NFL Scout Predicts 'Wild' 2025 NFL Draft 1st Round Featuring Several 'Reaches'

If it has felt like no one currently has a handle on what's going to happen in the first round of the 2025 NFL draft, the reason for that is because teams aren't even sure what to expect on April 24.

Per ESPN's Matt Miller, one scout said they are expecting a "wild" first round with several "reaches" relative to the rankings on many pre-draft big boards.

The primary reason offered for that prediction is the lack of consensus among the players in this year's class.

All that seems certain right now is Cam Ward being the No. 1 pick by the Tennessee Titans. They obviously haven't said that's going to be the case, but it's not hard to connect the dots after ESPN's Adam Schefter reported the Titans increased their asking price to move out of the top spot following Ward's pro day at Miami.

Once the Cleveland Browns get on the clock with the No. 2 pick, it's anyone's guess what might happen. They went from reportedly "leaning towards" Abdul Carter on March 26 to Travis Hunter being favored by the organization.

Another issue with trying to figure out the class is several of the top prospects either don't play premium positions or may not stay at a premium position in the NFL.

A perfect example is Will Campbell from LSU. He's regarded as the best offensive lineman in the class after spending three years at left tackle in the SEC, but concerns about his arm length might have some NFL teams convinced he will need to play guard.

Ashton Jeanty is arguably the most exciting talent in the draft after Hunter, but he's a running back who had an extremely high usage rate in college. The 21-year-old had 830 touches in three seasons at Boise State.

That's not necessarily a major demerit against Jeanty's pro prospects. Saquon Barkley had 773 touches in three years at Penn State, and he's doing okay for himself in the NFL.

Another problem is there doesn't seem to be a lot of enthusiasm for the quarterbacks in this class, so teams that would normally prioritize the position may not want to reach early for someone like Jaxson Dart or Jalen Milroe.

This does make for a potentially great viewing experience since fans and analysts won't know what to expect in a way that is very unusual for the draft. It could also lead to a lot of raised eyebrows for teams when they make their picks.