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The 2025 NFL draft is in the books, and it was an unexpected one starting in the first round with trades, unexpected picks, potential steals and some big slides.
While it's far too early to evaluate these draft classes in full -- considering they haven't yet along played an NFL game -- there's been plenty of reaction to these 2025 rookie classes. There were several teams that were clear winners while others had some questionable moves that garnered early criticism. But we truly won't know who won or lost this draft for at least three years.
Our NFL Wire editors shared their initial grades for their respective draft classes. See who got the top marks and who missed the mark.
2025 draft class: DL Walter Nolen, CB Will Johnson, EDGE Jordan Burch, LB Cody Simon, CB Denzel Burke, OL Hayden Conner, S Kitan Crawford
The Cardinals went almost all defense in the draft after going almost all defense in free agency, clearing saying that side of the ball needed to significantly improve. Nolen is a fantastic pick in the first round. Johnson falling to the second round is a potential absolute steal. It is important to note that his knee is not a problem now. It just could be long-term, and that is a future problem to worry about. Burch gives them size, athleticism and production as a pass rusher in Round 3, another great value pick, while Simon could be a starter as early as this season. He appears to be the Cardinals’ version of what T.J. Edwards was for the Eagles when Jonathan Gannon was their defensive coordinator. The selection of Burke in the fifth round seemed unnecessary because that makes seven cornerbacks drafted in three years in a room that is already not bad. Conner won’t do anything this year but Day 3 offensive line depth to develop isn’t ever a bad thing, while Crawford can be an impact special teams player from Day 1 after he played over 1,000 special teams snaps between his time at Texas and Nevada. Nolen, Johnson and Simon are all future starters. Burch will be at least a rotational player. All of their first four picks should have some role in the defense this year. Crawford on special teams means they get value there. This was a really good draft for the Cardinals. – Jess Root, Cards Wire
2025 draft class: LB Jalon Walker, EDGE James Pearce, S Xavier Watts, DB Billy Bowman, OL Jack Nelson
In Round 1, the Falcons were gifted a top-10 talent at their biggest position of need, taking Georgia linebacker/edge Jalon Walker with the 15th overall pick. The team also traded a future first-round pick to move back up for Tennessee edge James Pearce. Some felt this was too much to give up, but since the front office and coaching staff may not be around next season if this team doesn’t improve, the risk was warranted. The best value came in Round 3, when the Falcons scored playmaking safety prospect Xavier Watts out of Notre Dame. All three players could be starters for the team in the not-so-distant future. General manager Terry Fontenot deserves credit for what looks like his best draft class yet on paper. –Matt Urben, Falcons Wire
2025 draft class: DB Malaki Starks, OLB Mike Green, OL Emery Jones, LB Teddye Buchanan, OL Carson Vinson, DB Bilhal Kone, K Tyler Loop, WR LaJohntay Wester, DL Aeneas Peebles, CB Robert Longerbeam, OL Garrett Dillinger
Ravens GM Eric DeCosta did another marvelous job of taking the best player available, while providing depth at a critical need. With his first round pick, he added another Swiss army knife to pair with Kyle Hamilton. Baltimore watched Mike Green slide in the draft and landed the nations most efficient pass rusher at pick No. 59. The Ravens added a potential starting guard in Emery Jones, a special teams standout in LaJohntay Wester, while doubling up at offensive tackle and cornerback. The franchise drafted its first kicker in 30 years of existence with an eye toward a potential Justin Tucker suspension or release. – Glenn Erby, Ravens Wire
2025 draft class: CB Maxwell Hairston, DT TJ Sanders, DE Landon Jackson, DT Deone Walker, DB Jordan Hancock, TE Jackson Hawes, CB Dorian Strong, OT Chase Lund, WR Kaden Prather
The Buffalo Bills hit the nail on the head with nearly all of their picks. Even Hawes, a blocking tight end, was a need. The only area that might have been missed was at wide receiver even if general manager Brandon Beane was upset enough to defend not taking one earlier to rant about it on local radio after the draft. Even so, credit where it’s due: The secondary got a refresh as did the defensive front. –Nick Wojton, Bills Wire
2025 draft class: WR Tetairoa McMillan, EDGE Nic Scourton, EDGE Princely Umanmielen, RB Trevor Etienne, S Lathan Ransom, DL Cam Jackson, TE Mitchell Evans, WR Jimmy Horn Jr.
Quarterback Bryce Young is still this organization’s most significant investment. So while many believed the Panthers should’ve gone with a pass rusher to help patch up their historically-bad defense, finally finding a true No. 1 target for the third-year passer felt equally as important. McMillan, an ultra-productive All-American out of the University of Arizona, possesses the insanely natural hands, smooth body movement, big-play prowess and overall reliability to serve as Young’s go-to for years to come.
Carolina proceeded to calm those defensive concerns on the second night, as they double-dipped off the edge with Scourton and Umanmielen—both of whom were considered late-first-round talents by some. They then rounded the class out Saturday by adding some much-needed competition and depth to their backfield, receiving corps, defensive line, secondary and return game. The only factor standing between the Panthers and an ‘A’ or ‘A+’ was their decision to pass up on what was a pretty solid cornerback class. – Anthony Rizzuti, Panthers Wire
2025 draft class: TE Colston Loveland, WR Luther Burden III, OT Ozzy Trapilo, DT Shemar Turner, LB Ruben Hyppolite II, CB Zah Frazier, OG Luke Newman, RB Kyle Monangai
This Bears draft lacked the sexiness of the Caleb Williams-Rome Odunze 1-2 punch in the Top 10 last year, but that doesn’t mean it will lack the impact. Just like GM Ryan Poles has done all offseason, he put his trust in new head coach Ben Johnson when it came to adding personnel. Johnson’s vision on offense became entirely clear with the selections of tight end Colston Loveland and receiver Luther Burden with the 10th and 39th overall selections. Chicago also continued to address the trenches with offensive tackle Ozzy Trapilo and defensive tackle Shemar Turner in the second round, and they both have the potential to develop into impact contributors. Outside of the first two rounds, the Bears landed some potential late-round gems in linebacker Ruben Hyppolite, cornerback Zah Frazier, guard Luke Newman and a seventh-round steal in running back Kyle Monangai. They missed out on a running back early – twice with Ashton Jeanty and likely TreVeyon Henderson – but the Bears stuck to their “best player available” approach and landed some studs, including Burden, (who was a projected first-round pick. – Alyssa Barbieri, Bears Wire
2025 draft class: DE Shemar Stewart, LB Demetrius Knight Jr., G Dylan Fairchild, LB Barrett Carter, OL Jalen Rivers, RB Tahj Brooks
The Bengals went heavy on traits over production in this draft, banking on being able to develop high-upside players, quickly. Shemar Stewart arrives as a raw pass-rusher who can at least set the edge in the same way Sam Hubbard did. Two linebackers over their first four picks signal the departure of Germaine Pratt after his trade request, plus the need to get more dynamic and less predictable by the formation. Dylan Fairchild has an outside shot to start at guard after an underwhelming offseason there saw them only re-sign Cody Ford and add Lucas Patrick. As a whole, it’s an average-looking draft class with “A+” potential in three-plus years’ worth of hindsight, provided they can develop the picks properly. – Chris Roling, Bengals Wire
2025 draft class: DT Mason Graham, LB Carson Schwesinger, RB Quinshon Judkins, TE Harold Fannin Jr., QB Dillon Gabriel, RB Dylan Sampson, QB Shedeur Sanders
The Browns started the draft with 10 picks and condensed down to seven, even leaving with two quarterbacks. While trading the rights to Travis Hunter certainly stings, adding a top-40 pick (that turned into Quinshon Judkins) and a future first round pick is a remarkable haul to move down three spots and still land Mason Graham. Throwing more darts, especially in what will be a “figure it out’ year in Cleveland isn’t a bad idea either.
The Browns reconstructed running back room and added a much-needed TE2 to overhaul the offensive side of the ball. This was a non-negotiable. Their most slept-on pick, however, was adding a player with perennial Pro Bowl upside in Carson Schwesinger, who brings a throwback style of play to the Cleveland defense. They get a B+ here, but if they hit on one of those quarterback dart throws this draft easily turns into an A+. – Cory Kinnan, Browns Wire
2025 draft class: OG Tyler Booker, DE Donovan Ezeiruaku, CB Shavon Revel Jr., RB Jaydon Blue, LB Shemar Thomas, DT Jay Toia, OL Ajani Cornelius, RB Phil Mafah, DT Tommy Akingbesote
The Cowboys did about as good a job as can be expected for a team with a myriad of big holes, without a fourth-round pick, and in a down draft class year. After two down drafts where they attempted to cater to needs, they took the opposite approach and didn’t use that to dictate their approach. The team had adequate in-house replacements for the retired Zack Martin, had two recent second-round picks at edge to replace DeMarcus Lawrence and lost a slot corner in Jourdan Lewis. Yet going OG, DE, boundary corner allowed them to get extreme value; this was a draft the Ravens would pull off. – K.D. Drummond, Cowboys Wire
2025 draft class: CB Jahdae Barron, RB RJ Harvey, WR Pat Bryant, DE Sai'vion Jones, OLB Que Robinson, P Jeremy Crawshaw, TE Caleb Lohner
Cornerback was not viewed as one of the team’s biggest needs, but Barron was way too good a value to pass up at No. 20, and Denver’s talented secondary is now even more formidable. Harvey is poised to take over as the new starting RB after Javonte Williams left in free agency. Many pundits viewed Bryant as a reach in the third round, but he blocks well and doesn’t drop the ball, two must-have skills for coach Sean Payton. Denver has three starting defensive linemen scheduled to hit free agency in 2026, so Jones was an excellent long-term choice. Robinson will make an instant impact on special teams and join a deep pass rusher rotation. Crawshaw will take over punting duties after the team lost Riley Dixon during free agency, and Lohner is a converted basketball player looking to follow in the steps of players like Tony Gonzalez, Antonio Gates, Jimmy Graham and Julius Thomas. Overall, the Broncos addressed their biggest needs before adding developmental depth in the second half of the draft. They’d get an A if not for a few of the prospects being picked a little higher than pundit rankings. – Jon Heath, Broncos Wire
2025 draft class: DT Tyleik Williams, OL Tate Ratledge, WR Isaac TeSlaa, OL Miles Frazier, EDGE Ahmed Hassanein, S Dan Jackson, WR Dominic Lovett
Lions GM Brad Holmes laid out before the draft that Detroit was going to select specific players and not positions or needs. Having said that, the first three picks are all outstanding team culture fits as well as satisfying some needs. Williams was the best interior run defender in the class, and he has pass-rush upside to play next to Alim McNeill for years. Ratledge has a chance to win the only open starting spot on the Lions OL (RG), though he’ll have to beat out the more versatile Frazier in that battle. TeSlaa offers dynamic potential as a wideout, though the acquisition cost (two 2026 third-round picks) to move up and get him was steep. All the Lions' picks are effectively for 2026 and beyond, as a healthy Lions team brings almost everyone important back from a 15-2 season. In that prism, Detroit did quite well despite not addressing real, immediate needs at reserve EDGE and safety until late in the draft. Hassanein is a fun sleeper to watch develop. – Jeff Risdon, Lions Wire
2025 draft class: WR Matthew Golden, OL Anthony Belton, WR Savion Williams, DE Barryn Sorrell, DE/LB Collin Oliver, DL Warren Brinson, CB Micah Robinson, OL John Williams
Consider me mostly neutral on the Packers’ draft class. Brian Gutekunst made only eight picks, so it lacks the depth of recent Green Bay draft classes. This was a draft of toys and big people. Golden brings big-time playmaking ability and a potential future No. 1 target. Williams is a fun, tackle-breaking weapon. Belton and Williams give the offensive line two big, athletic and versatile options. Sorrell and Oliver will be quarterback hunters. The Packers passed on a cornerback early and didn’t address the defensive front until early on Day 3, but charging up the offense was a clear priority early. I’m not sure I love this class, but I don’t hate it. I see at least three future starters (Golden, Belton, Sorrell) and two really exciting playmakers (Williams, Oliver) who could contribute on special teams. The Packers get a solid but unspectacular “B” from me. – Zach Kruse, Packers Wire
2025 draft class: WR Jayden Higgins, OT Aireontae Ersery, WR Jaylin Noel, DB Jaylin Smith, RB Woody Marks, DB Jaylen Reed, QB Graham Mertz, DL Kyonte Hamilton, TE Luke Lachey
The Texans needed to address the offensive line and the wide receiver position on offense. Consider the mission accomplished with Higgins, Ersery and Noel. The two Cyclones are natural fits for new offensive coordinator Nick Caley’s system, with Noel potentially becoming the steal of the draft. Ersery might not start Week 1, but he was the best lineman on the board and will have every chance to earn the title of Laremy Tunsil’s heir.
But why only address the top need with one player? Even if Ersery hits, he’s one option to improve an offensive line that desperately needs long-term stability to protect C.J. Stroud after last season’s pressure woes. The Day 3 picks generally felt like reaches. Was Marks worth giving up a 2026 third-round selection for when he’s not even the lead back? What about targeting Reed when C.J. Gardner-Johnson was just added and has two years of roster control?
Lachey could be a name to monitor as a role player in the tight end room. So could Hamilton. That’s enough to boost the grade up one point despite the questions surrounding the line past 2025. – Cole Thompson, Texans Wire
2025 draft class: TE Tyler Warren, DE JT Tuimoloau, CB Justin Walley, OT Jalen Travis, RB DJ Giddens, QB Riley Leonard, IDL Tim Smith, LB Hunter Wohler
This was a really solid draft class for the Colts. Tyler Warren provides that greatly-needed pass-catching presence at tight end, but his well-rounded skill set will allow him to impact the game in a variety of ways and add some unpredictability to the offense. JT Tuimoloau, DJ Giddens, and Tim Smith can all carve out rotational roles right away and make an impact. Jalen Travis, meanwhile, bolsters the tackle depth, giving the Colts the flexibility to move Matt Goncavles inside. Overall, I like what the Colts did. However, my one nitpick is that I wish they had added a guard to compete with Goncalves for that starting role. Perhaps the potential move inside for Goncalves will be a seamless transition, but banking on that comes with some risk. – Paul Bretl, Colts Wire
2025 draft class: WR/CB Travis Hunter, DB Caleb Ransaw, IOL Wyatt Milum, RB Bhayshul Tuten, LB Jack Kiser, LB/DE Jalen McLeod, S Rayuan Lane, C Jonah Monheim, RB LeQuint Allen
Beyond being a fan of the aggressive move to go and get the best player in the draft, I loved the obvious emphasis that the Jaguars had on building around Trevor Lawrence. Ultimately, it’s Lawrence’s level of play that is going to determine the ceiling for this team, so why not make sure he has plenty of help around him? Travis Hunter and Brian Thomas Jr. can form a dynamic one-two punch at receiver. Bhayshul Tuten was the fastest running back at the combine, while Allen brings a pass-catching presence out of the backfield. And I’m always for bolstering the competition and depth of the offensive line unit. At the end of the day, consistent success for any offense starts up front. As Liam Coen said, the Jaguars' ability to strike from a distance on offense has greatly improved this offseason – Paul Bretl, Jaguars Wire
2025 draft class: Ohio State Buckeyes OT Josh Simmons, Tennessee Volunteers DT Omarr Norman-Lott, Louisville Cardinals EDGE Ashton Gillotte, California Golden Bears CB Nohl Williams, Utah State Aggies WR Jalen Royals, Oregon Ducks LB Jeffrey Bassa, SMU Mustangs RB Brashard Smith
Personally, I was underwhelmed with this draft class, but after the last few years of my Chiefs fandom, I’ve learned to trust the process. Three players Kansas City selected (Josh Simmons, Omarr Norman-Lott, and Jalen Royals) had injury concerns that pushed their draft stock low enough to give the Chiefs a chance to pick them. One has to assume that the team did its due diligence, and given Brett Veach’s track record of finding undervalued talent in the draft, who am I to judge?
In the end, Kansas City’s front office filled all of the Chiefs’ most pressing needs on paper, so this rookie class can’t be judged to be a failure just yet. However, if the injury concerns come back to haunt Kansas City in the coming years, this draft may prove to be the beginning of the end for the Chiefs’ dynasty. – John Dillon, Chiefs Wire
2025 draft class: RB Ashton Jeanty, Boise State, WR Jack Bech, TCU, CB Darien Porter, Iowa State, OG Caleb Rogers, Texas Tech, OT Charles Grant, William & Mary, WR Dont'e Thornton Jr., Tennessee, DT Tonka Hemingway, South Carolina, DT JJ Pegues, Mississippi, WR Tommy Mellott, Montana State, QB Cam Miller, North Dakota State, LB Cody Lindenberg, Minnesota
I have very few beefs with the work the Raiders new regime did with this class. Even if taking a running back at sixth overall is generally not considered a great value, it’s hard to argue with taking the third best overall talent in this draft at that spot. Especially considering it was the team’s top need. Trading down twice in round two allowed the Raiders to add two round three picks and move up from the fifth to the fourth round. With those moves, they were able to address all of their biggest needs by the end of day two. Love the Jack Bech pick at 58. Also love getting a potential starting tackle at the end of round three. My one small gripe would probably be DT Tonka Hemingway in round four. He was considered a reach there and they needed to address either linebacker or nickel corner in that round. Instead they doubled up at DT on consecutive picks when they were already in pretty good shape at the position. Otherwise, this draft was a near flawless execution – Levi Damien, Raiders Wire
2025 draft class: RB Omarion Hampton, WR Tre Harris, DT Jamaree Caldwell, EDGE Kyle Kennard, WR KeAndre Lambert-Smith, TE Oronde Gadsden II, OL Branson Taylor, DB RJ Mickens, DB Trikweze Bridges
Jim Harbaugh and Greg Roman have emphasized the importance of the running game since they arrived in Los Angeles. The product on the ground was lackluster this last season. In hopes of improving in that department, they selected Omarion Hampton in the first round. Hampton is the perfect complement to veteran Najee Harris. Staying on the offensive side of the ball, they wanted to add a vertical element to the passing game, so they went out and got Tre Harris, KeAndre Lambert-Smith, and Oronde Gadsden II. Defensively, the Chargers replaced Poona Ford with their third-round pick of Jamaree Caldwell. The edge defender group needed some juice to the pass rush, so they selected Kyle Kennard, the 2024 Defensive Player of the Year, in the fourth round. R.J. Mickens was a steal in the sixth round, and he should push for the fourth safety spot while presenting a reliable special-teams player. – Gavino Borquez, Chargers Wire
2025 draft class: TE Terrance Ferguson, OLB Josaiah Stewart, RB Jarquez Hunter, DL Ty Hamilton, LB Chris Paul Jr., WR Konata Mumpfield
The Rams only left the draft with six players, but they did well to add a 2026 first-rounder thanks to their trade down from No. 26 overall. That’s a big deal, as Sean McVay said, and should make the Rams feel even better about this class. Though they didn’t address two of their biggest needs (CB and RT), they came away with players who have a good chance to contribute early. Ferguson is the athletic TE the Rams have been searching for and while Stewart is undersized, he’s ferocious as a pass rusher. Hunter adds some much-needed speed at RB, Hamilton deepens the defensive line, Paul upgrades the linebacker group significantly and Mumpfield is a precise route runner who fell because of his average measurables. Overall, a solid class, even if not spectacular. – Cameron DaSilva, Rams Wire
2025 draft class: DT Kenneth Grant, OL Jonah Savaiinaea, DT Jordan Phillips, CB Jason Marshall Jr, S Dante Trader Jr, RB Ollie Gordon II, QB Quinn Ewers, DT Zeek Biggers
Getting help in the trenches was a must and the Dolphins’ first three picks weigh almost 1,000 pounds collectively. Both Grant and Savaiinaea should step into the starting lineup right away and give the team more of the strength, power, and grit that it has lacked during the Mike McDaniel era. While that made it a sensible draft class, it’s hard to give rave reviews to a team that made only two picks in the first four rounds. While Miami left the weekend with an extra third-round pick in 2026, it didn’t do much to improve its secondary and will need to parse through the remaining veteran free agents to patch holes. – Adam Stites, Dolphins Wire
2025 draft class: G Donovan Jackson, WR Tai Felton, DL Tyrion Ingram-Dawkins, LB Kobe King, TE Gavin Bartholomew
I have always approached covering football by giving the benefit of the doubt because I am not in the room where the decisions are being made. That being said, this draft class, outside of Donovan Jackson, left me and others scratching our heads. This Vikings roster is as close as any to competing for a Lombardi Trophy, and these selections did not get it any closer to that goal. They traded back once to pick up just one extra pick in the sixth round, but did nothing spectacular with it. I don’t see the plan behind it outside of Jackson, but time will tell. – Andrew Harbaugh, Vikings Wire
2025 draft class: OL Will Campbell, RB TreVeyon Henderson, WR Kyle Williams, C Jared Wilson, S Craig Woodson, DT Joshua Farmer, EDGE Bradyn Swinson, K Andres Borregales, OT Marcus Bryant, LS Julian Ashby, CB Kobee Minor
An argument could easily be made that the Patriots won the draft. They addressed every need on their roster and upgraded at key positions in one of the most pragmatic drafts by the franchise in recent memory. Patriots coach Mike Vrabel seemingly went into the draft with a checklist and methodically worked his way down the board, hitting on everything listed.
Objectivity is important surrounding a team that has only won four games in back-to-back seasons. But then again, the Patriots might be the most improved team in the league on paper after free agency and the draft, and they'll have arguably the easiest schedule in the NFL this season. It might not be crazy to view them as a possible surprise playoff team. – Jordy McElroy, Patriots Wire
2025 draft class: OL Kelvin Banks Jr., QB Tyler Shough, DT Vernon Broughton, S Jonas Sanker, LB Danny Stutsman, CB Quincy Riley, RB Devin Neal, TE Moliki Matavao, EDGE Fadil Diggs
At first glance, it may look like the Saints only got one immediate contributor out of this draft class, and we’re still arguing about where Kelvin Banks Jr. is going to play – tackle or guard? But when you consider the state of the Saints’ roster, it wouldn’t shock me to see three or more rookies in the starting lineup coming September.
Whether Banks remains at left tackle, pushing Taliese Fuaga to the right side and benching Trevor Penning, or enters the lineup at left guard remains to be seen. Either way his presence gives the Saints the ability to deploy their five best blockers on Sundays.
Depending on what happens with Derek Carr (and most on the Saints beat don’t expect him to return for 2025), Tyler Shough could be their starting quarterback in just a few short months. Coaches around the league, or at least the ones talking to reporters, consistently describe him as one of the most pro-ready passers in this draft class. He’ll have a chance to prove it.
And that brings us to the dark horse: Quincy Riley. He’s a highly competitive corner with impressive ball skills who will enter a training camp battle with veteran journeyman Isaac Yiadom and Rico Payton, who stood out last year as a backup. Riley has a really good chance of winning that competition.
As for the rest? Vernon Broughton could earn reps in the rebuilding Saints defensive line, where he’s working with his old coach Bo Davis. Jonas Sanker and Danny Stutsman are both going to be groomed as potential heirs for Tyrann Mathieu and Demario Davis, respectively, and should earn their way to the active roster as rookies. Devin Neal and Fadil Diggs could get on the field early, too, given their unique skill sets at their position groups. The only thing keeping this draft from earning an A grade is the lack of exciting weapons on offense. The Saints failed to add a wide receiver with a big frame who can fight for contested catches. They didn’t really take advantage of the great early-round options at running back or tight end, either, choosing to wait until the final two rounds instead. They’re putting a lot of pressure on Kellen Moore’s playbook and, maybe, a rookie quarterback as his starter. – John Sigler, Saints Wire
2025 draft class: EDGE Abdul Carter, QB Jaxson Dart, DT Darius Alexander, RB Cam Skattebo, OL Marcus Mbow, TE Thomas Fidone, CB Korie Black
General manager Joe Schoen, who could have been justifiably fired this offseason, pieced together one of the team’s best drafts (on paper) in recent memory.
Abdul Carter is arguably the best player in the class and will make an impact from Day 1, while Jaxson Dart can develop behind Russell Wilson and prep to take over as the team’s future franchise quarterback.
Darius Alexander provides much-needed rotational depth alongside and behind Dexter Lawrence, while Cam Skattebo may be the steal of the entire draft. He is the perfect complement to Tyrone Tracy Jr. and should see a large role. Marcus Mbow may not start in Year 1 but is likely to provide a fixture for the Giants at guard for years to come. Thomas Fidone has incredible potential but his history of knee issues is concerning, and Korie Black will cut his teeth on special teams, where he should excel thanks to his blazing speed.
Needless to say, Schoen addressed multiple areas of concern – both at the front end and back end of the roster – and the Giants are now a much better team for it. – Dan Benton, Giants Wire
2025 draft class: OL Armand Membou, TE Mason Taylor, CB Azareye’h Thomas, DB Malachi Moore, LB Francisco Mauigoa, EDGE Tyler Baron
The Jets hit on plenty of their picks and there’s nothing wrong with the way general manager Darren Mougey traded up for the players he wanted. Membou and Taylor fill needs at the top of the class, too. However, Garrett Wilson does not have much help at wide receiver and the Jets might need to prowl the free agent market for someone to complement him in 2025. A lot of coverage is going to be focused on him. – Nick Wojton, Jets Wire
2025 draft class: LB Jihaad Campbell, DB Andrew Mukuba, DT Ty Robinson, CB Mac McWilliams, LB Smael Mondon Jr., OL Drew Kendall, QB Kyle McCord, OL Myles Hinton, OL Cameron Williams, OLB Antwaun Powell-Ryland
Since passing on Justin Jefferson for Jalen Reagor, Howie Roseman and the Eagles have continuously focused on acquiring SEC talent, and more importantly, Power 4 talent. The ten-player class includes four players from the SEC, two from the Big 10, one from the Big 12, and three from the ACC. After watching 12 players depart in free agency, Roseman added two dynamic SEC linebackers, an All-American pass rusher, three offensive linemen, and an accomplished quarterback from Philadelphia. Philadelphia has one of the NFL's most explosive offensive units, but saw eight players depart on defense. Roseman used the Eagles' first five picks to land defensive players, and six defenders total. Philadelphia does the draft better than most teams around the league and somehow got value at every pick. Jihaad Campbell was one of the top ten talents, while Mac McWilliams had high-profile matchups with Travis Hunter. Drew Kendall (OL), Myles Hinton (OL), and Cameron Williams (OL) are developmental prospects who could become future starters. The biggest steal could be Virginia Tech pass rusher Antwaun Powell-Ryland. Powell-Ryland has spent the last two seasons at Virginia Tech after transferring from Florida before the 2023 season. – Glenn Erby, Eagles Wire
2025 draft class: DT Derrick Harmon, RB Kaleb Johnson, LB Jack Sawyer, DE Yahya Black, QB Will Howard, LB Carson Bruener, CB Donte Kent
The Steelers went out with the goal of adding explosion on offense and physicality in the trenches, and they accomplished both in the draft. We love the picks of RB Kaleb Johnson and OLB Jack Sawyer and think both will be underrated rookie contributors. Derrick Harmon is the only plug-and-play rookie among the group, but we like the long-term starter potential of the first five picks. The biggest win was the Steelers avoided the distractions and stuck to the plan of drafting high character players who fit the Steelers way. – Curt Popejoy, Steelers Wire
2025 draft class: DE Mykel Williams, DT Alfred Collins, LB Nick Martin, CB Upton Stout, DT CJ West, WR Jordan Watkins, RB Jordan James, S Marques Sigle, QB Kurtis Rourke, OL Connor Colby, WR Junior Bergen
The 49ers badly need to find contributors from this year’s draft class after a mass exodus of talent in free agency. They skipped upside early in the draft for players who fill needs, but they didn’t make any major reaches in the first two rounds. Williams and Collins should both start right away for a defensive line that lost three of its four starters this offseason. Combine that with a dynamite selection of West at No. 113 overall and it looks like the 49ers have a completely revamped starting DL. Things fall off the rails a bit after that with boom or bust types like Martin and Stout — great athletes whose size may be prohibitive for NFL success. Sigle is an awesome athlete as well, but he looks like a Swiss Army knife type of safety who could thrive under defensive coordinator Robert Saleh. James is also a rock solid RB who may not have a big-time ceiling, but he should pretty quickly be ready to contribute in a backfield full of injury question marks. – Kyle Madson, Niners Wire
2025 draft class: G Grey Zabel, S Nick Emmanwori, TE Elijah Arroyo, QB Jalen Milroe, DT Rylie Mills, WR Tory Horton, FB Robbie Ouzts, G Bryce Cabeldue, RB Damien MArtinez, G Mason Richman, WR Ricky White III
The Seahawks just pulled off one of their better drafts in recent memory. General manager John Schneider and head coach Mike Macdonald had an opportunity to remake Seattle in their image and they ran with it. The team needed to upgrade their interior offensive line so they drafted arguably the best guard available. They needed to continue transforming this defense into an elite unit so they grabbed arguably the best safety available (1st round talent in the 2nd round, no less). Seattle also got what could be one of the biggest steals in the draft with Damien Martinez in the 7th round. And for the first time, the Seahawks finally have a succession plan at quarterback. The vision is clear where Schneider and Macdonald want to take this team. It is fair to wonder if they did enough to fully address the offensive line, and they are putting more than a few eggs into the “hope he stays healthy!” basket with Elijah Arroyo, Tory Horton and Rylie Mills. Still, it’s hard to not get excited about this class. – Kole Musgrove, Seahawks Wire
2025 draft class: WR Emeka Egbuka, CB Benjamin Morrison, CB Jacob Parrish, Edge David Walker, Edge Elijah Roberts, WR Tez Johnson
The pick of Emeka Egbuka was a shocker on night one of the NFL Draft at first. Then, as the dust settled, the picture became clear, and that was soon seen as a much better picture. There is no safer pick in the draft, just ask Jason Licht. From there, Licht addressed the secondary with significant values of Benjamin Morrison and Jacob Parrish in rounds two and three. He then turned around and took David Walker as a new project at the edge. He then topped things off with a new gadget for the special teams in the elusive Tez Johnson, who the team will utilize on special teams. It was a great draft for the Buc,s and they are now poised for a potential fifth straight division title, and they hope to pair it with a playoff run. – Andrew Harbaugh, Bucs Wire
2025 draft class: QB Cam Ward, EDGE Femi Oladejo, WR Chimere Dike, TE Gunnar Helm, WR Elic Ayomanor, G Jackson Slater, CB Marcus Harris, RB Kalel Mullings
The Titans got their quarterback of the future, found a high-upside edge rusher, which was a major need and gave Ward multiple weapons. Dike, Helm and Ayomanor are diffrerent types of weapons. Dike brings elite speed, while Ayomanor brings size, strength and the ability to thrive in contested-catch situations. Slater dominated at Sacramento State and would’ve been a higher pick had he played in the FCS. He doesn’t need to start immediately and could be a potential steal for Bill Callahan to mentor. Harris will challenge for a role next season, while Mullings gives the Titans a competent No. 3 back immediately. – Dan Benton/Bryan Manning Titans Wire
2025 draft class: OT Josh Conerly Jr., CB Trey Amos, WR Jaylin Lane, LB Kain Medrano, RB Jacory Croskey-Merritt
You aren’t hearing a lot about Washington’s draft because it was a small class and it wasn’t flashy. That’s fine. Conerly is another investment into franchise QB Jayden Daniels. No offensive tackle in this draft had Conerly’s upside. He begins as a right tackle, but is a future left tackle. Amos is one of the picks as a potential steal of the draft. A long, physical corner, many had Amos going in the first round. Even the Commanders considered him there. Lane is an elite athlete who can also help on special teams. He immediately becomes Washington’s top return man and can play inside or outside and gives Daniels a legit burner who will win deep.
Medrano needs some polishing, but he is size/speed prospect at linebacker who can cover. That’s valuable, especially in the sixth round. Croskey-Merritt is another underrated pick. He only played one game last season, which caused him to fall, but he could see significant minutes next season in Washington’s backfield. Remember, the Commanders also used draft picks to acquire CB Marshon Lattimore, LT Laremy Tunsil and WR Deebo Samuel, which is an impressive veteran trio. We gave them an A- because they didn’t find an edge rusher. – Bryan Manning, Commanders Wire
This article originally appeared on Touchdown Wire: 2025 NFL draft grades: Analyzing all 32 teams' classes
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While it's far too early to evaluate these draft classes in full -- considering they haven't yet along played an NFL game -- there's been plenty of reaction to these 2025 rookie classes. There were several teams that were clear winners while others had some questionable moves that garnered early criticism. But we truly won't know who won or lost this draft for at least three years.
Our NFL Wire editors shared their initial grades for their respective draft classes. See who got the top marks and who missed the mark.
Arizona Cardinals: A-
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2025 draft class: DL Walter Nolen, CB Will Johnson, EDGE Jordan Burch, LB Cody Simon, CB Denzel Burke, OL Hayden Conner, S Kitan Crawford
The Cardinals went almost all defense in the draft after going almost all defense in free agency, clearing saying that side of the ball needed to significantly improve. Nolen is a fantastic pick in the first round. Johnson falling to the second round is a potential absolute steal. It is important to note that his knee is not a problem now. It just could be long-term, and that is a future problem to worry about. Burch gives them size, athleticism and production as a pass rusher in Round 3, another great value pick, while Simon could be a starter as early as this season. He appears to be the Cardinals’ version of what T.J. Edwards was for the Eagles when Jonathan Gannon was their defensive coordinator. The selection of Burke in the fifth round seemed unnecessary because that makes seven cornerbacks drafted in three years in a room that is already not bad. Conner won’t do anything this year but Day 3 offensive line depth to develop isn’t ever a bad thing, while Crawford can be an impact special teams player from Day 1 after he played over 1,000 special teams snaps between his time at Texas and Nevada. Nolen, Johnson and Simon are all future starters. Burch will be at least a rotational player. All of their first four picks should have some role in the defense this year. Crawford on special teams means they get value there. This was a really good draft for the Cardinals. – Jess Root, Cards Wire
Atlanta Falcons: A
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2025 draft class: LB Jalon Walker, EDGE James Pearce, S Xavier Watts, DB Billy Bowman, OL Jack Nelson
In Round 1, the Falcons were gifted a top-10 talent at their biggest position of need, taking Georgia linebacker/edge Jalon Walker with the 15th overall pick. The team also traded a future first-round pick to move back up for Tennessee edge James Pearce. Some felt this was too much to give up, but since the front office and coaching staff may not be around next season if this team doesn’t improve, the risk was warranted. The best value came in Round 3, when the Falcons scored playmaking safety prospect Xavier Watts out of Notre Dame. All three players could be starters for the team in the not-so-distant future. General manager Terry Fontenot deserves credit for what looks like his best draft class yet on paper. –Matt Urben, Falcons Wire
Baltimore Ravens: A-
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2025 draft class: DB Malaki Starks, OLB Mike Green, OL Emery Jones, LB Teddye Buchanan, OL Carson Vinson, DB Bilhal Kone, K Tyler Loop, WR LaJohntay Wester, DL Aeneas Peebles, CB Robert Longerbeam, OL Garrett Dillinger
Ravens GM Eric DeCosta did another marvelous job of taking the best player available, while providing depth at a critical need. With his first round pick, he added another Swiss army knife to pair with Kyle Hamilton. Baltimore watched Mike Green slide in the draft and landed the nations most efficient pass rusher at pick No. 59. The Ravens added a potential starting guard in Emery Jones, a special teams standout in LaJohntay Wester, while doubling up at offensive tackle and cornerback. The franchise drafted its first kicker in 30 years of existence with an eye toward a potential Justin Tucker suspension or release. – Glenn Erby, Ravens Wire
Buffalo Bills: A-
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2025 draft class: CB Maxwell Hairston, DT TJ Sanders, DE Landon Jackson, DT Deone Walker, DB Jordan Hancock, TE Jackson Hawes, CB Dorian Strong, OT Chase Lund, WR Kaden Prather
The Buffalo Bills hit the nail on the head with nearly all of their picks. Even Hawes, a blocking tight end, was a need. The only area that might have been missed was at wide receiver even if general manager Brandon Beane was upset enough to defend not taking one earlier to rant about it on local radio after the draft. Even so, credit where it’s due: The secondary got a refresh as did the defensive front. –Nick Wojton, Bills Wire
Carolina Panthers: A-
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2025 draft class: WR Tetairoa McMillan, EDGE Nic Scourton, EDGE Princely Umanmielen, RB Trevor Etienne, S Lathan Ransom, DL Cam Jackson, TE Mitchell Evans, WR Jimmy Horn Jr.
Quarterback Bryce Young is still this organization’s most significant investment. So while many believed the Panthers should’ve gone with a pass rusher to help patch up their historically-bad defense, finally finding a true No. 1 target for the third-year passer felt equally as important. McMillan, an ultra-productive All-American out of the University of Arizona, possesses the insanely natural hands, smooth body movement, big-play prowess and overall reliability to serve as Young’s go-to for years to come.
Carolina proceeded to calm those defensive concerns on the second night, as they double-dipped off the edge with Scourton and Umanmielen—both of whom were considered late-first-round talents by some. They then rounded the class out Saturday by adding some much-needed competition and depth to their backfield, receiving corps, defensive line, secondary and return game. The only factor standing between the Panthers and an ‘A’ or ‘A+’ was their decision to pass up on what was a pretty solid cornerback class. – Anthony Rizzuti, Panthers Wire
Chicago Bears: B+
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2025 draft class: TE Colston Loveland, WR Luther Burden III, OT Ozzy Trapilo, DT Shemar Turner, LB Ruben Hyppolite II, CB Zah Frazier, OG Luke Newman, RB Kyle Monangai
This Bears draft lacked the sexiness of the Caleb Williams-Rome Odunze 1-2 punch in the Top 10 last year, but that doesn’t mean it will lack the impact. Just like GM Ryan Poles has done all offseason, he put his trust in new head coach Ben Johnson when it came to adding personnel. Johnson’s vision on offense became entirely clear with the selections of tight end Colston Loveland and receiver Luther Burden with the 10th and 39th overall selections. Chicago also continued to address the trenches with offensive tackle Ozzy Trapilo and defensive tackle Shemar Turner in the second round, and they both have the potential to develop into impact contributors. Outside of the first two rounds, the Bears landed some potential late-round gems in linebacker Ruben Hyppolite, cornerback Zah Frazier, guard Luke Newman and a seventh-round steal in running back Kyle Monangai. They missed out on a running back early – twice with Ashton Jeanty and likely TreVeyon Henderson – but the Bears stuck to their “best player available” approach and landed some studs, including Burden, (who was a projected first-round pick. – Alyssa Barbieri, Bears Wire
Cincinnati Bengals: A
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2025 draft class: DE Shemar Stewart, LB Demetrius Knight Jr., G Dylan Fairchild, LB Barrett Carter, OL Jalen Rivers, RB Tahj Brooks
The Bengals went heavy on traits over production in this draft, banking on being able to develop high-upside players, quickly. Shemar Stewart arrives as a raw pass-rusher who can at least set the edge in the same way Sam Hubbard did. Two linebackers over their first four picks signal the departure of Germaine Pratt after his trade request, plus the need to get more dynamic and less predictable by the formation. Dylan Fairchild has an outside shot to start at guard after an underwhelming offseason there saw them only re-sign Cody Ford and add Lucas Patrick. As a whole, it’s an average-looking draft class with “A+” potential in three-plus years’ worth of hindsight, provided they can develop the picks properly. – Chris Roling, Bengals Wire
Cleveland Browns: A+
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2025 draft class: DT Mason Graham, LB Carson Schwesinger, RB Quinshon Judkins, TE Harold Fannin Jr., QB Dillon Gabriel, RB Dylan Sampson, QB Shedeur Sanders
The Browns started the draft with 10 picks and condensed down to seven, even leaving with two quarterbacks. While trading the rights to Travis Hunter certainly stings, adding a top-40 pick (that turned into Quinshon Judkins) and a future first round pick is a remarkable haul to move down three spots and still land Mason Graham. Throwing more darts, especially in what will be a “figure it out’ year in Cleveland isn’t a bad idea either.
The Browns reconstructed running back room and added a much-needed TE2 to overhaul the offensive side of the ball. This was a non-negotiable. Their most slept-on pick, however, was adding a player with perennial Pro Bowl upside in Carson Schwesinger, who brings a throwback style of play to the Cleveland defense. They get a B+ here, but if they hit on one of those quarterback dart throws this draft easily turns into an A+. – Cory Kinnan, Browns Wire
Dallas Cowboys: A-
2025 draft class: OG Tyler Booker, DE Donovan Ezeiruaku, CB Shavon Revel Jr., RB Jaydon Blue, LB Shemar Thomas, DT Jay Toia, OL Ajani Cornelius, RB Phil Mafah, DT Tommy Akingbesote
The Cowboys did about as good a job as can be expected for a team with a myriad of big holes, without a fourth-round pick, and in a down draft class year. After two down drafts where they attempted to cater to needs, they took the opposite approach and didn’t use that to dictate their approach. The team had adequate in-house replacements for the retired Zack Martin, had two recent second-round picks at edge to replace DeMarcus Lawrence and lost a slot corner in Jourdan Lewis. Yet going OG, DE, boundary corner allowed them to get extreme value; this was a draft the Ravens would pull off. – K.D. Drummond, Cowboys Wire
Denver Broncos: B+
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2025 draft class: CB Jahdae Barron, RB RJ Harvey, WR Pat Bryant, DE Sai'vion Jones, OLB Que Robinson, P Jeremy Crawshaw, TE Caleb Lohner
Cornerback was not viewed as one of the team’s biggest needs, but Barron was way too good a value to pass up at No. 20, and Denver’s talented secondary is now even more formidable. Harvey is poised to take over as the new starting RB after Javonte Williams left in free agency. Many pundits viewed Bryant as a reach in the third round, but he blocks well and doesn’t drop the ball, two must-have skills for coach Sean Payton. Denver has three starting defensive linemen scheduled to hit free agency in 2026, so Jones was an excellent long-term choice. Robinson will make an instant impact on special teams and join a deep pass rusher rotation. Crawshaw will take over punting duties after the team lost Riley Dixon during free agency, and Lohner is a converted basketball player looking to follow in the steps of players like Tony Gonzalez, Antonio Gates, Jimmy Graham and Julius Thomas. Overall, the Broncos addressed their biggest needs before adding developmental depth in the second half of the draft. They’d get an A if not for a few of the prospects being picked a little higher than pundit rankings. – Jon Heath, Broncos Wire
Detroit Lions: A-
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2025 draft class: DT Tyleik Williams, OL Tate Ratledge, WR Isaac TeSlaa, OL Miles Frazier, EDGE Ahmed Hassanein, S Dan Jackson, WR Dominic Lovett
Lions GM Brad Holmes laid out before the draft that Detroit was going to select specific players and not positions or needs. Having said that, the first three picks are all outstanding team culture fits as well as satisfying some needs. Williams was the best interior run defender in the class, and he has pass-rush upside to play next to Alim McNeill for years. Ratledge has a chance to win the only open starting spot on the Lions OL (RG), though he’ll have to beat out the more versatile Frazier in that battle. TeSlaa offers dynamic potential as a wideout, though the acquisition cost (two 2026 third-round picks) to move up and get him was steep. All the Lions' picks are effectively for 2026 and beyond, as a healthy Lions team brings almost everyone important back from a 15-2 season. In that prism, Detroit did quite well despite not addressing real, immediate needs at reserve EDGE and safety until late in the draft. Hassanein is a fun sleeper to watch develop. – Jeff Risdon, Lions Wire
Green Bay Packers: B
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2025 draft class: WR Matthew Golden, OL Anthony Belton, WR Savion Williams, DE Barryn Sorrell, DE/LB Collin Oliver, DL Warren Brinson, CB Micah Robinson, OL John Williams
Consider me mostly neutral on the Packers’ draft class. Brian Gutekunst made only eight picks, so it lacks the depth of recent Green Bay draft classes. This was a draft of toys and big people. Golden brings big-time playmaking ability and a potential future No. 1 target. Williams is a fun, tackle-breaking weapon. Belton and Williams give the offensive line two big, athletic and versatile options. Sorrell and Oliver will be quarterback hunters. The Packers passed on a cornerback early and didn’t address the defensive front until early on Day 3, but charging up the offense was a clear priority early. I’m not sure I love this class, but I don’t hate it. I see at least three future starters (Golden, Belton, Sorrell) and two really exciting playmakers (Williams, Oliver) who could contribute on special teams. The Packers get a solid but unspectacular “B” from me. – Zach Kruse, Packers Wire
Houston Texans: B+
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2025 draft class: WR Jayden Higgins, OT Aireontae Ersery, WR Jaylin Noel, DB Jaylin Smith, RB Woody Marks, DB Jaylen Reed, QB Graham Mertz, DL Kyonte Hamilton, TE Luke Lachey
The Texans needed to address the offensive line and the wide receiver position on offense. Consider the mission accomplished with Higgins, Ersery and Noel. The two Cyclones are natural fits for new offensive coordinator Nick Caley’s system, with Noel potentially becoming the steal of the draft. Ersery might not start Week 1, but he was the best lineman on the board and will have every chance to earn the title of Laremy Tunsil’s heir.
But why only address the top need with one player? Even if Ersery hits, he’s one option to improve an offensive line that desperately needs long-term stability to protect C.J. Stroud after last season’s pressure woes. The Day 3 picks generally felt like reaches. Was Marks worth giving up a 2026 third-round selection for when he’s not even the lead back? What about targeting Reed when C.J. Gardner-Johnson was just added and has two years of roster control?
Lachey could be a name to monitor as a role player in the tight end room. So could Hamilton. That’s enough to boost the grade up one point despite the questions surrounding the line past 2025. – Cole Thompson, Texans Wire
Indianapolis Colts: B
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2025 draft class: TE Tyler Warren, DE JT Tuimoloau, CB Justin Walley, OT Jalen Travis, RB DJ Giddens, QB Riley Leonard, IDL Tim Smith, LB Hunter Wohler
This was a really solid draft class for the Colts. Tyler Warren provides that greatly-needed pass-catching presence at tight end, but his well-rounded skill set will allow him to impact the game in a variety of ways and add some unpredictability to the offense. JT Tuimoloau, DJ Giddens, and Tim Smith can all carve out rotational roles right away and make an impact. Jalen Travis, meanwhile, bolsters the tackle depth, giving the Colts the flexibility to move Matt Goncavles inside. Overall, I like what the Colts did. However, my one nitpick is that I wish they had added a guard to compete with Goncalves for that starting role. Perhaps the potential move inside for Goncalves will be a seamless transition, but banking on that comes with some risk. – Paul Bretl, Colts Wire
Jacksonville Jaguars: A-
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2025 draft class: WR/CB Travis Hunter, DB Caleb Ransaw, IOL Wyatt Milum, RB Bhayshul Tuten, LB Jack Kiser, LB/DE Jalen McLeod, S Rayuan Lane, C Jonah Monheim, RB LeQuint Allen
Beyond being a fan of the aggressive move to go and get the best player in the draft, I loved the obvious emphasis that the Jaguars had on building around Trevor Lawrence. Ultimately, it’s Lawrence’s level of play that is going to determine the ceiling for this team, so why not make sure he has plenty of help around him? Travis Hunter and Brian Thomas Jr. can form a dynamic one-two punch at receiver. Bhayshul Tuten was the fastest running back at the combine, while Allen brings a pass-catching presence out of the backfield. And I’m always for bolstering the competition and depth of the offensive line unit. At the end of the day, consistent success for any offense starts up front. As Liam Coen said, the Jaguars' ability to strike from a distance on offense has greatly improved this offseason – Paul Bretl, Jaguars Wire
Kansas City Chiefs: B-
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2025 draft class: Ohio State Buckeyes OT Josh Simmons, Tennessee Volunteers DT Omarr Norman-Lott, Louisville Cardinals EDGE Ashton Gillotte, California Golden Bears CB Nohl Williams, Utah State Aggies WR Jalen Royals, Oregon Ducks LB Jeffrey Bassa, SMU Mustangs RB Brashard Smith
Personally, I was underwhelmed with this draft class, but after the last few years of my Chiefs fandom, I’ve learned to trust the process. Three players Kansas City selected (Josh Simmons, Omarr Norman-Lott, and Jalen Royals) had injury concerns that pushed their draft stock low enough to give the Chiefs a chance to pick them. One has to assume that the team did its due diligence, and given Brett Veach’s track record of finding undervalued talent in the draft, who am I to judge?
In the end, Kansas City’s front office filled all of the Chiefs’ most pressing needs on paper, so this rookie class can’t be judged to be a failure just yet. However, if the injury concerns come back to haunt Kansas City in the coming years, this draft may prove to be the beginning of the end for the Chiefs’ dynasty. – John Dillon, Chiefs Wire
Las Vegas Raiders: A-
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2025 draft class: RB Ashton Jeanty, Boise State, WR Jack Bech, TCU, CB Darien Porter, Iowa State, OG Caleb Rogers, Texas Tech, OT Charles Grant, William & Mary, WR Dont'e Thornton Jr., Tennessee, DT Tonka Hemingway, South Carolina, DT JJ Pegues, Mississippi, WR Tommy Mellott, Montana State, QB Cam Miller, North Dakota State, LB Cody Lindenberg, Minnesota
I have very few beefs with the work the Raiders new regime did with this class. Even if taking a running back at sixth overall is generally not considered a great value, it’s hard to argue with taking the third best overall talent in this draft at that spot. Especially considering it was the team’s top need. Trading down twice in round two allowed the Raiders to add two round three picks and move up from the fifth to the fourth round. With those moves, they were able to address all of their biggest needs by the end of day two. Love the Jack Bech pick at 58. Also love getting a potential starting tackle at the end of round three. My one small gripe would probably be DT Tonka Hemingway in round four. He was considered a reach there and they needed to address either linebacker or nickel corner in that round. Instead they doubled up at DT on consecutive picks when they were already in pretty good shape at the position. Otherwise, this draft was a near flawless execution – Levi Damien, Raiders Wire
Los Angeles Chargers: B
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2025 draft class: RB Omarion Hampton, WR Tre Harris, DT Jamaree Caldwell, EDGE Kyle Kennard, WR KeAndre Lambert-Smith, TE Oronde Gadsden II, OL Branson Taylor, DB RJ Mickens, DB Trikweze Bridges
Jim Harbaugh and Greg Roman have emphasized the importance of the running game since they arrived in Los Angeles. The product on the ground was lackluster this last season. In hopes of improving in that department, they selected Omarion Hampton in the first round. Hampton is the perfect complement to veteran Najee Harris. Staying on the offensive side of the ball, they wanted to add a vertical element to the passing game, so they went out and got Tre Harris, KeAndre Lambert-Smith, and Oronde Gadsden II. Defensively, the Chargers replaced Poona Ford with their third-round pick of Jamaree Caldwell. The edge defender group needed some juice to the pass rush, so they selected Kyle Kennard, the 2024 Defensive Player of the Year, in the fourth round. R.J. Mickens was a steal in the sixth round, and he should push for the fourth safety spot while presenting a reliable special-teams player. – Gavino Borquez, Chargers Wire
Los Angeles Rams: B
2025 draft class: TE Terrance Ferguson, OLB Josaiah Stewart, RB Jarquez Hunter, DL Ty Hamilton, LB Chris Paul Jr., WR Konata Mumpfield
The Rams only left the draft with six players, but they did well to add a 2026 first-rounder thanks to their trade down from No. 26 overall. That’s a big deal, as Sean McVay said, and should make the Rams feel even better about this class. Though they didn’t address two of their biggest needs (CB and RT), they came away with players who have a good chance to contribute early. Ferguson is the athletic TE the Rams have been searching for and while Stewart is undersized, he’s ferocious as a pass rusher. Hunter adds some much-needed speed at RB, Hamilton deepens the defensive line, Paul upgrades the linebacker group significantly and Mumpfield is a precise route runner who fell because of his average measurables. Overall, a solid class, even if not spectacular. – Cameron DaSilva, Rams Wire
Miami Dolphins: C+
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2025 draft class: DT Kenneth Grant, OL Jonah Savaiinaea, DT Jordan Phillips, CB Jason Marshall Jr, S Dante Trader Jr, RB Ollie Gordon II, QB Quinn Ewers, DT Zeek Biggers
Getting help in the trenches was a must and the Dolphins’ first three picks weigh almost 1,000 pounds collectively. Both Grant and Savaiinaea should step into the starting lineup right away and give the team more of the strength, power, and grit that it has lacked during the Mike McDaniel era. While that made it a sensible draft class, it’s hard to give rave reviews to a team that made only two picks in the first four rounds. While Miami left the weekend with an extra third-round pick in 2026, it didn’t do much to improve its secondary and will need to parse through the remaining veteran free agents to patch holes. – Adam Stites, Dolphins Wire
Minnesota Vikings: C-
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2025 draft class: G Donovan Jackson, WR Tai Felton, DL Tyrion Ingram-Dawkins, LB Kobe King, TE Gavin Bartholomew
I have always approached covering football by giving the benefit of the doubt because I am not in the room where the decisions are being made. That being said, this draft class, outside of Donovan Jackson, left me and others scratching our heads. This Vikings roster is as close as any to competing for a Lombardi Trophy, and these selections did not get it any closer to that goal. They traded back once to pick up just one extra pick in the sixth round, but did nothing spectacular with it. I don’t see the plan behind it outside of Jackson, but time will tell. – Andrew Harbaugh, Vikings Wire
New England Patriots: A+
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2025 draft class: OL Will Campbell, RB TreVeyon Henderson, WR Kyle Williams, C Jared Wilson, S Craig Woodson, DT Joshua Farmer, EDGE Bradyn Swinson, K Andres Borregales, OT Marcus Bryant, LS Julian Ashby, CB Kobee Minor
An argument could easily be made that the Patriots won the draft. They addressed every need on their roster and upgraded at key positions in one of the most pragmatic drafts by the franchise in recent memory. Patriots coach Mike Vrabel seemingly went into the draft with a checklist and methodically worked his way down the board, hitting on everything listed.
Objectivity is important surrounding a team that has only won four games in back-to-back seasons. But then again, the Patriots might be the most improved team in the league on paper after free agency and the draft, and they'll have arguably the easiest schedule in the NFL this season. It might not be crazy to view them as a possible surprise playoff team. – Jordy McElroy, Patriots Wire
New Orleans Saints: B
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2025 draft class: OL Kelvin Banks Jr., QB Tyler Shough, DT Vernon Broughton, S Jonas Sanker, LB Danny Stutsman, CB Quincy Riley, RB Devin Neal, TE Moliki Matavao, EDGE Fadil Diggs
At first glance, it may look like the Saints only got one immediate contributor out of this draft class, and we’re still arguing about where Kelvin Banks Jr. is going to play – tackle or guard? But when you consider the state of the Saints’ roster, it wouldn’t shock me to see three or more rookies in the starting lineup coming September.
Whether Banks remains at left tackle, pushing Taliese Fuaga to the right side and benching Trevor Penning, or enters the lineup at left guard remains to be seen. Either way his presence gives the Saints the ability to deploy their five best blockers on Sundays.
Depending on what happens with Derek Carr (and most on the Saints beat don’t expect him to return for 2025), Tyler Shough could be their starting quarterback in just a few short months. Coaches around the league, or at least the ones talking to reporters, consistently describe him as one of the most pro-ready passers in this draft class. He’ll have a chance to prove it.
And that brings us to the dark horse: Quincy Riley. He’s a highly competitive corner with impressive ball skills who will enter a training camp battle with veteran journeyman Isaac Yiadom and Rico Payton, who stood out last year as a backup. Riley has a really good chance of winning that competition.
As for the rest? Vernon Broughton could earn reps in the rebuilding Saints defensive line, where he’s working with his old coach Bo Davis. Jonas Sanker and Danny Stutsman are both going to be groomed as potential heirs for Tyrann Mathieu and Demario Davis, respectively, and should earn their way to the active roster as rookies. Devin Neal and Fadil Diggs could get on the field early, too, given their unique skill sets at their position groups. The only thing keeping this draft from earning an A grade is the lack of exciting weapons on offense. The Saints failed to add a wide receiver with a big frame who can fight for contested catches. They didn’t really take advantage of the great early-round options at running back or tight end, either, choosing to wait until the final two rounds instead. They’re putting a lot of pressure on Kellen Moore’s playbook and, maybe, a rookie quarterback as his starter. – John Sigler, Saints Wire
New York Giants: A
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2025 draft class: EDGE Abdul Carter, QB Jaxson Dart, DT Darius Alexander, RB Cam Skattebo, OL Marcus Mbow, TE Thomas Fidone, CB Korie Black
General manager Joe Schoen, who could have been justifiably fired this offseason, pieced together one of the team’s best drafts (on paper) in recent memory.
Abdul Carter is arguably the best player in the class and will make an impact from Day 1, while Jaxson Dart can develop behind Russell Wilson and prep to take over as the team’s future franchise quarterback.
Darius Alexander provides much-needed rotational depth alongside and behind Dexter Lawrence, while Cam Skattebo may be the steal of the entire draft. He is the perfect complement to Tyrone Tracy Jr. and should see a large role. Marcus Mbow may not start in Year 1 but is likely to provide a fixture for the Giants at guard for years to come. Thomas Fidone has incredible potential but his history of knee issues is concerning, and Korie Black will cut his teeth on special teams, where he should excel thanks to his blazing speed.
Needless to say, Schoen addressed multiple areas of concern – both at the front end and back end of the roster – and the Giants are now a much better team for it. – Dan Benton, Giants Wire
New York Jets: B+
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2025 draft class: OL Armand Membou, TE Mason Taylor, CB Azareye’h Thomas, DB Malachi Moore, LB Francisco Mauigoa, EDGE Tyler Baron
The Jets hit on plenty of their picks and there’s nothing wrong with the way general manager Darren Mougey traded up for the players he wanted. Membou and Taylor fill needs at the top of the class, too. However, Garrett Wilson does not have much help at wide receiver and the Jets might need to prowl the free agent market for someone to complement him in 2025. A lot of coverage is going to be focused on him. – Nick Wojton, Jets Wire
Philadelphia Eagles: A+
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2025 draft class: LB Jihaad Campbell, DB Andrew Mukuba, DT Ty Robinson, CB Mac McWilliams, LB Smael Mondon Jr., OL Drew Kendall, QB Kyle McCord, OL Myles Hinton, OL Cameron Williams, OLB Antwaun Powell-Ryland
Since passing on Justin Jefferson for Jalen Reagor, Howie Roseman and the Eagles have continuously focused on acquiring SEC talent, and more importantly, Power 4 talent. The ten-player class includes four players from the SEC, two from the Big 10, one from the Big 12, and three from the ACC. After watching 12 players depart in free agency, Roseman added two dynamic SEC linebackers, an All-American pass rusher, three offensive linemen, and an accomplished quarterback from Philadelphia. Philadelphia has one of the NFL's most explosive offensive units, but saw eight players depart on defense. Roseman used the Eagles' first five picks to land defensive players, and six defenders total. Philadelphia does the draft better than most teams around the league and somehow got value at every pick. Jihaad Campbell was one of the top ten talents, while Mac McWilliams had high-profile matchups with Travis Hunter. Drew Kendall (OL), Myles Hinton (OL), and Cameron Williams (OL) are developmental prospects who could become future starters. The biggest steal could be Virginia Tech pass rusher Antwaun Powell-Ryland. Powell-Ryland has spent the last two seasons at Virginia Tech after transferring from Florida before the 2023 season. – Glenn Erby, Eagles Wire
Pittsburgh Steelers: B+
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2025 draft class: DT Derrick Harmon, RB Kaleb Johnson, LB Jack Sawyer, DE Yahya Black, QB Will Howard, LB Carson Bruener, CB Donte Kent
The Steelers went out with the goal of adding explosion on offense and physicality in the trenches, and they accomplished both in the draft. We love the picks of RB Kaleb Johnson and OLB Jack Sawyer and think both will be underrated rookie contributors. Derrick Harmon is the only plug-and-play rookie among the group, but we like the long-term starter potential of the first five picks. The biggest win was the Steelers avoided the distractions and stuck to the plan of drafting high character players who fit the Steelers way. – Curt Popejoy, Steelers Wire
San Francisco 49ers: B
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2025 draft class: DE Mykel Williams, DT Alfred Collins, LB Nick Martin, CB Upton Stout, DT CJ West, WR Jordan Watkins, RB Jordan James, S Marques Sigle, QB Kurtis Rourke, OL Connor Colby, WR Junior Bergen
The 49ers badly need to find contributors from this year’s draft class after a mass exodus of talent in free agency. They skipped upside early in the draft for players who fill needs, but they didn’t make any major reaches in the first two rounds. Williams and Collins should both start right away for a defensive line that lost three of its four starters this offseason. Combine that with a dynamite selection of West at No. 113 overall and it looks like the 49ers have a completely revamped starting DL. Things fall off the rails a bit after that with boom or bust types like Martin and Stout — great athletes whose size may be prohibitive for NFL success. Sigle is an awesome athlete as well, but he looks like a Swiss Army knife type of safety who could thrive under defensive coordinator Robert Saleh. James is also a rock solid RB who may not have a big-time ceiling, but he should pretty quickly be ready to contribute in a backfield full of injury question marks. – Kyle Madson, Niners Wire
Seattle Seahawks: B+
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2025 draft class: G Grey Zabel, S Nick Emmanwori, TE Elijah Arroyo, QB Jalen Milroe, DT Rylie Mills, WR Tory Horton, FB Robbie Ouzts, G Bryce Cabeldue, RB Damien MArtinez, G Mason Richman, WR Ricky White III
The Seahawks just pulled off one of their better drafts in recent memory. General manager John Schneider and head coach Mike Macdonald had an opportunity to remake Seattle in their image and they ran with it. The team needed to upgrade their interior offensive line so they drafted arguably the best guard available. They needed to continue transforming this defense into an elite unit so they grabbed arguably the best safety available (1st round talent in the 2nd round, no less). Seattle also got what could be one of the biggest steals in the draft with Damien Martinez in the 7th round. And for the first time, the Seahawks finally have a succession plan at quarterback. The vision is clear where Schneider and Macdonald want to take this team. It is fair to wonder if they did enough to fully address the offensive line, and they are putting more than a few eggs into the “hope he stays healthy!” basket with Elijah Arroyo, Tory Horton and Rylie Mills. Still, it’s hard to not get excited about this class. – Kole Musgrove, Seahawks Wire
Tampa Bay Buccaneers: A
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2025 draft class: WR Emeka Egbuka, CB Benjamin Morrison, CB Jacob Parrish, Edge David Walker, Edge Elijah Roberts, WR Tez Johnson
The pick of Emeka Egbuka was a shocker on night one of the NFL Draft at first. Then, as the dust settled, the picture became clear, and that was soon seen as a much better picture. There is no safer pick in the draft, just ask Jason Licht. From there, Licht addressed the secondary with significant values of Benjamin Morrison and Jacob Parrish in rounds two and three. He then turned around and took David Walker as a new project at the edge. He then topped things off with a new gadget for the special teams in the elusive Tez Johnson, who the team will utilize on special teams. It was a great draft for the Buc,s and they are now poised for a potential fifth straight division title, and they hope to pair it with a playoff run. – Andrew Harbaugh, Bucs Wire
Tennessee Titans: A
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2025 draft class: QB Cam Ward, EDGE Femi Oladejo, WR Chimere Dike, TE Gunnar Helm, WR Elic Ayomanor, G Jackson Slater, CB Marcus Harris, RB Kalel Mullings
The Titans got their quarterback of the future, found a high-upside edge rusher, which was a major need and gave Ward multiple weapons. Dike, Helm and Ayomanor are diffrerent types of weapons. Dike brings elite speed, while Ayomanor brings size, strength and the ability to thrive in contested-catch situations. Slater dominated at Sacramento State and would’ve been a higher pick had he played in the FCS. He doesn’t need to start immediately and could be a potential steal for Bill Callahan to mentor. Harris will challenge for a role next season, while Mullings gives the Titans a competent No. 3 back immediately. – Dan Benton/Bryan Manning Titans Wire
Washington Commanders: A-
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2025 draft class: OT Josh Conerly Jr., CB Trey Amos, WR Jaylin Lane, LB Kain Medrano, RB Jacory Croskey-Merritt
You aren’t hearing a lot about Washington’s draft because it was a small class and it wasn’t flashy. That’s fine. Conerly is another investment into franchise QB Jayden Daniels. No offensive tackle in this draft had Conerly’s upside. He begins as a right tackle, but is a future left tackle. Amos is one of the picks as a potential steal of the draft. A long, physical corner, many had Amos going in the first round. Even the Commanders considered him there. Lane is an elite athlete who can also help on special teams. He immediately becomes Washington’s top return man and can play inside or outside and gives Daniels a legit burner who will win deep.
Medrano needs some polishing, but he is size/speed prospect at linebacker who can cover. That’s valuable, especially in the sixth round. Croskey-Merritt is another underrated pick. He only played one game last season, which caused him to fall, but he could see significant minutes next season in Washington’s backfield. Remember, the Commanders also used draft picks to acquire CB Marshon Lattimore, LT Laremy Tunsil and WR Deebo Samuel, which is an impressive veteran trio. We gave them an A- because they didn’t find an edge rusher. – Bryan Manning, Commanders Wire
This article originally appeared on Touchdown Wire: 2025 NFL draft grades: Analyzing all 32 teams' classes
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