2025 NFL Draft: The Complete Round 1 Breakdown

The 2025 NFL Draft: A Wild Ride Begins

One round down, six to go! The 2025 NFL Draft has officially kicked off from the hallowed grounds outside Lambeau Field in Green Bay, Wisconsin. It was a night of dreams realized, fortunes shifted, and, of course, plenty of surprises. This year’s opening round started with a familiar tune – a quarterback coming off the board first, mirroring the trend of the past two drafts. But hold on tight, because the rest of the round was anything but predictable.

No. 1: Tennessee Titans - Cam Ward, QB, Miami

The Tennessee Titans, holding the coveted No. 1 overall pick for the first time since their Houston Oilers days back in 1997, played it safe (or did they?) and selected Miami quarterback Cam Ward. Ward was the expected choice, a signal-caller with the potential to revitalize the Titans' offense. But does "expected" always mean "right?" Only time will tell!

Why Ward?

The Titans desperately need a quarterback to lead them into the future. Ward offers a blend of arm talent, athleticism, and experience that made him an attractive prospect. Will he be the next great NFL quarterback? That's the million-dollar question, isn't it?

No. 2: Jacksonville Jaguars (via Trade with Cleveland Browns) - Travis Hunter, Two-Way Star, Colorado

Now this is where things got interesting! The Jacksonville Jaguars, clearly impatient, pulled off a blockbuster trade with the Cleveland Browns to snag the No. 2 overall pick. Their target? None other than the electrifying Travis Hunter, the two-way sensation from Colorado. The Jags shipped off their second-round pick (No. 36) and next year’s first-rounder to make this happen.

A Gamble Worth Taking?

Hunter is a generational talent, capable of dominating on both offense (as a receiver) and defense (as a cornerback). But trading up and giving up significant draft capital is a risky move. Will Hunter live up to the hype and justify the price tag? It's a high-stakes bet that could define the Jaguars' future.

No. 3: New York Giants - Abdul Carter, EDGE, Penn State

The New York Giants surprised many by passing on a quarterback at No. 3. Instead, they opted for Abdul Carter, a ferocious edge rusher from Penn State. Carter is a disruptive force with the potential to be a dominant pass rusher in the NFL. Did the Giants make the right call, or will they regret not addressing their quarterback situation earlier?

The Pass Rush Predicament

The Giants' defense needed a boost, and Carter provides that in spades. He's a relentless competitor with a knack for getting to the quarterback. But in a league increasingly dominated by passing offenses, can a strong pass rush alone carry a team to success?

No. 4: Washington Commanders - Will Campbell, OT, LSU

Protecting your quarterback is paramount, and the Washington Commanders clearly understand that. They selected Will Campbell, an outstanding offensive tackle from LSU, to fortify their offensive line. Campbell is a cornerstone player who can provide stability and protection for years to come.

No. 5: Cleveland Browns (via Trade with Jacksonville Jaguars) - Luther Burden III, WR, Missouri

After trading down, the Browns still landed a premium player in Luther Burden III. Burden is a dynamic receiver with the potential to be a number one target in the NFL. This helps whoever the Browns have at quarterback and could open up their offense in a big way.

Picks 6-10: The Middle Ground

Let's quickly run through picks 6 through 10 to get a better picture of how the rest of the top 10 shook out:

• No. 6: New England Patriots - Quinn Ewers, QB, Texas
• No. 7: Arizona Cardinals - Marvin Harrison Jr., WR, Ohio State
• No. 8: Atlanta Falcons - Shedeur Sanders, QB, Colorado
• No. 9: Chicago Bears - Ollie Gordon II, RB, Oklahoma State
• No. 10: New York Jets - Kelvin Banks Jr., OT, Texas

We saw some more QBs taken with Ewers and Sanders, while Marvin Harrison Jr. finally landed with the Cardinals. The Bears get their workhorse running back and the Jets continue to build the offensive line.

No. 25: New York Giants (via Trade with Houston Texans) - Jaxson Dart, QB, Ole Miss

Did the Giants change their mind about that QB? They traded back into the first round at the Houston Texans‘ No. 25 pick for Ole Miss QB Jaxson Dart! Maybe they felt pressure to get one before the round ended!

Full List of Round 1 Picks (11-32)

Here's the complete rundown of the remaining first-round selections:

1. No. 11: Denver Broncos - JT Tuimoloau, EDGE, Ohio State
2. No. 12: Las Vegas Raiders - Emeka Egbuka, WR, Ohio State
3. No. 13: New Orleans Saints - Benjamin Morrison, CB, Notre Dame
4. No. 14: Indianapolis Colts - Walter Nolen, DT, Texas A&M
5. No. 15: Seattle Seahawks - Princely Umanmielen, EDGE, Florida
6. No. 16: Miami Dolphins - Tyler Booker, OG, Alabama
7. No. 17: Minnesota Vikings - Tetairoa McMillan, WR, Arizona
8. No. 18: Pittsburgh Steelers - JC Latham, OT, Alabama
9. No. 19: Los Angeles Rams - Deone Walker, DT, Kentucky
10. No. 20: Philadelphia Eagles - Denzel Burke, CB, Ohio State
11. No. 21: Los Angeles Chargers - Mason Graham, DT, Michigan
12. No. 22: Kansas City Chiefs - Donovan Jackson, OG, Ohio State
13. No. 23: Dallas Cowboys - Tacario Davis, CB, Arizona
14. No. 24: Buffalo Bills - Barrett Carter, LB, Clemson
15. No. 25: New York Giants (via Trade with Houston Texans) - Jaxson Dart, QB, Ole Miss
16. No. 26: Tampa Bay Buccaneers - Harold Perkins Jr., LB, LSU
17. No. 27: Arizona Cardinals (via Houston Texans) - Patrick Payton, EDGE, Florida State
18. No. 28: Green Bay Packers - Nic Scourton, EDGE, Purdue
19. No. 29: Detroit Lions - Andrew Mukuba, S, Clemson
20. No. 30: Baltimore Ravens - Kenneth Grant, DT, Michigan
21. No. 31: San Francisco 49ers - Quinn Sullivan, WR, USC
22. No. 32: Carolina Panthers - Will Johnson, CB, Michigan

Biggest Surprises of Round 1

Every year, the draft throws us curveballs. What were some of the most unexpected moments of Round 1 in 2025?

• The Jaguars' trade for Travis Hunter: Trading up to No. 2 overall is always a bold move, and Hunter's unique skillset makes it even more intriguing.
• The Giants passing on a QB at #3, then trading back in for Dart: What was their reasoning?
• The number of defensive players taken: The emphasis on defense was evident throughout the round, with edge rushers and cornerbacks flying off the board.

Teams That Nailed Round 1

Which teams positioned themselves for future success with their first-round picks?

• Jacksonville Jaguars: Adding a player like Travis Hunter is a huge win, even if it came at a cost.
• Arizona Cardinals: Getting Marvin Harrison Jr. at pick 7 is excellent value.
• Washington Commanders: Fortifying their O-Line with Will Campbell is a must to protect their QB of the future.

Teams With Questionable Round 1 Decisions

Conversely, which teams might be second-guessing their choices?

• Tennessee Titans: Taking Cam Ward #1 overall might not be worth it.
• New York Giants: Their overall QB situation is confusing and the value just isn't there.

The Quarterback Carousel: Who's Next?

With four quarterbacks selected in the first round, the quarterback landscape in the NFL is constantly evolving. Which teams will be eyeing quarterbacks in the later rounds, and which young signal-callers will emerge as future stars? The QB carousel never stops spinning, does it?

Impact on the Upcoming Season

How will these first-round picks impact the upcoming NFL season? Will they be immediate contributors, or will they need time to develop? The answer to that question will shape the fortunes of their respective teams.

The Ripple Effect: How Round 1 Changes the Draft Landscape

The decisions made in Round 1 have a ripple effect on the rest of the draft. Teams adjust their strategies based on who is available, and the value of certain positions can change dramatically. It's a complex game of chess, and the first round is just the opening move.

Looking Ahead to Rounds 2-7

The draft is far from over! There's still plenty of talent to be found in Rounds 2-7. Teams will be looking to fill needs, add depth, and find those hidden gems that can make a difference down the road. Don't underestimate the power of a late-round steal!

Expert Analysis and Grades

The experts have weighed in! Let's take a look at some of the early grades and analysis of the first-round picks. Did the analysts agree with the team's decisions, or were there some dissenting opinions? The draft is always a topic of lively debate.

Conclusion: Round 1 Sets the Stage

The 2025 NFL Draft's first round was a whirlwind of excitement, surprises, and strategic maneuvering. We saw top quarterbacks find new homes, blockbuster trades reshape team rosters, and a renewed emphasis on defensive prowess. As we move into the later rounds, the journey of these young players – and the teams that drafted them – is just beginning. Get ready for more twists, turns, and unforgettable moments!

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about the 2025 NFL Draft:

1. What was the biggest surprise of the first round?

   Many analysts consider the Jaguars' aggressive trade-up for Travis Hunter to be the most surprising move. Giving up a future first-round pick is a significant gamble, highlighting their belief in Hunter's potential.

2. Which team had the best first round?

   The Arizona Cardinals, grabbing Marvin Harrison Jr., are widely considered to have had one of the best first rounds due to Harrison's high ceiling.

3. How many quarterbacks were drafted in the first round?

   Four quarterbacks were selected in the first round: Cam Ward (Titans), Quinn Ewers (Patriots), Shedeur Sanders (Falcons), and Jaxson Dart (Giants).

4. Which position was most heavily drafted in the first round?

   Edge rushers and cornerbacks were heavily targeted in the first round, reflecting the league's emphasis on pass rush and pass defense.

5. How will these rookies impact their teams in 2025?

   Some rookies, like Marvin Harrison Jr., are expected to be immediate contributors. Others may need time to develop. The impact will vary based on the player's skillset, the team's needs, and the coaching staff's plans.

Day 3 Diamonds: Shedeur Sanders Scouts 2025 NFL Draft Steals

The Waiting Game: Day 3 of the 2025 NFL Draft

So, the first three rounds of the 2025 NFL Draft are history. The big names have mostly found their homes, the highlight reels are playing, and the mock drafts are already being torn apart. But the draft is far from over! In fact, for many teams, Day 3 is where the real magic happens. Where hidden gems are unearthed, and potential Pro Bowlers are snagged in the later rounds. Two days down, and three rounds completed. This is where the real value begins.

Interestingly enough, the Cleveland Browns decided to bolster their defense with UCLA linebacker Carson Schwesinger and add some punch to their running game with Ohio State's Quinshon Judkins instead of taking a flyer on a quarterback. Was that a wise move? Only time will tell. But the Browns weren't the only team making headlines. The New Orleans Saints, facing some uncertainty with Derek Carr, opted for the experience of Louisville's Tyler Shough. Will that be enough to keep Carr on his toes?

The quarterback carousel continued to spin, with Jalen Milroe heading to the Seattle Seahawks and Dillon Gabriel joining the Browns. But what about Shedeur Sanders? Well, he's still on the board, and with that in mind, who else might be a steal as we head into Day 3? Let's dive into some of the top prospects still available, according to Sanders' own (hypothetical, of course!) scouting report.

Shedeur's Quarterback Quandary: Is He the Steal of the Draft?

Alright, let's address the elephant in the room: Shedeur Sanders himself. He's still on the board after Round 3. Why? That’s the million-dollar question, isn't it? Is it his arm strength? The competition he faced at Colorado? The "baggage" that sometimes comes with a high-profile name? Whatever the reason, one thing is clear: a team is going to get a quarterback with incredible poise, accuracy, and leadership. Don't be surprised if he becomes the steal of this draft. He has the potential to lead a franchise. Don't sleep on Shedeur. He's got the potential to be a superstar.

Potential Landing Spots for Sanders

• Minnesota Vikings: A developmental QB with a strong coaching staff could be perfect.
• Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Can Shedeur fill the big shoes of Tom Brady?
• Las Vegas Raiders: A fresh start with a team needing a spark?

Offensive Line Anchors: Building a Foundation for Success

As any good quarterback (Shedeur included!) will tell you, you're only as good as your offensive line. A strong O-line can turn a good offense into a great one. So, let's take a look at some potential Day 3 offensive line studs.

Hidden Gems in the Trenches

• Anthony Belton, OT, NC State: A powerful run blocker with room to grow in pass protection. Think of him as a diamond in the rough, ready to be polished.
• Zak Zinter, OG, Michigan: A mauler in the run game, Zinter brings a nastiness that coaches crave. Can he become a Pro Bowl guard?
• Andrew Raym, C, Oklahoma: A smart, technically sound center who can anchor an offensive line for years to come. A solid addition to any line.

Wide Receiver Wonders: Adding Explosive Playmakers

Every team needs a receiver who can stretch the field and make those highlight-reel catches. And Day 3 is a great place to find them. Here are a couple of WRs that could make an impact.

Speed and Agility: Finding the Next Star

• Jalen McMillan, WR, Washington: Excellent route runner, great hands. McMillan has the speed to challenge any corner.
• Luke McCaffrey, WR, Rice: A converted quarterback with incredible athleticism and a knack for finding the end zone. He's the kind of player who just makes plays.

Running Back Bargains: Finding the Next Day 3 Star

Sure, Quinshon Judkins got drafted, but there are plenty of other potential stars in the backfield. Let's look at some Day 3 running back bargains.

Late-Round Rushing Power

• Audric Estime, RB, Notre Dame: A bruiser with surprising agility, Estime is a workhorse back who can wear down defenses.
• Bucky Irving, RB, Oregon: Excellent pass-catcher out of the backfield, Irving is shifty and explosive. He can be a real weapon in the passing game.

Defensive Line Dynamos: Disrupting the Backfield

Defense wins championships, right? So, let's examine some potential defensive line difference-makers who could be available on Day 3.

Pressuring the Quarterback: Day 3 Options

• Gabe Murphy, DE, UCLA: Explosive pass rusher, quick off the line. He has the potential to be a double-digit sack guy.
• T'Vondre Sweat, DT, Texas: Massive run-stuffer, Sweat is nearly impossible to move off the line of scrimmage. He's a true anchor in the middle.

Linebacker Leaders: The Heart and Soul of the Defense

Linebackers are the quarterbacks of the defense. They need to be smart, athletic, and tough. Here are a couple of potential Day 3 gems.

Finding the Next Great Linebacker

• Cedric Gray, LB, North Carolina: A tackling machine, Gray is always around the ball. He's a true leader on the field.
• Tommy Eichenberg, LB, Ohio State: Physical and instinctive, Eichenberg is a run-stopping force. He can be a dominant player in the middle of the defense.

Secondary Saviors: Lockdown Cornerbacks and Ball-Hawking Safeties

In today's NFL, you need to be able to cover. So, let's take a look at some potential Day 3 defensive backs who could make a difference.

Securing the Secondary: Day 3 Defensive Backs

• Kool-Aid McKinstry, CB, Alabama: Lockdown corner, solid tackler. He can be a true shutdown corner in the NFL.
• Calen Bullock, S, USC: Ball-hawking safety, great range. Bullock has the potential to be a turnover machine.

Special Teams Specialists: The Underrated Advantage

Don't forget about special teams! A good kicker, punter, or return specialist can be the difference between winning and losing.

Special Teams Stars

• Harrison Mevis, K, Missouri: Nicknamed "The Thiccer Kicker", Mevis has a huge leg and is incredibly accurate.
• Tory Taylor, P, Iowa: A booming punter with excellent accuracy. Taylor can flip the field with his leg.

The Undrafted Free Agent Frenzy: The Next Chapter

Even after the draft is over, the work isn't done! Teams will be scrambling to sign undrafted free agents. This is where some of the biggest steals can be found.

The Importance of Versatility: Players Who Can Do It All

In the later rounds, versatility is key. Players who can play multiple positions or contribute on special teams are incredibly valuable.

The Intangibles: Character, Work Ethic, and Leadership

Coaches love players with high character, a strong work ethic, and leadership qualities. These are the guys who can help build a winning culture.

The Medical Factor: Weighing the Risks and Rewards

Medical concerns can cause players to drop in the draft. But sometimes, taking a chance on a player with a checkered medical history can pay off big time.

Trusting the Process: The Art of Scouting and Evaluation

Drafting is an inexact science. But teams that have a well-defined scouting process and trust their evaluations are more likely to find success.

Shedeur Sanders' Day 3 Draft Philosophy: Value and Potential

So, what's Shedeur Sanders' Day 3 draft philosophy? It's all about finding value and potential. Identifying players who have the raw talent and the right attitude to develop into impact players.

The Unexpected: Day 3 Surprises and Sleepers

Every year, there are players who come out of nowhere on Day 3 and make a huge impact. Who will be this year's Day 3 surprise? That's what makes the draft so exciting!

Conclusion: The Value of Day 3 in Shaping NFL Rosters

Day 3 of the NFL Draft is where teams can find the depth, the special teams aces, and the developmental players that can transform a roster. While the early rounds grab headlines, the later rounds are where championship teams are built. The best teams are always on the lookout for those diamonds in the rough. Don’t discount the hidden potential found in the later rounds. Day 3 is a critical opportunity for teams to make impactful acquisitions.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the difference between a bust and a steal in the NFL Draft?
   A "bust" is a highly-drafted player who fails to live up to expectations and perform at a high level in the NFL. A "steal" is a player drafted in a later round who significantly outperforms their draft position and becomes a valuable contributor to their team.
2. What are some key traits that scouts look for on Day 3 of the NFL Draft?
   On Day 3, scouts often prioritize traits like versatility, special teams ability, high character, strong work ethic, and any untapped potential that they can develop. Medical evaluations also play a crucial role in determining whether a player is worth taking a risk on.
3. How can I follow the 2025 NFL Draft Day 3 coverage?
   You can follow the action through live television broadcasts on ESPN and NFL Network, as well as online via the NFL's official website, various sports news outlets, and social media platforms.
4. What is an undrafted free agent (UDFA) and why are they important?
   An undrafted free agent is a player eligible for the NFL Draft who goes unselected. These players are then free to sign with any team. They are important because they represent another avenue for teams to acquire talent and often provide surprising contributions on the field. Many NFL stars started their careers as UDFAs.
5. Why do some players drop lower than expected in the NFL Draft?
   Several factors can cause a player to drop lower than expected in the NFL Draft, including concerns about their medical history, off-field issues, perceived limitations in their skillset, or simply the needs of the teams selecting ahead of them.

NFL Draft Day 2 & 3: Shedeur Sanders' Shocking Wait & Biggest Steals!

Introduction: The Draft Drama Unfolds

The NFL Draft is a whirlwind of dreams realized and expectations shattered. Round 1 grabs all the headlines, but the real work – and often, the real steals – happen on Days 2 and 3. This year was no exception, with surprising picks, head-scratching omissions, and a whole lot of quarterback drama. And speaking of drama, let's address the elephant in the room: Shedeur Sanders.

Two days into the 2024 NFL Draft, the spotlight was as much on who wasn’t picked as who was. Shedeur Sanders, the Colorado Buffaloes' star quarterback and son of NFL legend Deion Sanders, remained unselected, a fact that reverberated throughout the football world. What does it mean for his future? We'll dissect that, and much more, as we dive into the winners and losers of Rounds 2 and 3.

Shedeur Sanders: The Unpicked QB and the 2025 Question

The Shocking Omission

Did anyone predict Shedeur Sanders would be sitting on the sidelines after three rounds? Probably not. Five quarterbacks found their homes before him, including some names that raised eyebrows. Was it his playing style? Concerns about his decision-making? Or something else entirely?

Looking Ahead to 2025

All eyes are now on the 2025 NFL Draft. Sanders has a year to refine his skills, silence the doubters, and prove he’s a top-tier NFL prospect. This year could be a blessing in disguise, allowing him to mature and enter the draft with even more value. But the pressure will be immense.

Cleveland Browns: Building for the Future

A Quarterback in the Mix

The Cleveland Browns, already seemingly set at quarterback with Deshaun Watson, added another arm to the room. A smart move for long-term planning, or a sign of uncertainty under center? Only time will tell.

Defensive Additions

Beyond the quarterback pick, the Browns focused on bolstering their defense, adding potential playmakers in the secondary and along the defensive line. These picks suggest a commitment to building a well-rounded team capable of competing in a tough AFC North.

New Orleans Saints: High Risk, High Reward?

Quarterback Conundrum

The Saints used a relatively high second-round pick on a quarterback. Was it a reach? Did they panic? Or did they identify a player with true franchise potential? The success of this pick will likely define the future of the Saints' offense.

Evaluating the Value

Drafting is a gamble. Every pick is a bet on potential. Did the Saints get good value for their pick, or were there better options available at that spot? The answer won't be clear for a few years, but the pressure is on for this quarterback to perform.

Winners: Teams That Nailed Day 2 & 3

Baltimore Ravens: Consistent Excellence

The Ravens consistently draft well, finding value and talent throughout the draft. This year appeared to be no different, with several picks addressing key needs and adding depth to their roster.

Kansas City Chiefs: Reloading for Another Run

Never count out the Chiefs. They've proven their ability to identify and develop talent, and their Day 2 and 3 picks suggested a focus on maintaining their championship-caliber roster.

Los Angeles Rams: Sneaky Good Draft?

The Rams, often overlooked after their Super Bowl win, quietly put together a solid draft, addressing areas of weakness and adding potential starters at multiple positions.

Losers: Teams That Stumbled on Day 2 & 3

Teams That Reached Too Far

Some teams appeared to overvalue certain players, reaching for prospects who were projected to be available later in the draft. These gambles could pay off, but they also carry significant risk.

Teams That Ignored Obvious Needs

Failing to address glaring weaknesses on the roster can haunt a team all season long. Some teams seemed to prioritize other positions over critical needs, a decision that could come back to bite them.

Surprise Picks: The Head-Scratchers

The “What Were They Thinking?” Selections

Every year, there are a few picks that leave analysts and fans alike scratching their heads. These surprise selections can be game-changers or major busts. Only time will tell which category they fall into.

Value Picks: The Steals of the Draft

Hidden Gems Unearthed

Day 2 and 3 are where the true draft gems are often found. These are the players who slip through the cracks and end up becoming impact players for their teams.

The Importance of Day 3: Building Depth and Special Teams

Beyond the Starters

Day 3 is about more than just finding starters. It's about building depth, improving special teams, and finding players who can contribute in a variety of ways. These late-round picks can often be the difference between a good team and a great team.

Undrafted Free Agents (UDFAs): The Final Frontier

Diamonds in the Rough

The draft doesn't end on Day 3. Undrafted free agency is another opportunity for teams to add talent and find potential contributors. Many successful NFL players started their careers as UDFAs.

Conclusion: Draft Grades and Long-Term Vision

The NFL Draft is a marathon, not a sprint. It's impossible to accurately assess the success of a draft class immediately. The true winners and losers won't be known for several years. But based on the selections made on Days 2 and 3, some teams appear to be in a better position than others.

Shedeur Sanders' situation is a unique one. His decision to wait until 2025 could be a masterstroke, or it could backfire. The pressure will be on him to prove his doubters wrong and solidify his place as a top NFL prospect.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Why was Shedeur Sanders not drafted in the first three rounds?

   There are several potential factors, including concerns about his consistency, decision-making under pressure, and the depth of talent at the quarterback position in this draft.

2. What can Shedeur Sanders do to improve his draft stock for 2025?

   He needs to demonstrate improved accuracy, better pocket presence, and stronger decision-making throughout the upcoming college football season.

3. What is the significance of Day 3 of the NFL Draft?

   Day 3 is crucial for finding depth, special teams contributors, and potential developmental players who can contribute down the road.

4. How important are undrafted free agents (UDFAs)?

   UDFAs can be valuable additions to a team, often providing depth and special teams contributions. Some even develop into starters and key players.

5. How long does it take to accurately assess an NFL draft class?

   It typically takes 3-5 years to fully evaluate an NFL draft class and determine which teams made the best selections.