The 2025 NFL Draft officially kicked off on April 24, 2025, in Green Bay, and the Tennessee Titans made headlines by selecting quarterback Cam Ward with the No. 1 overall pick. This highly anticipated move has been a topic of discussion for weeks, and it marks a significant step in the Titans' efforts to rebuild after a disappointing season. Ward, who earned the highest PFF grade for quarterbacks in college football last season at 92.9, brings a big-play mentality and is expected to revitalize Tennessee's passing game, which ranked dead last in PFF passing grade last season.
Ward's selection was met with mixed reactions, as some analysts believe the Titans may have missed an opportunity to draft other top prospects like Travis Hunter or Abdul Carter. However, Titans coach Brian Callahan expressed confidence in Ward's abilities, noting his impressive football IQ and playmaking skills. "He has the arm talent, intelligence, ball placement, and ability to extend plays to be a standout NFL starter," said Callahan.
Following the Titans' pick, the Jacksonville Jaguars made a bold move, trading up to secure Travis Hunter, a versatile player who can excel as both a wide receiver and cornerback. Hunter, who was the top player on the PFF Big Board, earned impressive grades in both positions, showcasing his unique talent. "Hunter is one of the most unique talents to ever come into the NFL," said one analyst. "His ability to impact both sides of the ball makes him a generational prospect."
As the draft continued, the New York Giants made headlines by selecting Abdul Carter, a standout edge rusher from Penn State, with the third overall pick. Carter's explosive first step and pass-rushing ability earned him high praise, and he is expected to make an immediate impact alongside the Giants' already formidable defensive front. The Giants' decision to bolster their defense was seen as a strategic move, especially after adding veteran quarterbacks Russell Wilson and Jameis Winston in free agency.
The New England Patriots followed suit by selecting Will Campbell, an offensive tackle from LSU, to help protect their young quarterback, Drake Maye. Campbell's strong performance in college, where he allowed only one sack last season, made him a valuable addition to the Patriots' offensive line.
Other notable picks included the Cleveland Browns selecting Mason Graham, a defensive tackle from Michigan, and the Las Vegas Raiders opting for Ashton Jeanty, a running back from Boise State. Jeanty, who led the nation in rushing yards and touchdowns, is expected to be a game-changer for the Raiders, who struggled in the running game last season.
The New York Jets made a smart choice by drafting Armand Membou, an athletic tackle from Missouri, who is expected to fill the void at right tackle. Membou's impressive pass-blocking grades and physical play style make him a promising addition to the Jets' offensive line.
The Carolina Panthers selected Tetairoa McMillan, a wide receiver from Arizona, to provide their quarterback, Bryce Young, with a downfield threat. McMillan's size and catch radius make him an exciting target, and he is expected to complement the Panthers' offense well.
The New Orleans Saints added Kelvin Banks, a left tackle from Texas, to strengthen their offensive line, while the Chicago Bears selected Colston Loveland, a tight end from Michigan, to enhance their passing attack. Loveland's versatility and receiving skills should prove beneficial for the Bears as they look to develop their young quarterback, Caleb Williams.
The San Francisco 49ers chose Mykel Williams, an edge rusher from Georgia, to bolster their defensive line. Williams's physical tools and potential make him a valuable asset as the 49ers look to rebuild their defense.
Meanwhile, the Dallas Cowboys made a solid pick in Tyler Booker, an offensive guard from Alabama, who is expected to provide stability and strength to their offensive line. The Miami Dolphins opted for Kenneth Grant, a defensive tackle from Michigan, to address their need for interior strength.
The Indianapolis Colts focused on their offense by selecting Tyler Warren, a tight end from Penn State, who is regarded as one of the best prospects at his position. Warren's ability to block and catch passes makes him a valuable addition for the Colts.
The Atlanta Falcons made a strategic move by selecting Jalon Walker, an edge rusher from Georgia, to improve their pass rush. Walker's athleticism and versatility should help the Falcons generate more pressure on opposing quarterbacks.
The Arizona Cardinals added Walter Nolen, a disruptive defensive tackle from Ole Miss, while the Cincinnati Bengals selected Shemar Stewart, a versatile defensive lineman from Texas A&M. Stewart's potential and athleticism make him an intriguing addition to the Bengals' defensive front.
The Seattle Seahawks picked Grey Zabel, a versatile offensive lineman from North Dakota State, who is expected to provide depth and flexibility along the line. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers chose Emeka Egbuka, a wide receiver from Ohio State, to strengthen their receiving corps.
The Denver Broncos selected Jahdae Barron, a cornerback from Texas, to bolster their secondary, while the Pittsburgh Steelers added Derrick Harmon, a defensive tackle from Oregon, to enhance their defensive line. The Los Angeles Chargers picked Omarion Hampton, a running back from North Carolina, who is expected to bring a dynamic presence to their backfield.
The Green Bay Packers made a smart move by selecting Matthew Golden, a speedy wide receiver from Texas, who should provide an immediate deep threat for quarterback Jordan Love. The Minnesota Vikings rounded out the first round by selecting Donovan Jackson, a guard from Ohio State, to strengthen their offensive line.
As the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft came to a close, analysts and fans alike eagerly anticipated the next rounds, where more talent and potential stars are expected to be selected. The excitement surrounding this year's draft is palpable, and teams are hopeful that their selections will lead to a brighter future.
