Green Bay, Wisconsin — The 2025 NFL Draft kicked off on Thursday, setting the stage for a thrilling three-day event as all 32 teams entered with their first-round picks intact for the first time in league history. Excitement quickly turned to frenzy by the end of the first round, as teams jockeyed for key emerging talents amid a flurry of trades.
As anticipated, the Tennessee Titans used the first pick to select quarterback Cam Ward from Miami. However, the real drama unfolded shortly thereafter when the Jacksonville Jaguars executed a significant trade to acquire versatile player Travis Hunter, who can play both wide receiver and cornerback. The Cleveland Browns made a strategic move, sliding back to the fifth pick while gaining valuable draft capital, ultimately selecting defensive tackle Mason Graham.
The night was not without its surprises. The New York Giants made headlines by moving back into the first round to secure quarterback Jaxson Dart, raising eyebrows as teams scrambled to fill essential roster gaps. As the first day drew to a close, the stage was set for even more unpredictability in the subsequent rounds.
Rounds two and three witnessed additional upheaval, dominated by the story of Shedeur Sanders, a quarterback prospect considered a favorite leading into the draft, who surprisingly remained available after 102 selections. Meanwhile, teams continued to bolster their rosters, with the New Orleans Saints selecting Tyler Shough at No. 40 overall, the Seattle Seahawks grabbing Jalen Milroe at No. 92, and the Browns making notable waves again by drafting Dillon Gabriel shortly after.
After the initial three rounds, numerous high-caliber players still awaited selection, hinting at a competitive landscape in the later rounds. Teams focus on maximizing their rosters as they enter the next phase of the draft. Rounds four through seven, scheduled for Saturday, promise to be pivotal as franchises strive to unearth hidden gems.
With this year’s draft being characterized by unprecedented trades and standout selections, this event is not just a testament to individual talent but also to strategic maneuvering. The NFL Draft will continue to unfold, revealing how each decision impacts the future of the league and its teams. Fans can look forward to further analysis and updates as the draft progresses, highlighting the winners and losers in this dynamic landscape.