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2025 NFL Mock Draft: B/R NFL Scouting Dept.'s Post-Combine Predictions

Brent SobleskiMar 4, 2025

The NFL Scouting Combine serves as a demarcation point for the entire draft cycle.

Not only does the event serve as a collection of the nation's top talent, where the group is evaluated medically, interviewed by teams and seen competing in workouts, but the gathering also serves as the unofficial start to the NFL offseason.

Almost all of the league's personnel descends upon Indianapolis. Free-agent talk starts (no tampering, please!). The groundwork for trades is laid. And, most importantly for the purposes of projections, indications of how front offices feel about individual prospects start to be ascertained.

As such, this mock draft is a pivot point where the Bleacher Report Scouting Department—consisting of Brandon Thorn, Brent Sobleski, Dame Parson and Matt Holder—shifts away from a projection based solely on evaluations and fits to now including some of the things overheard at the combine.

Those rumblings had a profound effect on the top of this particular mock draft, where an eager quarterback-needy franchise trades up to the No. 1 overall pick and gets its guy.

1. New York Giants (via Tennessee): QB Shedeur Sanders, Colorado

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2025 NFL Scouting Combine

TRADE ALERT: The Tennessee Titans trade the No. 1 overall pick to the New York Giants for this year's third overall selection, a third-round pick and a 2026 first-round choice.

The New York Giants have emerged as a serious trade-up candidate because of their need at quarterback while sitting directly behind two other quarterback-needy teams in the Tennessee Titans and the Cleveland Browns. If the Titans aren't sold on anyone in particular, as is the case here, the Giants use that as an opportunity to jump ahead of the Browns and get their preferred signal-caller, which may come as a surprise.

To be clear, the B/R Scouting Department has Miami's Cam Ward as the class' QB1 by a solid margin. That standing also seems to be the case with multiple NFL organizations. However, the Giants have already showed a strong interest in Colorado's Shedeur Sanders, hence the selection.

Sanders and Ward are two different quarterbacks, with the latter providing more upside. But Sanders can immediately be the face of a franchise in the country's largest market, as a smooth operator in Brian Daboll's offense and a charismatic personality off the field.

"Sanders gives Daboll a precision pocket passer with functional mobility," Parson said. "This passing offense needs a point guard with a high football IQ to stabilize the unit and get it into the right positions. Sanders fits the bill."

2. Cleveland Browns: QB Cam Ward, Miami

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The Cleveland Browns will be thrilled with any team taking a quarterback not named Cam Ward at No. 1. The belief coming out of Indianapolis is Cleveland likes Ward quite a bit.

In some ways, this setup is similar to two years ago, when the Carolina Panthers traded up to the top pick in order to select Bryce Young, when B/R had C.J. Stroud graded as the class' QB1.

For Cleveland, this selection serves as an organizational reset. While Deshaun Watson will remain on the roster, his time with the franchise will expire as soon as the Browns can get out from under his burdensome contract.

Meanwhile, Ward supplies a cost-controlled option to offset the front office's previous mistakes while providing the Browns with hope again.

"Ward has grown into the consensus QB1 heading into pro-day season," Parson said, "but he's been Bleacher Report's QB1 all season. Ward's gifted physical ability and natural passing tools are God-given. He has a high ceiling and brings playmaking ability both inside and outside of structure to pair with wide receiver Jerry Jeudy and tight end David Njoku."

3. Tennessee Titans (via NY Giants): Edge Abdul Carter, Penn State

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The Tennessee Titans get the best of both worlds if the organization isn't enamored with either of this year's top-two quarterback prospects. First, Tennessee trades down to add extra draft assets. Then, the Titans still land the same player they would have selected had they kept the No. 1 overall pick.

Penn State's Abdul Carter presents as much upside as any prospect in the entire class while playing a premium position.

Carter is still learning and growing as an edge-defender, which only heightens the interest in him with how well he played down the stretch for the Nittany Lions, when he was nearly unblockable against top competition.


Though a slight hiccup in Carter's evaluation occurred at the NFL Scouting Combine, which could affect his status depending on the doctors.

"Physicals at the combine revealed Carter has a stress-induced injury in his foot," Holder said. "He reportedly doesn’t require surgery, and there’s no doubt he’s the best pass-rusher in the draft. His fit with the Tennessee is particularly enticing, especially after the team permitted Harold Landry to seek a trade."

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4. New England Patriots: CB/WR Travis Hunter, Colorado

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The New England Patriots couldn't have asked for a better scenario if they tried, because the organization stands pat and still lands the class No. 1 overall prospect, who can help the team both offensively and defensively.

The B/R Scouting Department projects Colorado's Travis Hunter as a corner with All-Pro upside. But he can play more than a handful of snaps on offense, particularly for a unit that desperately needs weapons to help quarterback Drake Maye's development.

"While the Patriots could use some offensive line help, Hunter is a talent that's too good to pass up," Holder said. "He'd create a great pairing in the secondary alongside Christian Gonzalez and can give Drake Maye a legitimate weapon, even if he's only used on a part-time basis."

No team is positioned better to take full advantage of a truly unique prospect like Hunter. New England lacks talent on both sides of the ball. The two-way star will be quite content continuing his career as a multipurpose threat.

5. Jacksonville Jaguars: DL Mason Graham, Michigan

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Mason Graham's arms measured in at 32 inches. Oh, no. Let's all forget how dominate of a player he's been for two years and assume that it'll have a drastic effect on his draft status.

OK, let's place the sarcasm to the side and acknowledge that Graham remains one of the class' best overall talents. The fact he lacks ideal length is part of the evaluation, but one data point doesn't override everything else.

So much so, the Jaguars likely reinvest in their defensive line despite significant expenditures on Josh Hines-Allen, Travon Walker and Arik Armstead in recent years. It doesn't matter, because Graham is a game-wrecker.

"While the Jaguars’ secondary could use some help, Graham is too good of a talent to pass up," Holder said. "The former Wolverine is a great interior pass-rusher who can help the back end of the defense by getting the ball out of the quarterback’s hand quickly.

"Also, he’s a plus run-defender to bolster Jacksonville’s defensive line."

6. Las Vegas Raiders: OL Will Campbell, LSU

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The Las Vegas Raiders seem to be sniffing around all of the veteran quarterback options, starting with Matthew Stafford and possibly moving toward Sam Darnold as a free-agent target.

Their draft positioning makes it difficult when projecting a potential quarterback at this particular slot.

If the Raiders do land a veteran starter, the organization can look to solidify the rest of the offense, starting with the class' best blocker in LSU's Will Campbell.

"The Raiders offensive line is hovering around the lower half of the league due to having just one proven, above-average starter in left tackle Kolton Miller," Thorn said. "Last year's draft class produced a promising piece inside with guard Jackson Powers-Johnson and a quality piece in right tackle DJ Glaze, who will compete for a job but overall there are more questions than answers with his lack of high-end talent that Campbell can immediately fill.

"Campbell is the top-ranked blocker in the class. Depending on how the situation develops, he could take over at right tackle or move inside at either guard spot to provide this Raiders line with an excellent run-blocker and sturdy pass-protector from Day 1."

7. New York Jets: CB Will Johnson, Michigan

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The idea of the New York Jets drafting a cornerback with the seventh overall pick works on two different levels.

First, D.J. Reed is set to enter free agency, and he's expected to be get paid as arguably the top cornerback on the market.

Second, let's not forget who just became Gang Green's new head coach. Aaron Glenn played in the league for 14 seasons, transitioned to coaching after his career ended and taught defensive backs or served as a defensive coordinator for the last 10 years.

Michigan's Will Johnson is the type of cornerback who can join the Jets roster and create a significant impact, particularly as a bookend to an another massively talented defensive back.

"The Jets have several impending free agents in their defensive backfield, including Reed," Holder said. "Since Sauce Gardner is likely going to get a new mega-contract soon, the idea of Reed re-signing seems highly unlikely. Whereas, Johnson fills a need and is an elite talent well-worth a top-10 selection."

8. Carolina Panthers: WR Tetairoa McMillan, Arizona

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The Carolina Panthers were fortunate that quarterback Bryce Young proved to be resilient.

Not every young quarterback could have bounced back after being benched early in Year 2. But Young did. Granted, some will argue that he's yet to fully show the capabilities that warranted a No. 1 overall pick two years ago. Still, the Panthers can now build around Young and see how his development continues.

Arizona's Tetairoa McMillan is a legitimate X-receiver who should walk into Carolina and become the team's top target on Day 1. Adam Thielen turns 35 this summer, while Xavier Legette has a complementary skill set. McMillan's presence on the outside should allow the Panthers offense to grow by leaps and bounds.

"Young lacks a true outside receiver capable of being an unquestioned WR1 for Dave Canales' offense," Parson said. "McMillan shares a similar build and speed profile as the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' Mike Evans. His outstanding ball skills and route-running for a big receiver will integrate well into the Panthers' offensive system. Young will now have his contested-catch winner to enhance his effectiveness as a deep passer."

9. New Orleans Saints: S Malaki Starks, Georgia

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The New Orleans Saints are caught in limbo and simply need to add standout talent to a roster that requires an overhaul.

Kellen Moore takes the reins as head coach with the team in massive salary-cap debt once again, no long-term solution at quarterback and multiple veterans possibly at or near the end of their tenures with the team.

Georgia's Malaki Starks won't make the foundation shift, but his inclusion mimics what the reigning Super Bowl-champion Philadelphia Eagles did a year ago while Moore was part of that organization.

A strong investment in the secondary with both the team's first- and second-round picks became the final piece of the puzzle in Philadelphia. The Saints are further away, of course. But the chance to acquire a field general of Starks' caliber is an excellent start for the new regime.

"If Tyrann Mathieu's future in New Orleans is indeed in limbo, adding a highly effective centerfielder like Starks is a great idea," Parson said. "Starks is at his best playing over the top of the defense to limit explosive plays. With the combination of his football IQ, route recognition and high-end ball skills, Starks will limit errors for last year's 30th-ranked defense and generate turnovers."

10. Chicago Bears: OG Tyler Booker, Alabama

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The Chicago Bears' offensive focus should be on building an offensive front capable of preventing Caleb Williams from being the league's most-sacked quarterback.

To be fair, Williams brings some of it on himself. Even so, upgrades along the front five can go a long way in a quarterback's development.

The 10th overall pick may be a little rich when discussing the addition of a pure guard prospect, but Alabama's Tyler Booker is the very definition of a tone-setter.

"I love football because the brand of football that I play, I make guys not love football anymore," Booker told reporters as the NFL Scouting Combine.

Said Thorn, "Booker is the class' top true guard prospect with the size, strength and demeanor to transform an entire unit's identity because of his ability to anchor, finish and deliver body blows.

"The Bears desperately need to shore up the middle of the pocket for Williams to operate and develop, while also getting closer to having an efficient ground game. Booker will contribute in both areas and serve as a building block for the next decade."

11. San Francisco 49ers: DL Shemar Stewart, Texas A&M

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The San Francisco 49ers are a team with consistent Super Bowl aspirations. They don't expect to draft near the top 10 in most years. As such, this year is the perfect time to take a big swing on a gifted developmental prospect at a premium position.

Texas A&M's Shemar Stewart presents a classic case of potential vs. production.

Stewart is a 6'5", 267-pound athlete with 34-plus inch arms who posted the third-highest relative athletic score by any edge defender over the last 38 years, according to Kent Lee Platte.

Yet, the former 5-star recruit never fully realized his immense upside upon joining the Aggies program with only 4.5 sacks over the last three seasons. Usage in Texas A&M's scheme certainly played a part. To Stewart's credit, he was far more disruptive as a pass-rusher this past season. But he's not a complete prospect by any means.

"Stewart has been one of the biggest risers over the last few months, especially after having an impressive combine, to potentially be the second edge-rusher off the board," Holder said.

"This pick gives Nick Bosa a running mate, who presents a bright future, and a long-term solution as Leonard Floyd's eventual replacement."

12. Dallas Cowboys: OL Armand Membou, Missouri

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Zack Martin's retirement all but secured what the Dallas Cowboys should do in this year's NFL draft. The Cowboys are at their best when the organization invests in the offensive line and allows that group to be the driving force behind the offense.

A year ago, the franchise began its front-five reset by replacing Tyron Smith and Tyler Biadasz with Tyler Guyon and Cooper Beebe, respectively.

Missouri's Armand Membou provides some inside-outside flexibility to the unit.

"No team more consistently invests premium draft capital into their line than the Cowboys," Thorn said. "The team is now entering a new era at the position with 23-year old Tyler Smith as their clear-cut best blocker.

"The 20-year old Membou has the physical tools to immediately take over at right guard, with the ability to bump out to right tackle in place of Terence Steele in 2026 if the team decides to move on from the veteran.

"Membou's inclusion gives the line three recent first-round picks along Smith and Tyler Guyton, who are all 23 or younger, to form the foundation of the offense moving forward."

13. Miami Dolphins: S Nick Emmanwori, South Carolina

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The Miami Dolphins add a legitimate top-10 talent based on pure upside in South Carolina safety Nick Emmanwori without actually owning a top-10 pick.

Emmanwori's natural physical ability is unmatched in this class. He's a 6'3", 200-pound defender who has no intention of moving to linebacker, as many with his build have. Nope, Emmanwori is a big-time athlete capable of playing all over the secondary to help the Dolphins. In fact, he posted the highest relative score ever recorded by a strong safety, according to Kent Lee Platte.

This pairing isn't simply about raw upside, though. Miami fills a potential need depending on how the team's new league year begins.

"Jevon Holland is headed to free agency, and the Dolphins add Emmanwori to soften the blow," Parson said. "Emmanwori can align in multiple positions in the defensive secondary and possesses the size, strength and athleticism to be a potential tight-end matchup defender. He is a ball of clay for a creative defensive coordinator to mold into a defensive chess piece."

14. Indianapolis Colts: TE Tyler Warren, Penn State

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The Indianapolis Colts' desire to add a play-making tight end isn't a secret. Quite the opposite, actually.

"We like the guys we have; we have work to do," general manager Chris Ballard told reporters at the NFL Scouting Combine.

Penn State's Tyler Warren is arguably the most diverse weapon in the entire class after the Nittany Lions staff used him in a variety of manners to create advantages and mismatches for their offense. The reigning John Mackey Award winner responded with a breakout campaign, where the tight end reset single-season Big Ten Conference records with 104 catches and 1,233 receiving yards.

"Warren is an ideal fit for the Colts offense as an easy button ready to push when working underneath and in the middle of the field," Parson said. "He provides quarterback Anthony Richardson with a run-after-catch threat in the quick-game to reduce his league-leading 20 percent deep pass percentage."

15. Atlanta Falcons: Edge James Pearce Jr., Tennessee

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The James Pearce Jr. evaluation is fascinating.

Pearce entered this season as a potential No. 1 overall pick but didn't quite live up to expectations during his final season on campus. Still, the SEC product flashed enough to still warrant strong first-round consideration.

At the NFL Scouting Combine, he ran well and looked very smooth in position drills. Yet he posted poor explosive testing numbers.

Finally, rumblings are already circulating with Pearce being viewed as a top prospect with potential character concerns, per Daft on Draft's Cory Kinnan.

Let's be clear: All of this factors into an evaluation. How a prospect is ultimately viewed varies on a team-by-team basis. On the field, Pearce still presents significant upside, particularly in a situation like the Atlanta Falcons, where the squad desperately needs edge help.

"Pearce has lost some steam since the summer," Holder said, "but he reminded everyone why he was considered a high-upside pass-rusher with an impressive workout in Indianapolis. The Falcons lack the type of edge-rusher who can consistently win matchups, so the Tennessee product landing in Atlanta makes a lot of sense on the surface."

16. Arizona Cardinals: Edge Mike Green, Marshall

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Marshall's Mike Green had been a white-hot prospect since he declared early for the 2025 NFL draft. However, major questions about his background came to light at the combine, which can have a drastic effect on his status depending on the franchise looking to draft him.

"While Green has been a steady riser since the fall, it’s come to light recently that he’s been accused of sexual assault twice," Holder said. "His background could cause some teams to shy away from the Marshall product.

"On the field, the Cardinals could get an explosive pass-rusher to address one of the team’s biggest needs."

To Holder's first point, NFL teams will dive into what occurred in both instances. According to Green, he was first accused in high school, then the second time came at Virginia Tech before transferring to Marshall. Green pointed out that he's never been charged and insists that he's done nothing wrong, per WCHS ABC 8.

17. Cincinnati Bengals: DL Walter Nolen, Ole Miss

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The Cincinnati Bengals' roster finds itself in transition.

After a down season, the front office is still trying to keep wide receiver Tee Higgins by applying the franchise tag for the second straight year. The offensive line is flux, having released right guard Alex Cappa. The team still has to address Trey Hendrickson's situation after he requested a trade last offseason, then didn't receive a new contract.

Needless to say, the Bengals could go in a variety of different directions. In this case, the defensive line takes priority since the unit desperately needs to improve over last season's debacle.

"With defensive tackle B.J. Hill about to hit free agency and uncertainty surrounding defensive ends Sam Hubbard and Hendrickson, there’s a good chance the Bengals will target a defensive lineman in the first round," Holder said. "Ole Miss' Walter Nolen is a great replacement for Hill as an interior disruptor to the passing and running games."

18. Seattle Seahawks: OL Grey Zabel, North Dakota State

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The Seattle Seahawks don't have the offensive pieces to operate at high level without a strong offensive line in place.

Quarterback Geno Smith is a quality starter, but he has a ceiling to what he can do. The wide receivers need time to get open. While the Seahawks feature two talented ball-carriers in Kenneth Walker III and Zach Charbonnet, the team finished bottom-five in rushing yardage a season ago.

Seattle already has two talented tackles in Charles Cross and Abe Lucas, but the team's interior three require significant upgrades. North Dakota State's Grey Zabel can start anywhere along the line.

"Zabel has been a fast-riser since winning the overall practice player of the week at the Senior Bowl," Thorn said. "He can fill a glaring need at guard or center for a porous Seahawks interior. Zabel display good play-strength and athletic ability, with very good sustain skills that would finally give Seattle's line a quality starter inside to pair with Cross and Lucas."

19. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: LB Jihaad Campbell, Alabama

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The Tampa Bay Buccaneers' starting off-ball linebackers aren't under contract at the moment. Furthermore, the team still needs to find another edge-defender to work opposite YaYa Diaby.

"The Buccaneers are expected to be big players in the linebacker market, and Alabama's Jihaad Campbell could be the perfect replacement for Lavonte David," Holder said. "Even if the 35-year-old re-signs, the Alabama product is a great long-term option. Plus, he can contribute as a pass-rusher, another one of Tampa Bay’s biggest needs."

Even at an advanced age, David played more snaps than anyone else on the Bucs' roster last season. Britt played the second-most among the team's linebacker, and he's set to test free agency as well.

Campbell is unique in that he has experience playing off the ball and rushing the passer as an edge, which should fit nicely in Todd Bowles' aggressive defense.

20. Denver Broncos: TE Colston Loveland, Michigan

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To the surprise of many, Michigan tight end Colston Loveland showed up at the NFL Scouting Combine in a sling after requiring offseason shoulder surgery to repair the AC joint sprain he suffered during the regular season. But the follow-up procedure shouldn't affect Loveland's first-round status.

If anything, a team sitting a little lower can benefit by adding a play-making target who might not have otherwise been available.

The Denver Broncos don't have a capable threat at tight end right now. The organization should be looking for a Jimmy Graham-like weapon in Sean Payton's offense, particularly as a way to help the squad's young quarterback, Bo Nix.

"Loveland has the ability to elevate the Broncos' passing attack," Parson said. "Payton will love the combination of athleticism, sharp route-running/separation and size. Loveland is a great fit for the flex tight end role traditionally seen in the coach's offense."

21. Pittsburgh Steelers: CB Jahdae Barron, Texas

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When discussing Texas defensive back Jahdae Barron, two things can be true.

First, everyone falls for the 23-year-old upon hearing him speak, how he answers questions and the clear passion and leadership qualities he projects.

Second, he is small (5'11", 194 pounds), lacks length and didn't post strong explosive numbers during his time in Indianapolis for the combine. He did, however, have a strong positional workout.

What really matters is how he plays, and very few are as versatile or impactful on the field. He's the type of individual who aligns well with Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin. Barron can be an immediate upgrade in the slot over Beanie Bishop and provide yet another defensive chess piece.

"Barron's strong combine performance, highlighted by a sub-4.4 40-yard dash, cemented his status as a first-round talent," Holder said. "The Texas product may lack size, which could push him into a 'slot-only' role, but the Steelers could use further help at cornerback, with Cameron Sutton and Donte Jackson set to hit free agency."

21. Los Angeles Chargers: RB Ashton Jeanty, Boise State

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Some things just go together. Peanut butter and jelly. Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift. Jim Harbaugh and khakis...er, a physically-imposing run game.

Harbaugh began the process of building the Los Angeles Chargers in his image a year ago, when the team chose offensive tackle Joe Alt with the fifth overall pick instead of going with a wide receiver.

The coach's approach has been successful everywhere he's gone, but he lacks the type of ball-carrier in L.A. to make it work successfully with the Chargers over a significant period of time.

J.K. Dobbins played well when healthy—which is always the caveat with him. But he is also a pending free agent.

Boise State's Ashton Jeanty brings an entirely different level of talent and skill set.

"Jeanty is the best class best running back," Parson said. "Jim Harbaugh/offensive coordinator Greg Roman loves to lean on the running game. The reigning Doak Walker Award winner brings patience, vision, unreal contact balance and a never-say-die running mentality.

"Justin Herbert and Jeanty in the same backfield is an exciting proposition."

23. Green Bay Packers: CB Azareye'h Thomas, Florida State

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The Jaire Alexander era appears to be done in Green Bay with the Packers looking into potential trade scenarios earlier this offseason, per NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.

The 28-year-old has had a rocky relationship with the organization in recent years, but he's good enough to stick around if healthy. The last part being the key component to his status.

Alexander missed 34 regular-season contests over the previous four years. His salary-cap hit also increases to $25.5 million during the 2025 campaign.

Green Bay can immediately cut or trade the two-time Pro Bowler and save $6.8 million. If the team makes something happen after June 1, that figure escalates to $17.1 million, per Over The Cap.

"Alexander's potential departure leaves the Packers defense with a need for a long outside cornerback," Holder said. "Florida State's Azareye'h Thomas, who's nearly 6'2" with 32⅜-inch arms, can immediately step into the role.

"While the former Seminole didn't participate in many timed events at the combine, the 20-year-old looked smooth during position-specific drills to give Green Bay a great long-term replacement."

24. Minnesota Vikings: DL Derrick Harmon, Oregon

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As a unit, the Minnesota Vikings finished No. 2 against the run during the 2024 campaign. The team's interior defenders weren't particularly good at the point of attack, though.

As a group, the unit plays aggressively, knows its assignments and rallies to the football. An infusion of talent can make the situation even better.

"The Vikings could use some help at defensive tackle with Jonathan Bullard and Jerry Tillery scheduled to hit free agency in a couple of weeks," Holder said. "Meanwhile, Derrick Harmon crushed it at the combine by running a sub-5.00-second 40-yard dash at nearly 315 pounds in addition to looking smooth in the position drills.

"The Oregon product has been a steady riser this season and would be an immediate starter in Minnesota."

Harmon's added bonus is that he really began to become a disruptive force this past season, his only campaign with the Ducks. He's not going to just affect the run; he can apply an interior pass-rush as well. The ability to collapse the pocket will make the Vikings edge-rushers even more effective.

25. Houston Texans: WR Emeka Egbuka, Ohio State

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The Houston Texans' group of wide receivers appear talented on paper, but there are at least two significant asterisks to sway a person into placing Ohio State's Emeka Egbuka in this slot.

First, Stefon Diggs is a free agent. Maybe the Texans bring him back. Right now, though, his status remains up in the air.

Second, Tank Dell may be an exciting and dynamic target, but he's coming off back-to-back season-ending leg injuries. His explosiveness may be severely hampered.

The thought of pairing Egbuka with one of his old collegiate teammates to provide quarterback C.J. Stroud with a familiar and consistent target is highly enticing.

The last time these two took the field together with the Buckeyes, Egbuka posted a career-high 1,151 receiving yards.

"Egbuka is a strong route-runner with outstanding hands and tracking ability," Parson said. "Whether he aligns as the slot or Z-receiver, his skill set meshes well with Nico Collins."

26. Los Angeles Rams: WR Matthew Golden, Texas

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The Los Angeles Rams have a specific type when it comes to the wide receiver position. It's time to break the mold.

With Cooper Kupp on the trade block and possibly moved (or released), Puka Nacua will take on an even bigger role as Matthew Stafford's WR1. Meanwhile, Jordan Whittington should be allotted significant opportunity with the offense during his second season. All three of those names love to do the dirty work and create after the catch.

Texas' Matthew Golden is significantly different, as the fastest offensive player coming out of this year's combine with an official 4.29-second 40-yard dash.

"Golden put everyone on notice with his explosive and elite speed testing at the combine," Parson said. "He is a near-perfect complement to Nacua's game. Golden has multiple ways of winning, and Rams head coach/play-caller Sean McVay is the coach to utilize his entire skill set."

27. Baltimore Ravens: LB Jalon Walker, Georgia

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The approach to slotting the Baltimore Ravens is simple yet effective: Find the best player still on the board and put him in purple.

The Ravens have a long-standing approach of being patient and taking whatever top talent falls into their lap. In this particular case, Georgia's Jalon Walker fits perfectly as another aggressive and disruptive defender.

"Once again, the Ravens get exceptional value with their selection," Holder said. "A question does exist about Walker's best position at the next level, but he profiles similarly to Kyle Van Noy, who has been very productive over the last two seasons while playing in Baltimore.

"The soon-to-be 34-year-old is entering a contract year in 2025, so adding Walker for the long haul makes a lot of sense."

Typically, the Ravens have invested in bigger and longer edge-defenders. The reigning Butkus Award winner comes in at 6'1" and 243 pounds. However, Tyus Bowser provides another example of Baltimore investing in a similar body-type.

28. Detroit Lions: Edge Mykel Williams, Georgia

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Both Aidan Hutchinson and Za'Darius Smith return for the Detroit Lions, with Hutchinson healthy again and Smith getting his first full offseason with the team after being an trade deadline acquisition.

Even so, the Lions' seemingly perpetual need for an edge-defender shouldn't be overlooked.

Smith turns 33 in September while playing under the last year on his current deal. But his presence, alongside Hutchinson, provides the ideal landing spot for Georgia's Mykel Williams, who presents huge upside but has yet to put it all together as an edge-defender.

"Williams is a project," Holder said, "but he does have plenty of potential to be a quality edge-defender in the NFL. Detroit s a great situation for him by learning behind Smith for a year and then taking over for the veteran a year later."

Furthermore, the Georgia product can provide depth up and down the Lions' defensive front during his first season, because he's played along the interior and on the edge.

29. Washington Commanders: RB Omarion Hampton, North Carolina

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The Washington Commanders are on the verge of building something ferocious offensively.

With the team set to acquire wide receiver Deebo Samuel to play alongside Terry McLaurin and Jayden Daniels, the Commanders offense can take another significant leap by adding a legitimate threat to the backfield.

Granted, Daniels is a dangerous running threat. But a ball-carrier capable of tearing up opposing defenses as a more dynamic option compared to Brian Robinson Jr. or an aging Austin Ekeler has the potential to make Washington's offense nearly unstoppable.

North Carolina's Omarion Hampton is simultaneously a hammer and a home run threat. The 221-pound back presents 4.46-second 40-yard dash speed. He's a potential bell-cow to throw into the mix and make this group downright dangerous in all areas.

"The Commanders' rushing attack needs a more dynamic runner and Hampton fills that void," Parson said. "He is a physical downhill runner with the speed to generate explosive plays. Plus, Hampton offers a three-down skill set to be the face of their rushing attack for the present and future."

30. Buffalo Bills: DL Kenneth Grant, Michigan

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The Buffalo Bills need to get younger along their defensive interior.

DaQuan Jones, Austin Johnson and Jordan Phillips have been big parts of the rotation in recent years, but all three will be 31 or older by the end of this year. A true-blue, young bull in the middle of the line to play alongside Ed Oliver can create a ripple effect throughout the Bills' entire defense.

"Jones is also a free agent after next season, so Buffalo could use its late first-round pick on a potential long-term running mate for Oliver," Holder said. "At minimum, the Bills would be getting a high-level run defender in Michigan's Kenneth Grant."

Grant is arguably the best pure athlete in the class, considering his massive size and explosive traits. The Michigan defender didn't fully test at the NFL Scouting Combine. Still, the 331-pound defensive lineman held the highest player athletic index entering the event, according to Tracking Football.

If Grant reaches his full athletic potential, he could be a Dexter Lawrence-like three-down game destroyer.

31. Kansas City Chiefs: OT Josh Simmons, Ohio State

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The Kansas City Chiefs are fortunate that the prospect of Ohio State's Josh Simmons remains available at a massive position of need.

A medically-cleared Simmons could creep closer to the Top 10 rather than the tail end of the first round. But he's still recovering from a torn patellar tendon, which can be a tricky injury.

How each team's individual medical staff views the left tackle's long-term prognosis will ultimately affect where the 22-year-old lands in the draft.

Since the B/R Scouting Dept. isn't comprised of a crack medical personnel, this slotting plays it on the safe side, to the point where Simmons is well-worth the risk.

"Simmons is the class' wild card until everyone sees him conduct a full workout, likely in May, that should show that he is fully recovered," Thorn said. "Prior to going down, he looked like the class' best pure tackle on film.

"With a large frame, good length, natural power and fluid movement skills, Simmons provides tremendous value at this juncture. The Chiefs may not give up on last year's second-round pick Kingsley Suamataia this soon, but expectations of winning now and shaky roster options at tackle make the Simmons pick easy to justify."

32. Philadelphia Eagles: Edge Princely Umanmielen, Ole Miss

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With every sack of Patrick Mahomes during Super Bowl LIX, onlookers could squint during the telecast and see Scrooge McDuck money signs gently wafting through the air.

Philadelphia Eagles defensive linemen Josh Sweat and Milton Williams should get paid this offseason, with both set to enter free agency.

"The Eagles might lose Sweat in free agency and general manager Howie Roseman loves to stock the shelves with athletic pass-rushers," Holder said. "Ole Miss' Princely Umanmielen didn’t 'wow' anyone with his combine performance by running a 4.72-second 40-yard dash, but he did have the sixth-fastest 10-yard split time among edges at 1.62 seconds. Plus, he present a handful of moves to win with as a pass-rusher."

Brandon Graham is still set to retire, too.

The Birds have been successful in recent years, because they continually reinvest in their offensive and defensive lines. There's no reason to move away from that approach now, particularly with the potential losses the squad could incur this offseason.

Second Round

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Ole Miss quarterback Jaxson Dart

33. Cleveland Browns: Edge Nic Scourton, Texas A&M
34. New York Giants: IOL Kelvin Banks Jr., Texas
35. Tennessee Titans: QB Jaxson Dart, Ole Miss
36. Jacksonville Jaguars: CB Maxwell Hairston, Kentucky
37. Las Vegas Raiders: QB Will Howard, Ohio State
38. New England Patriots: OT Josh Conerly, Oregon
39. Chicago Bears (via CAR): RB Kaleb Johnson, Iowa
40. New Orleans Saints: CB Benjamin Morrison, Notre Dame
41. Chicago Bears: OL Donovan Jackson, Ohio State
42. New York Jets: QB Tyler Shough, Louisville
43. San Francisco 49ers: WR Luther Burden III, Missouri
44. Dallas Cowboys: WR Tre Harris, Ole Miss
45. Indianapolis Colts: CB Shavon Revel Jr., East Carolina
46. Atlanta Falcons: CB Trey Amos, Ole Miss
47. Arizona Cardinals: IOL Jonah Savaiinaea, Arizona
48. Miami Dolphins: IOL Aireontae Ersery, Minnesota
49. Cincinnati Bengals: IOL Tate Ratledge, Georgia
50. Seattle Seahawks: QB Jalen Milroe, Alabama
51. Denver Broncos: RB Dylan Sampson, Tennessee
52. Pittsburgh Steelers: DL Tyleik Williams, Ohio State
53. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: DL JT Tuimoloau, Ohio State
54. Green Bay Packers: WR Elic Ayomanor, Stanford
55. Los Angeles Chargers: Edge Landon Jackson, Arkansas
56. Buffalo Bills (via MIN): S Xavier Watts, Notre Dame
57. Carolina Panthers (via LAR): DL Darius Alexander, Toledo
58. Houston Texans: DL Alfred Collins, Texas
59. Baltimore Ravens: CB Darien Porter, Iowa State
60. Detroit Lions: CB Quincy Riley, Louisville
61. Washington Commanders: OT Cameron Williams, Texas
62. Buffalo Bills: WR Isaiah Bond, Texas
63. Kansas City Chiefs: TE Mason Taylor, LSU
64. Philadelphia Eagles: DL Omarr Norman-Lott, Tennessee

Third Round

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TCU wide receiver Jack Bech

65. Tennessee Titans (via NYG): OT Ozzy Trapilo, Boston College
66. Kansas City Chiefs (via TEN): LB Demetrius Knight Jr., South Carolina
67. Cleveland Browns: OT Charles Grant, William & Mary
68. Las Vegas Raiders: LB Jeffrey Bassa, Oregon
69. New England Patriots: TE Elijah Arroyo, Miami
70. Jacksonville Jaguars: WR Jalen Royals, Utah State
71. New Orleans Saints: Edge Jack Sawyer, Ohio State
72. Chicago Bears: Edge Oluwafemi Oladejo, UCLA
73. Las Vegas Raiders (via NYJ): RB Quinshon Judkins, Ohio State
74. Carolina Panthers: IOL Jared Wilson, Georgia
75. San Francisco 49ers: OL Marcus Mbow, Purdue
76. Dallas Cowboys: RB TreVeyon Henderson, Ohio State
77. New England Patriots (via ATL): WR Jack Bech, TCU
78. Arizona Cardinals: DL Jordan Phillips, Maryland
79. Washington Commanders (via MIA): CB Zy Alexander, LSU
80. Indianapolis Colts: LB Carson Schwesinger, UCLA
81. Cincinnati Bengals: Edge Jared Ivey, Ole Miss
82. Seattle Seahawks: WR Jayden Higgins, Iowa State
83. Pittsburgh Steelers: Edge Donovan Ezeiruaku, Boston College
84. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: DL TJ Sanders, South Carolina
85. Denver Broncos: LB Danny Stutsman, Oklahoma
86. Los Angeles Chargers: IOL Seth McLaughlin, Ohio State
87. Green Bay Packers: DL Deone Walker, Kentucky
88. Jacksonville Jaguars (via MIN): IOL Miles Frazier, LSU
89. Houston Texans: IOL Jalen Rivers, Miami
90. Los Angeles Rams: LB Chris Paul Jr., Ole Miss
91. Baltimore Ravens: S Billy Bowman Jr., Oklahoma
92. New York Jets (via DET): S Andrew Mukuba, Texas
93. New Orleans Saints (via WAS): TE Harold Fannin Jr., Bowling Green
94. Cleveland Browns (via BUF): RB Damien Martinez, Miami
95. Kansas City Chiefs: S Kitan Crawford, Nevada
95. Philadelphia Eagles: OT Anthony Belton, North Carolina State

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