As the anticipation builds for the 2025 NFL Draft, which kicks off on Thursday, April 24, in Green Bay, teams are finalizing their strategies and scouting reports. The Tennessee Titans, holding the coveted No. 1 overall pick, are expected to select a quarterback to spearhead their rebuilding efforts after a disappointing 3-14 season. With their quarterbacks posting a league-worst 57.2 PFF passing grade in 2024, the choice seems clear: Miami (Fla.) QB Cam Ward or Shedeur Sanders from Jackson State.
Ward has emerged as the favorite, showcasing a remarkable rise from a zero-star recruit to a potential top draft pick. He led all draft-eligible quarterbacks in 2024 with an impressive 92.9 overall grade and excelled in passing accuracy when kept clean, scoring a 94.1. His unconventional delivery may raise eyebrows, but his ability to stretch the field and make big plays has earned him high praise. According to PFF, "Ward’s meteoric rise has been nothing short of remarkable."
On the other hand, Shedeur Sanders has also made a strong case for himself. With a solid throwing motion and poise under pressure, Sanders finished second among qualifying quarterbacks in adjusted completion rate at 81.8% and had a low turnover-worthy play rate of 1.3%. He is rated as PFF’s QB2 and is expected to be a first-round pick as well.
While the Titans are heavily leaning towards a quarterback, there are whispers that they might consider going in a different direction. Travis Hunter, the top overall prospect on the PFF big board, is a tantalizing option. Hunter's dual-threat capabilities as a wide receiver and cornerback make him a unique talent. His explosive playmaking ability and elite ball skills could make a significant impact on either side of the ball.
Additionally, Abdul Carter, a standout edge rusher from Penn State, is also on the Titans' radar. Carter ranked in the 97th percentile in PFF pass-rush grade against true pass sets and in the 98th percentile for pass-rush win rate, showcasing his potential to be a game-changer in the NFL. As the Titans ponder their options, they could also explore trading down to acquire more picks and address multiple needs across their roster.
Looking at the rest of the draft, the Cleveland Browns are projected to make a splash with their second overall pick by selecting Colorado WR/CB Travis Hunter. Browns general manager Andrew Berry referred to Hunter as a "unicorn," emphasizing his versatility and potential to enhance both the offense and defense.
Following the Browns, the New York Giants are expected to bolster their defense with Penn State edge Abdul Carter at the third pick. Carter's length and raw talent could make him a cornerstone for the Giants' defensive line, pairing him with Brian Burns Jr. and Kayvon Thibodeaux.
The New England Patriots, sitting at the fourth pick, are in a tricky position. They may be forced to select LSU OT Will Campbell, a player they might consider overdrafting, as they seek to protect their quarterback, likely Drake Maye, in the upcoming season.
At the fifth pick, the Jacksonville Jaguars are projected to select Ashton Jeanty, who has garnered significant attention for his impressive performances. Jeanty’s blend of balance, vision, and receiving ability makes him a perfect fit to complement Trevor Lawrence as the team looks to bolster its offensive weapons.
As the draft unfolds, teams like the Chicago Bears, San Francisco 49ers, and Dallas Cowboys are also gearing up to make pivotal selections. The Bears are expected to address their offensive line by selecting Texas OT Kelvin Banks Jr., while the 49ers are projected to pick Michigan CB Will Johnson to help rebuild their secondary.
The Cowboys, needing another wide receiver to support Dak Prescott, are projected to select Arizona WR Tetairoa McMillan, who has the potential to make an immediate impact.
As the first round approaches, the excitement is palpable. Teams are wrestling with their choices, and fans are eager to see how their franchises will shape their futures. With so much talent on the board, including potential franchise quarterbacks, dynamic playmakers, and game-changing defenders, the 2025 NFL Draft promises to be a spectacle of talent and strategy.
In summary, the Titans are set to make a monumental decision at the top of the draft. Will they select Cam Ward to lead their rebuild, or could they opt for the electrifying Travis Hunter or the powerful Abdul Carter? Whatever the outcome, one thing is certain: the 2025 NFL Draft will be a pivotal moment for many franchises as they look to build their teams for the future.
