Dillon Gabriel from Oregon shortly after the Seattle Seahawks picked Alabama's Jalen Milroe. Just before Milroe's selection, Sanders tweeted, "Is this the most memorable fall in NFL Draft history?" raising questions about his future in the league as the clock ticked down to the draft's conclusion.
As the draft continued, the Green Bay Packers made headlines by selecting wide receiver Savion Williams from Texas Christian University with their 87th overall pick in the third round. Williams, standing at 6-foot-4 and weighing 222 pounds, adds size and speed to the Packers' receiving corps, complementing their first-round pick, Matthew Golden, who clocked an impressive 4.29 seconds in the 40-yard dash.
Williams had a standout college career, recording 60 receptions for 611 yards and six touchdowns in his senior year, showcasing his potential to become a significant contributor to the Packers' offense. The Packers' strategy this draft has focused heavily on bolstering their offensive lineup to support young quarterback Jordan Love, who will benefit from the added firepower.
In addition to the on-field action, the atmosphere surrounding the draft has been electric, with fans enjoying various festivities at the NFL Draft Experience. From food trucks serving local delicacies to live music, the event has offered something for everyone, despite the rainy weather that characterized the day.
Local businesses have capitalized on the influx of visitors, with establishments like Little Jamaica Bar and Grill seeing a surge in customers eager to enjoy live music and a vibrant atmosphere post-draft. Meanwhile, the Kringle Combine, a competition featuring unique kringle flavors created by local celebrities, has drawn crowds eager to taste and vote for their favorite, adding a sweet twist to the festivities.
As the draft approaches its final day, fans are not only focused on player selections but also on the community spirit that the event has fostered. Many are taking part in activities such as the Booyah Battle, where local organizations compete to showcase their best versions of this beloved Wisconsin dish.
With the final rounds set to begin at noon ET on April 26, all eyes will be on the remaining prospects, including Sanders, who is still waiting for his name to be called. The anticipation is palpable as fans and analysts alike speculate on potential trades and selections that could reshape teams for the upcoming season.
As the 2025 NFL Draft continues, the excitement surrounding each pick and the stories of the players involved highlight the enduring passion for football in Green Bay and beyond. The event not only marks a pivotal moment for teams looking to strengthen their rosters but also serves as a celebration of the sport, uniting fans from all walks of life.
In conclusion, the 2025 NFL Draft has proven to be a remarkable event, filled with unexpected twists and community engagement, setting a high bar for future drafts. As the final rounds approach, the excitement is sure to reach a fever pitch, leaving fans eagerly awaiting the outcomes that will shape the future of their favorite teams.
