The First Round of the NFL Draft begins Thu, Apr 24, 2025. This year brings unpredictable picks for the top 10. Here are my predictions:
- Tennessee Titans – Cam Ward, QB, Washington State: The Titans are looking for a new quarterback to lead their offense, and Cam Ward fits the bill with his impressive mobility and strong arm. His ability to make plays both in and out of the pocket would provide Tennessee with a dual-threat option. Ward is a calm decision maker as showcased at Miami and could be the next franchise quarterback for the Titans.
NFL COMPARISON: Sam Darnold
- Cleveland Browns – Abdul Carter, EDGE, Penn State: With Myles Garrett potentially being traded, the Browns are in need of a dominant edge rusher to anchor their defense. Abdul Carter is an explosive pass rusher who can immediately contribute and bring the heat on opposing quarterbacks. His ability to get to the quarterback and disrupt plays would fill a crucial gap for Cleveland’s defense. Cleveland would be best opting for a later round Quarterback like Will Howard or Kyle McCord instead of picking Shedeur Sanders.
NFL COMPARISON: Micah Parsons
- New York Giants – Shedeur Sanders, QB, Colorado: The Giants have struggled to find long-term stability at quarterback, and Shedeur Sanders has the potential to be the answer. His strong arm and poise under pressure will give New York a quarterback who can lead them into the future. Sanders and the Giants have also been recently linked together furthering the chance that he will be selected by the giants.
NFL COMPARISON: Jared Goff
- New England Patriots – Travis Hunter, CB/WR, Colorado: The Patriots value versatility, and Travis Hunter offers just that with his ability to play both cornerback and wide receiver at a high level. New England needs an impact player who can contribute in multiple phases, and Hunter’s skill set fits their preference for well-rounded athletes. The Patriots have lacked a dynamic playmaker on offense.
NFL COMPARISON: Odell Beckam Jr.
- Jacksonville Jaguars – Mason Graham, DT, Michigan: The Jaguars’ defense has room to improve in the trenches, especially against the run. Mason Graham brings a powerful presence and can collapse the pocket, creating pressure on the quarterback while also being a force in stopping the run. His physicality and high motor make him an ideal fit for Jacksonville’s defensive needs.
NFL COMPARISON: Christian Wilkins
- Las Vegas Raiders – Ashton Jeanty, RB, Boise State: The Raiders need a dynamic running back to complement their passing game, and Ashton Jeanty fits the bill with his speed, vision, and pass-catching ability. The Raiders have reasonable cap space to go after veterans in other positions.
NFL COMPARISON: Alvin Kamara
- New York Jets – Tyler Warren, TE, Penn State: The Jets need to bolster their passing game and provide their quarterback with a reliable target. Tyler Warren might just be one of the best TE’s we have ever seen come out of the draft. He was used in all ways in the offense at Penn State and made incredible catches in the playoffs.
NFL COMPARISON: Rob Gronkowski
- Carolina Panthers – Jalon Walker, LB, Georgia: The Panthers need to improve their pass rush, and Jalon Walker brings the speed and instincts necessary to be a game-changer at linebacker and edge. The Panthers ranked 31st in pass rush win rates last season and are in need of a key defensive superstar.
NFL COMPARISON: Kyle Van Noy
- New Orleans Saints – Tetairo McMillan, WR, Arizona: The Saints need a playmaker on the outside, and Tetairo McMillan’s size, speed, and ability to stretch the field would be a perfect addition. He has one of the largest frames (6’5 at 210 lbs) and he was consistently a leader in receiving yards for Arizona. He would be an amazing pair with Chris Olave.
NFL COMPARISON: Tee Higgins
- Chicago Bears – Will Campbell, OT, LSU: The Bears’ offensive line has struggled, and Will Campbell’s massive frame and exceptional technique would provide the protection Caleb Williams (QB) needs. As a top-tier offensive tackle, Campbell’s ability to keep defenders at bay would help Chicago’s offense operate more efficiently because Caleb Williams was a very panicked QB for the Bears last season.
NFL COMPARISON: Ryan Ramczyk
