The 2025 NFL Draft: A Comprehensive Guide to the Upcoming Event
As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, the excitement is palpable. The Tennessee Titans are poised to make the first pick, setting the stage for a thrilling event that will see 257 selections over seven rounds from Thursday to Saturday. This year’s draft promises to be a spectacle, with teams and fans eagerly anticipating the new talent that will shape the future of the NFL.
To help you navigate the draft, we’ve compiled a comprehensive guide covering everything from top prospects and rankings to mock drafts and bold predictions. Whether you’re a seasoned draft enthusiast or a casual fan, this guide will provide you with all the information you need to follow the action.
How to Watch the Draft
The 2025 NFL Draft will be held at the iconic Lambeau Field in Green Bay, Wisconsin. Here’s how you can catch all the action:
- Round 1: Thursday at 8 p.m. ET on ESPN, ABC, and the ESPN App
- Rounds 2-3: Friday at 7 p.m. ET on ESPN, ABC, and the ESPN App
- Rounds 4-7: Saturday at noon ET on ESPN and the ESPN App
Sixteen players will attend the draft in person, including Alabama’s Tyler Booker and Jihaad Campbell, LSU’s Will Campbell, and Colorado’s Travis Hunter, among others. These players will be eagerly awaiting their names to be called as they embark on their professional careers.
Draft Order and Team Needs
This year’s draft will feature 257 picks, with the Titans holding the first selection and the Chiefs currently set to make the final pick, known as Mr. Irrelevant. The 49ers and Ravens have the most picks with 11 each, while the Vikings have the fewest with just four selections. Notably, no first-round picks have been traded, so every team is currently set to make a selection on Day 1.
Here’s a look at the top 10 picks:
- Tennessee Titans
- Cleveland Browns
- New York Giants
- New England Patriots
- Jacksonville Jaguars
- Las Vegas Raiders
- New York Jets
- Carolina Panthers
- New Orleans Saints
- Chicago Bears
For a full draft order and team needs, check out the complete draft order and team needs for all 32 teams.
Top Prospects and Rankings
Scouts Inc. has ranked the top 10 prospects for this year’s draft, with Penn State’s Abdul Carter leading the pack. Other notable names include Colorado’s Travis Hunter, Michigan’s Mason Graham, and Boise State’s Ashton Jeanty. These players have demonstrated exceptional talent and are expected to make an immediate impact in the NFL.
For those interested in quarterbacks, Miami’s Cam Ward is the top-ranked QB, followed by Colorado’s Shedeur Sanders and Mississippi’s Jaxson Dart. These signal-callers are expected to be in high demand as teams look to secure their future franchise quarterbacks.
Mock Drafts and Predictions
Our analysts have been hard at work crafting mock drafts to predict how the first round (and beyond) will unfold. From insider mock drafts to seven-round predictions, there’s no shortage of speculation and analysis to dive into. Check out the latest mock drafts from experts like Schrager, Reid, Kiper, and Yates to see where your favorite prospects might land.
For a deeper dive into the draft, explore our debate on need vs. value in Round 1 and Barnwell’s All-Trades mock draft.
Draft Class Overview
The 2025 draft class is shaping up to be quite different from last year’s. While the 2024 draft saw a record number of quarterbacks selected early, this year’s class is expected to have fewer QB selections in the first round. However, the 2025 class offers excellent depth at several positions, including running back, wide receiver, defensive tackle, edge rusher, tight end, and safety.
Teams with multiple picks in the middle rounds will have ample opportunities to find quality starters and build a strong foundation for the future.
Quarterback Prospects and Team Needs
While this year’s QB class may not be as strong as last year’s, there are still several intriguing prospects to watch. Cam Ward is the presumed No. 1 overall pick, with Shedeur Sanders and Jaxson Dart also in the mix for first-round selections. Teams like the Browns, Giants, Saints, and Steelers are all in the market for a young franchise quarterback, making the QB position one of the most closely watched in this year’s draft.
For teams willing to wait, Syracuse’s Kyle McCord and Ohio State’s Will Howard could be solid options in the later rounds.
Travis Hunter: WR or CB?
Travis Hunter is a unique talent who can excel on both sides of the ball. While he is primarily expected to play wide receiver, his skills as a cornerback make him a valuable asset for any team. The Browns, with the No. 2 pick, could be an ideal landing spot for Hunter, allowing him to contribute as both a receiver and a cornerback.
Hunter’s versatility and playmaking ability make him a player to watch in this year’s draft.
Risers and Bold Predictions
As the draft approaches, several prospects are gaining momentum and could rise up the draft boards. Maryland’s Tai Felton and Oklahoma State’s Nick Martin are two such players who have impressed scouts with their performances and potential.
In terms of bold predictions, some analysts believe that only one quarterback will be selected in the first round, with Cam Ward being the lone signal-caller to hear his name called early. Additionally, there is speculation that the Ravens could trade up to secure a top prospect like Colston Loveland.
Latest Buzz and Insights
As the draft draws near, the rumor mill is in full swing. Reports suggest that there could be an early run on pass rushers, with teams like the Raiders, Jets, and Panthers all in the market for defensive talent. Meanwhile, the Saints are keeping their plans under wraps, leaving many to wonder if they will target a quarterback with their early picks.
Stay tuned for the latest updates and insights as the draft unfolds.
Conclusion
The 2025 NFL Draft promises to be an exciting event filled with surprises and drama. With a wealth of talent available and teams eager to build for the future, this year’s draft is sure to be a memorable one. Whether you’re tuning in for the first pick or following the action through all seven rounds, this guide will help you stay informed and engaged throughout the process.
Originally Written by: ESPN staff
