The NFL Draft season has arrived! Now is the ideal moment to check out mock draft websites and speculate on which players your favorite team might choose. Each NFL scouting department is diligently working to make the best selections in April. Teams have distinct needs and positions to address as they aim to enhance their rosters for the upcoming season. Different franchises are looking for various player positions or archetypes to effectively shape their squads.
Jacksonville Jaguars Pick: LSU WR Brian Thomas Jr. Grade: A+
Indianapolis Colts Pick: UCLA EDGE Laiatu Latu Grade: B-
Tennessee Titans Pick: Alabama OT JC Latham Grade: A
Houston Texans Pick: Georgia CB Kamari Lassiter Grade: B
Tampa Bay Buccaneers Pick: Duke OL Graham Barton Grade: B
Atlanta Falcons Pick: Washington QB Michael Penix Jr. Grade: B
New Orleans Saints Pick: Oregon State OT Taliese Fuaga Grade: B-
Carolina Panthers Pick: South Carolina WR Xavier Legette Grade: B-
The Jacksonville Jaguars conclude a frustrating season, leading to the departure of both head coach Doug Pederson and general manager Trent Baalke. This change aims to foster a new culture in Duval. The Jaguars crushed their pick last year, selecting LSU wide receiver Brian Thomas Jr., but a talented wide receiver can only do so much for a franchise that struggles as much as Jacksonville does. The Jaguars should focus on dominating the line of scrimmage and the secondary.
Projected Jaguars’ Targets: Michigan DT Mason Graham, Boise State RB Ashton Jeanty, Georgia EDGE Jalon Walker
The Houston Texans’ season ended at the hands of the Kansas City Chiefs, who became the AFC Champions. Quarterback CJ Stroud faced a noticeable sophomore slump, highlighting the need for better support in his development. Additionally, the defense struggled against elite AFC offenses like Kansas City and Buffalo, highlighting the urgent requirement for upgrades. Strengthening both the offense and defense in the offseason will be crucial for the Texans to build a more competitive roster.
Projected Texans’ Targets: North Dakota State IOL Grey Zabel, Ohio State IOL Donovan Jackson, Florida State DT Joshua Farmer
Anthony Richardson is currently the most developmental quarterback in the NFL. In his first two years, he has struggled with injuries. However, if he can refine his game and learn to protect himself, he has the potential to become an elite quarterback. The Colts need to surround him with more talent to support his growth.
Projected Colts’ Targets: Ohio State WR Emeka Egbuka, Arizona WR Tetairoa McMillan, Michigan TE Colston Loveland
Quarterback Will Levis isn’t the right fit for the Tennessee Titans, and the 2025 QB class lacks a standout generational talent. Additionally, the Titans have several other positions that need attention, which should take precedence over pursuing quarterbacks like Shedeur or Cam. Strengthening the offensive and defensive lines, along with improving the cornerback position, would be more beneficial for the team.
Projected Titans’ Targets: Penn State EDGE Abdul Carter, Colorado WR/CB Travis Hunter, Michigan DT Mason Graham
The Buccaneers’ offense isn’t a major issue, but the defense often concedes too many points, making it challenging for Baker Mayfield to keep up. Additionally, it would be beneficial to add a young wide receiver to support veteran stars Mike Evans and Chris Godwin, helping to reduce their workload and lower their risk of injury.
Projected Buccaneers’ Targets: Texas WR Matthew Golden, Alabama LB Jihaad Campbell, Michigan DT Kenneth Grant
Derek Carr’s tenure as a starting quarterback is likely coming to an end. The Saints should consider looking for a new play-caller in the 2025 draft. Additionally, the team needs to address the gaps left by Cameron Jordan and Marshon Lattimore. It would also be wise for New Orleans to select a wide receiver to add depth and provide support, especially in light of Chris Olave’s harsh injury suffered last season.
Projected Saints’ Targets: Texas CB Jahdae Barron, Miami QB Cam Ward, Georgia EDGE Mykel Williams
The Falcons came very close to making the playoffs this season. It looks like veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins will be leaving next season, paving the way for rookie quarterback Michael Penix Jr. as their future QB. To set him up for success, they need to strengthen their offensive support and focus on boosting their front-seven defense.
Projected Falcons’ Targets: Arizona WR Tetaroia McMillan, Marshall EDGE Mike Green, Georgia EDGE Mykel Williams
The Panthers may still have a long way to go before playoff contention, but there are signs of improvement within the organization. After being benched for Andy Dalton, quarterback Bryce Young has begun to regain the form that earned him the Heisman Trophy in 2021. With just a few key additions, Carolina could emerge as a dark-horse contender in the NFC South
The 2025 NFL Draft is poised to unveil exceptional talent and intriguing prospects that have the potential to transform teams across the league. Every year, we witness franchises undergo remarkable transformations, rising to playoff contention, all thanks to excellent draft selections this time of year. Who will shine as the standout player this year? Which organization will unearth a hidden gem? And which team may find themselves grappling with the disappointment of their choices? The anticipation builds as we await the pivotal moments on draft night that could reshape the landscape of the NFL.
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