The countdown is on for the 2025 NFL Draft, and ESPN’s Peter Schrager has just released his first and only mock draft ahead of the big night. With the draft set to kick off on Thursday, April 24, at 8 p.m. ET, Schrager has provided insights based on the latest intel from around the league, including projections for trades and player selections that could surprise fans.
Leading off, Schrager has the Tennessee Titans selecting Cam Ward, the standout quarterback from Miami. Ward has gained significant momentum throughout the pre-draft process, showcasing his skills and leadership qualities, making him a franchise prospect for the Titans. "Ward has aced this process, and the Titans' brass is quite excited about not only the player but the person and leader they're getting," Schrager noted.
Following closely, the Cleveland Browns are projected to pick Travis Hunter, a versatile WR/CB from Colorado. Hunter, a Heisman winner, is expected to bring elite skill to the Browns' offense, providing them with a much-needed playmaker. "Hunter can be an elite defensive back from the get-go, but he also has the potential to be a top wide receiver," Schrager stated, emphasizing his dual-threat capability.
Next up, the New York Giants are set to draft Abdul Carter, an EDGE from Penn State. Known for his aggressive play style, Carter is compared to star pass rusher Micah Parsons. "Carter is an absolute menace off the edge and can also play multiple positions on defense," Schrager explained, highlighting the Giants' need for a defensive boost.
The New England Patriots are projected to select Will Campbell, an offensive tackle from LSU, to bolster their offensive line. Schrager believes Campbell will provide the protection needed for the Patriots' quarterback, stating, "Campbell is smart, tough, dependable and a leader in a position of great need."
In a surprising twist, the Jacksonville Jaguars are expected to take Ashton Jeanty, a running back from Boise State, who was the Heisman runner-up in 2024. Jeanty is described as a dynamic player who can add a new dimension to the Jaguars' offense. "He’ll add a new dimension to the Jaguars' offense," Schrager remarked.
The Las Vegas Raiders are projected to go with Armand Membou, an offensive tackle from Missouri, who has impressed throughout the draft process. Schrager noted that Membou's physical traits make him an attractive option for the Raiders as they look to strengthen their offensive line.
Meanwhile, the New York Jets are set to draft Tyler Warren, a tight end from Penn State. Warren's versatility as a player allows him to be utilized in various roles, making him a valuable asset for the Jets. "This might seem early for a tight end, but in this draft -- teams should just take their guy where they can get him," Schrager mentioned.
For the Carolina Panthers, Schrager projects Jalon Walker, a linebacker from Georgia, who is expected to make an immediate impact on defense. "A coach's son, Walker has won over every coach I've spoken to and would be a day one starter in Carolina," he said.
In a strategic move, the Indianapolis Colts are predicted to trade up with the Chicago Bears to select Colston Loveland, a tight end from Michigan. This trade would allow the Colts to secure a playmaker who can contribute to their offense right away, as Schrager highlighted the need for instant offense.
As the draft unfolds, the San Francisco 49ers are expected to select Walter Nolen, a defensive tackle from Ole Miss, who has been rising up the draft boards. Schrager believes Nolen's quickness and ability to disrupt plays will be invaluable for the 49ers' defensive line.
The Dallas Cowboys will likely take Tyler Booker, a guard from Alabama, to fill a gap left by the retirement of Zack Martin. Schrager emphasized the importance of solidifying the offensive line, saying, "Booker, a bully of a guard, could help add some much-needed beef to the Cowboys' line."
In a notable pick, the Miami Dolphins are projected to select Mason Graham, a defensive tackle from Michigan, who has been regarded as a potential top-five pick. Schrager noted, "If he falls to No. 13, this is a nice win for Miami, who would be getting a Day 1 culture changer and a can't-miss prospect."
Meanwhile, the Chicago Bears are expected to secure Kelvin Banks Jr., an offensive tackle from Texas, through a trade with the Colts. Banks has the potential to be a top tackle in this class, and the Bears would benefit greatly from adding him to their roster.
On the defensive side, the Atlanta Falcons are projected to draft Jihaad Campbell, a linebacker from Alabama, who is expected to make an immediate impact. Schrager believes Campbell's skill set will be crucial for the Falcons as they look to improve defensively.
As the draft progresses, the Arizona Cardinals are expected to take Jahdae Barron, a cornerback from Texas, who is a top prospect in this class. Schrager highlighted Barron's potential to be a game-changer in the Cardinals' secondary.
The Cincinnati Bengals are projected to select Mike Green, an EDGE from Marshall, who had an impressive season with 17 sacks. Schrager stated, "The pass rusher who led the FBS with 17 sacks last season could go even higher than this," indicating Green's rising stock.
In a surprise move, the Seattle Seahawks are expected to draft Grey Zabel, a center/guard from North Dakota State, who has been gaining traction as a top prospect. Schrager noted that Zabel's consistency throughout the draft process makes him a candidate for a top-20 pick.
As the draft nears its conclusion, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers are projected to take Tetairoa McMillan, a wide receiver from Arizona, who could complement their existing receiving corps. Schrager believes McMillan would thrive under the guidance of veteran players.
The Denver Broncos are expected to select Emeka Egbuka, a wide receiver from Ohio State, who has garnered attention for his reliability and skill set. Schrager compared Egbuka to former Buckeyes star Terry McLaurin, highlighting his potential for success in the NFL.
In a significant pick, the Pittsburgh Steelers are projected to draft Shedeur Sanders, a quarterback from Colorado, who has been making waves in the pre-draft process. Schrager noted the importance of adding a quarterback to the Steelers' roster.
The Los Angeles Chargers are expected to select Kenneth Grant, a defensive tackle from Michigan, who has been praised for his physical traits. Schrager believes Grant's experience at a big school will help him transition to the NFL.
As the Green Bay Packers look to add depth to their receiving corps, Schrager projects them to take Matthew Golden, a wide receiver from Texas. This would mark a significant move, as the Packers haven't selected a receiver in the first round since 2002.
The Minnesota Vikings are set to draft Omarion Hampton, a running back from North Carolina, who could add depth to their backfield. Schrager noted that Hampton's potential makes him an exciting addition to the Vikings' roster.
Finally, the Houston Texans are projected to select Donovan Jackson, a guard from Ohio State, as they continue to rebuild their offensive line. Schrager emphasized the importance of solidifying the protection for their quarterback.
With the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft just hours away, all eyes will be on Schrager's predictions as teams look to make impactful selections that could shape their futures.
