By Jordan Reid
Jan 07, 2025 11:50 AM
Cam Ward, QB, Miami
When asked what the Titans should do with their first No. 1 pick since 1978, sources around the league told me they must take a quarterback -- but were split between Ward and Colorado's Shedeur Sanders. The 6-foot-2, 223-pound Ward is currently my top QB prospect, and I think the Titans -- who will have a new GM after firing Ran Carthon on Tuesday -- would select him here.
His combination of arm power, creativity and a shortstop-like throwing motion make him an electric playmaker. He can also beat you deep, as his 29 completions on passes of 20-plus air yards were the seventh most nationally. Ward threw for 4,313 yards, 39 touchdowns and seven interceptions for the Hurricanes this season while also rushing for four touchdowns.
Take a QB or trade back? That's the Browns' dilemma. Likely stuck with Deshaun Watson's contract until 2026, the smart play would be to draft a QB while also signing a veteran through free agency. Sanders is an ideal fit in Kevin Stefanski's offense, as his game centers around his polish as a pocket passer. With excellent ball placement, Sanders' 6.5% off-target percentage was the third-lowest mark in the FBS. Sanders completed 74% of his passes this season for 4,134 yards and 37 touchdowns to 10 interceptions.
One of the worst positions to be in as an NFL team is having dire need of a first-round franchise QB while the best options are off the board. This is where the Giants would be -- there isn't another QB worthy of a top-10 selection right now. But they do have the chance to draft the best player in the class in Hunter, the Heisman Trophy winner and two-way star.
Hunter is capable of making impact plays on both sides of the ball, as he caught 96 passes for 1,258 yards and 15 touchdowns on offense while picking off four passes on defense. Hunter could give the Giants another receiving threat opposite Malik Nabers or help at corner ... or maybe both.
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Why Jordan Reid has Cam Ward going No. 1 overall to the Titans
Jordan Reid explains why he has Cam Ward at the top of his mock draft over Shedeur Sanders.
The offensive tackle class isn't strong in 2025, but the Patriots must find a way to protect quarterback Drake Maye, who was sacked 34 times in 13 games this season. New England's 8.2% sacks-per-dropback rate was the sixth highest in the league. Banks is clearly the best tackle in the class, and he has given up only one sack this season. The 6-foot-4, 320-pounder is a strong, quick-footed prospect who can be an immediate starter at left tackle.
The Jaguars recorded only six interceptions this season, the third-lowest total in the league. So their secondary needs a boost, and Johnson -- who set Michigan's school record with three career pick-sixes -- can provide that. At 6-foot-2, 202 pounds, he's a big corner who has drawn some comparisons to Broncos Pro Bowler Pat Surtain II. Pairing Johnson with Tyson Campbell would give Jacksonville a young, lockdown duo on the perimeter.
The Raiders seem to have played themselves out of selecting a quarterback for the second consecutive year, as two wins in their final three games would put them out of position for Ward or Sanders, barring an expensive trade-up. Like their process in drafting Brock Bowers in 2024, the Raiders could select the best player available in this spot.
The 6-foot-3, 259-pound Carter fits that bill, as he is the No. 2 overall prospect on my board. He has a lightning-quick first step, with a 17.7% pressure rate (fourth best in the FBS) and 11 sacks this season.
The Jets enter this offseason with plenty of holes on the roster after being arguably the most disappointing team of the 2024 season. The lack of depth along the defensive front was exposed all season, and Graham would help fortify it. He makes a lot of sense to pair with Quinnen Williams on the interior. Graham is a stout and disruptive force inside against the run and also in the pass rush. His 19 pressures ranked in the top 20 among FBS defensive tackles.
The 2024 Panthers defense was one of the worst in NFL history. It allowed 534 points, the most given up in a single season since the 1981 Baltimore Colts. The Panthers' 25.3% defensive pressure rate was also dead last in the league. Williams is a potential-laden edge rusher who has flashed plenty at Georgia. Williams had a career-high five sacks this season, but it's his length (at 6-foot-5 and 265 pounds) and upside that would make him a good fit in Carolina. He reminds me a lot of Danielle Hunter coming out of LSU.
McMillan is a rangy pass catcher who can bring a big presence and complement Chris Olave, who is entering the fourth year of his rookie contract. He can not only go up and snatch the ball out of the air (McMillan's 16 contested catches are 19th-most in the FBS), but his 6-foot-5, 212-pound stature presents multiple problems for defenses. Capable of playing from the slot or the outside, McMillan averaged 109.9 receiving yards per game this season (fourth most in the FBS). New Orleans lacks offensive playmakers, so this makes some sense here.
After a humbling season, the Bears' concerns again center around an inconsistent offense. They finished this season with the worst sacks per dropback rate in the NFL (10.3%), so offensive line should be their top priority. Campbell would be a massive boost for a unit that needs multiple new starters. A consistent technician, the 6-foot-6, 323-pound Campbell is a polished blocker who can step in as a Day 1 starter at either tackle or guard and help protect Caleb Williams.
The 49ers have to replenish their defensive line, which has been the driving force for much of their success during the Kyle Shanahan/John Lynch era. Stewart is a toolsy defensive lineman who is likely to see his stock skyrocket at pre-draft events because of his athletic skills and 6-foot-6, 290-pound frame.
He has been more potential than production to date, as he's never had more than 1.5 sacks in a season. But Stewart's 2.42-second average time to first pressure is the best among all defensive linemen in the FBS, which shows that he just needs to learn how to finish his pressures with sacks.
Rico Dowdle was solid for the Cowboys, rushing for 1,079 yards this season. But he's a pending free agent, and good players should never keep a franchise from drafting great players. Jeanty qualifies as great, as his 2,601 rushing yards were the second-most all-time in the FBS. He also scored 29 touchdowns on the ground and has great contact balance (1,733 yards after contact) and an ability to break tackles at 215 pounds. He has the potential to be a game changer in Dallas.
Jevon Holland is a free agent this offseason, so the Dolphins might need an immediate replacement. Starks could fill Holland's spot -- or any other secondary hole. Georgia moved Starks around throughout his career. He plays with plenty of range and has outstanding football IQ. His versatility and playmaking ability make him the top safety in the 2025 class.
Anthony Richardson needs more quality players to throw to in the pass game. Warren would help fill that void, as his alignment versatility makes him one of the most dangerous targets in the country. The 6-foot-6, 257-pound Warren's 77.2 receiving yards per game ranks second among FBS tight ends. Not only did he accumulate 98 catches for 1,158 yards and eight touchdowns, but he's also a dependable run blocker who could assist the Colts' rushing attack.
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Tyler Warren climbs the ladder for a Penn State TD
Tyler Warren defies gravity with a high-flying catch for a Penn State touchdown.
Trading for Matthew Judon in the preseason did little to resolve the Falcons' pass rushing woes. Atlanta's 34.1% pass rush win rate was the sixth worst in the NFL, and its lead edge rusher -- Arnold Ebiketie -- is set to hit free agency after the 2025 season. The Falcons haven't had a defender reach double-digit sacks since 2016 (Vic Beasley Jr.). But Walker is a versatile defender who can bring pressure off the edge (17.1% pressure percentage and 6.5 sacks) and play off-ball linebacker.
The Cardinals are unsettled at offensive tackle; Kelvin Beachum is set to become a free agent, and Jonah Williams played only six games this season because of injuries. Simmons also suffered an injury, sidelined for the season after a knee injury on Oct. 12. But the 6-foot-5, 310-pounder was making a play to be this draft's OT1 prior to getting hurt, not surrendering a pressure or sack in the six games he played.
The Bengals registered a sack on only 5.5% of dropbacks by opposing QBs this season (the sixth-worst rate in the NFL) despite the presence of NFL sack leader Trey Hendrickson. The 6-5, 243-pound Pearce is a lean, ultra-quick pass rusher who can race around blockers with ease. His 18.7% pressure rate ranked second in the FBS, resulting in 7.5 sacks. He could be the complementary pass rusher Cincinnati desperately needs.
The durability concerns surrounding right tackle Abraham Lucas are becoming a long-term issue, as he has been limited to 13 games over the past two seasons. Finding a player who can develop inside at guard and eventually replace Lucas or could slot in at tackle right away should be a priority. The 6-4, 315-pound Conerly made a huge leap in his second season as a starter, allowing only one sack and five pressures. He could be Lucas' heir apparent or jump in somewhere else on Seattle's line.
The play opposite Joey Porter Jr. at the CB2 spot has remained inconsistent, as neither Donte Jackson nor Cameron Sutton has been the answer. Prior to suffering a torn ACL, Revel was making his mark as one of this class' top corners, with two picks in three games. At 6-3, 193 pounds, he has great length, movement ability, ball skills and enthusiasm as a tackler -- all traits Pittsburgh looks for from its corners.
C.J. Stroud had a bit of a sophomore slump, and poor play from the Texans' O-line was a contributing factor. Houston tied for the third-most pass blocking losses in the league (210) and wasn't much better in the run game, as its guards' 66.4% run block win rate was the fifth worst in the NFL.
The 6-foot-5, 336-pound Savaiinaea is a stoutly built blocker who plays with a sturdy base and has powerful hands. He allowed only one sack this season and can play tackle and guard, though he projects best inside in the NFL.
The Broncos could use pass-catching help alongside Courtland Sutton. Burden is a competitive receiver who can line up outside or in the slot. Though he couldn't match his elite 2023 production (he had 61 catches for 676 yards and 6 touchdowns this season after going for 86, 1,212 and 9 the year before), Burden still forced 28 missed tackles this season. He's extremely dangerous after the catch and would give rookie quarterback Bo Nix a versatile playmaking option.
Loveland would give the Rams a dynamic tight end to join quarterback Matthew Stafford and receivers Puka Nacua and Cooper Kupp. Loveland performed well despite inconsistent QB play, with 56 receptions for 582 yards and five touchdowns. He has strong hands and a diverse route tree and can create advantages against linebackers and safeties with his easy movement. Loveland has similar traits to those of Dalton Kincaid.
Campbell is the best pure off-ball linebacker in this class. His range, instincts and playmaking ability consistently stand out on tape. His five sacks this season show that he can rush off the edge, too, making him the ideal modern three-down linebacker. Campbell could slot in perfectly alongside Lavonte David and immediately replace K.J. Britt in the middle of Todd Bowles' defense.
Cornerback has rocketed up the Packers' needs list. Jaire Alexander played only seven games this season because of injuries and Eric Stokes is a pending free agent. Amos could be the fix, as he knows when to adjust his eyes and find the ball in the air. He can play man but thrives in zone coverage, which fits perfectly in a Green Bay defense with the highest zone coverage rate (70.7%) in the NFL this season. Amos' 15 pass breakups were the second highest in the FBS, and he also intercepted three passes.
The Chargers received production from unsung veterans Poona Ford and Teair Tart, but both are pending free agents. That makes defensive tackle a priority, especially if both leave. Grant is a high-effort, active defender who is still developing. He had three sacks in his first season as a starter, and if reunited with his former college coach (Jim Harbaugh) and defensive coordinator (Jesse Minter), he could help the Chargers improve their 18.7% run stop percentage (fifth worst in the NFL).
Though defense is a viable option for the Commanders, drafting another pass-catcher for Jayden Daniels also makes sense here. Egbuka overcame an injury-riddled 2023 and has 70 receptions for 896 yards and 10 touchdowns. His savvy route running and strong hands make the 6-1, 205-pound Egbuka one of the most pro-ready prospects in this class. He projects as a high-end WR2 and a perfect complement to Terry McLaurin.
After going away from their usual strategy of picking first-round defensive linemen in 2024, the Eagles should revert back to that approach in April. Scourton is a compactly built edge rusher at 6-4 and 285 pounds and plays with physicality. Along with being able to rush the passer (15 sacks the past two seasons), Scourton excels against the run with his powerful hand usage. He has a similar body type to that of longtime Eagles edge Brandon Graham and can flip between outside and inside the way Graham does now.
This would be a depth add to a defensive line that needs pressure generators. Harmon took a big step forward after transferring from Michigan State. His 10.7% pressure rate when lined up inside was the second best in the FBS. Harmon can fight through double-teams as a run defender while overwhelming interior blockers in the pass rush by pairing his quick hands with the sudden lower half of his body.
The Vikings could use reinforcements at defensive tackle, and Nolen would provide an interior push for Brian Flores' defense. Nolen played up to his immense potential at Ole Miss after two underwhelming seasons at Texas A&M, finishing with a career-high 6.5 sacks. He was one of the most impressive prospects I saw this fall, as he consistently penetrated the first level with his explosiveness and heavy hands. Don't be surprised if he continues to rise in the pre-draft process.
Booker set an aggressive tone for Alabama's offensive line with a physical demeanor that helps him sustain and finish blocks. He plays with a mean streak and gave up only one sack and nine pressures in three seasons. The 6-5, 325-pound Booker fits perfectly with the Ravens' downhill scheme thanks to his effectiveness on pull and trap blocks. The Ravens gained 44% of their yards on the ground (second most in the NFL), and Booker could help sustain that.
I think Membou will be a big riser during the pre-draft process and could find a home at the end of the first round. His poise and strength are among the best of any blocker in this class, and his film is almost boring in a good way: He just consistently gets the job done. Membou gave up only one sack and basically shut down opposing rushers all season. The 6-3, 314-pounder is steady at right tackle but could slide inside to guard if pending free agent Trey Smith signs elsewhere.
The Lions badly need another edge rusher opposite Aidan Hutchinson, which was made clear after Hutchinson broke his left leg in Week 6. Their 29.7% pass rush win rate since Hutchinson's injury is the sixth worst in the NFL, and Green could contribute immediately as a closer off the edge. Green's 17 sacks led the FBS this season, and his 15.5% pressure rate ranked ninth.
Jan 07, 2025 11:50 AM
1. Tennessee Titans (3-14)
Cam Ward, QB, Miami
When asked what the Titans should do with their first No. 1 pick since 1978, sources around the league told me they must take a quarterback -- but were split between Ward and Colorado's Shedeur Sanders. The 6-foot-2, 223-pound Ward is currently my top QB prospect, and I think the Titans -- who will have a new GM after firing Ran Carthon on Tuesday -- would select him here.
His combination of arm power, creativity and a shortstop-like throwing motion make him an electric playmaker. He can also beat you deep, as his 29 completions on passes of 20-plus air yards were the seventh most nationally. Ward threw for 4,313 yards, 39 touchdowns and seven interceptions for the Hurricanes this season while also rushing for four touchdowns.
2. Cleveland Browns (3-14)
Shedeur Sanders, QB, ColoradoTake a QB or trade back? That's the Browns' dilemma. Likely stuck with Deshaun Watson's contract until 2026, the smart play would be to draft a QB while also signing a veteran through free agency. Sanders is an ideal fit in Kevin Stefanski's offense, as his game centers around his polish as a pocket passer. With excellent ball placement, Sanders' 6.5% off-target percentage was the third-lowest mark in the FBS. Sanders completed 74% of his passes this season for 4,134 yards and 37 touchdowns to 10 interceptions.
3. New York Giants (3-14)
Travis Hunter, WR/CB, Colorado*One of the worst positions to be in as an NFL team is having dire need of a first-round franchise QB while the best options are off the board. This is where the Giants would be -- there isn't another QB worthy of a top-10 selection right now. But they do have the chance to draft the best player in the class in Hunter, the Heisman Trophy winner and two-way star.
Hunter is capable of making impact plays on both sides of the ball, as he caught 96 passes for 1,258 yards and 15 touchdowns on offense while picking off four passes on defense. Hunter could give the Giants another receiving threat opposite Malik Nabers or help at corner ... or maybe both.
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Why Jordan Reid has Cam Ward going No. 1 overall to the Titans
Jordan Reid explains why he has Cam Ward at the top of his mock draft over Shedeur Sanders.
4. New England Patriots (4-13)
Kelvin Banks Jr., OT, Texas*The offensive tackle class isn't strong in 2025, but the Patriots must find a way to protect quarterback Drake Maye, who was sacked 34 times in 13 games this season. New England's 8.2% sacks-per-dropback rate was the sixth highest in the league. Banks is clearly the best tackle in the class, and he has given up only one sack this season. The 6-foot-4, 320-pounder is a strong, quick-footed prospect who can be an immediate starter at left tackle.
5. Jacksonville Jaguars (4-13)
Will Johnson, CB, Michigan*The Jaguars recorded only six interceptions this season, the third-lowest total in the league. So their secondary needs a boost, and Johnson -- who set Michigan's school record with three career pick-sixes -- can provide that. At 6-foot-2, 202 pounds, he's a big corner who has drawn some comparisons to Broncos Pro Bowler Pat Surtain II. Pairing Johnson with Tyson Campbell would give Jacksonville a young, lockdown duo on the perimeter.
6. Las Vegas Raiders (4-13)
Abdul Carter, Edge, Penn State*The Raiders seem to have played themselves out of selecting a quarterback for the second consecutive year, as two wins in their final three games would put them out of position for Ward or Sanders, barring an expensive trade-up. Like their process in drafting Brock Bowers in 2024, the Raiders could select the best player available in this spot.
The 6-foot-3, 259-pound Carter fits that bill, as he is the No. 2 overall prospect on my board. He has a lightning-quick first step, with a 17.7% pressure rate (fourth best in the FBS) and 11 sacks this season.
7. New York Jets (5-12)
Mason Graham, DT, Michigan*The Jets enter this offseason with plenty of holes on the roster after being arguably the most disappointing team of the 2024 season. The lack of depth along the defensive front was exposed all season, and Graham would help fortify it. He makes a lot of sense to pair with Quinnen Williams on the interior. Graham is a stout and disruptive force inside against the run and also in the pass rush. His 19 pressures ranked in the top 20 among FBS defensive tackles.
8. Carolina Panthers (5-12)
Mykel Williams, Edge, Georgia*The 2024 Panthers defense was one of the worst in NFL history. It allowed 534 points, the most given up in a single season since the 1981 Baltimore Colts. The Panthers' 25.3% defensive pressure rate was also dead last in the league. Williams is a potential-laden edge rusher who has flashed plenty at Georgia. Williams had a career-high five sacks this season, but it's his length (at 6-foot-5 and 265 pounds) and upside that would make him a good fit in Carolina. He reminds me a lot of Danielle Hunter coming out of LSU.
9. New Orleans Saints (5-12)
Tetairoa McMillan, WR, Arizona*McMillan is a rangy pass catcher who can bring a big presence and complement Chris Olave, who is entering the fourth year of his rookie contract. He can not only go up and snatch the ball out of the air (McMillan's 16 contested catches are 19th-most in the FBS), but his 6-foot-5, 212-pound stature presents multiple problems for defenses. Capable of playing from the slot or the outside, McMillan averaged 109.9 receiving yards per game this season (fourth most in the FBS). New Orleans lacks offensive playmakers, so this makes some sense here.
10. Chicago Bears (5-12)
Will Campbell, OT/G, LSU*After a humbling season, the Bears' concerns again center around an inconsistent offense. They finished this season with the worst sacks per dropback rate in the NFL (10.3%), so offensive line should be their top priority. Campbell would be a massive boost for a unit that needs multiple new starters. A consistent technician, the 6-foot-6, 323-pound Campbell is a polished blocker who can step in as a Day 1 starter at either tackle or guard and help protect Caleb Williams.
11. San Francisco 49ers (6-11)
Shemar Stewart, DL, Texas A&M*The 49ers have to replenish their defensive line, which has been the driving force for much of their success during the Kyle Shanahan/John Lynch era. Stewart is a toolsy defensive lineman who is likely to see his stock skyrocket at pre-draft events because of his athletic skills and 6-foot-6, 290-pound frame.
He has been more potential than production to date, as he's never had more than 1.5 sacks in a season. But Stewart's 2.42-second average time to first pressure is the best among all defensive linemen in the FBS, which shows that he just needs to learn how to finish his pressures with sacks.
12. Dallas Cowboys (7-10)
Ashton Jeanty, RB, Boise State*Rico Dowdle was solid for the Cowboys, rushing for 1,079 yards this season. But he's a pending free agent, and good players should never keep a franchise from drafting great players. Jeanty qualifies as great, as his 2,601 rushing yards were the second-most all-time in the FBS. He also scored 29 touchdowns on the ground and has great contact balance (1,733 yards after contact) and an ability to break tackles at 215 pounds. He has the potential to be a game changer in Dallas.
13. Miami Dolphins (8-9)
Malaki Starks, S, Georgia*Jevon Holland is a free agent this offseason, so the Dolphins might need an immediate replacement. Starks could fill Holland's spot -- or any other secondary hole. Georgia moved Starks around throughout his career. He plays with plenty of range and has outstanding football IQ. His versatility and playmaking ability make him the top safety in the 2025 class.
14. Indianapolis Colts (8-9)
Tyler Warren, TE, Penn StateAnthony Richardson needs more quality players to throw to in the pass game. Warren would help fill that void, as his alignment versatility makes him one of the most dangerous targets in the country. The 6-foot-6, 257-pound Warren's 77.2 receiving yards per game ranks second among FBS tight ends. Not only did he accumulate 98 catches for 1,158 yards and eight touchdowns, but he's also a dependable run blocker who could assist the Colts' rushing attack.
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Tyler Warren climbs the ladder for a Penn State TD
Tyler Warren defies gravity with a high-flying catch for a Penn State touchdown.
15. Atlanta Falcons (8-9)
Jalon Walker, Edge/LB, Georgia*Trading for Matthew Judon in the preseason did little to resolve the Falcons' pass rushing woes. Atlanta's 34.1% pass rush win rate was the sixth worst in the NFL, and its lead edge rusher -- Arnold Ebiketie -- is set to hit free agency after the 2025 season. The Falcons haven't had a defender reach double-digit sacks since 2016 (Vic Beasley Jr.). But Walker is a versatile defender who can bring pressure off the edge (17.1% pressure percentage and 6.5 sacks) and play off-ball linebacker.
16. Arizona Cardinals (8-9)
Josh Simmons, OT, Ohio StateThe Cardinals are unsettled at offensive tackle; Kelvin Beachum is set to become a free agent, and Jonah Williams played only six games this season because of injuries. Simmons also suffered an injury, sidelined for the season after a knee injury on Oct. 12. But the 6-foot-5, 310-pounder was making a play to be this draft's OT1 prior to getting hurt, not surrendering a pressure or sack in the six games he played.
17. Cincinnati Bengals (9-8)
James Pearce Jr., Edge, Tennessee*The Bengals registered a sack on only 5.5% of dropbacks by opposing QBs this season (the sixth-worst rate in the NFL) despite the presence of NFL sack leader Trey Hendrickson. The 6-5, 243-pound Pearce is a lean, ultra-quick pass rusher who can race around blockers with ease. His 18.7% pressure rate ranked second in the FBS, resulting in 7.5 sacks. He could be the complementary pass rusher Cincinnati desperately needs.
18. Seattle Seahawks (10-7)
Josh Conerly Jr., OT, Oregon*The durability concerns surrounding right tackle Abraham Lucas are becoming a long-term issue, as he has been limited to 13 games over the past two seasons. Finding a player who can develop inside at guard and eventually replace Lucas or could slot in at tackle right away should be a priority. The 6-4, 315-pound Conerly made a huge leap in his second season as a starter, allowing only one sack and five pressures. He could be Lucas' heir apparent or jump in somewhere else on Seattle's line.
19. Pittsburgh Steelers (10-7)
Shavon Revel Jr., CB, East CarolinaThe play opposite Joey Porter Jr. at the CB2 spot has remained inconsistent, as neither Donte Jackson nor Cameron Sutton has been the answer. Prior to suffering a torn ACL, Revel was making his mark as one of this class' top corners, with two picks in three games. At 6-3, 193 pounds, he has great length, movement ability, ball skills and enthusiasm as a tackler -- all traits Pittsburgh looks for from its corners.
20. Houston Texans (10-7)
Jonah Savaiinaea, OT/G, Arizona*C.J. Stroud had a bit of a sophomore slump, and poor play from the Texans' O-line was a contributing factor. Houston tied for the third-most pass blocking losses in the league (210) and wasn't much better in the run game, as its guards' 66.4% run block win rate was the fifth worst in the NFL.
The 6-foot-5, 336-pound Savaiinaea is a stoutly built blocker who plays with a sturdy base and has powerful hands. He allowed only one sack this season and can play tackle and guard, though he projects best inside in the NFL.
21. Denver Broncos (10-7)
Luther Burden III, WR, Missouri*The Broncos could use pass-catching help alongside Courtland Sutton. Burden is a competitive receiver who can line up outside or in the slot. Though he couldn't match his elite 2023 production (he had 61 catches for 676 yards and 6 touchdowns this season after going for 86, 1,212 and 9 the year before), Burden still forced 28 missed tackles this season. He's extremely dangerous after the catch and would give rookie quarterback Bo Nix a versatile playmaking option.
22. Los Angeles Rams (10-7)
Colston Loveland, TE, Michigan*Loveland would give the Rams a dynamic tight end to join quarterback Matthew Stafford and receivers Puka Nacua and Cooper Kupp. Loveland performed well despite inconsistent QB play, with 56 receptions for 582 yards and five touchdowns. He has strong hands and a diverse route tree and can create advantages against linebackers and safeties with his easy movement. Loveland has similar traits to those of Dalton Kincaid.
23. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (10-7)
Jihaad Campbell, LB, Alabama*Campbell is the best pure off-ball linebacker in this class. His range, instincts and playmaking ability consistently stand out on tape. His five sacks this season show that he can rush off the edge, too, making him the ideal modern three-down linebacker. Campbell could slot in perfectly alongside Lavonte David and immediately replace K.J. Britt in the middle of Todd Bowles' defense.
24. Green Bay Packers (11-6)
Trey Amos, CB, Ole MissCornerback has rocketed up the Packers' needs list. Jaire Alexander played only seven games this season because of injuries and Eric Stokes is a pending free agent. Amos could be the fix, as he knows when to adjust his eyes and find the ball in the air. He can play man but thrives in zone coverage, which fits perfectly in a Green Bay defense with the highest zone coverage rate (70.7%) in the NFL this season. Amos' 15 pass breakups were the second highest in the FBS, and he also intercepted three passes.
25. Los Angeles Chargers (11-6)
Kenneth Grant, DT, Michigan*The Chargers received production from unsung veterans Poona Ford and Teair Tart, but both are pending free agents. That makes defensive tackle a priority, especially if both leave. Grant is a high-effort, active defender who is still developing. He had three sacks in his first season as a starter, and if reunited with his former college coach (Jim Harbaugh) and defensive coordinator (Jesse Minter), he could help the Chargers improve their 18.7% run stop percentage (fifth worst in the NFL).
26. Washington Commanders (12-5)
Emeka Egbuka, WR, Ohio StateThough defense is a viable option for the Commanders, drafting another pass-catcher for Jayden Daniels also makes sense here. Egbuka overcame an injury-riddled 2023 and has 70 receptions for 896 yards and 10 touchdowns. His savvy route running and strong hands make the 6-1, 205-pound Egbuka one of the most pro-ready prospects in this class. He projects as a high-end WR2 and a perfect complement to Terry McLaurin.
27. Philadelphia Eagles (14-3)
Nic Scourton, Edge, Texas A&M*After going away from their usual strategy of picking first-round defensive linemen in 2024, the Eagles should revert back to that approach in April. Scourton is a compactly built edge rusher at 6-4 and 285 pounds and plays with physicality. Along with being able to rush the passer (15 sacks the past two seasons), Scourton excels against the run with his powerful hand usage. He has a similar body type to that of longtime Eagles edge Brandon Graham and can flip between outside and inside the way Graham does now.
28. Buffalo Bills (13-4)
Derrick Harmon, DT, Oregon*This would be a depth add to a defensive line that needs pressure generators. Harmon took a big step forward after transferring from Michigan State. His 10.7% pressure rate when lined up inside was the second best in the FBS. Harmon can fight through double-teams as a run defender while overwhelming interior blockers in the pass rush by pairing his quick hands with the sudden lower half of his body.
29. Minnesota Vikings (14-3)
Walter Nolen, DT, Ole Miss*The Vikings could use reinforcements at defensive tackle, and Nolen would provide an interior push for Brian Flores' defense. Nolen played up to his immense potential at Ole Miss after two underwhelming seasons at Texas A&M, finishing with a career-high 6.5 sacks. He was one of the most impressive prospects I saw this fall, as he consistently penetrated the first level with his explosiveness and heavy hands. Don't be surprised if he continues to rise in the pre-draft process.
30. Baltimore Ravens (12-5)
Tyler Booker, G, Alabama*Booker set an aggressive tone for Alabama's offensive line with a physical demeanor that helps him sustain and finish blocks. He plays with a mean streak and gave up only one sack and nine pressures in three seasons. The 6-5, 325-pound Booker fits perfectly with the Ravens' downhill scheme thanks to his effectiveness on pull and trap blocks. The Ravens gained 44% of their yards on the ground (second most in the NFL), and Booker could help sustain that.
31. Kansas City Chiefs (15-2)
Armand Membou, OT/G, Missouri*I think Membou will be a big riser during the pre-draft process and could find a home at the end of the first round. His poise and strength are among the best of any blocker in this class, and his film is almost boring in a good way: He just consistently gets the job done. Membou gave up only one sack and basically shut down opposing rushers all season. The 6-3, 314-pounder is steady at right tackle but could slide inside to guard if pending free agent Trey Smith signs elsewhere.
32. Detroit Lions (15-2)
Mike Green, Edge, Marshall*The Lions badly need another edge rusher opposite Aidan Hutchinson, which was made clear after Hutchinson broke his left leg in Week 6. Their 29.7% pass rush win rate since Hutchinson's injury is the sixth worst in the NFL, and Green could contribute immediately as a closer off the edge. Green's 17 sacks led the FBS this season, and his 15.5% pressure rate ranked ninth.
