The first round of the 2025 NFL playoffs has concluded, providing a clearer picture of the upcoming draft order. Several teams’ draft positions shifted based on their playoff performance, leading to a revised projection of the first round. Quarterbacks are expected to dominate the top selections, with the Tennessee Titans eyeing Miami’s Cam Ward as their quarterback of the future despite his tendency for risky plays. His arm talent, mobility, and accuracy make him an attractive prospect. The Cleveland Browns, facing uncertainty surrounding Deshaun Watson’s future due to injury, are projected to select Colorado’s Shedeur Sanders. While Sanders needs to refine his game and reduce negative plays, his poise, accuracy, and ability to layer the football are promising qualities.
Teams not in immediate need of a quarterback are predicted to focus on bolstering other crucial positions. The New York Giants, missing out on the top quarterbacks, are expected to select the best player available: Colorado’s Travis Hunter. Hunter’s unique ability to excel as both a shutdown corner and a wide receiver offers exceptional versatility. The New England Patriots, under new head coach Mike Vrabel, are anticipated to prioritize protecting their quarterback, Drake Maye, by drafting LSU offensive tackle Will Campbell. Campbell’s potential to play both inside and outside provides valuable flexibility. The Jacksonville Jaguars, plagued by a struggling defense, are projected to select Michigan defensive lineman Mason Graham to bolster their run defense and interior pass rush.
The Las Vegas Raiders, having traded away Davante Adams, are in dire need of a number one receiver and are projected to pick Arizona’s Tetairoa McMillan. McMillan’s size, strong hands, and ability to make plays downfield make him an ideal fit. The New York Jets, facing questions about Aaron Rodgers’ future, are likely to strengthen their secondary with Michigan cornerback Will Johnson, who possesses top-tier coverage skills. The Carolina Panthers are predicted to address their pass rush woes by selecting Penn State edge rusher Abdul Carter, whose athleticism and disruptive presence would significantly upgrade their defensive line.
The New Orleans Saints, facing aging veterans and potential free agency losses, are expected to focus on their pass rush by drafting Texas A&M edge rusher Nic Scourton, who boasts a rare combination of size, length, and power. The Chicago Bears, aiming to protect their often-sacked quarterback Caleb Williams, are projected to pick Texas offensive tackle Kelvin Banks, whose versatility allows him to play both inside and outside. The San Francisco 49ers, aiming to rebuild their defensive line, are predicted to select Texas A&M’s Shemar Stewart, whose size, speed, and power offer enticing potential despite limited production in college.
The Dallas Cowboys are expected to address their need for a high-volume running back by selecting Boise State’s Ashton Jeanty, whose elite skills and ability to wear down defenses make him a valuable asset. The Miami Dolphins, potentially losing Jevon Holland to free agency, are projected to add Georgia safety Malaki Starks, whose versatility and playmaking ability make him a top safety prospect. The Indianapolis Colts could solidify their offense with Penn State tight end Tyler Warren, a do-it-all player who can both catch passes and block effectively. The Atlanta Falcons are expected to bolster their defensive line with Georgia edge rusher Mykel Williams, whose length and athleticism would provide a much-needed boost.
The Arizona Cardinals are predicted to continue upgrading their defensive line by selecting Georgia edge rusher Jalon Walker, whose explosiveness and speed are valuable assets. The Cincinnati Bengals, despite Trey Hendrickson’s presence, are projected to address their pass rush with Texas A&M edge rusher James Pearce Jr., whose athleticism and quick first step make him an attractive prospect. The Seattle Seahawks, facing offensive line issues, are likely to select Ohio State offensive tackle Josh Simmons, a potential top-10 pick whose season-ending injury may have lowered his draft stock.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers, struggling with pass defense, are projected to pick Texas cornerback Jahdae Barron, whose versatility and lockdown coverage skills would significantly improve their secondary. The Denver Broncos are expected to provide quarterback Bo Nix with another weapon by drafting Ohio State wide receiver Emeka Egbuka, whose crisp route-running and reliable hands would complement Courtland Sutton. The Pittsburgh Steelers are predicted to strengthen their secondary with Notre Dame cornerback Benjamin Morrison, an athletic and physical cover man capable of playing both outside and in the slot.
The Los Angeles Chargers could address their long-standing need for a reliable pass-catching tight end by selecting Michigan’s Colston Loveland, who offers both receiving skills and blocking ability. The Green Bay Packers, facing injury concerns with Jaire Alexander, are projected to add East Carolina cornerback Shavon Revel, whose length, speed, and physicality make him a valuable asset. The Minnesota Vikings are likely to address their offensive line woes with Alabama’s Tyler Booker, whose mean streak and physicality would improve both pass protection and the run game. The Houston Texans are expected to focus on protecting their quarterback, C.J. Stroud, by selecting Arizona offensive lineman Jonah Savaiinaea, whose poise in pass protection and mauling ability in the run game would be a welcome addition. The Los Angeles Rams, looking ahead to the future of their offensive line, are projected to pick Minnesota offensive tackle Aireontae Ersery, a raw but talented prospect with the potential to develop into a long-term starter. The Washington Commanders could add another weapon to their offense with Missouri wide receiver Luther Burden, whose slick separation skills and elusiveness would complement Terry McLaurin. The Baltimore Ravens, needing to improve their pass rush, are projected to select Marshall edge rusher Mike Green, the nation’s leader in sacks. The Buffalo Bills are expected to revamp their defensive front with Ole Miss defensive lineman Walter Nolen, a physically gifted player with the potential to become a force. The Philadelphia Eagles, planning for Lane Johnson’s eventual replacement, are projected to select Texas offensive tackle Cameron Williams, a raw but talented player with the necessary tools to succeed. The Kansas City Chiefs are likely to continue bolstering their defensive line with Oregon defensive lineman Derrick Harmon, who offers three-down potential and the ability to learn from veteran Chris Jones. Finally, the Detroit Lions are expected to find an edge rusher to pair with Aidan Hutchinson by drafting Arkansas’ Landon Jackson, whose unique size and strength make him an intriguing prospect.
