After an unpredictable NFL season filled with exhilarating victories and heartbreaking defeats, the eyes of the football world now turn to the future with the highly anticipated 2025 NFL Mock Draft. This year’s draft class boasts a remarkable pool of talented prospects, setting the stage for a thrilling spectacle of speculation and anticipation. From the electrifying quarterbacks to the imposing defensive linemen, this mock draft promises to reshape the landscape of the NFL and ignite the imaginations of fans and analysts alike.
The draft’s top prospects have emerged as generational talents, poised to make an immediate impact on their respective teams. Leading the charge is the dynamic quarterback sensation Cade Klubnik, whose exceptional arm strength and pinpoint accuracy have drawn comparisons to the legendary Peyton Manning. On the defensive side, the unstoppable edge rusher Shemar Stewart stands as a force to be reckoned with. With his lightning-fast burst off the line and uncanny ability to generate pressure, Stewart is widely considered the most disruptive defensive prospect in recent memory.
As the draft order unfolds, teams will face crucial decisions that could shape their destinies for years to come. With franchise-altering quarterbacks and game-changing defenders on the board, the pressure will be immense for general managers to make the right call. The 2025 NFL Mock Draft is not just a glimpse into the future of the league but a pivotal moment where the next generation of stars will be born. As the countdown to the draft intensifies, the NFL world holds its breath in anticipation, eager to witness the unfolding of this extraordinary sporting event.
The Quarterback Conundrum
The quarterback position is the most important in football, and the 2025 NFL Draft is expected to be loaded with talented signal-callers. However, there is no clear-cut consensus on who the top quarterback prospect is. Some experts believe that Cade Klubnik from Clemson is the best quarterback in the draft, while others believe that Arch Manning from Texas is the better choice. Klubnik is a 6-foot-2, 210-pound quarterback who has a strong arm and is very accurate. He is also a good runner and can make plays with his feet. Manning is a 6-foot-4, 215-pound quarterback who has a cannon for an arm. He is also a very smart quarterback and has a good understanding of the game. Both Klubnik and Manning are expected to be taken in the top 10 of the draft, and it will be interesting to see which team selects each quarterback.
Cade Klubnik
Cade Klubnik is a 6-foot-2, 210-pound quarterback from Austin, Texas. He is a five-star recruit and is considered to be one of the best quarterbacks in the country. Klubnik was the starting quarterback for Westlake High School in Austin, and he led the team to a state championship in 2021. Klubnik threw for 4,292 yards and 50 touchdowns in his senior season, and he also rushed for 784 yards and 13 touchdowns. He was named the Texas Gatorade Player of the Year and was also named a MaxPreps First Team All-American. Klubnik is committed to play college football at Clemson, and he is expected to be the starting quarterback for the Tigers in 2023.
| Name | Height | Weight | College |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cade Klubnik | 6’2″ | 210 lbs | Clemson |
| Arch Manning | 6’4″ | 215 lbs | Texas |
Elite Edge Rushers Emerge
The 2025 NFL Draft is shaping up to be a banner year for edge rushers. With a slew of talented pass rushers entering the draft, teams will have their pick of the litter when it comes to bolstering their defenses.
Leading the charge is consensus No. 1 overall prospect Matayo Uiagalelei, a 6’5″, 260-pound defensive end from Clemson. Uiagalelei possesses an elite blend of size, athleticism, and instincts. He has a rare combination of power and finesse, making him a nightmare for opposing offensive tackles. Uiagalelei is already a polished pass rusher with a diverse arsenal of moves. He is also a willing and able run defender, making him a complete player.
Joining Uiagalelei in the top-10 is another standout defensive end, Shemar Stewart of Texas. Stewart is a 6’4″, 245-pound edge rusher with exceptional speed and bend. He is a relentless pass rusher who uses his quick first step and explosive burst to get around offensive tackles. Stewart also has a knack for creating turnovers, as he forced six fumbles last season.
Rounding out the top-3 edge rushers is Will Anderson Jr. of Alabama. Anderson is a 6’4″, 243-pound outside linebacker who is known for his relentless motor and exceptional athleticism. Anderson is a highly productive pass rusher who has recorded at least 10 sacks in each of the past two seasons. He is also a solid run defender, making him a valuable asset for any defense.
Top Edge Rusher Prospects
| Prospect | School | Position | Height | Weight |
|—|—|—|—|—|
| Matayo Uiagalelei | Clemson | DE | 6’5″ | 260 lbs |
| Shemar Stewart | Texas | DE | 6’4″ | 245 lbs |
| Will Anderson Jr. | Alabama | OLB | 6’4″ | 243 lbs |
| Takelo Seti | Miami | OLB | 6’3″ | 250 lbs |
| Sonny Styles | Ohio State | OLB | 6’2″ | 235 lbs |
Wide Receiver Renaissance
The 2025 NFL Draft is shaping up to be a historic one for wide receivers. With an unprecedented number of elite prospects entering the league, teams are preparing to bolster their passing attacks with some of the most talented playmakers in recent memory. Here’s a look at the top wide receiver prospects in the 2025 NFL Draft:
Elite Pass-Catchers
At the top of the draft board sits CJ Hicks, a 6’3″, 215-pound wideout from Alabama. With his exceptional size, speed, and ball skills, Hicks has the potential to become an instant star at the next level. His teammate, Xavier Jordan, is another highly touted prospect who brings explosive playmaking ability to the table.
Marcus Banks from Georgia is a 6’0″, 185-pound wideout with exceptional route-running abilities and a knack for finding the open space. He is a reliable target who can move the chains consistently.
Rising Stars
Behind the elite prospects, there are several rising stars who could make a significant impact in the NFL. Darin Johnson from USC is a 6’2″, 200-pound wideout who has flashed his potential with some impressive performances in college.
Elijah Rice from Ohio State is a 5’11”, 180-pound speedster who has the ability to blow past defenders and take the top off of the defense. Cody Jenkins from Oklahoma is another speedy wideout who has shown great promise with his quickness and agility.
Talented Depth
The depth of the wide receiver class in 2025 is truly impressive. Prospects like Kyle Taylor, Jackson Moore, and Ethan James are all capable of being drafted in the first three rounds and making an immediate contribution to their teams.
With so many talented wide receivers entering the league, the 2025 NFL Draft is poised to bring a new era of offensive firepower to the NFL. Teams will have their pick of elite playmakers and rising stars who can help them soar to new heights.
| Player | Height | Weight | University | Projected Draft Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CJ Hicks | 6’3″ | 215 lbs | Alabama | Top 5 |
| Xavier Jordan | 6’1″ | 195 lbs | Alabama | Top 10 |
| Marcus Banks | 6’0″ | 185 lbs | Georgia | 1st Round |
| Darin Johnson | 6’2″ | 200 lbs | USC | 1st-2nd Round |
| Elijah Rice | 5’11” | 180 lbs | Ohio State | 2nd Round |
Defensive Line Dominance
The 2025 NFL Draft is shaping up to be a historic one for defensive linemen, with an unprecedented number of blue-chip prospects set to enter the league. Here’s a look at some of the top defensive linemen who could be making noise in the NFL very soon:
Top Defensive Line Prospects
| Player | Position | School |
|---|---|---|
| Mekhi Garay | Defensive End | Ohio State |
| Barion Brown | Defensive Tackle | Kentucky |
| Shemar Stewart | Defensive End | Texas |
| Jaheim Oatis | Defensive Tackle | Alabama |
| David Bailey | Defensive End | Stanford |
Defensive Ends
Leading the charge on the defensive line is a trio of highly-touted defensive ends. Mekhi Garay from Ohio State is a physical specimen with an impressive blend of size, strength, and athleticism. Shemar Stewart from Texas is a pass-rushing specialist with lightning-fast first steps and a knack for getting into the backfield. And David Bailey from Stanford is a versatile playmaker who can both stop the run and disrupt the passer.
Defensive Tackles
On the interior, Barion Brown from Kentucky and Jaheim Oatis from Alabama are two of the most dominant defensive tackles in the draft class. Brown is a massive presence in the trenches, using his incredible strength to control gaps and generate pressure. Oatis, on the other hand, is a rare combination of size and athleticism, making him a force to be reckoned with in both the running and passing game.
Projecting the Draft
With so much talent at the defensive line position, it’s likely that several of these prospects will be selected in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft. Mekhi Garay and Barion Brown seem like prime candidates to go off the board early, while Shemar Stewart and Jaheim Oatis could also crack the top 10. David Bailey is a bit of a wildcard, but his versatility could make him a valuable asset to any team.
Shutdown Cornerbacks Rise
The 2025 NFL draft is expected to feature a wealth of talented defensive backs, with shutdown cornerbacks taking center stage. These elite playmakers have the ability to completely shut down opposing receivers, making them a hot commodity for teams looking to upgrade their pass defense.
Top Shutdown Cornerback Prospects
Several highly touted cornerback prospects are expected to be available in the early rounds of the draft, including:
- Cornelius “Coop” Thompson (Ohio State)
- Andrew “AJ” Carter (Alabama)
- Jaylin “Jay” Holmes (Georgia)
- Zayden “Zee” Miller (USC)
- Marcus “Marky” Williams (Florida)
Impact on the NFL Landscape
The emergence of these shutdown cornerbacks could have a significant impact on the NFL landscape. They can alter offensive schemes and force teams to rely more on the running game. Additionally, they can free up other defenders to focus on pressuring the quarterback or stopping the run.
Projected Draft Positions
Based on current projections, here is a breakdown of the expected draft positions for the top shutdown cornerbacks:
| Prospect | Projected Draft Range |
|---|---|
| Cornelius “Coop” Thompson | Top 5 |
| Andrew “AJ” Carter | Top 10 |
| Jaylin “Jay” Holmes | Mid-First Round |
| Zayden “Zee” Miller | Late First Round |
| Marcus “Marky” Williams | Early Second Round |
Versatility and Athleticism
In addition to their coverage skills, these shutdown cornerbacks are also known for their versatility and athleticism. They can play multiple positions in the secondary, including slot corner and safety. Their exceptional speed, agility, and ball skills make them a threat to intercept passes and make big plays.
Future Stars at Safety
#6: Zion Branch, Safety, Georgia
Zion Branch is a 6’3″, 200-pound safety from Georgetown, South Carolina. He is a consensus five-star recruit and is considered one of the best safeties in the country. Branch is a versatile player who can play both strong and free safety. He is a physical player who is not afraid to come up and make tackles. He also has good coverage skills and can make plays on the ball. Branch is a very talented player who has the potential to be a star at the next level.
Strengths
- Physicality
- Versatility
- Coverage skills
- Ball skills
Weaknesses
- Can be overaggressive at times
- Needs to improve his tackling technique
Comparison
Branch has been compared to former NFL safety Eric Berry. Berry was a physical and versatile safety who was known for his big hits and playmaking ability. Branch has the potential to be a similar type of player in the NFL.
Projection
Branch is projected to be a first-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. He has the talent and potential to be a star at the next level. He is a physical and versatile player who can make plays all over the field. Branch is a player to watch in the coming years, and he has the potential to be one of the best safeties in the NFL.
Linebacking Legacy
7. Jacksonville Jaguars: Shemar James, ILB (Florida)
Jacksonville has a long history of drafting talented linebackers, and Shemar James fits seamlessly into that mold. The 6-foot-2, 230-pounder is a physical force who combines exceptional tackling ability with a knack for making big plays. James’ innate football IQ allows him to anticipate offenses, diagnose plays, and consistently put himself in position to make game-changing stops. With his impressive instincts and relentless motor, James is poised to become a key cog in the Jaguars’ defense, continuing the franchise’s legacy of hard-hitting, playmaking linebackers.
Comparable Player: Devin Bush
Key Attributes:
| Attribute | Rating |
|---|---|
| Tackling | 9/10 |
| Instincts | 9/10 |
| Motor | 10/10 |
| Coverage | 7/10 |
| Pass Rush | 6/10 |
Offensive Tackle Titans
The Titans are in need of an offensive tackle after trading away Taylor Lewan. They could look to address this need in the 2025 NFL Draft, and there are a few players who could be available at their selection.
8. Orlando Brown Jr. (Kansas City Chiefs)
Orlando Brown Jr. is a 6’8″, 345-pound offensive tackle who is entering his fifth season in the NFL. He has started all 64 games of his career, and he has been named to the Pro Bowl twice. Brown Jr. is a mauler in the run game, and he is also a very good pass protector. He would be a great addition to the Titans’ offensive line.
Strengths
- Size and strength
- Run blocking
- Pass protection
Weaknesses
- Can be inconsistent at times
- Not the most athletic tackle
| Year | Team | Games Started | Pro Bowls |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | Kansas City Chiefs | 17 | 1 |
| 2022 | Kansas City Chiefs | 17 | 1 |
| 2023 | Kansas City Chiefs | 17 | 0 |
| 2024 | Kansas City Chiefs | 16 | 0 |
Impactful Guards and Centers
Round 1, No. 9: Kelvin Banks, OG, Texas
| Team | Position | Player | College |
|---|---|---|---|
| Baltimore Ravens | OG | Kelvin Banks | Texas |
| Las Vegas Raiders | C | Zach Rice | North Carolina |
| Tampa Bay Buccaneers | C | Brett Neilon | Florida |
| Tennessee Titans | OG | Emery Jones | LSU |
| Jacksonville Jaguars | OG | Olusegun Oluwatimi | Michigan |
Kelvin Banks is widely regarded as one of the most athletic and versatile linemen in the draft. At 6’5″, 325 pounds, he possesses a rare combination of size, strength, and explosiveness. He is a formidable blocker in the run game, displaying excellent technique and a physical presence that can open up holes for running backs. In pass protection, Banks shows quick feet and a strong base, consistently neutralizing defenders and keeping quarterbacks upright.
Banks’ athleticism and versatility make him a valuable asset in any offensive scheme. He can play guard or tackle and excels in both run blocking and pass protection. His strength and physicality make him a particularly effective run blocker, but he also has the agility and technique to be a reliable pass protector. With his combination of size, athleticism, and versatility, Banks has the potential to become one of the most impactful linemen in the NFL.
Special Teams Spark
10. Tennessee Titans – Keion White, S, Georgia Tech
White is a dynamic playmaker who can provide an immediate impact on special teams. He has exceptional athleticism and a knack for creating turnovers. In 2022, White recorded 5 tackles, 3 interceptions, and 1 fumble recovery on special teams for Georgia Tech. His combination of size (6’0″, 198 lbs) and speed would make him a valuable addition to the Titans’ special teams unit.
| Year | Tackles | INT | FF | FR |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | 5 | 3 | 1 | 1 |
White’s versatility allows him to play multiple roles on special teams, including as a kick returner, gunner, and coverage specialist. He has the potential to be a game-changer in the return game, with his speed and ability to break tackles. Additionally, White’s tackling ability and instincts make him a formidable presence on coverage units.
By adding Keion White to their roster, the Tennessee Titans would acquire a skilled and impactful special teams player who can provide an immediate boost to their performance in that area.
Latest 2025 NFL Mock Draft: A Look at the Top Prospects
The 2025 NFL Draft is still two years away, but it’s never too early to start looking ahead. With the college football season underway, we’re getting our first glimpse at some of the top prospects for the next draft class. Here’s a look at the latest 2025 NFL Mock Draft from ESPN’s Mel Kiper Jr.:
1. Bryce Young, QB, Alabama
2. Cade Klubnik, QB, Clemson
3. Kelvin Banks, OT, Texas
4. David Bailey, CB, Stanford
5. Sonny Styles, S, Ohio State
6. Arch Manning, QB, Texas
7. Shemar Stewart, EDGE, Texas
8. Evan Stewart, WR, Texas A&M
9. Jayden McGowan, WR, Vanderbilt
10. Nick Singleton, RB, Penn State
It’s still early, but this mock draft gives us a good idea of who the top prospects are for the 2025 NFL Draft. With two talented quarterbacks at the top of the board, it’s shaping up to be a quarterback-heavy draft class.
People Also Ask About Latest 2025 NFL Mock Draft
Who is the top prospect in the 2025 NFL Draft?
According to ESPN’s Mel Kiper Jr., Bryce Young is the top prospect in the 2025 NFL Draft.
What is the best quarterback in the 2025 NFL Draft?
Bryce Young and Cade Klubnik are the two top quarterbacks in the 2025 NFL Draft.
Who is the best offensive tackle in the 2025 NFL Draft?
Kelvin Banks is the top offensive tackle in the 2025 NFL Draft.
Who is the best defensive player in the 2025 NFL Draft?
David Bailey is the top defensive player in the 2025 NFL Draft.
