By Sean Gannon

1. Tennessee Titans (3-14) Cam Ward, QB Miami 

I can’t speak highly enough about Cam Ward; he is, without a doubt, the most polished quarterback in this draft. His movement in the pocket reflects his confidence in decision-making, and his football maturity is rare for someone so young. Tennessee experienced the challenges of working with Will Levis last year, and it was a difficult situation. It seems like they are not going to miss the chance to have a franchise quarterback. The weekly memes about Will Levis highlighted the struggles they faced. Although Tennessee has many needs, selecting Ward would significantly boost their offense.

2. Cleveland Browns (3-14) Abdul Carter, EDGE Penn State

Carter is arguably the best player in the draft and is a true game-wrecker. He has the potential to make an immediate impact for teams, similar to what we’ve seen from Nick Bosa, T.J. Watt, and Myles Garrett. Speaking of Garrett, can you imagine the impact of both of them would have together? In a division with talented quarterbacks like Lamar Jackson and Joe Burrow, this duo could be the key to slowing them down and making the division even more exciting. While it’s possible they might consider selecting a quarterback, I suspect that after the events of this offseason involving Garrett, they may be more inclined to bring in another edge rusher.

3. New York Giants (3-14) Shadur Sanders, QB Colorado

The New York Giants have signed both Jameis Winston and Russell Wilson, but this won’t prevent them from seeking a quarterback under 25 years old. They are opting for the second-best quarterback in the class. Since Eli Manning’s retirement, the team has struggled, and the jobs of head coach Brian Daboll and general manager Joe Schoen are on the line. Sanders is a solid quarterback with significant upside. He demonstrates excellent pocket awareness, keeps his eyes downfield, and delivers the ball to his receivers in stride. He could be the future for New York.

4. New England Patriots (4-13) Will Campbell, OT LSU

This could easily be about Travis Hunter, but if you want Drake Maye to grow in his second year, it all comes down to the effectiveness of the offensive line protecting him. If Maye doesn’t have time to throw, he won’t be able to connect with any wide receivers. Campbell embodies everything you want in a tackle and has shown that since he started in the SEC. While there are questions about his arm size, just watch the tape; Maye is going to appreciate having this guy protecting him. Campbell truly exemplifies what a Vrabel-type player should be, I like them getting him here.

5. Jacksonville Jaguars (4-13) Tetairoa McMillan, WR Arizona

The Jags are sitting here with the ability to do a lot. Graham for the defensive line, Travis Hunter for both offense and defense, or Mcmillen. After signing Trevor Lawrence to a 5yr-$275 million contract with $142 million guaranteed, it was followed by a 2-8 record as a starter (he was injured this season). Christian Kirk was traded, Evan Engram was released and Briant Thomas Jr stands alone. If you want to get Lawrence back on track and this offense back on track, get him another playmaker ASAP. McMillan reminds me of Drake London, in 2023 it was TD after TD, his feel for zone coverage is great and the Jags need a pure wide receiver on their time. That video of him circulating about not watching film is a few years old and I am sure he has changed his position on that since his early years in college.

6. Las Vegas Raiders (4-13) Ashton Jeanty, RB Bosie State

Jeanty takes a leap in this mock draft. Given all the moves the Raiders have made, they could opt for Travis Hunter. However, let’s not forget who’s at the helm: Pete Carroll. We’re talking about old-school ground and pound football, baby—unless it’s Beast Mode on the 2-yard line in the Super Bowl. Carroll is likely to select the best running back in the draft, which will enhance his offense significantly. This strategy will allow them to run and pass effectively, hopefully creating opportunities for play-action plays. After signing Geno to a massive two-year, $85.5 million contract, having a balanced offense will be crucial.

7. New York Jets (5-12) Travis Hunter, CB/WR Colorado

I initially had the Jets selecting an offensive lineman to help support Fields, which is still a valid option. However, Travis Hunter is such a unique talent, and I believe that many of his strengths lie in his abilities as a cornerback. With DJ Reed leaving in free agency and Aaron Glenn taking over as the new head coach, there’s an opportunity here. What Glenn accomplished with an injured Lions defense was remarkable. The Jets already have a wealth of defensive talent, and adding someone like Travis Hunter alongside Sauce Gardner under Aaron Glenn’s leadership could be a fantastic move. I’m really excited about this possibility.

8. Carolina Panthers (5-12) Mykel Williams, Edge Georgia

There is no change here in this one. The Panthers still need help on the edge. With Shaq Thompson released this year and Brian Burns traded last season, they must find players to put pressure on the quarterback. Williams is versatile and has the build to deflect passes at the line of scrimmage. He and Derrick Brown could form an excellent one-two punch on the defensive line for the team.

9. New Orleans Saints (5-12) Mike Green, Edge Marshall 

Mike Green takes a leap in this draft for me. He reminds me a lot of Danielle Hunter with his relentless motor, active hands, and incredible explosiveness off the line of scrimmage. Cameron Jordan is aging and the team needs a player who can step up as a future leader on defense. New Orleans has already secured Chase Young, so it’s time for them to pursue their next defensive star for the long term.

10. Chicago Bears (5-12) Mason Graham, DL 

Initially, I had them selecting an offensive lineman in the first mock draft, but they addressed that position in free agency. Therefore, we are shifting our focus to the defensive line. Graham makes a significant leap in this version, and the Bears are excited to have him. If you watch his tape, you’ll see that he is relentless and never stops moving. His motor doesn’t quit; he is explosive off the snap and surprisingly quick for a defensive lineman. Learning under Grady Jarrett and not needing to be an immediate starter could greatly benefit his development into a full-time starter.

11. San Francisco 49ers (6-11) Armand Membou, OT Missouri

Membou is, in my opinion, the second-best offensive lineman in the draft. He may need to be shifted inside due to his size, but he is incredibly athletic and demonstrates excellent balance. It looks like San Francisco is planning to pay Brock Purdy a substantial amount, and with limited weapons in 2025, he will need strong protection. Membou will be a powerful offensive linemen in the run game, which a fully healthy Christian McCaffrey will greatly appreciate. The 49ers are shaping up to be one of the most intriguing teams to follow. Are they in a rebuilding phase or just making adjustments? Who knows?

12. Dallas Cowboys (7-10) Shamer Stewart, Edge Texas A&M

The Cowboys are an intriguing team, especially since they didn’t make many moves in Free Agency. They could consider a running back or bolster their offensive line, but I believe they will focus on defense. Stewart remains close to home after college, continuing his career in the Lone Star State. I think his versatility allows him to play both inside and outside on the defensive line, which would create favorable matchups for Micah Parsons. This could prove to be a valuable addition to the Dallas defense.

13. Miami Dolphins (8-9) Tyler Booker, OL Alabama

It seems like we say this every year, but the Dolphins need to keep Tua healthy; that is their main priority. Booker has the ideal size for an NFL tackle, along with great strength and the ability to get to the second level. He can provide the much-needed boost to the Dolphins’ offense, which has been less explosive in recent years due to injuries. Achane will also benefit from this support in the run game.

14. Indianapolis Colts (8-9) Tyler Warren, TE Penn State

There are no changes needed here. To me, Warren is the best tight end in the draft and has the ability to do everything required for the position. Although I had high hopes for Mo Allie-Cox, he hasn’t developed into the passing threat I anticipated. Adding Warren will provide Anthony Richardson and Daniel Jones with a reliable target to throw to, along with another offensive weapon that this team hasn’t had since Dallas Clark or, more recently, during Eric Ebron’s impressive season in 2018.

15. Atlanta Falcons (8-9) Will Johnson, CB Michigan

Johnson makes a strong jump up in this mock draft. Pairing him with A.J. Terrell will be fantastic for the defense and slow down . In my opinion, Johnson is arguably the best cornerback. While he had a down year in 2024, he is a great athlete, and covering the opposing team’s second wide receiver will really help him develop. There’s a chance that Atlanta might go for a wide receiver to support Penix, but with Morris leading the team, I think they will prioritize defense first.  

16. Arizona Cardinals (8-9) Jalon Walker, Edge Georgia

The Cardinals ranked 25th against the run in 2024. While signing Josh Sweat was a positive step, they need to bolster their entire defensive front with additional depth. It’s essential to have multiple playmakers who can pressure the quarterback. Adding Walker would be a great move in this regard. His athleticism is often underrated, and I believe he has the potential to be both an off-ball linebacker and a true edge rusher. He’s similar in style to players like Nolan Smith or Andrew Van Ginkel. That kind of versatility is exactly what Gannon is looking for in this defense.

17. Cincinnati Bengals (9-8) Walter Nolan, DT Ole Miss

There is no change in the situation. The Bengals have secured their offensive lineup for the future, but their defense remains a concern. Last year, they consistently allowed too many points, and there’s uncertainty surrounding Trey Hendrickson’s status for next season—he might even request sit out. The team hasn’t made significant moves in free agency to strengthen the defense, so it will be essential to address this issue in the draft, especially if they end up losing Hendrickson.

18. Seattle Seahawks (10-7) Kelvin Banks Jr, OT Texas

The Seahawks could consider selecting a wide receiver here, but they had one of the worst offensive lines in football last year. Geno Smith faced pressure on 28% of his dropbacks. With a new quarterback, Sam Darnold, it’s crucial that they protect him, especially since he struggled under pressure in games against the Rams and Lions. I see a lot of potential in Banks; his athleticism and blocking technique remind me of Christian Darrisaw. While he could potentially move inside, he looks like a promising tackle who could significantly improve the Seahawks’ offensive line. They need to ensure Darnold is well-protected, or this signing could end up looking like a mistake.

19. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (10-7) Jihaad Campbell, LB Alabama

The Buccaneers could be a surprising team that selects a wide receiver, but for now, we will maintain our current projection. LaVonte David is returning for another season, but at 35 years old, his production is likely to decline. Campbell is the ideal prototypical linebacker who can cover the entire field with relentless energy. His greatest strength is his ability to cover running backs out of the backfield. With dual-threat running backs like Jamyr Gibbs, Kyren Williams, and others, he has the potential to make a significant impact for defenses. This addition would greatly benefit the team led by Todd Bowles.

20. Denver Broncos (10-7) Omarion Hampton, RB UNC

Originally, I considered having the Denver Broncos select a tight end like Loveland, but after signing Evan Engram, it seems unlikely they would choose a first-round tight end, especially with other weapons available in the draft. Instead, I believe they will focus on acquiring a running back. With Jevonte Williams no longer on the team, they are in need of one. While part of me wants them to draft a wide receiver here, I think Hampton’s ability to catch and run the ball effectively would greatly benefit Bo Nix’s development in his second year. At this point in the first round, he would be a steal for them.

21. Pittsburgh Steelers (10-7) Jaxson Dart, QB Ole Miss

The situation with the Steelers and Aaron Rodgers is unclear. Are they pursuing him, or are they not? Is Mason Rudolph the starting quarterback? There seems to be a lot of confusion. I believe that a player like Dart would benefit from sitting out for a year or most of the year, much like Michael Penix. However, that might not be possible given the current quarterback situation. Dart has the ability to make all the necessary throws, performs well on third down, looks downfield, and is quite mobile. There are times when he forces throws too often, which could be problematic for him against cornerbacks. However, I think Arthur Smith could develop this young quarterback into what the Steelers need. With DK Metcalf, George Pickens, and Pat Freiermuth as options, there is no shortage of offensive weapons to support a young QB.

22. Los Angeles Chargers (11-6) Colston Loveland, TE Michigan

Colston Loveland is the second-best tight end in this draft. He possesses the build of a tight end but functions more like a wide receiver. While he may not always line up to block, he can effectively execute chip blocks to provide support. The team might also consider selecting a wide receiver, but Loveland’s previous experience with Harbaugh during Michigans college championship, which was his best collegiate season, makes him a strong fit for this offense. He already understands the team’s expectations and the overall dynamics of the offense.

23. Green Bay Packers (11-6) Matthew Golden, WR Texas

The Packers could easily choose a cornerback here, but I believe they will opt for a wide receiver instead. I have been saying for years that this team needs a true wide receiver (and so has Josh Jacobs), and I stand by that. With Christian Watson expected to miss about half the season, bringing in another weapon for Jordan Love would be crucial. Golden excels in short to medium routes and has consistently come through for Texas in high-pressure situations. With a bit more polish on his deep routes and improved speed, he could create significant challenges for defenses in the NFC North.

24. Baltimore Ravens (12-5) *Trade With Minnesota Vikings* Emeka Embuka, WR Ohio State

There is no change in the current situation. Lamar had an impressive touchdown-to-interception ratio of 41:4, but he only had one receiver, Zay Flowers, who surpassed 1,000 yards with 1,059. Embuka is regarded as one of the best route runners and is one of the more underrated players in this year’s draft. Bateman hasn’t fully lived up to his potential, so adding Embuka would not only provide a replacement but also bring another playmaker to support Lamar in the playoffs.

25. Houston Texans (10-7) Grey Zabel, IOL North Dakota State 

Zabel is the best true interior offensive lineman in the draft and had an impressive performance at both the pro day and the Senior Bowl, showcasing his skills effectively. However, I believe there will be a learning curve for him transitioning from North Dakota State University to the NFL, particularly regarding pass blocking and hand placement. He’s versatile, having played four out of five offensive line positions, which is valuable considering the Texans have lost several linemen in the offseason. It is crucial for them to protect CJ Stroud, especially since the AFC South is relatively weak and could offer them an opportunity for success. Ultimately, they must ensure the safety of their future star quarterback.

26. Los Angeles Rams (10-7) Kenneth Grant, DL Michigan

The Rams are progressing much faster than anyone anticipated for a “rebuild” after making it to the divisional round. They excelled with their first-round pick in seven years, selecting Jared Verse. I believe they will continue this trend by selecting Kenneth Grant from Michigan. Grant is a versatile defensive tackle who can play in the A or B gaps and has the ability to knock guards off balance. I like the continued focus on the development of the Rams’ defense. While it’s possible they may also consider a cornerback or safety here, I think they will prioritize the defensive line again.

27. Minnesota Vikings (14-3) *Traded With Baltimore Ravens* Maleki Starks S, Georgia

There are no changes for the Vikings. While Smith is getting older, Starks has an incredible football IQ. Flores would be excited to work with such a dedicated student of the game. Although he didn’t have an exceptional performance at the combine, I believe he is still a first-round talent. Learning from one of the best safeties in our generation, Harrison Smith, will significantly aid in his growth and development.

28. Detroit Lions (15-2) Jahade Barron, CB Texas

Carlton Davis departed in free agency, and while the Lions could focus on strengthening their defensive line, their secondary will require some assistance to contend in the challenging NFC North and the pass-heavy NFL. Barron is projected to be an every-down nickel cornerback in the league, which is a demanding role. Adding him to the defense could significantly enhance their depth and provide support against formidable opponents like Justin Jefferson and DJ Moore.

29. Washington Commanders (12-5) Donovan Ezeiruaku, Edge Boston College

Dan Quinn is now part of the team, prioritizing defense. With the departures of Allen and Fowler, who both represent significant losses—especially Fowler, who led the team in sacks—it’s crucial to find a replacement for him. Ezeiruaku offers an impressive combination of speed and athleticism, allowing him to make impactful plays in the backfield. This addition would be significant for the Commanders, who have already strengthened their offense by acquiring Deebo Samuel; now it’s time to focus on bolstering the defense as well.

30. Buffalo Bills (13-4) Maxwell Hariston, CB Kentucky

There are no changes in this situation. The Bills signed Joey Bosa and re-signed Khalil Shakir, allowing them to focus on strengthening their secondary after trading Elam and allowing Douglas to depart in free agency. I believe Hariston will be a day-one starter, and his speed will enable him to keep pace with the fastest players in the league. With Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle in their division, having a speedy secondary is crucial.

31. Kansas City Chiefs (15-2) Josh Simmons, OT Ohio State

There are no changes for the Chiefs. They traded Thuney, and if they hope to go deep in the playoffs, it will be because of Mahomes. The Super Bowl highlighted the impact of injuries on the team. They need to prioritize getting him some protection this season.

32. Philadelphia Eagles (14-3) Donovan Jackson, OL Ohio State 

Jackson is a true guard and that is arguably the Eagle’s worst position (sorry Kenyon Green). Donovan can easily help Barkley get over 1500 yards and should be an upgrade over Green to protect Hurts. The Eagles can really do anything with key players already signed/on rookie contracts, I wouldn’t be surprised if Howie trades back and gains some capital.