NFL Free Agency Sparks Excitement as 2025 Mock Draft Unfolds

Introduction The 2025 NFL Free Agency period is about to commence, and with the NFL Combine in the books, now is the perfect time to evaluate where each team stands. This 32-team mock draft is based on insights from Indianapolis and current team needs. Let’s dive into the selections and explore how the league’s landscape could shift with these promising prospects.

Tennessee Titans: Abdul Carter, Edge, Penn State The Titans are in dire need of a quarterback, but with the top pick, they cannot pass on the best player available—Abdul Carter. A dominant edge rusher, Carter will provide Tennessee with an elite pass-rushing presence. The team can address their quarterback situation in free agency, potentially targeting Sam Darnold.

Cleveland Browns: Cam Ward, QB, Miami Deshaun Watson’s tenure in Cleveland has been filled with disappointment, making this a pivotal pick for the franchise. Ward’s play style aligns with the modern NFL, and he has the potential to lead the Browns into a new era of offensive success.

New York Giants: Jaxson Dart, QB, Ole Miss Jaxson Dart is an underrated talent with tremendous upside. While he may need time to develop, his potential could see him emerge as the best quarterback in this class. With the Giants in search of a franchise leader, Dart could be the answer they’ve been looking for.

New England Patriots: Travis Hunter, CB/WR, Colorado A dynamic two-way player, Hunter’s versatility makes him a unique asset. The Patriots need help at both wide receiver and cornerback, making Hunter an intriguing selection. The question remains: will he play primarily on offense or defense?

Jacksonville Jaguars: Mason Graham, DT, Michigan Graham is the premier defensive lineman in this draft, and the Jaguars bolster their defense by adding him. Paired with Travon Walker and Josh Hines-Allen, Graham’s presence solidifies Jacksonville’s defensive front.

Las Vegas Raiders: Shedeur Sanders, QB, Colorado After missing out on Matthew Stafford, the Raiders find their quarterback of the future in Sanders. With Pete Carroll overseeing the new regime, Sanders can develop into a franchise leader for Las Vegas.

New York Jets: Will Johnson, CB, Michigan Pairing Johnson with Sauce Gardner creates one of the league’s most formidable cornerback duos. With DJ Reed likely departing in free agency, this selection strengthens the Jets’ secondary.

Carolina Panthers: Shemar Stewart, Edge, Texas A&M Stewart’s stock has risen after strong performances at the Senior Bowl and Combine. With the Panthers in desperate need of an edge rusher, Stewart is the ideal fit for their defense.

New Orleans Saints: James Pearce, Edge, Tennessee Pearce is an athletic phenom who showcased his talent at Tennessee. With Cameron Jordan’s retirement approaching, Pearce is the perfect successor to anchor the Saints’ pass rush.

Chicago Bears: Ahton Jeanty, RB, Boise State The Bears look to replicate the Lions’ success with Jahmyr Gibbs by selecting Jeanty. He adds versatility to Chicago’s offense and becomes a key weapon for Ben Johnson’s system.

San Francisco 49ers: Will Campbell, OT, LSU Trent Williams isn’t getting any younger, and the 49ers must prepare for the future. Campbell provides immediate depth and long-term stability at the tackle position.

Dallas Cowboys: Malaki Starks, S, Georgia The Cowboys struggled in the secondary last season, making Starks a valuable addition. His versatility and playmaking ability enhance Dallas’s defensive unit.

Miami Dolphins: Josh Simmons, OT, Ohio State Miami aims to revitalize its dominant offense from 2023 by addressing the offensive line. Simmons fortifies their protection and allows the Dolphins to operate at peak efficiency.

Indianapolis Colts: Tyler Warren, TE, Penn State The Colts have lacked a consistent tight end presence. Warren fills that void as a reliable pass-catching option, though concerns remain about his blocking skills.

Atlanta Falcons: Mike Green, Edge, Marshall The Falcons are actively seeking pass-rushing help, with rumors of a Trey Hendrickson trade swirling. Green brings a strong college track record and the tools to thrive in the NFL.

Arizona Cardinals: Kenneth Grant, DL, Michigan Arizona struggled against the run in 2024. Grant addresses that weakness, giving the Cardinals a much-needed presence on the interior defensive line.

Cincinnati Bengals: Walter Nolen, DL, Ole Miss With key departures on their defensive line, the Bengals begin their rebuild by selecting Nolen. His versatility and power make him a valuable addition.

Seattle Seahawks: Matthew Golden, WR, Texas Seattle moves forward without Tyler Lockett and likely DK Metcalf. Golden emerges as their next great receiver, adding speed and explosiveness to the offense.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Jalon Walker, LB, Georgia Lavonte David’s departure leaves a gap in Tampa’s linebacker corps. Walker brings speed and intelligence, ensuring the Buccaneers maintain a strong defensive presence.

Denver Broncos: Tetairoa McMillan, WR, Arizona McMillan’s talent is undeniable, and the Broncos get a steal with this pick. Despite being projected higher, he falls to Denver, giving them an elite receiving option.

Pittsburgh Steelers: Tyler Shough, QB, Louisville Pittsburgh’s quarterback situation remains uncertain. Shough provides a fresh start and competition for the starting role, potentially taking over as the team’s long-term answer.

Conclusion With free agency looming, these selections could shift as teams adjust their strategies. However, this mock draft provides insight into how the 2025 NFL Draft might unfold based on team needs and player potential. The league is in for an exciting offseason, and the draft will play a crucial role in shaping its future.