Mel Kiper Jr.'s 2025 NFL Mock Draft: Top First-Round Projections and Combine Insights

Updated 2025 NFL Mock Draft: First-Round Projections

As Combine Week kicks off in Indianapolis, Mel Kiper Jr. has updated his 2025 NFL Mock Draft with fresh projections for all 32 first-round picks. This year’s draft class features standout talent, and the upcoming combine will undoubtedly reshape team strategies and player rankings.

Key Highlights:

1. Quarterback Spotlight: Cam Ward (Miami) and Shedeur Sanders (Colorado) lead the QB class. Ward’s arm strength and creativity make him the consensus QB1, while Sanders’ accuracy and poise keep him in the mix for top 5.
2. Defensive Dominance: Abdul Carter (Penn State) and Travis Hunter (Colorado) headline the defensive prospects. Carter’s edge pressure and Hunter’s versatility as a WR/CB hybrid make them top-tier choices.

3. Combine Impact: The combine will be pivotal for players like Mykel Williams (Georgia) and Tyler Booker (Alabama), who have the chance to boost their draft stock with standout performances.

   Top 5 Projections:

4. Tennessee Titans: Abdul Carter, OLB, Penn State
5. Cleveland Browns: Cam Ward, QB, Miami
6. New York Giants: Travis Hunter, WR/CB, Colorado
7. New England Patriots: Will Campbell, OT, LSU

8. Jacksonville Jaguars: Mason Graham, DT, Michigan

   Additional Insights:

   • Rising Stars: Ashton Jeanty (Boise State) and Colston Loveland (Michigan) are climbing draft boards due to their versatility and playmaking abilities.
   • Team Needs: Free agency will influence draft decisions, especially for teams like the Cleveland Browns and New York Jets, who are seeking franchise quarterbacks.

   Conclusion: The 2025 NFL Draft promises to be one of the most exciting in recent memory, with a deep talent pool and plenty of intrigue. Stay tuned for more updates as the combine unfolds and teams finalize their strategies.