The NFL Scouting Combine Kicks Off
The NFL Scouting Combine is in full swing, and the excitement is palpable as teams prepare for the 2025 NFL Draft on April 25. This year’s event is particularly significant, with numerous teams needing to address critical positions to bolster their rosters for the upcoming season. As the prospects showcase their skills, it’s a great time to revisit Sporting News’ two-round mock draft to get a sense of who might be available as teams make their selections through No. 64 overall.
First Round Highlights
The Tennessee Titans, with the first pick, face a crucial decision. While quarterback is a tempting option, the Titans cannot afford to ignore the need for a dominant pass rusher. Derek Carter, a standout from LSU, fits the bill perfectly with his relentless playmaking ability. He can take over games and provide the disruptive force the Titans need.
The Cleveland Browns, picking second, have a versatile need. They might also consider a quarterback, but a force in the back end of their defense is equally important. Travis Hunter from Colorado is a unique and big-play talent who can excel both as a corner and a wide receiver. His shutdown capabilities and occasional offensive contributions make him a valuable asset for the Browns.
The New York Giants, at third, are in the market for a new franchise quarterback after parting ways with Daniel Jones. Cam Ward from Miami, with his powerful arm and athletic prowess, is a strong candidate. Ward’s potential to have an immediate impact, similar to Jayden Daniels, aligns well with Brian Daboll and Mike Kafka’s offensive strategy.
Early Decisions and Key Needs
The New England Patriots, picking fourth, need to focus on protecting their second-year quarterback, Drake Maye. Will Campbell from LSU, a formidable offensive tackle, can lock down the left side pass protection, ensuring Maye has the time he needs to develop and succeed.
The Jacksonville Jaguars, at fifth, will consider both defense and the offensive line, but pairing Trevor Lawrence with Tetairoa McMillan from Arizona to revamp their passing game is a tempting prospect. McMillan’s size and athleticism can significantly enhance Lawrence’s effectiveness under the new offensive coordinator, Liam Coen.
The Las Vegas Raiders, picking sixth, will not lock into a quarterback immediately but will explore veteran bridge options. However, Shedeur Sanders from Colorado, with his strong pocket passing, offers a longer-term solution for Pete Carroll and Chip Kelly. His potential to develop and provide stability is a key factor in this decision.
Defensive Reinforcements
The New York Jets, at seventh, have a plethora of options. They can address their needs on both sides of the ball by selecting Mason Graham, a defensive tackle from Michigan. Pairing Graham with Quinnen Williams can provide a formidable inside force, crucial for the Jets’ defense.
The Carolina Panthers, picking eighth, need to revamp their defense, and Mike Green from Marshall, a rising star in pass rushing, is a top choice. Green’s performance at the Senior Bowl and his productivity make him an ideal addition to strengthen the Panthers’ edge.
The New Orleans Saints, at ninth, must rebuild their defense without Dennis Allen. With key issues at corner, Will Johnson from Michigan is a solid pick. His coverage skills and ability to handle the secondary’s stressed needs can significantly improve the Saints’ defensive lineup.
Offensive and Versatile Picks
The Chicago Bears, picking tenth, need to protect rookie quarterback Caleb Williams. Armand Membou from Missouri, a promising offensive tackle, can help mitigate the sacks that plagued the Bears’ rookie season. His versatility and potential to execute a dynamic passing game make him a valuable asset.
The San Francisco 49ers, at eleventh, aim to support Nick Bosa with a robust pass rush. James Pearce Jr. from Tennessee, with his impressive athleticism and size, can provide the necessary reinforcement and fit well into Robert Saleh’s scheme.
The Dallas Cowboys, picking twelfth, have a significant need for a versatile backfield player. Kaleb Johnson from Iowa, with his downhill running qualities and aptitude in the passing game, is a strong contender to replace long-term workhorse Ezekiel Elliott.
Continued Draft Strategy
The Indianapolis Colts, at fourteenth, need a versatile intermediate target to layer their passing game. Tyler Warren from Penn State, with his athleticism and downfield burst, can complement the team’s big-play wide receivers and become a special weapon for Anthony Richardson.
The Atlanta Falcons, at fifteenth, need to address their pass rush for Raheem Morris. Shemar Stewart from Texas A&M, with his impressive athleticism and rising profile, is a solid choice. His ability to pressure the quarterback and complement Nic Scourton can significantly improve the Falcons’ defensive front.
The Cincinnati Bengals, at seventeenth, may keep wide receiver Tee Higgins, but adding Colston Loveland from Michigan can provide Joe Burrow with a dynamic and athletic mismatch on inside routes. Loveland’s versatility and reliability can enhance the Bengals’ passing game.
Second Round Insights
The second round of the draft is equally pivotal, with teams looking to address additional needs and solidify their rosters. The Cleveland Browns, picking thirty-third, need a productive and savvy pass rusher. J.T. Tuimoloau from Ohio State, known for his well-rounded game, can provide the necessary boost.
The New York Giants, at thirty-fourth, require a big corner to handle larger receivers. Shavon Revel Jr. from East Carolina, recovering from a knee injury, has the physicality and size to excel in this role. His potential to return to form makes him a valuable pick.
The Tennessee Titans, at thirty-fifth, can enhance their passing game by selecting Jayden Higgins from Iowa State. His strong physical frame and ability to stretch the field will add depth and reliability to the Titans’ wide receiver corps.
The Jacksonville Jaguars, at thirty-sixth, need to upgrade their safety positions. Nick Emmanwori from South Carolina can provide solid coverage and run support, addressing a key defensive need for the team.
The Las Vegas Raiders, picking thirty-seventh, aim to find a go-to receiver for Shedeur Sanders. Matthew Golden from Texas, with his versatile big-play ability, is a strong candidate. His route-running and after-catch skills can significantly complement Sanders’ game.
Complementary Picks and Future Planning
The New England Patriots, at thirty-eighth, can continue their offensive line theme by selecting Donovan Jackson from Ohio State. His nasty, mauling blocking can help protect Maye and enhance the running game.
The Chicago Bears, at thirty-ninth, can fortify their pass rush by picking Jack Sawyer from Ohio State. Sawyer’s every-down steadiness and ability to play both against the run and pass make him an ideal complement to veteran Montez Sweat.
The New Orleans Saints, at fortieth, can explore receiving help with Mason Taylor from LSU. His dynamic hybrid skills and family pedigree (as Jason Taylor’s son and Zach Thomas’ nephew) make him a compelling choice.
The New York Jets, at forty-first, can turn the page from the Aaron Rodgers era by selecting Jaxson Dart from Ole Miss. Dart’s mental makeup, physical toughness, and accuracy fit well with the Jets’ offensive plans.
The San Francisco 49ers, at forty-third, can address their defensive interior by choosing T.J. Sanders from South Carolina. His all-around punch vs. the run and pass is a crucial addition to Robert Saleh’s defense.
The Dallas Cowboys, at forty-fourth, can find an active playmaker in Jihaad Campbell from Alabama. Campbell’s coverage skills and ability to complement Micah Parsons in the pass rush make him a valuable asset.
Each of these picks reflects the teams’ strategic needs and the potential to build strong, competitive rosters. The NFL Scouting Combine provides a crucial platform for evaluating these prospects, and the coming weeks will be filled with analysis and anticipation as teams finalize their draft strategies.
