2025 NFL Draft: Postdraft Questions and Surprises
The 2025 NFL draft has come to a close, and what a whirlwind it was! Held in the historic city of Green Bay, Wisconsin, this year’s draft was nothing short of spectacular. Over the course of three days, we witnessed a record-breaking 30 defensive tackles being selected, marking the most ever in a seven-round draft since 1994. But perhaps the most jaw-dropping moment was the unexpected slide of Colorado quarterback Shedeur Sanders. Despite being the No. 1 QB prospect on ESPN draft analyst Mel Kiper’s board, Sanders fell all the way to the fifth round, where he was scooped up by the Cleveland Browns. Talk about a plot twist!
With 257 new faces joining the league, the big question on everyone’s mind is: will these fresh talents be the solution to their teams’ woes? As the dust settles, we’re left with lingering questions and anticipation for what’s next. To get the inside scoop, we turned to our NFL Nation reporters to share the most pressing questions facing the teams they cover post-draft. Their insights are invaluable as we look ahead to the upcoming season.
For those eager to dive deeper into the draft analysis, be sure to check out ESPN draft analyst Mel Kiper’s grades for all 32 draft classes and the postdraft superlatives from analysts Jordan Reid and Matt Miller (ESPN+). These resources offer a comprehensive look at all seven rounds of the draft.
AFC East: Key Questions and Insights
Buffalo Bills: Did they do enough to support quarterback Josh Allen?
The Bills took a unique approach this year, waiting until the seventh round to add a wide receiver. General manager Brandon Beane emphasized the importance of sticking to their plan of selecting the best player available on their board. This strategy led to the Bills focusing on defensive players with their first five picks, a move reminiscent of their 2006 draft. While some might argue that addressing the receiver position earlier would have been wise, the Bills are banking on their improved defense to support Allen. With the addition of wideout Joshua Palmer in free agency, the team is confident in replicating last year’s success. The Bills have a history of adding free agents post-draft, so stay tuned for potential moves. — Alaina Getzenberg
Miami Dolphins: What is the plan at cornerback?
The Dolphins entered the draft with clear needs at defensive tackle, offensive guard, and cornerback. While they addressed the trenches in the first two rounds, they waited until Round 5 to select a cornerback. With trade talks surrounding cornerback Jalen Ramsey, the Dolphins might find themselves needing to introduce two new starting corners before the season kicks off. General manager Chris Grier has hinted at exploring the veteran free agent market to fill these gaps. The question remains: which players will be interested in joining the Dolphins? — Marcel Louis-Jacques
New England Patriots: How does the logjam at wide receiver shake out?
The Patriots have been busy revamping their wide receiver room. After signing veterans Stefon Diggs and Mack Hollins in free agency and drafting Washington State’s Kyle Williams in the third round, the competition is heating up. Third-year slot receiver DeMario Douglas seems to have a secure spot, but veterans like Kendrick Bourne and third-year player Kayshon Boutte will be vying for a role. The Patriots’ wide receiver group is suddenly crowded, and it will be interesting to see how it all plays out. — Mike Reiss
New York Jets: Did they leave themselves vulnerable in the middle of their defense?
In a draft where 30 defensive tackles were selected, the Jets surprisingly didn’t pick any. Instead, they are relying on a trio of low-cost veteran additions to support Quinnen Williams. This decision is a gamble for a team that struggled against the run last season. The Jets are hoping to get some production from Derrick Nnadi, Byron Cowart, and Jay Tufele. Perhaps second-year DT Leonard Taylor III can make a significant leap. — Rich Cimini
AFC North: Draft Decisions and Future Implications
Baltimore Ravens: Does drafting a kicker signal the end for Justin Tucker?
The Ravens made headlines by drafting a kicker for the first time in their 30-year history. With the ongoing investigation into allegations against Justin Tucker, the selection of Tyler Loop in the sixth round suggests the Ravens are preparing for life after Tucker. This move could mark a significant shift for the team. — Jamison Hensley
Cincinnati Bengals: What does the draft mean for DE Trey Hendrickson?
The Bengals’ draft decisions could have financial implications for Trey Hendrickson’s future with the team. By selecting linebacker Demetrius Knight Jr. and third-rounder Dylan Fairchild, the Bengals might create cap space to offer Hendrickson a long-term deal. With $23.3 million in cap space, the Bengals have some flexibility to make strategic moves. — Ben Baby
Cleveland Browns: Who will rise from a suddenly crowded quarterback room?
The Browns made waves by selecting quarterback Dillon Gabriel over Shedeur Sanders in the third round, only to trade up and select Sanders two rounds later. With new additions Joe Flacco and Kenny Pickett, the Browns’ quarterback room is bustling. Coach Kevin Stefanski has made it clear that every player will compete for the starting role, making for an exciting preseason. — Daniel Oyefusi
Pittsburgh Steelers: Will Aaron Rodgers sign with the Steelers?
The Steelers took a disciplined approach to the draft, filling key needs with value picks. By waiting until the sixth round to select Ohio State’s Will Howard, the Steelers left the door open for Aaron Rodgers to potentially fill the final quarterback spot. If Rodgers doesn’t sign, the Steelers might regret their decision to wait on a quarterback. — Brooke Pryor
AFC South: Addressing Team Needs and Future Prospects
Houston Texans: Is the offensive line good enough?
The Texans focused on adding Minnesota left tackle Aireontae Ersery in the second round, but questions remain about the overall strength of their offensive line. With a mix of new and returning players, the Texans will need to see how this group gels to protect quarterback C.J. Stroud. The coming months will be crucial for their development. — DJ Bien-Aime
Indianapolis Colts: Have they done enough at linebacker?
With the departure of weak-side starter E.J. Speed, the Colts are left with a vulnerable linebacker unit. They waited until the seventh round to draft Wisconsin’s Hunter Wohler, a safety they plan to convert to linebacker. This area remains a concern for the Colts, who struggled with coverage last season. — Stephen Holder
Jacksonville Jaguars: Why didn’t they draft a defensive tackle?
The Jaguars’ decision not to draft a defensive tackle raises eyebrows, especially given their struggles last season. General manager James Gladstone’s confidence in young DTs Maason Smith and Jordan Jefferson suggests the team is banking on internal improvement. It’s a gamble, but one that could pay off if these players step up. — Michael DiRocco
Tennessee Titans: Does Cam Ward have enough weapons to succeed in Year 1?
The Titans’ decision to wait until the fourth round to select wide receivers Chimere Dike and Elic Ayomanor leaves questions about their offensive firepower. With veterans Tyler Lockett and Calvin Ridley as the only proven pass catchers, the Titans are relying on undrafted free agent Xavier Restrepo to make an impact. — Turron Davenport
AFC West: Evaluating Draft Strategies and Team Needs
Denver Broncos: Have the Broncos done enough at tight end?
The Broncos’ tight end group struggled last season, and while they signed Evan Engram in free agency, his injury history is a concern. The team waited until the seventh round to draft Caleb Lohner, a developmental player. If Engram gets injured, the Broncos might find themselves in a familiar predicament. — Jeff Legwold
Kansas City Chiefs: Did Kansas City solve its long-standing problem at left tackle?
The Chiefs addressed their left tackle need by signing Jaylon Moore and drafting Josh Simmons. However, both players come with questions. Moore’s experience as a backup and Simmons’ injury history leave room for doubt. The Chiefs will need these players to step up to avoid a liability at a critical position. — Adam Teicher
Las Vegas Raiders: How will the Raiders address the nickel cornerback spot?
The Raiders’ defense still has a hole at nickel cornerback. With Darnay Holmes and Darien Porter as options, the team might need to explore free agency for a veteran slot cornerback like Mike Hilton. The Raiders’ defensive strategy will be crucial in the coming months. — Ryan McFadden
Los Angeles Chargers: Why didn’t they prioritize the offensive line?
The Chargers’ interior offensive line was a major issue last season, and their draft strategy didn’t address it adequately. With only one lineman drafted, the Chargers might need to explore trades to strengthen their line. The team’s success will depend on their ability to protect the quarterback. — Kris Rhim
NFC East: Team Dynamics and Future Prospects
Dallas Cowboys: Don’t they need receiver help?
The Cowboys missed out on Arizona wideout Tetairoa McMillan in the first round and didn’t draft a receiver afterward. While they have confidence in their current roster, the Cowboys might need to make a trade or free-agent addition to support CeeDee Lamb and enhance their receiving corps. — Todd Archer
New York Giants: What’s next for Jaxson Dart and the Giants’ quarterback position?
The Giants drafted Jaxson Dart in the first round, but he might spend the year learning. With Russell Wilson as the starter and Jameis Winston as the likely backup, the Giants have a developmental plan in place. The team’s quarterback strategy will be a key storyline this season. — Jordan Raanan
Philadelphia Eagles: Will tight end Dallas Goedert be an Eagle this season?
Dallas Goedert’s future with the Eagles remains uncertain amid trade talks. General manager Howie Roseman’s comments suggest the team is still evaluating its options. With no tight end drafted, the Eagles’ strategy at this position will be closely watched. — Tim McManus
Washington Commanders: Will the Commanders sign an edge rusher?
The Commanders’ pass rush struggled last season, and while they didn’t draft an edge rusher, they might explore free agency for veterans like Za’Darius Smith or Von Miller. The team’s defensive strategy will be crucial in addressing this need. — John Keim
NFC North: Draft Decisions and Team Dynamics
Chicago Bears: Have the Bears answered all of their offensive line questions?
The Bears made significant changes to their offensive line, drafting Ozzy Trapilo in the second round. With potential shifts in player positions, the Bears are poised for a revamped O-line. The team’s success will depend on how well these changes support quarterback Caleb Williams. — Courtney Cronin
Detroit Lions: Why didn’t the Lions prioritize drafting an edge rusher?
The Lions waited until the sixth round to draft an edge rusher, raising questions about their defensive strategy. With returning players like Aidan Hutchinson and Marcus Davenport, the Lions are banking on internal improvement. The team’s defensive performance will be closely watched. — Eric Woodyard
Green Bay Packers: What’s going on in the cornerback room?
Jaire Alexander’s future with the Packers remains uncertain, and the team’s draft strategy didn’t provide clear answers. With limited additions to the cornerback position, the Packers’ defensive strategy will be a key focus in the coming months. — Rob Demovsky
Minnesota Vikings: Is J.J. McCarthy ready to take over as the starting quarterback?
The Vikings have built a strong team around J.J. McCarthy, who is recovering from an injury. With significant investments in the offensive line and running backs, the Vikings are poised for success. The team’s quarterback strategy will be a key storyline this season. — Kevin Seifert
NFC South: Team Strategies and Future Prospects
Atlanta Falcons: Will quarterback Kirk Cousins remain in Atlanta?
The Falcons made significant defensive additions in the draft but didn’t move Kirk Cousins. With no clear landing spot for him, Cousins might continue as Michael Penix Jr.’s backup. The team’s quarterback strategy will be closely watched. — Marc Raimondi
Carolina Panthers: Did the Panthers improve enough to make the playoffs?
The Panthers made key additions in the draft, including wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan. With improvements on both sides of the ball, the Panthers are poised for a potential playoff run. The team’s performance will be closely watched this season. — David Newton
New Orleans Saints: Who is the Saints’ starting quarterback in September?
The Saints’ quarterback situation remains uncertain, with Derek Carr’s injury and competition from rookies Tyler Shough and Spencer Rattler. The team’s quarterback strategy will be a key storyline this season. — Katherine Terrell
Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Did the Bucs do enough to address their needs on defense?
The Bucs focused on cornerbacks and pass rushers in the draft but didn’t address inside linebacker. With key players returning from injury, the Bucs’ defensive strategy will be crucial in the coming months. — Jenna Laine
NFC West: Evaluating Draft Strategies and Team Needs
Arizona Cardinals: Will the offense have enough firepower to make a significant jump in 2025?
The Cardinals focused on defense in the draft, leaving questions about their offensive firepower. With limited additions, the team’s offensive strategy will be closely watched as they aim for postseason contention. — Josh Weinfuss
Los Angeles Rams: Will the Rams add to the secondary after not drafting a cornerback?
The Rams’ decision not to draft a cornerback raises questions about their defensive strategy. A potential reunion with Jalen Ramsey could bolster their secondary. The team’s defensive moves will be closely watched. — Sarah Barshop
San Francisco 49ers: How close are the 49ers and quarterback Brock Purdy to a contract extension?
The 49ers’ contract negotiations with Brock Purdy are progressing, with substantive talks underway. A resolution could be reached soon, impacting the team’s quarterback strategy. — Nick Wagoner
Seattle Seahawks: Have the Seahawks improved their O-line enough?
The Seahawks made key additions to their offensive line, including guard Grey Zabel. With a focus on internal competition, the team’s offensive line strategy will be crucial in supporting their offensive success. — Brady Henderson
Originally Written by: NFL Nation reporters
