
Chris Gregory's final 2025 NFL Mock Draft with expert three-round predictions, top prospects, and team selections for the upcoming draft: Cam Ward, Abdul Carter, Travis Hunter, and more.
It is finally NFL Draft week. For junkies like us, this is Christmas and our birthday rolled into one big event. Even in a year like this, where the blue-chip talent is thin and the questions about talent pile higher than usual, it’s difficult not to get excited about the event.
Before we get to this final mock, it's worth noting that this article is being submitted on Monday night. However, I will return to update this column to reflect the buzz and information I am hearing … if that info seems trustworthy and logical. Bookmark this article to see my final updates.
One last housekeeping note is this: expect the unexpected in this class. That isn't just from teams like the 49ers, who regularly waste their first-round pick on a player most consider a second-round talent, either. With teams grading a lot of the top prospects similarly, this class could see fewer trades than usual and more reaches for need or wild outlier picks.
Be sure to check all of our fantasy football rankings for 2025:- 2025 fantasy football rankings (redraft)
- Dynasty fantasy football rankings
- 2025 NFL rookie fantasy football rankings
- Best ball fantasy football rankings
- Quarterback fantasy football rankings
- Running back fantasy football rankings
- Wide receiver fantasy football rankings
- Tight end fantasy football rankings
Round 1
- Tennessee Titans - Cam Ward, QB, Miami
This pick has been written in stone since March. The only bet worth making on the No. 1 overall selection is how long the NFL will make us wait before the name is announced and we can move on to picks with more intrigue.
- Cleveland Browns- Travis Hunter, WR/CB, Colorado
Hunter to Cleveland is another pick that feels solidified, as there is little buzz surrounding anyone but the Heisman winner at this pick. If it happens, I anticipate Hunter will be a full-time receiver for Cleveland and a rotational defensive back.
- New York Giants- Abdul Carter, EDGE, Penn State
The Giants may still use this pick on Shedeur Sanders, but most expect they won't reach for a QB and will take the best player in the class instead. By taking Carter, the Giants could also give themselves the flexibility to trade a pass-rusher later.
- New England Patriots- Will Campbell, OL, LSU
We eat more chalk here, as Campbell is increasingly becoming the favorite for the Patriots. The team needs offensive line help and believes the SEC alum will be a long-term starting left tackle, even if some of us doubt that.
- Jacksonville Jaguars- Ashton Jeanty, RB, Boise State
Jeanty to Jacksonville is our first dribbling curveball. Liam Coen just saw the impact Bucky Irving had on his Buccaneer offense, so imagine what Jeanty could do to help Trevor Lawrence thrive. This is a luxury pick, but Jacksonville has to do more to support Lawrence and his growth.
This angle of Ashton Jeanty's TD run is 🔥🔥🔥@BroncoSportsFB pic.twitter.com/cKhBpuhVB1
— FOX College Football (@CFBONFOX) December 7, 2024
- Las Vegas Raiders- Jalon Walker, EDGE/LB, Georgia
The Raiders must consider trading out of this spot, as cornerback is their biggest need, and Jeanty is off the board in this mock. Mason Graham is also a consideration as the safest defender on the board. However, the needle is pointing up on Walker, and he is a good fit for the hybrid LEO position that Pete Carroll has typically used in his scheme.
- New York Jets- Mason Graham, DT, Michigan
The Jets must consider taking Armand Membou, and Tyler Warren is the other boilerplate player for this spot. However, the Jets just hired a defensive-minded head coach and Graham is the best player available on the board. Playing next to a violent and consistent player like Graham could help unlock the next level for Quinnen Williams, too.
Note: Do not be surprised if Jahdae Barron is the selection in this spot. Aaron Glenn is a former cornerback who could love Barron’s versatility and tenacity.
- Carolina Panthers- Mykel Williams, DE, Georgia
If the Panthers don’t trade back, Jalon Walker has to be their target. Unfortunately, buzz is starting to build that Walker will be long gone by this pick. If that happens, Williams is a strong possibility. His production and testing numbers don’t quite match what most think he can be, but there were dominant flashes against Texas that suggested Williams could be a special pass-rusher.
- New Orleans Saints- Armand Membou, OT, Missouri
GM Mickey Loomis has a history of chasing athletic and raw pass-rushers with length, but a run on edges has sapped the pool and left a quality right tackle available. While Shemar Stewart is still a possibility in this spot, the team opts for Membou. The Missouri product is a safer prospect who would solve the Trevor Penning problem that Loomis created.
- Chicago Bears- Tyler Warren, TE, Penn State
The Bears have to be prioritizing Ashton Jeanty or Tyler Warren with this pick. With Jeanty gone, Warren is the choice. He is a tremendously well-rounded tight-end prospect capable of doing what Sam LaPorta did in Ben Johnson’s Detroit offense, and then some.
- TRADE: Denver Broncos- Tetairoa McMillan, WR, Arizona
Rumors are swirling that the 49ers want to trade down and the Broncos up, and they could be perfect trade partners since the 49ers select right before Dallas and Indy. The most likely reason why the Broncos want to move up is that they hope to land one of McMillan, Colston Loveland, or Warren. Tet is likely gone at No. 12 to Dallas, and Loveland at No. 14 to the Colts.
Trade Compensation:
Broncos Receive: No. 11 overall
49ers Receive: No. 20, No. 51, and No. 191 overall
- Dallas Cowboys- Omarion Hampton, RB, North Carolina
Jerry Jones lives in his world, and in that world, the Cowboys are Super Bowl contenders. He is hoping Tet falls to this spot, but when that doesn’t happen, Jones takes the top running back left on the board. Hampton has the size, power, speed, and hands to be the next full-time back in a long history of workhorse running backs in Dallas.
- Miami Dolphins- Kelvin Banks Jr., OT, Texas
Terron Armstead announced his retirement this past weekend, solidifying a major hole at left tackle that Miami cannot trust Austin Jackson to fill. Tua Tagovailoa’s injury history is well known, and the offense is much less effective when it calls conservative plays to protect him. The Dolphins must give Tua time to throw deep, and Banks is a strong fit thanks to his mobility.
- Indianapolis Colts- Colston Loveland, TE, Michigan
It's hard to remember if any mock this season has ever given the Colts a player in the first round who didn't play tight end. The fit is just too perfect, given GM Chris Ballard's history, the team's need at the position, and the talent in this class. However, the league loves both of these tight ends enough that the Colts may not have a shot at either on draft night.
- Atlanta Falcons- Mike Green, EDGE, Marshall
The Falcons are tied for the second-fewest draft picks in this class, so they must entertain moving back to get more choices. Unfortunately, there is reportedly very little interest from quarterback-needy teams in moving up this far. Fortunately, Green is the ideal fit for Atlanta’s scheme, and he fills its biggest need with his speed and ability to translate that speed into power.
- Arizona Cardinals- Will Johnson, CB, Michigan
Arizona squeezed blood from a stone in its secondary last year, but it doesn't have a true shutdown corner. While I have a higher grade on Jahdae Barron than I do Will Johnson, Johnson is the better fit for the shutdown corner the Cardinals need. Garrett Williams already fills the role that Barron would be plugged into.
- Cincinnati Bengals- Walter Nolen, DT, Ole Miss
Nolen has a quick get-off, and his movement skills on the inside are special. He needs to work on his balance and anchor, but the former Rebel is a good run defender with double-digit sack potential. The Ole Miss product would fill a major need for Cincy, injecting a ton of upside into its pass rush and improving the run defense at the same time.
- Seattle Seahawks- Grey Zabel, OL, North Dakota State
This is early for Zabel, but the biggest need for Seattle is a mobile guard who can improve the interior line on this zone-heavy offense. Zabel is the absolute perfect fit for Seattle’s scheme, and he fixes its biggest flaw.
- Tampa Bay Buccaneers- Jihaad Campbell, LB, Alabama
The Buccaneers need to get younger at interior linebacker, and Campbell is the perfect fit. There is still a good chance Campbell falls down the board due to his shoulder injury and positional value, but the talent and fit are perfect in this spot.
- TRADE BACK: San Francisco 49ers- Shemar Stewart, DE, Texas A&M
Stewart is one of the most likely picks for the 49ers if they stay at pick No. 11 instead of moving up for Jalon Walker or moving back for picks. In this scenario, they are thrilled to find Stewart still on the board even after they moved back and added a valuable second-round pick. The former Aggie is already strong against the run and has the physical tools to become an elite pass-rusher.
- Pittsburgh Steelers- Shedeur Sanders, QB, Colorado
The Steelers are a strong candidate to pass on a quarterback, but the fit is too good in this scenario. Sanders is a better overall prospect than Kenny Pickett, and Mike Tomlin is reportedly very fond of him. The former Buffalo can sit behind Aaron Rodgers for a year before taking the starting role.
- Los Angeles Chargers- Jahdae Barron, CB, Texas
The Chargers have to consider front seven players with this pick, but Barron could be too good of a value to pass on. He is a versatile weapon that Jim Harbaugh will value plugging all over the secondary. He can play in the slot, outside corner, or safety.
- Green Bay Packers- Maxwell Hairston, CB, Kentucky
None of the top defensive linemen fall to the Packers in this mock, so they draft an athletic corner with the skills to replace Jaire Alexander, who is reportedly on his way out. Hairston is slight of build and a poor tackler, but he is incredibly fast and a good enough athlete to keep up with star receivers.
- Minnesota Vikings- Malaki Starks, S, Georgia
Minnesota has just four draft picks in this class, so it will work the phones trying to move out of this spot. However, no callers want to move up in this scenario, so it stays put. Starks is a nice consolation prize, though, as he’s the top safety in the class and fills a need for a Vikings team that just lost Camryn Bynum and could lose the aging Harrison Smith soon.
- Houston Texans- Josh Simmons, OT, Ohio State
Houston’s biggest weakness in 2024 was along its offensive line … and then it traded away its best pass blocker. While Cam Robinson gives it a stopgap, he is on a one-year deal and isn’t an improvement over Laremy Tunsil. Simmons can heal and learn behind Robinson this year or use his right tackle experience to start opposite the veteran if Houston so chooses.
- Los Angeles Rams- Nick Emmanwori, S, South Carolina
The Rams have a history of targeting athletes in their secondary. Emmanwori has the frame and athleticism to play the STAR role that would let him play all over the field in a variety of roles. Los Angeles has to consider drafting a heir to Matthew Stafford here, and for the offensive line, but it is in win-now mode and Emmanwori helps with that.
- Baltimore Ravens- Donovan Ezeiruaku, EDGE, Boston College
While James Pearce Jr. is a distinct possibility with this pick, the buzz continues to be that some teams are worried about his off-field issues. Ezeiruaku is a similarly agile edge who would fit perfectly in Baltimore’s standup scheme, and there is zero negative buzz surrounding his character or maturity.
- Detroit Lions- Tyler Booker, G, Alabama
Kevin Zeitler is gone, leaving a hole at guard. Booker has a strong anchor and locks onto anyone who faces him head-on. His mentality, toughness, and consistency are all Dan Campbell traits. Plus, the Lions utilize a good number of gap-oriented runs, which play into Booker's strengths.
- Washington Commanders- Matthew Golden, WR, Texas
Deebo Samuel Sr. is older and on a converted one-year contract, plus the veteran’s performance has been … inconsistent over the past few years. The presence of older receivers like Deebo and Terry McLaurin should not stop the Commanders from giving Jayden Daniels a quick and smooth young receiver to grow with.
- Buffalo Bills- James Pearce Jr., EDGE, Tennessee
Let’s pretend the Bills are tired of letting talented players slip by them only to land with the Chiefs. With that in mind, they draft the immensely talented but reportedly troubled Pearce, who helps fill a need for edge pressure. Buffalo has to know the formula for beating Patrick Mahomes is pressure off the edge, so it adds a defensive end who runs as fast as most receivers do.
- Kansas City Chiefs- TreVeyon Henderson, RB, Ohio State
The Chiefs lost two Super Bowls because they could not protect Patrick Mahomes, so they must do more to their offensive line … but the talent of Henderson could be too good to pass up. He is the best pass-blocking and receiving back in this class, which could help with protecting Mahomes while improving an aging and ineffective running back room.
- Philadelphia Eagles- Derrick Harmon, DT, Oregon
Philadelphia just lost Josh Sweat and Brandon Graham, and it knows the formula for its Super Bowl dominance was a deep defensive front. While those losses mean edge is the biggest need, the Eagles must nab Harmon if he falls. Although interior rusher is not a critical need, Philly has a history of drafting the best available player and valuing depth all over its defensive line.
R0und 2
- Cleveland Browns- Jalen Milroe, QB, Alabama
The Browns have to add talent at the quarterback position, and their offensive coordinator used to be Milroe’s quarterback coach at Alabama. With Cleveland’s recent trend of targeting athletic quarterbacks, it could end up preferring Milroe over Jaxson Dart … even if Dart is the much safer and projectable prospect.
- New York Giants- Jaxson Dart, QB, Ole Miss
Dart is a late first-round prospect on my board, so the Giants will count their lucky stars if he falls to them at this spot. He has enough mobility, arm strength, and tenacity to turn into a quality NFL starter. Giants head coach Brian Daboll has a history of big and athletic passers, so he could easily prefer Dart over Sanders and may even push to trade up for the Rebel.
- Tennessee Titans- Luther Burden III, WR, Missouri
In a vacuum, Burden is too talented to fall out of the first. Unfortunately, his production dipped in 2024, and he exhibited concerning behavior with unsportsmanlike conduct against Boston College and a lethargic showing against Alabama. However, Burden’s YAC skills are unquestionably elite, and he could be a special pairing with Cam Ward.
- Jacksonville Jaguars- Emeka Egbuka, WR, Ohio State
After drafting Jeanty in the first round, Jacksonville has to desire defensive help with this pick … but the value of Egbuka is just too good to pass up. Trevor Lawrence's options in the passing game are Brian Thomas Jr. and question marks. Egbuka would immediately replace the safety valve that Christian Kirk offered in the slot.
- Las Vegas Raiders- Trey Amos, CB, Ole Miss
The Raiders desperately need help at cornerback, so they are glad to see Amos available in this spot. He has the length and size that Pete Carroll typically covets in his cornerbacks, plus Amos is familiar with zone schemes and shows good recognition when keeping the play in front of him.
- New England Patriots- Quinshon Judkins, RB, Ohio State
Remember that most of Mike Vrabel’s success with the Titans came on the back of Derrick Henry. While Judkins is no Henry, he is a powerful between-the-tackles runner who offers more in the passing game than Henry ever did. Expect Vrabel to value a powerful every-down back with a mean stiff arm, using a premium pick to protect Drake Maye with the run game.
- Chicago Bears- Kenneth Grant, DT, Michigan
After missing out on Jeanty in the first, Ben Johnson is bereft to see all the top four backs off the board here. Fortunately, Grant is a nice consolation prize. The former Wolverine is a massive nose tackle with the athleticism to play some 3-tech in Chicago's front.
- New Orleans Saints- Jayden Higgins, WR, Iowa State
The Saints have to consider a quarterback here, but the run on passers early in the second round kills that desire. At this point in our mock, New Orleans is the only team in the passer market … so it can wait and take one later. Thus, it nabs a big-bodied receiver who can play opposite Chris Olave and Rashid Shaheed’s speed.
- Chicago Bears- Nic Scourton, DE, Texas A&M
In this scenario, the Bears double down on defensive linemen because the backs worth taking are gone, and the value is there at DL. Scourton has reportedly lost weight, indicating Chicago could be getting the faster and more effective Purdue version of this player.
- New York Jets- Josh Conerly Jr., OT, Oregon
In Conerly, the Jets add a tackle who can keep up with Justin Fields' skill set. While the Oregon product is a natural left tackle, and the Jets already have a young one of those, he is athletic enough to transition to the right. Conerly has nimble feet, good agility, and natural mirroring skills. He would be an asset for a team that has a mobile passer who makes linemen improvise.
- San Francisco 49ers- Donovan Jackson, G, Ohio State
The 49ers are reportedly “very happy” with their right tackle and are planning on the aging and oft-injured Trent Williams starting without incident this year. With that in mind, the team still must replace the departed Aaron Banks. Jackson would arguably be an improvement over Banks in this scheme, as he is more agile and a better mover than the bigger Banks.
- Dallas Cowboys- Carson Schwesinger, LB, UCLA
The Cowboys could be without DeMarvion Overshown all season, as he’s recovering from multiple torn ligaments in his knee. While they signed several veterans to fill that void, none of the options on their roster match Schwesinger’s playmaking and leadership. While he misses too many tackles, the Bruin is extremely popular amongst scouts because of his big-play ability.
- Indianapolis Colts- Jared Wilson, C, Georgia
With Will Fries and Ryan Kelly leaving for Minnesota in free agency, the Colts could use multiple players inside their offensive line. While this is high for Wilson, who is inexperienced and underpowered, there is first-round buzz surrounding this athletic pivot. The former Bulldog is a savvy pass blocker with elite movement skills, meaning he could go this high.
- Atlanta Falcons- Tyleik Williams, NT, Ohio State
Williams is a massive and strong anchor at the center of the defense who is a perfect nose tackle fit for the Falcons. By drafting Williams, the Falcons would improve their nose position while moving Ruke Orhorhoro out to 5-tech, where he is most natural.
- Arizona Cardinals- Landon Jackson, DL, Arkansas
The Cardinals consider adding a receiver in this spot, but the ones available are big-bodied weapons similar to what Arizona already has. So, they pivot and add an edge-rusher who some see as a 5-tech while others see him as a standup pass-rusher. Either way, he would add needed depth to the Cardinals front.
- Miami Dolphins- Kevin Winston Jr., S, Penn State
The Dolphins lost Jevon Holland in free agency, leaving them without a cover safety who can tackle. Winston is a long-limbed deep safety with smooth hips, man cover ability, and he’s a strong tackler. The former Nittany Lion would be a perfect replacement for Holland in this scheme.
- Cincinnati Bengals- Elijah Arroyo, TE, Miami (FL)
The Bengals will consider an offensive guard or edge-rusher with this pick, but the value and fit are simply not there in this mock. So, they pivot and take another weapon that can help Joe Burrow. Remember that Cincy used several premium picks on potential weapons last year, and none worked out. Arroyo would give Burrow another fast, athletic weapon to scare defenses.
- Seattle Seahawks- Shavon Revel Jr., CB, East Carolina
The Seahawks currently list Josh Jobe as a starter in their secondary, but his coverage metrics were poor last year, and he's on a one-year deal. Although Revel is still recovering from a torn ACL, he is the kind of long and raw athlete who Seattle’s front office loves to draft and develop in the secondary. He has the look and feel of a John Schneider pick.
- TRADE BACK: San Francisco 49ers- Benjamin Morrison, CB, Notre Dame
Morrison has a concerning injury history, with multiple hip surgeries, but his medicals haven't raised major red flags so far. When healthy, Morrison is a feisty ballhawk with good recognition and instincts. Many overestimate how badly the 49ers need a corner, but they could use a player with Morrison's ball skills.
- *Seattle Seahawks- Tre Harris, WR, Ole Miss
The Seahawks have two quality slot receivers on their roster, but the trade of DK Metcalf means they lack size in that room. Harris isn't a behemoth, but he has a good combination of size and deep ball skills.
- Tampa Bay Buccaneers- Bradyn Swinson, EDGE, LSU
Swinson is a long and rangy edge-rusher whose stock has risen in the past month as more and more draft analysts fall in love with his profile and production. As a natural 3-4 standup edge, Swinson would fill a need and fit perfectly in Tampa's defense.
- Green Bay Packers- Darius Alexander, DT, Toledo
A big and athletic defensive tackle, Alexander would be a value pick for a Packers defense that can never have too many defensive linemen capable of playing all over their front. He would add push and anchor to the center of that scheme.
- Los Angeles Chargers- Oluwafemi Oladejo, EDGE, UCLA
The Chargers lost multiple players from their front seven in free agency, meaning they have multiple needs on that front. Oladejo is a converted interior linebacker who grew into a productive edge-rusher late in the 2024 season. He is best suited to playing standup edge in a front like the Chargers, and his leadership is something Jim Harbaugh will love.
- Buffalo Bills- Darien Porter, CB, Iowa State
The Bills must add more speed and length to their cornerback room, and Porter has both of those in spades. While he was just a one-year starter at corner for Iowa State, all reports of his character and intelligence are positive. He would offer far more upside than Buffalo currently has in its cornerback room.
- *Carolina Panthers- Jaylin Noel, WR, Iowa State
I nearly handed Noel to the Panthers in my first mock, but I won't miss that pairing twice. Carolina has openly said it’d like to add a big-play receiver, and a shifty piece of dynamite like Noel fits that bill. The former Cyclone would give Bryce Young a new type of weapon that he could use to expand his game.
- Houston Texans- Jack Bech, WR, TCU
Houston has multiple needs on offense, including depth at receiver, with Tank Dell injured again and Stefon Diggs departing in free agency. Bech remains one of the most underrated weapons in this class, with the best hands of the receiver group and a savvy route-running ability. He would capably fill the hole Diggs left behind.
- Baltimore Ravens- Kaleb Johnson, RB, Iowa
Baltimore cannot rely on Derrick Henry forever, and it has no other powerful runners in its stable. Johnson is a far cry from Henry's special size/speed combination, and he isn't the top back on my board here. However, the Hawkeye does have the frame to absorb damage, and his tape shows the ability to break away from the defense if he can get into space.
- Detroit Lions- JT Tuimoloau, DE, Ohio State
The Lions continue to need depth along their defensive line, and Tuimoloau is the kind of player Dan Campbell loves. The Buckeye isn’t a burner or prolific pass-rusher, but he has a strong anchor against the run and is tenacious as a pass-rusher. This pick brings Detroit an all-around player capable of staying on the field regardless of the situation.
- Washington Commanders- Princely Umanmielen, DL, Ole Miss
Dante Fowler Jr. was the most effective edge-rusher on a shallow Commanders front, and he signed with the division-rival Cowboys. That leaves edge as one of the biggest unanswered needs for Washington this offseason. Umanmielen needs to develop a pass-rush repertoire, but he's got the size and speed to develop into a threat.
- Buffalo Bills- Omarr Norman-Lott, DT, Tennessee
The Bills double up on former Vols, both of whom saw light but effective usage during their time in college. While the risks are evident with both Norman-Lott and Pearce, including the fact that neither may play a full workload, the upside is immense. The Bills stay focused on stopping the Chiefs, building up a pass rush that could harass Mahomes like Philly’s did in the Super Bowl.
- Kansas City Chiefs- Aireontae Ersery, OT, Minnesota
The Chiefs have to improve their offensive line depth, even if free-agent addition Jaylon Moore proves to be a quality starter. Ersery is a big and nimble pass blocker who would immediately compete with Moore for the starting left tackle position.
- Philadelphia Eagles- Mason Taylor, TE, LSU
In this scenario, the rich keep getting richer as the Eagles land TE3 on my board in a talented group. Speculation about the future of Dallas Goedert, whether it’s his health or departure from Philly, have swirled for years. He is regularly injured, getting older, and some think he could retire. Taylor is the ideal long-term replacement for the veteran, fitting Philly’s draft model.
Round 3
- New York Giants- Tate Ratledge, G, Georgia
The Giants got mediocre production from their interior offensive line this past year, so they could look to improve that spot with Ratledge. The mullet maniac is an adequate athlete with power in the run game and solid movement skills. He would become an immediate starter at right guard in New York.
- Kansas City Chiefs- Xavier Watts, S, Notre Dame
Another case of the best getting better, the Chiefs would love adding a safety who has no business falling out of the second round. Watts has great instincts in coverage and good ball skills. He would serve as the ideal replacement for Justin Reid, who left in free agency.
- Cleveland Browns- Cam Skattebo, RB, Arizona State
The Browns have shown they don’t want Jerome Ford to be their lead running back, and Nick Chubb is gone. Skattebo is a bowling ball of a prospect who can give Cleveland a lot of what it used to have in Chubb.
- Las Vegas Raiders- Elic Ayomanor, WR, Stanford
The Raiders already filled two of their biggest needs in this draft, and they now address another with Ayomanor. He isn’t a natural pass-catcher, but the Stanford product has ideal size and is a very tough blocker. If the Canadian-born prospect can continue to improve his hands and instincts, he could become a quality starter for Vegas.
- New England Patriots- Josaiah Stewart, EDGE, Michigan
Stewart is an undersized edge best suited to play standing up in a 3-4 scheme. He would be an excellent fit for the defense that Mike Vrabel is bringing to New England, adding athleticism and depth behind Harold Landry III and Anfernee Jennings.
- Jacksonville Jaguars- T.J. Sanders, DT, South Carolina
Despite passing on Mason Graham in the first round of this mock and taking offense in the second, Jacksonville still manages to capably address its need at defensive tackle thanks to the falling Sanders. He is a versatile interior defender and an impactful pass-rusher with multiple pass-rush moves he can use effectively.
- New Orleans Saints- Azareye’h Thomas, CB, Florida State
The Saints lost Paulson Adebo in free agency, meaning Thomas would fill a big need for their secondary. While the Seminole’s testing numbers are disappointing, he has good length and polished film that translates well to the New Orleans scheme.
- Chicago Bears- Dylan Sampson, RB, Tennessee
Sampson is not the back the Bears want, as Jeanty is their target in the first or Henderson in the second, but Sampson is the back they need right now. The former Vol is an elusive and quick back with the potential to grow into a quality receiver, making him a solid fit for the "Jahmyr Gibbs role" in Ben Johnson’s rotation.
- New York Jets- Jacob Parrish, CB, Kansas State
Parrish is a feisty and fast nickel corner who moves very well and is a willing tackler. The Wildcat has the potential to be one of the better slot corners in the NFL. Expect Aaron Glenn, a former NFL defensive back and the Jets’ new coach, to love the tenacity of Parrish and his fit on the inside of Gang Green’s defense.
- Carolina Panthers- Alfred Collins, DT, Texas
The Panthers could use talent all over their defense, so taking Collins would give them a strong run defender to play with Derrick Brown on their line. Collins could fit in as a nose tackle or shade outside, but he’d add much-needed talent either way. This is where Collins should go, if he doesn’t have any murky injury concerns like some rumors are suggesting.
- San Francisco 49ers- Demetrius Knight Jr., LB, South Carolina
The 49ers need to find a replacement for Dre Greenlaw, and Knight would be a great fit. While they may not want to target a linebacker quite this early, Knight is a prospective second-round talent who fell into their laps. He has solid coverage skills and can bull-rush like a defensive lineman.
- Dallas Cowboys- Marcus Mbow, G, Purdue
The Cowboys are searching for a replacement for former All-Pro Zack Martin. While Mbow is unlikely to have Martin’s career, many are high on the athleticism and pass-blocking awareness that the Purdue alum brings. His anchor needs improvement, but he has experience at guard and tackle that should position him to help Dallas in multiple ways.
- *New England Patriots- Ozzy Trapilo, OT, Boston College
The Patriots signed Morgan Moses to man their right tackle position, but he’s an aging veteran. Trapilo is a local kid with experience at right tackle, elite length, and plenty of size to help in the run game. Trapilo would offer New England a tremendous swing tackle option who would eventually replace Moses at right tackle.
- Arizona Cardinals- Jonah Savaiinaea, OL, Arizona
The Cardinals need more depth on the inside of their offensive line, which Savaiinaea can provide. While the Arizona alum played tackle last year, he profiles well as a guard with swing tackle flexibility. That’s how the Cardinals would use him in this scenario.
- *Houston Texans- RJ Harvey, RB, UCF
The Texans have to add depth behind Joe Mixon, who has a growing injury history and is nearing the expiration date for NFL running backs. Harvey would be a nice complement for Mixon, as the rookie’s lateral agility and speed to the outside would balance well with the veteran’s skill set.
- Indianapolis Colts- Chris Paul Jr., LB, Ole Miss
The Colts just lost starting linebacker E.J. Speed in free agency, creating a noteworthy hole in a linebacker corps that has been a strength under Chris Ballard. Paul has short arms, but he's one of the most consistent tacklers in this class, and he has more than enough range to run sideline-to-sideline.
- Cincinnati Bengals- Jack Sawyer, DE, Ohio State
The Bengals continue to add to their defense, selecting one Ohio State alum to replace another. Sam Hubbard has retired, but Sawyer has a very similar profile. Both Buckeyes are limited athletes with hot motors, good edge-setting skills, and the ability to secure sacks through tenacity and effort.
- Seattle Seahawks- Harold Fannin Jr., TE, Bowling Green
While he may lack the athleticism or strength that the top tight ends in this class have, Fannin was incredibly productive as a receiver at Bowling Green, and it wasn't just against weak opposition. Two of his best games came against Penn State and Texas A&M. The Seahawks could use a tight end capable of pushing Noah Fant to another level or the bench.
- Pittsburgh Steelers- Andrew Mukuba, S, Texas
Mukuba is a ballhawk safety who would fill a noteworthy need for the Steelers. Pittsburgh doesn’t have many picks, so it could be looking to move back from this pick. However, the desire to move up isn’t there from other teams.
- Tampa Bay Buccaneers- Jonas Sanker, S, Virginia
The Bucs have had several injuries in their secondary over the past few years, including multiple to star safety Antoine Winfield Jr. and his backups. Sanker is a long and athletic tackling safety who can go from the backend to the backfield in a second. He would pair well with Winfield, allowing Tykee Smith to act as a third safety and slot option.
- Denver Broncos- Jared Ivey, DL, Ole Miss
Running back is a big need for Denver, which is why it may stay at No. 20 and draft Omarion Hampton on draft night. In this scenario, it jumped up for Tet, and the backs left at this point don't stand out to Sean Payton. Thus, it adds a big and powerful 5-tech to its already strong rotation.
- Los Angeles Chargers- Terrance Ferguson, TE, Oregon
Justin Herbert showed a fondness for throwing to his tight ends last year, targeting Will Dissly as if he were a quality starter. The team doesn’t yet have a difference-making tight end, but Ferguson is the kind of athlete who could become that in time.
- Green Bay Packers- Jordan Burch, DE, Oregon
Burch is a quality athlete who can play inside or out for Green Bay, but he would be positioned on the edge in this scenario. Burch shows enough burst and athleticism to win on the outside, adding depth to an already solid front.
- *Jacksonville Jaguars- Lathan Ransom, S, Ohio State
The Jaguars lost talent at safety this offseason and didn’t replace it adequately. Ransom gives them depth in that area of need and helps improve their run defense as a quality box safety.
- Houston Texans- Shemar Turner, DL, Texas A&M
The Texans finally nab a defender after loading up on offensive contributors in this mock. Turner is undersized, but he finds and slips through gaps naturally. He can be a quality rotational weapon for this defense.
- Los Angeles Rams- Charles Grant, OT, William & Mary
The Rams jump at the chance of adding a big and mobile project tackle with a ton of projectability, even if he needs a lot of refinement. Grant would give Los Angeles a very talented potential starter down the line.
- Baltimore Ravens- Billy Bowman Jr., S, Oklahoma
The Ravens value a deep secondary. They also like to deploy multiple safeties, value positional versatility, and want experience. Bowman is undersized and not the strongest tackler, but he shows range on film and flashes the ability to cover in the slot.
- *Seattle Seahawks- Kyle Kennard, EDGE, South Carolina
Seattle has a ton of picks in this class and has addressed many needs in this mock, but the edge is a remaining area of need. Kennard isn’t the most polished or athletic edge in this class, but he’s very productive and finds ways to produce pressure. He can fit into Seattle’s scheme.
- *New Orleans Saints- Tyler Shough, QB, Louisville
The Saints could look at a quarterback much earlier than this, and very well may. In this scenario, the demand for passers dries up completely after the first four teams in need add their guys. So, Shough falls, and the Saints are comfortable taking him later. However, they will strongly consider him in the second round and with their first pick in the third.
- Cleveland Browns – Wyatt Milum, OL, West Virginia
The Browns are getting older on the interior, with all three current starters earmarked for free agency right now. Milum is an offensive tackle who projects to guard at the next level. He would give Cleveland needed depth and a potential starter in 2026.
- TRADE: Atlanta Falcons- Gunnar Helm, TE, Texas
Let’s have some fun at the end of this mock, shall we?
The Falcons are tied for the second-fewest picks in this draft, and they appear to be tired of Kyle Pitts’ attitude and blocking. Here, they send Pitts to Andy Reid, who has a history of refurbishing talented players, while adding two picks. The Chiefs get their heir to Travis Kelce. The Falcons get a tougher tight end who can still make plays after the catch, plus an extra pick.
Trade Compensation…
Falcons Receive: No. 95 and No. 133 overall
Chiefs Receive: Kyle Pitts
- Philadelphia Eagles- DJ Giddens, RB, Kansas State
The Eagles can afford to take a luxury pick here. Saquon Barkley carried a heavy load last year, and history suggests 2,000-yard backs experience a decline in the following season. Philly has some adequate backups, but none who would give it the combination of size, patience, and explosiveness that Giddens does.
- Minnesota Vikings- Anthony Belton, OT, North Carolina State
The Vikings don't have enough draft picks to make a luxury pick here, but Belton isn't purely luxury, even if he won't be an immediate starter or fill a glaring need. Minnesota had to trade for Cam Robinson when Christian Darrisaw went down, and there's not much better behind him now. Belton would be a tremendous swing tackle and potential starter down the road.
- Miami Dolphins- Elijah Roberts, DL, SMU
Roberts is ideally suited for a 5-tech in a 3-4 scheme like Miami’s, plus the Dolphins could use more depth and talent at that position after Calais Campbell left in free agency.
- New York Giants- Cameron Williams, OT, Texas
The wheels truly fell off for the Giants when Andrew Thomas got injured, which makes a lot of sense. While Williams is a downgrade from the All-Pro left tackle, he is big and nimble. The Longhorn’s raw potential could grow into a quality starting right tackle in time, and he adds short-term value as a swing tackle for a team that needs one.
- San Francisco 49ers- Kyle Williams, WR, Washington State
The 49ers have a history of drafting at least one player they invited for a “top 30 visit” almost every year. They’ve spent a lot of time with Williams during the predraft process, and he has the playmaking skills to become a quality WR3. This is more of a luxury pick, but Williams fits what Kyle Shanahan seeks in his receivers and gives SF more depth at a position where it values it.
- Los Angeles Rams- Nickolas Martin, LB, Oklahoma State
The Rams have lost a lot of depth at interior linebacker over the past few years, so they could use an athletic attacker like Martin. The OSU alum tested incredibly well in the predraft process and is a strong downhill thumper, though he needs to improve his recognition and tackle follow-through dramatically.
- Detroit Lions- Barrett Carter, LB, Clemson
Carter has very good range and the ability to cover, but he’s strongest as a backfield playmaker. The Lions need to add more talent and depth to their linebacker corps, where Jack Campbell hasn’t yet lived up to his draft pedigree.
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