The NFL season never truly sleeps, and for those of us who live and breathe football, the 2025 NFL Draft is already on our radar. With the combine and free agency frenzy behind us, teams are beginning to solidify their needs and strategies for the upcoming draft. Charles Davis, NFL Media Analyst, has released his Mock Draft 2.0, offering some surprising and insightful projections for the first round. Let’s dive into Davis’s predictions, focusing on key selections and their potential impact on the league.
This mock draft provides a fascinating glimpse into how teams might address their needs early in the draft. From potential franchise quarterbacks to game-changing defensive players and playmaking wide receivers, the first round is shaping up to be full of high-impact talent. This article analyzes the top picks, highlighting the reasoning behind each selection and what it could mean for the teams involved. Get ready for a comprehensive look at Davis’s projections for the 2025 NFL Draft.
Titans Select Cam Ward to Lead the Offense
With the first overall pick, Charles Davis projects the Tennessee Titans to select Miami quarterback Cam Ward. Ward’s dynamic playmaking ability and potential to be a franchise cornerstone make him an attractive option for a team in need of stability under center.
“It appears the Titans continue to be locked in on finding their QB1 with the No. 1 overall pick. In this scenario, they stay at No. 1 and find their guy.”
This pick addresses a crucial need for the Titans, who are looking to revitalize their offense and build around a young, talented quarterback. Ward’s arm strength and mobility could make him a perfect fit for the Titans’ offensive scheme.
Browns Opt for Shedeur Sanders to Enhance Play-Action Attack
At pick number two, the Cleveland Browns are predicted to draft Colorado quarterback Shedeur Sanders. Sanders’ fit in head coach Kevin Stefanski’s run-first, heavy play-action attack is cited as the primary reason for this selection.
“Sanders fits head coach Kevin Stefanski’s run-first, heavy play-action attack quite well.”
Sanders possesses the poise and accuracy to thrive in Stefanski’s system, making him a potentially valuable addition to the Browns’ offense. With a strong running game already in place, Sanders could elevate their passing attack to new heights.
Giants Secure Abdul Carter, Believed to Be the Best Player
The New York Giants, holding the third overall pick, are projected to select Penn State Edge Abdul Carter. Despite recent signings to address their quarterback situation, the Giants couldn’t pass up the opportunity to draft who many believe to be the best player available.
“With the top QBs already off the board in this mock, New York lands the prospect many believe is the best player in the draft.”
Carter’s exceptional talent and versatility make him a valuable asset for the Giants’ defense. His ability to rush the passer and make plays in the backfield could significantly improve their defensive capabilities.
Patriots Nab Travis Hunter to Boost Offense
With the fourth pick, Charles Davis projects the New England Patriots to select Colorado WR/CB Travis Hunter. Despite addressing needs on defense and at receiver in free agency, the Patriots add Hunter to provide young QB Drake Maye with another weapon.
“We know Hunter can impact the game on both sides of the ball, but New England can’t pass on a chance to truly strike fear into defenses for the first time in a while by utilizing Hunter as a pass catcher.”
Hunter’s ability to contribute on both offense and defense makes him a unique and valuable prospect. The Patriots’ choice to utilize him primarily as a receiver highlights their commitment to providing Maye with ample targets.
Jaguars Maximize Lawrence’s Potential with Membou
The Jacksonville Jaguars, selecting fifth overall, are projected to pick Missouri OT Armand Membou. This pick is geared towards maximizing the opportunity for quarterback Trevor Lawrence to realize his potential.
“Membou is an immediate starter, even if he moves over to the left side from right tackle, where he played at Missouri.”
Membou’s ability to step in as an immediate starter provides Lawrence with enhanced protection and stability on the offensive line. This pick underscores the Jaguars’ dedication to building an offense around their young quarterback.
Raiders Choose Ashton Jeanty for Pete Carroll’s Vision
At pick six, the Las Vegas Raiders are projected to draft Boise State RB Ashton Jeanty. This selection aligns with new head coach Pete Carroll’s vision of a run-heavy offense and strong defense.
“Perhaps the Raiders’ new head coach envisions a Marshawn Lynch type of impact when he watches Jeanty’s tape.”
Jeanty’s physical running style and versatility make him a perfect fit for Carroll’s scheme. With a focus on establishing a dominant running game, the Raiders aim to control the clock and play tough, physical football.
Jets Welcome Tyler Warren to Support Rodgers
The New York Jets, with the seventh overall pick, are projected to select Penn State TE Tyler Warren. After signing quarterback Aaron Rodgers, the Jets welcome his new best friend on the field.
“Now they welcome his new best friend on the field. Warren is a big-time playmaker.”
Warren’s playmaking abilities provide Rodgers with a reliable target in the passing game. The Jets aim to bolster their offensive firepower and provide Rodgers with the necessary tools to succeed.
Panthers Strengthen Defense with Mason Graham
With the eighth overall pick, the Carolina Panthers are projected to select Michigan DT Mason Graham. Aiming to improve their defense, the Panthers pair Graham with Derrick Brown.
“The Panthers’ defense has nowhere to go but up, and pairing Graham with on-the-mend DT Derrick Brown is a very good idea.”
Graham’s addition to the defensive line provides the Panthers with much-needed strength and depth. By pairing him with Brown, the Panthers hope to create a formidable defensive front capable of disrupting opposing offenses.
Saints Prioritize Protection for Carr with Will Campbell
The New Orleans Saints, selecting ninth overall, are projected to pick LSU OL Will Campbell. Protecting quarterback Derek Carr is a top priority for the Saints, especially under new head coach Kellen Moore.
“The Saints have plenty of holes to plug, but new head coach Kellen Moore should be eager to help QB Derek Carr stay protected.”
Campbell’s addition to the offensive line provides Carr with improved protection and stability in the pocket. The Saints aim to ensure that Carr has the necessary time and support to make plays downfield.
Bears Pair Walker with Sweat for Pass Rush
With the tenth overall pick, the Chicago Bears are projected to select Georgia Edge Jalon Walker. After focusing on offense in free agency, the Bears add a bookend buddy for Montez Sweat.
“Da Bears went strong in free agency on offense. Now they add a bookend buddy for star pass rusher Montez Sweat.”
Walker’s ability to rush the passer complements Sweat’s talents, creating a dynamic duo on the defensive line. The Bears aim to generate consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks.
49ers Boost Pass Rush with Mike Green
The San Francisco 49ers, picking eleventh overall, are projected to select Marshall Edge Mike Green. Determined to bolster their pass rush, the 49ers add Green to their defensive arsenal.
“The Niners are determined to pump up their pass rush, and Green is the choice to help them in that effort. Green’s quickness during Senior Bowl week showed his vast potential.”
Green’s athleticism and pass-rushing skills provide the 49ers with a valuable addition to their defensive front. His performance at the Senior Bowl showcased his potential to disrupt opposing offenses.
Cowboys Give Prescott a Partner with McMillan
With the twelfth overall pick, the Dallas Cowboys are projected to select Arizona WR Tetairoa McMillan. Dak Prescott gets a much-needed partner on the perimeter.
“Pro Bowl wide receiver CeeDee Lamb gets a much-needed partner on the perimeter.”
McMillan’s addition to the Cowboys’ receiving corps provides Prescott with another reliable target. With Lamb already in place, McMillan’s presence elevates the Cowboys’ passing game.
Dolphins Bolster Secondary with Will Johnson
The Miami Dolphins, selecting thirteenth overall, are projected to pick Michigan CB Will Johnson. This selection significantly upgrades their cornerback room.
“The Dolphins upgrade their CB room in a big way.”
Johnson’s addition to the Dolphins’ secondary provides them with improved coverage and playmaking ability. The Dolphins aim to enhance their defensive capabilities.
Colts Enhance Richardson’s Potential with Loveland
The Indianapolis Colts, with the fourteenth overall pick, are projected to select Michigan TE Colston Loveland. They get Anthony Richardson to play to his full potential in Indy. Loveland will give the young quarterback easy completions and big plays downfield, too.
“Getting Anthony Richardson to play to his full potential is the goal in Indy. Loveland will give the young quarterback easy completions and big plays downfield, too.”
Falcons Address Pass Rush with Mykel Williams
With the fifteenth overall pick, the Atlanta Falcons are projected to select Georgia Edge Mykel Williams. Atlanta stays in state to bolster the pass rush. The team’s need for an edge rusher has been persistent, and Williams can provide immediate impact.
“In my first mock, I expressed that I was giving up on the Falcons addressing their eternal need for an edge rusher this early in a draft. OK, I caved. Atlanta stays in state to bolster the pass rush.”
Cardinals Fortify O-Line with Kelvin Banks Jr.
The Arizona Cardinals, selecting sixteenth overall, are projected to pick Texas OT Kelvin Banks Jr. They need to keep fortifying their O-line to give RB James Conner a runway to the secondary.
“The Cardinals love playing power football. They need to keep fortifying their O-line to give RB James Conner a runway to the secondary.”
Bengals Improve Defense with Kenneth Grant
With the seventeenth overall pick, the Cincinnati Bengals are projected to select Michigan DT Kenneth Grant. The defense needs plenty of help, though, and Grant should make a quick impact.
“The Bengals have done a fantastic job improving the offense. The defense needs plenty of help, though, and Grant should make a quick impact.”
Seahawks Add Jahdae Barron to Secondary
The Seattle Seahawks, selecting eighteenth overall, are projected to pick Texas CB Jahdae Barron. Head coach Mike Macdonald will be thrilled to add Barron to his secondary next to Riq Woolen and Devon Witherspoon.
“Head coach Mike Macdonald made his bones on defense. He will be thrilled to add Barron to his secondary next to Riq Woolen and Devon Witherspoon.”
Buccaneers Prioritize Pressure with Jihaad Campbell
With the nineteenth overall pick, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers are projected to select Alabama LB Jihaad Campbell. Campbell can play off the ball, but expect him to be utilized extensively off the edge. With Todd Bowles at the helm, the Bucs defense is predicated on creating pressure.
“With Todd Bowles at the helm, the Bucs defense is predicated on creating pressure. Campbell can play off the ball, but expect him to be utilized extensively off the edge.”
Broncos Bolster Backfield with Omarion Hampton
The Denver Broncos, selecting twentieth overall, are projected to pick North Carolina RB Omarion Hampton. This pick also feels on the nose. Head coach Sean Payton acquired his receiving back in TE Adam Trautman. Now he adds a hammer to his backfield.
“Head coach Sean Payton acquired his receiving back in TE Adam Trautman. Now he adds a hammer to his backfield.”
Charles Davis’s 2025 NFL Mock Draft 2.0 offers an intriguing look at how the first round could unfold. From Cam Ward potentially leading the Titans to the Patriots taking a chance on Travis Hunter, each pick provides insight into team needs and draft strategies.
While mock drafts are ultimately speculative, they offer a valuable tool for understanding the landscape of the upcoming NFL Draft. As teams continue to evaluate prospects and refine their draft boards, these projections provide fans and analysts alike with plenty to discuss and debate. Only time will tell how closely the real draft aligns with these expert predictions.
Leave a Reply