By Sean Gannon

The last Mock Draft before the official NFL draft is underway. There is a ton of speculation and I cant wait to see where these quarterbacks and defensive players end up. Lets jump right into it.

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

There are still no change here. During a Fortnite stream, he mentioned that Tony Pollard and Treylon Burks are in his top five players. He also acknowledged that A.J. Brown is a dog, but he believes Calvin Ridley surpasses him. He is clearly aiming to be the first overall pick, and I don’t see the Titans passing on him. Additionally, Will Levis appears to be a potential trade candidate, and given the weekly memes from last year, this isn’t particularly surprising.

2. Cleveland Browns (3-14) Travis Hunter, WR/DB, Colorado University

I had Carter here, and I wouldn’t be surprised if he gets picked. However, after rewatching Colorado’s Pro Day and noticing how impressive Hunter is as a wide receiver, I believe Cleveland should not miss this opportunity. Hunter will also be given reps as a cornerback, and Jim Schwartz will help maximize his potential as they determine his snap counts and which packages to use him in at the next level. He can make an immediate impact on both sides of the ball and add depth to their receiving corps, which currently includes only Jerry Jeudy, Cedric Tillman, and Michael Woods II as the top three options. Whoever is playing quarterback will need a reliable target to throw the ball to.

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

The Giants have both Jameis Winston and Russell Wilson under contract, which is beneficial for Sanders. Being able to spend an entire year as the #3 quarterback allows him to learn from a Super Bowl champion and an experienced veteran. This experience will enable Sanders to absorb the playbook and understand what is expected of a starter in the NFL. As the third-string quarterback, it’s likely that he won’t see any playing time unless he’s brought in during blowout games or in the final game of the season. This arrangement allows the Giants to secure their quarterback for the future while giving Sanders the time he needs to develop into a potential NFL starter and Pro Bowl-caliber player.

4. New England Patriots (4-13) Abdul Carter, Edge Penn State

The first change for the Patriots in any of my mock drafts when they select the best edge rusher in the NFL draft, who is arguably the best player overall. Although they might still consider Campbell, it’s difficult to overlook the talent that Carter brings to the team, whether he’s tackling quarterbacks or running backs in the backfield. Last season, the Patriots ranked last in the league with just 28 sacks. Adding Carter to the roster should help them improve significantly and create a formidable presence on the defensive line.

5. Jacksonville Jaguars (4-13) Will Campbell, OT LSU

I have had McMillian on the roster for some time, and that remains a possibility. However, with Campbell available and considering the injuries Trevor Lawrence endured last year, improving protection has become a major priority for the Jaguars. Campbell is a solid tackle who should contribute to protection from day one. While there may be a learning curve if he is matched up against some of the premier defenders, I believe his development will ultimately meet Jacksonville’s needs.

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

There is no change for the Raiders; they secure the best offensive player in the 2025 draft. While Zamir White is a solid running back, having two strong running backs is becoming the norm. We’ve seen this with teams like the Browns (Chubb and Hunt), the Lions (Montgomery and Gibbs), and the Seahawks (Walker and Charbonnet). This approach could benefit the Raiders, allowing Geno Smith the opportunity to develop within the offense without placing all the pressure on him. Jeanty had one of the most dominant seasons by a running back, and I would love to see him in the black and silver, fitting into a classic Pete Carroll ground-and-pound style of football.

7. New York Jets (5-12) Armand Membou, OT Missouri

The Jets could consider selecting McMillian while he is still available, but given the struggles of their offensive line last year, I believe they will prioritize acquiring one of the top offensive tackles in the draft. Membou is a well-rounded tackle who can make a significant impact in the run game. I think he could be exactly what the Jets offense needs to improve, especially with Justin Fields now at the helm. If New York can get Breece Hall back to his 2023 form, there’s a chance the Jets could surpass expectations and win more games than anticipated. Additionally, they still have a strong defense, and with Aaron Glenn now part of the coaching staff, their outlook looks even brighter.

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

No changes here. Many people have Jalon Walker being selected before Williams, and that is possible. However, what I appreciate about Williams is his versatility; he can play as either an edge rusher or a defensive tackle. The Panthers ranked 29th in sacks in 2024, they traded Brian Burns to New York, Shaq Thompson is a free agent, and Derrick Brown, who is underrated, is returning from injury. The defensive line is a priority in this years draft. Williams can either line up as a defensive end or play alongside Brown in the nose tackle position, where he can disrupt interior offensive lines.

9. New Orleans Saints (5-12) Tetairoa McMillan, WR, Arizona

The Saints need a quarterback following Carr’s injury, and they were unable to move up to acquire Sanders or Ward. For now, they have draft McMillan. He has the potential to be like Mike Evans 2.0, given his size and speed, with an Alshon Jeffery-type career as his floor. Ultimately, the Saints require more pass-catchers. Shaheed has shown significant promise but is returning from an injury, and Chris Olave has had several concussions, which raises concerns about his longevity in the NFL. It’s a wise decision for the Saints to secure additional weapons for their future quarterback. Perhaps they could trade back into the first round to select Jaxson Dart?

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

No change for Chicago. The Bears signed three new offensive linemen to support Caleb Williams, and now it’s time to focus on strengthening the defensive line. Signing Grady Jarrett was an excellent move for adding depth, and he can serve as a great mentor for Graham, helping him develop into a top-tier defensive lineman in the NFL. He has everything you want from a defensive tackle, I cant wait to see what they do with him in Chicago.

11. San Francisco 49ers (6-11) Will Johnson, CB Michigan

Will Johnson’s stock has fluctuated significantly this offseason, making it difficult to gauge his value. With Saleh returning to the 49ers, the focus is on strengthening their defense in this draft. Johnson is one of the top pure cornerbacks available, showcasing impressive ball-hawking skills. If the 49ers can secure him, Saleh might have a second version of Sauce Gardner in the west and a huge boost to the defense that lost a slew of pieces in the offseason.

12. Dallas Cowboys (7-10) Matthew Golden, WR Texas

I focused on defense in my first two mock drafts, but this time I’m going offense. The Cowboys are lacking weapons outside of CeeDee Lamb, and Dak Prescott will need some help to get the offense going. Lamb’s ability to stretch the field will complement Golden’s skills in short and medium route running, making him an instant impact player for an offense that has been otherwise lackluster. While I wouldn’t be surprised if they also drafted Omarion Hampton here, I believe that adding pass catchers will benefit the offense even more.

13. Miami Dolphins (8-9) Kelvin Banks Jr, OT Texas

The Texas picks are off the board one after the other. Initially, I had Booker going in this spot, but with the retirement of Armstead this offseason, Miami needs to find a tackle replacement urgently. Banks has started 42 games at left tackle for the Longhorns and is considered one of the top pure tackles in the draft. He reminds me a lot of Christian Darrisaw due to his ability to anchor in pass protection and reach the second level in the run game. Both Achane and Tua are going to be very happy with this choice by the Dolphins front office.

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

No change here. Warren is the best tight end in the draft. Two tight-end sets and extra blocking for Jonathan Taylor in the run game are going to be electric. With Daniel Jones and Anthony Richardson set to face off for the QB1 (worst QB room in the NFL?) of this team in the offseason having a reliable blanket pass catcher and a top-tier run game is going to be a must-have for the Colts.

15. Atlanta Falcons (8-9) Mike Green, Edge Marshall

Mike Green is one of my favorite edge rushers in the draft. He reminds me a lot of Danielle Hunter, particularly with his tenacity and ability to create chaos in the backfield. Last year, it felt like Atlanta was missing a lot of that intensity on the defensive side. They selected Penix when many expected them to focus on defense, but now it’s time to address that need. Green may have fallen a bit in this draft, but the Falcons are not upset about it.  

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

Walker drops a little in this one, but like the Falcons the Cardinals arent upset with. He is a true edge rusher who can be positioned as a defensive end or outside linebacker, providing a complementary presence to Josh Sweat on the opposite side. Arizona ranked 25th against the run in 2024, and they are aiming for significant improvement on the defensive side of the ball in 2025. While it’s possible they could choose to focus on offense, I believe they will ultimately prioritize defense.

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

This remains the same as my initial draft, and I don’t anticipate any changes now. The Bengals need as much assistance as possible on the defensive side of the ball. It all begins with Nolan and the rest of this draft.

18. Seattle Seahawks (10-7) Grey Zabel, IOL North Dakota State University

Grey Zabel may come from a smaller program, but he plays like the biggest player on the field. He will provide an immediate boost to one of the weaker offensive lines in the NFL in 2024. As a true mauler in the run game and a solid pass protector, he is ready to step in as a starting offensive lineman. After acquiring Sam Darnold, Seattle will need to ensure adequate protection for him if they want to see a return on their investment.

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

No change here. Campbell is a sideline to sideline linebacker and Lavonte David is not getting younger. They need someone to take over as leader in the middle of the defense and Campbell is that guy. He can rush the pass and cover elite tight ends. One of my favorite defensive players in the draft I love him in a Buccaneers uniform with Todd Bowles.

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

No change here. The Broncos need some help in the running back room and Hampton is an all-around back who can lower his shoulder. After a solid rookie campaign by Bo Nix getting an upgrade to the run game could make this one of the more balanced offenses in the league.

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

There hasn’t been any change in the situation. I can’t envision the Steelers starting Mason Rudolph for an entire season, and with every viable free-agent quarterback off the market, they need to focus on finding a young quarterback for the future. With Dart still available, they shouldn’t miss the opportunity to select him. Additionally, I wouldn’t mind the Steelers pursuing a trade for Kirk Cousins, especially if they can have Atlanta cover most of his salary. Having Cousins could make the team more competitive while allowing Dart to sit for a year before stepping in as the starting quarterback.

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

No change here. Justin Herbert needs more weapons and Loveland is a wide receiver with a tight-end build. This is a match made in heaven from quarterback to head coach. Harbaugh will be happy to reunite with his former player.

23. Green Bay Packers (11-6) Jahade Barron, CB Texas

I’m having difficulty getting a clear read on Jaire Alexander, but there’s nothing wrong with strengthening your defense in an NFC North that became a battleground in 2024. Although he’s not very large, he was ranked as the second-best cornerback in the FBS in 2024 and won the Jim Thorpe Award. Barron can keep up with some of the best in the NFL and provides much-needed depth in a position where the Packers need support, especially considering the numerous offensive weapons in the NFC.

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

I am a huge fan of Embuka, and I believe he is one of the most polished route runners in this draft and one of the more overlooked. While his speed may not be exceptional, his ability to create separation and execute a complete route tree makes him elite. Given Baltimore’s strong running game and established weapons like Flowers, Likely, and Andrews, Embuka should be able to step in and establish himself as a reliable WR2 and hopefully take this offense to a whole different level.

25. Houston Texans (10-7) Tyler Booker, OL Oklahoma

The Texans traded away nearly half of their starting offensive line during the offseason and urgently need to replace them. CJ Stroud had a challenging second year, but his struggles can be understood given the injuries to both the offensive line and the wide receivers. Booker is a reliable tackle who could potentially move inside to strengthen the line. As a solid pass protector, he would help improve the Texans’ offensive line, which is a pressing need for the team.

26. Los Angeles Rams (10-7) James Pearce Jr, Edge Tennessee

Pearce didn’t make it into my first-round mock draft last time, but he definitely does this time. The Rams have made an incredible turnaround in just two years, and their offense looks promising for 2025. Pearce is one of the most athletic players in this draft, and I believe that McVay and Chris Shula can maximize his potential for the Rams. His explosiveness in his first two steps and his quickness are impressive. Having another true rusher on the other side of the ball from Verse makes this one of the scariest young pass-rushing duos.

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

I have consistently selected him as my top choice for the Vikings in every draft because I believe he is the best safety available and a perfect fit for the Vikings. Flores has done an incredible job of maximizing his defensive players’ potential, and Starks would benefit greatly from learning under Harrison Smith before stepping in as the full-time starter.

28. Detroit Lions (15-2) Luther Burden III, WR Missouri

Jameson Williams’s name has been mentioned in trade discussions, and it’s possible he could be moved. The team has several players to sign, and picking up his fifth-year option would add financial pressure. Drafting a rookie wide receiver could provide financial flexibility.

Burden could replace Williams; while he may lack Williams’s speed, he excels in yards after catch and can be effective with more than just short passes. With Burden in the slot, Amon-Ra St. Brown outside, and LaPorta in the middle, the Detroit offense could remain strong without Williams or Johnson. The Lions have various options in the draft, and I would be excited to see this move happen.

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

No changes for the Commanders. They need to acquire some edge rushers after losing Fowler in free agency and releasing Allen during the offseason. Dan Quinn is a defensive genius, and after just one year in Washington, under competent ownership, they made it to the NFC Championship. Ezeiruaku is a true three-down edge rusher, possessing excellent acceleration and the ideal size for an outside linebacker. We have repeatedly seen how Quinn can maximize the potential of his players. This would be a perfect fit for the defense.

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

No change here. Hariston is one of the speediest cornerbacks in this draft and it’s exactly what the Bills need for Hill and Waddle in their division. Buffalo traded Elum this offseason and didn’t resign Rashul Douglas. They need to get some depth. Hariston will be your speedy outside coverage corner and a steal this late in the draft.

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

Part of me thinks the Chiefs should focus on defense after losing Justin Reid in free agency and with Chris Jones aging. However, what the Eagles did to the Chiefs’ offensive line was incredible, and then KC traded Thuney, which didnt make a ton of sense. Therefore, strengthening the offensive line seems like the best option. Simmons is a versatile tackle and could be an immediate contributor for Kansas City.

32. Philadelphia Eagles (14-3) Nick Emmanwori, Safety South Carolina

I dislike the idea of giving the Eagles one of the best safeties in the draft, but with Emmanwori still available, I can’t imagine Roseman passing up the chance to acquire a player with his athleticism. Although Emmanwori may have some weaknesses in coverage, he compensates for them with excellent speed and strong run support. This addition could be formidable for a team that has dominated the draft in recent years and is coming off of a huge Super Bowl win over the Chiefs.