Cam Ward and Shedeur Sanders headline the list of projected top quarterbacks for the upcoming NFL draft. Although their exact landing spots remain unpredictable, it’s anticipated that both will be highly sought after. Unlike previous drafts, where players like Caleb Williams and Bryce Young were sure top picks, the 2025 draft lacks clear consensus due to other promising talents like edge rusher Abdul Carter and two-way star Travis Hunter.
Early mock drafts suggest the New York Giants could secure the top pick via a trade with the Tennessee Titans, using it to select Cameron Ward, currently with Miami. The Giants have been eager to stabilize their quarterback situation and Ward’s impressive statistics from the past season make him a desirable long-term prospect. His performance with 39 touchdown passes and over 4,300 passing yards could be pivotal for the team.
In another potential trade, the Las Vegas Raiders might move up in the draft order to pick Shedeur Sanders from Colorado. Sanders, despite facing criticism, is recognized for his strong on-field performance and leadership traits, having been mentored by none other than Tom Brady.
Aside from the coveted quarterbacks, several defensive and versatile players are capturing interest from NFL teams. Abdul Carter from Penn State and Travis Hunter from Colorado are top prospects for the Titans and Patriots, respectively. Carter is renowned for his pass-rushing capabilities, while Hunter hopes to continue his dynamic two-way play in the professional league.
Among other top projected picks, Jacksonville Jaguars are eyeing Mason Graham from Michigan to reinforce their defensive line. Meanwhile, the Cleveland Browns could select Will Campbell to bolster their offensive tackle strategy. Wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan from Arizona is also catching eyes, particularly from the New York Jets.
The draft is expected to address pressing needs for several teams such as the Carolina Panthers’ dire defensive situation and the New Orleans Saints’ struggling line. Teams are looking to add fresh talent across various positions, including the experts’ choice of placing Mykel Williams and other promising prospects in strategic roles.
Further down the draft list, the San Francisco 49ers, Dallas Cowboys, and Miami Dolphins focus on players like Kelvin Banks Jr., Ashton Jeanty, and Armand Membou to beef up their respective offensive lines and backfields. In particular, the Cowboys see Jeanty from Boise State as a key addition to their roster.
The draft also involves strategic trades and calculations, notably the Philadelphia Eagles swapping picks with the Vikings, aiming to include Mike Green, an emerging edge rusher from Marshall, now immersed in alterations prompted by previous trade outcomes.
As teams maneuver for strategic placements, the anticipation within franchises like the Houston Texans, Los Angeles Rams, and Baltimore Ravens heats up, highlighting prospects like Josh Simmons and Jihaad Campbell—key names that are generating considerable excitement.
In this competitive pre-draft climate, teams like the Buffalo Bills and Kansas City Chiefs aim to safeguard their fortifications through strategic picks such as Nick Emmanwori and Grey Zabel. The Minnesota Vikings, after trading with the Eagles, plan to capitalize on talents like Malaki Starks, adding further depth to their squad.
