The NFL Draft season is heating up as we approach the big weekend in Green Bay (April 24-26). As a football junkie who lives for this time of year, I’ve been pouring over projections, team needs, and player evaluations. Let’s dive into what could be one of the most unpredictable first rounds in recent memory.
Top Storylines to Watch
Tennessee appears set to select Miami QB Cam Ward at #1 overall, valuing his 57 college starts and pro-ready skillset. But the real intrigue begins with Colorado two-way star Travis Hunter potentially heading to Cleveland at #2, where he could legitimately start at both cornerback and wide receiver.
Although the Jaguars are the favorite to grab another RB, the Patriots might shock everyone by selecting RB Ashton Jeanty at #4, signaling a potential old-school, run-heavy approach rather than addressing quarterback needs. Meanwhile, the Raiders appear poised to make Shedeur Sanders their franchise quarterback at #6. Some are suggesting he may fall out of the first round, but there is so much intrigue we had to mention the potential.
Mid-Round Maneuvering
The Packers are projected to make franchise history by trading up to #19 for Ohio State receiver Emeka Egbuka – their first first-round WR since 2002. In the projected trade, Tampa Bay moves back to #23 where they’d select Texas A&M edge rusher Shemar Stewart, whose versatility would allow him to play as both a 5-technique defensive end and occasionally stand up as an outside linebacker.
Second Half Surprises
Jim Harbaugh and the Chargers continue the Michigan pipeline at #22, selecting tight end Colston Loveland to give Justin Herbert a reliable safety valve. This feels reminiscent of Herbert’s rookie year when tight end Hunter Henry was his second-most targeted receiver.
Buffalo, despite already investing heavily in their pass rush this offseason (signing Joey Bosa and Mike Hoecht while extending Gregory Rousseau), could trade up to #24 for Marshall edge rusher Mike Green. This makes sense given Bosa’s injury history, Hoecht’s six-game suspension, and A.J. Epenesa entering a contract year.
The Chiefs might be taking their Super Bowl loss to Philadelphia seriously, potentially trading up to #27 for Minnesota offensive tackle Aireontae Ersery. The Eagles’ domination in the trenches appears to have Kansas City focused on offensive line reinforcements, even after signing Jaylon Moore in free agency.
Detroit continues building their formidable offensive line at #28 with Alabama guard Tyler Booker, filling the void left by Kevin Zeitler’s departure. His versatility to play both left and right guard positions provides flexibility alongside veteran Graham Glasgow.
Bottom Line
The five projected first-round trades indicate teams are willing to be aggressive for specific targets. With quarterback-needy franchises throughout the top ten and several teams potentially looking to move up, expect the unexpected in Green Bay.
The most exciting projected finish to Round 1? The Rams selecting Missouri WR Luther Burden III at #32, potentially creating a nightmare scenario for opposing defensive coordinators who would have to contend with Burden, Tutu Atwell, Davante Adams, and Puka Nacua all on the field together.
Whether these projections hold or crumble under the pressure of draft day decisions remains to be seen. But one thing’s certain – the 2025 NFL Draft promises to deliver all the drama, surprises, and franchise-altering selections that make this three-day event must-see TV every spring.
What teams are you most excited to watch during the draft? Which picks do you think will significantly impact the 2025 NFL season? Let me know in the comments below!
When and where, 2025 NFL Draft:
The 2025 draft will take place outside the historic Lambeau Field in Green Bay. Dates and times for each day.
- Thursday, April 24: Round 1, 8 p.m. ET
- Friday, April 25: Rounds 2-3, 7 p.m. ET
- Saturday, April 26: Rounds 4-7, Noon ET