SPORTS
The 2025 NFL Draft: Who Will Be the Next Big Thing?
USATue Apr 22 2025
The 2025 NFL Draft is just around the corner. Three experts have joined forces to predict how the first round might unfold. They have each made their own predictions before, but this time, they had to consider what might happen if their picks were influenced by what others had chosen before them. This is a unique way to look at the draft, as it shows how the choices of one team can affect the entire draft board.
The experts have divided the picks among themselves. One will focus on the Titans, Patriots, Jets, and other teams, while another will look at the Browns, Jaguars, and more. The third expert will cover the Giants, Raiders, and several others. This division allows for a comprehensive view of the draft, as each expert brings their own insights and perspectives.
The Titans are in desperate need of a quarterback. Cam Ward from Miami is a strong candidate, with impressive physical abilities and a solid track record. The Browns, on the other hand, could benefit from a versatile player like Travis Hunter, who can play both wide receiver and defensive back. The Giants might go for Abdul Carter, an edge rusher from Penn State, who is seen as a top prospect.
The Patriots have a clear need to protect their quarterback, Drake Maye. Will Campbell from LSU could be the answer, despite initial concerns about his arm length. The Jaguars, meanwhile, could strengthen their run defense with Mason Graham from Michigan. The Raiders, under new head coach Pete Carroll, might go for Armand Membou, a tackle from Missouri who impressed at the Combine.
The Jets have struggled with sacks, and Kelvin Banks from Texas could be the solution. He can prevent pressures before they happen. The Panthers might opt for Mike Green, an edge rusher from Marshall, who is both athletic and strong against the run. The Saints have a pressing need for a playmaker, and Tyler Warren from Penn State could fit the bill.
The Bears could be looking at Ashton Jeanty, a running back from Boise State, who could fill multiple roles. The 49ers might go for Will Johnson, a cornerback from Michigan, who has the size and skills to fit their defensive scheme. The Cowboys, always looking for offensive weapons, could be interested in Tetairoa McMillan, a wide receiver from Arizona.
The Dolphins might need to address their secondary, as they lost a key player. Jahdae Barron from Texas could be a good fit. The Colts could use a tight end like Colston Loveland from Michigan, who has great hands and is a strong blocker. The Falcons might go for Mykel Williams, an edge rusher from Georgia, who has a lot of potential.
The Cardinals could be interested in Jalon Walker, an edge rusher from Georgia, who can play multiple positions. The Bengals might opt for Kenneth Grant, a defensive lineman from Michigan, who can free up space for their linebackers. The Seahawks are overhauling their passing game and might go for Matthew Golden, a speedy wide receiver from Texas.
The Buccaneers need to improve their secondary, and Malaki Starks from Georgia could be the answer. The Broncos might be looking at Omarion Hampton, a running back from UNC, who can handle all three downs. The Steelers have been searching for a quarterback since Ben Roethlisberger's departure, and Shedeur Sanders from Colorado could be the one.
The Chargers need more receiving options for Justin Herbert, and Emeka Egbuka from Ohio State could fit the bill. The Packers often look for size and speed in their defensive players, and Shavon Revel from East Carolina could be a good fit. The Vikings need to strengthen their defensive line, and Walter Nolen from Ole Miss could be the answer.
The Texans have had issues with their offensive line, and Grey Zabel from North Dakota State could help. The Rams have a strong defensive line but need better linebacker play, and Jihaad Campbell from Alabama could be the solution. The Ravens might go for Tyler Booker, a guard from Alabama, who can keep Lamar Jackson protected.
The Lions need a pass-rusher, and Donovan Ezeiruaku from Boston College could be the one. The Commanders could be looking at Shemar Stewart, an edge rusher from Texas A&M, who has a lot of potential. The Bills might go for Derrick Harmon, a defensive tackle from Oregon, who can disrupt offenses. The Chiefs need to protect Patrick Mahomes, and Josh Simmons from Ohio State could be the answer. The Eagles, always looking to restock their trenches, might go for Josh Conerly, an offensive tackle from Oregon.
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questions
What are the long-term implications of the Giants selecting Abdul Carter over addressing their quarterback need immediately?
Given the Giants' need for a long-term quarterback solution, why is Abdul Carter, an EDGE, considered the best player available over other positions?
How will the Raiders' new head coach, Pete Carroll, handle the pressure of having Armand Membou on the team, knowing he might outshine him in athleticism?