The 2025 NFL Draft has just wrapped up, and it was an entertaining rollercoaster ride that left mock drafters and NFL teams alike stunned. In my final 2025  NFL Draft grades for all 32 teams, you’ll see that it’s not just about the players selected, but also about the value of the pick, the team’s needs, and the opportunity cost of the selection. After all, as the Marvel supervillain Thanos would say, did it really cost everything? Was James Pearce Jr. worth a first-round pick Atlanta?

Let’s dive in and see which teams emerged as winners and are best positioned to compete for the 2025 Super Bowl.

Here are my 2025 NFL Draft grades, recaps, and analysis for all 32 teams.

• Dynasty Fantasy Football Draft Kit
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• DBro’s Dynasty Rookie Draft Primers

205 NFL Draft Grades for All 32 NFL Teams

Tennessee Titans: A-

• Cam Ward (QB – TEN): Round 1 Pick 1
• Oluwafemi Oladejo (DE – TEN): Round 2 Pick 52
• Kevin Winston Jr. (S – TEN): Round 3 Pick 82
• Chimere Dike (WR – TEN): Round 4 Pick 103
• Gunnar Helm (TE – TEN): Round 4 Pick 120
• Elic Ayomanor (WR – TEN): Round 4 Pick 136
• Jackson Slater (OG – TEN): Round 5 Pick 167
• Marcus Harris (CB – TEN): Round 6 Pick 183
• Kalel Mullings (RB – TEN): Round 6 Pick 188

The Titans didn’t overthink what to do at the top. They took the No. 1 QB with the most upside. The process was correct. Now we will have to wait and see how the results turn out.

As for the Titans remaining selections, I was a pretty big fan. I thought Oluwafemi Oladejo has a chance to go Round 1, so getting him 52^nd overall was great value for the Titans at an area of need.

The Titans posted the fourth-worst PFF pass-rush grade last season and Harold Landry is now with the Patriots, after leading the team in sacks in 2024.

I’ll admit that I was starting to get concerned about the lack of weapons for Cam Ward after Day 2. But the Titans doubled down at WR in Round 4. I was surprised they drafted Chimere Dike before Elic Ayomanor, with Ayomanor being by far the superior WR prospect.

Ayomanor has done nothing but produce since stepping onto the college football field.

In two seasons at Stanford after redshirting, Ayomanor had 125 receptions for 1,844 yards and 12 touchdowns. That gives him the highest career dominator rating in the class, according to my data.

They are different styles of WR, so I do like that angle for how the Titans attacked the position with various archetypes.

Gunnar Helm could also be a solid option at tight end, and the Titans got him at a value given his draft stock tanked after a rolled ankle ruined his NFL Combine testing.

Jacksonville Jaguars: A

• Travis Hunter (CB/WR – JAX): Round 1 Pick 2
• Caleb Ransaw (CB – JAX): Round 3 Pick 88
• Wyatt Milum (OG – JAX): Round 3 Pick 89
• Bhayshul Tuten (RB – JAX): Round 4 Pick 104
• Jack Kiser (LB – JAX): Round 4 Pick 107
• Jalen McLeod (LB – JAX): Round 6 Pick 194
• Rayuan Lane (S – JAX): Round 6 Pick 200
• Jonah Monheim (C – JAX): Round 7 Pick 221
• LeQuint Allen (RB – JAX): Round 7 Pick 236

The Jacksonville Jaguars landed their unicorn. They acquired the second overall pick from the Cleveland Browns with their 2026 second-round and a future 1^st round pick in 2026.

It’s a lot to pay to move up just three spots inside the top-5. But if there’s any non-QB to trade up for, it’s a generational player like Travis Hunter whose closest comparison is Shohei Ohtani.

Because let’s say, worst case scenario, that Hunter doesn’t work out at WR. Okay, well, next year the Jaguars play him full-time at CB. Having that kind of versatility makes a player WORTH the amount Jacksonville paid.

The Jags front office continued to be aggressive on Day 2, moving up 13 spots for guard/tackle Wyatt Milum with a 2026 fifth-round pick. Protect the quarterback.

And of course, the cherry on top for the Jaguars draft. Kicking off the start of Day 3 by Drafting MY GUY, Bhayshul Tuten, at the top of Round 4.

Tuten has been on an atomic rise since the NFL Combine, but we have been ahead of the curve on him. He was one of my favorite RB sleepers in this draft class pre-testing, so I was ecstatic to see him perform at such a high level.

The Virginia Tech running back put on an absolute spectacle, running the fastest 40-yard dash time among running backs at the NFL Scouting Combine. At 206 pounds, Tuten ran the same 40-yard dash as De’Von Achane, who weighed 188 pounds. Tuten was a dominant producer at the college level with a career 30% dominator rating, highlighted by a 37% dominator rating last season. And that was despite him dealing with a mid-season ankle injury.

He finished the 2024 season top 10 in the FBS in yards after contact per attempt (4.4) among RBs with at least 100 carries. Also ranked 6th in the 2025 RB draft class in yards after contact per attempt and breakaway run percentage (54%).

According to Sports Info Solutions, Tuten finished 1st in the class in broken tackle rate per 100 dropbacks.

Year 3 of fading Tank Bigbsy. I’m here for it.

Had the Jaguars improved the defensive interior, they would have gotten an A+ grade like this next team…

New York Giants: A+

• Abdul Carter (DE – NYG): Round 1 Pick 3
• Jaxson Dart (QB – NYG): Round 1 Pick 25
• Darius Alexander (DT – NYG): Round 3 Pick 65
• Cam Skattebo (RB – NYG): Round 4 Pick 105
• Thomas Fidone (TE – NYG): Round 7 Pick 219
• Korie Black (CB – NYG): Round 7 Pick 246

New York moved back into Round 1 to select their potential future franchise QB, Jaxson Dart, and it only took two future third-round picks.

And this is after they selected a generational pass rush talent with the 3^rd overall pick.

I love the Giants’ draft and believe this was their No. 1 outcome. At least from the perspective of Brian Daboll and Joe Schoen.

If the veteran QBs struggle, Dart might get a chance to play in the second half of the season. Going to Dart can be the final trump card Daboll and Schoen can pull to save their jobs if things start going south for Wilson.

But I fully understand the other side of the argument, where this might all be completely pointless.

Playing in the hyper-competitive NFC East, the Giants have to win some games for these guys to keep their jobs. And if they don’t, both guys are likely getting fired, and then you have the awkward situation of Dart being on the Giants under a brand-new regime that might not feel the same way about him that the current one does.

So, if you hate what the Giants did, I completely understand. But there’s no doubt in my mind that this was their No. 1 desired outcome. And based on how random the NFL Draft can be, I applaud them for sticking to BPA at No. 3 overall and rolling the dice on their QB being there at the end of Round 1.

I also really liked the rest of New York’s picks outside the first round.

They got supremely great value on DT Darius Alexander and OT Marcus Mbow. RB Cam Skattebo might end up being their starter.

New England Patriots: A-

• Will Campbell (OT – NE): Round 1 Pick 4
• TreVeyon Henderson (RB – NE): Round 2 Pick 38
• Kyle Williams (WR – NE): Round 3 Pick 69
• Jared Wilson (C – NE): Round 3 Pick 95
• Craig Woodson (S – NE): Round 4 Pick 106
• Joshua Farmer (DT – NE): Round 4 Pick 137
• Bradyn Swinson (EDGE – NE): Round 5 Pick 146
• Andres Borregales (K – NE): Round 6 Pick 182
• Marcus Bryant (OT – NE): Round 7 Pick 220
• Julian Ashby (LS – NE): Round 7 Pick 251
• Kobee Minor (CB – NE): Round 7 Pick 257

My Patriots killed it in this draft! Home biases aside, they needed to achieve two goals in this draft. Beef up the offensive line and draft explosive playmakers.

I personally liked the WR Kyle Williams selection a lot.

Williams had a very decorated college career, catching at least one pass in 50 career contests.

The 5-foot-11, 190-pound receiver is also coming off a monster 2024 season featuring 14 touchdowns, 70 receptions and over 1,200 receiving yards.

Williams is explosive down the field, finishing third in the class in deep catches. I like the fit a lot with Maye.

The former Washington State wideout has an opportunity to seize targets in an offense that’s been looking for someone to step up.

Keep in mind that Stefon Diggs is essentially on a one-year deal the Patriots can get out of if things don’t work out with the 31-year-old receiver coming off a torn ACL.

After Day 2, anything else the Patriots did would just be gravy. And yes, folks, we got the gravy. The picks in Rounds 4-5 were outstanding.

LSU edge rusher Bradyn Swinson was a consensus top 100 player that the Pats got at 146^th overall. 76th on Matthew Jones‘ final top-100 big board.

Craig Woodson is a versatile safety from California.

FSU’s Joshua Farmer can be another interior disruptor across Mike Vrabel’s defense. And he was 62nd on Jones’ final big board.

Cleveland Browns: A-

• Mason Graham (DT – CLE): Round 1 Pick 5
• Carson Schwesinger (LB – CLE): Round 2 Pick 33
• Quinshon Judkins (RB – CLE): Round 2 Pick 36
• Harold Fannin (TE – CLE): Round 3 Pick 67
• Dillon Gabriel (QB – CLE): Round 3 Pick 94
• Dylan Sampson (RB – CLE): Round 4 Pick 126
• Shedeur Sanders (QB – CLE): Round 5 Pick 144

The Browns have an extra 2026 first-round pick because of the trade inside the top-5. Now it remains to be seen whether moving off Travis Hunter will be a move they regret. But I get the Browns’ strategy to punt QB (draft pick-wise) in a bad class, and acquire assets to draft one next season.

DT Mason Graham was the consensus top defensive lineman, and it fills a big defensive interior need. Last year’s second-round pick, Mike Hall, will take time to return from injury. Shelby Harris is 34.5 years old and in the final year of his deal.

At the top of Round 2, the Browns took a fringe Round 1/2 linebacker from UCLA Carson Schwesinger. At the time of the selection I was probably too harsh on the Browns’ grade given they still needed a QB. I also didn’t acknowledge the serious neck injury enough to linebacker Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah.

The pick fits a need, and it was appropriately valued.

I loved the Quinshon Judkins selection at running back, along with the follow up selection of Dylan Sampson in Round 4. The Browns needed to overhaul the backfield and they did it with flying colors.

Oh and by the way, how can I not highlight arguably one of the best selections the Browns made: Colorado QB Shedeur Sanders at 144^th overall.

Yes, it was bizarre for them to take Dillon Gabriel 50 picks ahead of Sanders, but now they have two shots on net to find a potential QB.

And if none of them work out, they have another first-round pick next season.

I don’t want to say this was a masterclass drafting by the Browns, because this could look really bad after the 2025 season. If Hunter is a superstar and the Browns still don’t have an answer at QB, they are back to square one. But they put themselves in the best position to have draft ammunition in 2026, and they didn’t go out of their way to select Sanders. Sanders may be the STEAL of this draft class. And they got him WITH another first-round pick next year.

So, after being somewhat down on the Browns through the first two days, they did enough on Day 3 to shake things up and dramatically improve their draft grade.

Las Vegas Raiders: A

• Ashton Jeanty (RB – LV): Round 1 Pick 6
• Darien Porter (CB – LV): Round 3 Pick 68
• Jack Bech (WR – LV): Round 2 Pick 58
• Caleb Rogers (OT – LV): Round 3 Pick 98
• Charles Grant (OT – LV): Round 3 Pick 99
• Dont’e Thornton (WR – LV): Round 4 Pick 108
• Tonka Hemingway (DT – LV): Round 4 Pick 135
• JJ Pegues (DT – LV): Round 6 Pick 180
• Tommy Mellott (QB/WR – LV): Round 6 Pick 213
• Cam Miller (QB – LV): Round 6 Pick 215
• Cody Lindenberg (LB – LV): Round 7 Pick 222

I can’t remember the last time I gave a team an A Grade after drafting a RB in the first round. But here we are. Because I think the Raiders crushed this draft.

And it’s not even about the on-field production that has me over the moon for this draft haul. It’s the character of the players they selected that has me excited about what direction this team is going.

Jack Bech led all receivers in the class in expected points added (EPA)/target. Simply put, good things happened at TCU when Bech got the rock.

And that didn’t go unnoticed by Las Vegas, as they selected him 58th overall.

The Raiders are getting great guys in the building as they build out a winning culture amid a new regime. I also loved their selection of Iowa State cornerback Darien Porter, who was my favorite podium session when I attended the NFL Scouting Combine.

The Raiders addressed their top 3 needs with their first three selections and took advantage of an additional third-round pick from the Miami Dolphins to double down on some developmental pieces on the offensive line.

And I love how the Raiders took some shots on two QBs on Day 3. Tommy Mellott is a Taysom Hill 2.0 prototype, according to NFL.com’s Eric Edholm.

The Raiders also added depth on DT, with some injury concerns popping up over recent weeks related to the health of Christian Wilkins.

New York Jets: B

• Armand Membou (OT – NYJ): Round 1 Pick 7
• Mason Taylor (TE – NYJ): Round 2 Pick 42
• Azareye’h Thomas (CB – NYJ): Round 3 Pick 73
• Arian Smith (WR – NYJ): Round 4 Pick 110
• Malachi Moore (S – NYJ): Round 4 Pick 130
• Francisco Mauigoa (LB – NYJ): Round 5 Pick 162
• Tyler Baron (EDGE – NYJ): Round 5 Pick 176

New York addressed all its major team needs, starting with the offensive tackle selection in Round 1. Mason Taylor can slide in immediately as TE1 in the offense and Azareye’h Thomas gives the Jets another CB to play alongside Sauce Gardner.

CB Brandon Stephens was signed after playing with the Ravens last season. However, he also allowed the second-most yards while in coverage last season.

On Day 3, I do wish they went with a different WR than Georgia Arian Smith. Speed WR without much else to offer. He posted the worst dominator rating in the class among the WRs I sampled.

I also hoped they would draft more defensive tackle depth in such a great class.

Carolina Panthers: A-

• Tetairoa McMillan (WR – CAR): Round 1 Pick 8
• Nic Scourton (DE – CAR): Round 2 Pick 51
• Princely Umanmielen (DE – CAR): Round 3 Pick 77
• Trevor Etienne (RB – CAR): Round 4 Pick 114
• Lathan Ransom (S – CAR): Round 4 Pick 122
• Cam Jackson (DL – CAR): Round 5 Pick 140
• Mitchell Evans (TE – CAR): Round 5 Pick 163
• Jimmy Horn (WR – CAR): Round 6 Pick 208

Instead of going on the defensive side with the 8th overall pick, like many mock drafters (guilty as charged) predicted, Dave Canales got his version of Mike Evans for the Panthers.

I love the T-Mac selection to help put more around quarterback Bryce Young.

Carolina then went aggressive on defense on Day 2. The Panthers moved up six slots to 51 overall select edge rusher Nic Scourton.

They also moved up eight spots by trading a 5^th-round pick to select Princely Umanmielen.

I love these two moves from a value perspective, given that Carolina didn’t give up an absurd amount. Mostly Day 3 picks and a combination of pick swaps.

And given the massive need for defensive help, I couldn’t agree more with the double-dipping in the edge rusher pool.

The Panthers followed up a strong opening to the draft with a great finish on Day 3. They addressed holes on the roster at WR, TE, DT and S.

New Orleans Saints: D+

• Kelvin Banks Jr. (OT – NO): Round 1 Pick 9
• Tyler Shough (QB – NO): Round 2 Pick 40
• Vernon Broughton (DT – NO): Round 3 Pick 71
• Jonas Sanker (S – NO): Round 3 Pick 93
• Danny Stutsman (LB – NO): Round 4 Pick 112
• Quincy Riley (CB – NO): Round 4 Pick 131
• Devin Neal (RB – NO): Round 6 Pick 184
• Denzel Burke (CB – NO): Round 5 Pick 174
• Moliki Matavao (TE – NO): Round 7 Pick 248
• Fadil Diggs (EDGE – NO): Round 7 Pick 254

If it weren’t for the Kelvin Banks 1^st round selection, I think the Saints might have gotten my one and only F grade.

This team should have just rolled into the season with Spencer Rattler in a full rebuild, instead of messing around with a second-round quarterback, Tyler Shough. The track record of QBs hitting his range is almost non-existent. And I think they should have just taken Shedeur Sanders instead, especially knowing he would be available on Day 3.

Other than Shough, I’m also not impressed by any of these other selections. The Saints had a massive need at edge and took their first edge rusher in the 7^th round. At least New Orleans did invest into the secondary in the later rounds.

The DT Vernon Broughton draft selection is also probably better than I’m giving it credit for. He has a connection with Saints defensive line coach, Bo Davis, who coached the defensive line at Texas from 2021-2023. I just think it might have been a bit rich of a pick at 71^st overall.

Chicago Bears: B

• Colston Loveland (TE – CHI): Round 1 Pick 10
• Luther Burden III (WR – CHI): Round 2 Pick 39 (via Carolina)
• Ozzy Trapilo (OT – CHI): Round 2 Pick 56
• Shemar Turner (DT – CHI): Round 2 Pick 62
• Ruben Hyppolite II (LB – CHI): Round 4 Pick 132
• Zah Frazier (CB – CHI): Round 5 Pick 169
• Luke Newman (OG – CHI): Round 6 Pick 195
• Kyle Monangai (RB – CHI): Round 7 Pick 233

The Bears had extra picks in this draft, so I don’t hate that they drafted a “luxury” pick in the first round with tight end Colston Loveland. However, going right back to WR in Round 2 was just weird with Missouri’s Luther Burden. Again, value-wise, it’s not bad. He was projected as an early second-rounder. And the Bears needed a third WR.

But I felt that edge rush was the bigger need. To the Bears’ credit, though, they did get DT Shermar Turner later in Round 2.

And they continued to bolster the offensive line.

Chicago could end up regretting not going with an EDGE rusher earlier but I won’t too harshly penalize an offensive-minded HC to draft his top-ranked offensive player. Even if I don’t see the clear vision, Ben Johnson is putting Caleb Williams in a position to succeed. Not to mention, the Bears also acquired a 4^th from the Bills after making a small trade back.

San Francisco 49ers: B+

• Mykel Williams (DE – SF): Round 1 Pick 11
• Alfred Collins (DT – SF): Round 2 Pick 43
• Nick Martin (LB – SF): Round 3 Pick 75
• Upton Stout (CB – SF): Round 3 Pick 100
• CJ West (DT – SF): Round 4 Pick 113
• Jordan Watkins (WR – SF): Round 4 Pick 138
• Jordan James (RB – SF): Round 5 Pick 147
• Marques Sigle (S – SF): Round 5 Pick 160
• Kurtis Rourke (QB – SF): Round 7 Pick 227
• Connor Colby (OG – SF): Round 7 Pick 249
• Junior Bergen (WR – SF): Round 7 Pick 252

The 49ers’ biggest need was to re-tool the defensive line, and they doubled down on the approach with their top two selections.

As for Round 3, I would have preferred an investment in the offensive line instead of a linebacker.

Don’t hate the direction to go cornerback at pick 100, but there are a lot of other CBs left I had ranked much higher. Upton Stout has very small arm length (8^th percentile).

However, I do like the Jordan James fit. His yards per snap ranked top-5 in his lone year starting for the Oregon Ducks in 2024. In 2023, while splitting snaps with Bucky Irving, James led the FBS in PFF rushing grade.

James has only just turned 21 years old and posted one of the best rushing success rates in college football last season. Second in the class in positive run percentage (Sports Info Solutions). 36.5 percent of his 2024 carries resulted in a first down or touchdown, No. 2 in the FBS (Dane Brugler).

Simply put, even if he doesn’t break off the sexy 80-yard rushing TDs…James constantly moves the chains and holds the ball tightly (zero recorded fumbles).

NFL coaches gravitate toward these archetypes, and I think that’s why he will succeed when given opportunities.

Dallas Cowboys: B-

• Tyler Booker (OG – DAL): Round 1 Pick 12
• Donovan Ezeiruaku (DE – DAL): Round 2 Pick 44
• Shavon Revel (CB – DAL): Round 3 Pick 76
• Jaydon Blue (RB – DAL): Round 5 Pick 149
• Shemar James (LB – DAL): Round 5 Pick 152
• Ajani Cornelius (OT – DAL): Round 6 Pick 204
• Jay Toia (DT – DAL): Round 7 Pick 217
• Phil Mafah (RB – DAL): Round 7 Pick 239
• Tommy Akingbesote (DT – DAL): Round 7 Pick 247

I know most fans probably don’t want to hear it, but Dallas had another sound draft. Building through the trenches between the offensive and defensive lines (especially when that player was a projected Round 1 pick), while adding an upside CB that fell because of injury.

I understand that this is hardly the “sexy” draft that many Cowboys fans were hoping for. But Dallas has been following this “boring” draft approach over the last several seasons, and it has mostly served them very well. The offensive line is in excellent shape because the front office continues to invest high-end draft capital.

And they eventually added an explosive running back with sub-4.4 wheels in Texas’ Jaydon Blue to complement veteran Javonte Williams, along with Clemson’s Phil Mafah in Round 7.

Foregoing WR completely is a misplay in my estimation, and they deserve to be penalized for that. Or maybe the team believes KaVontae Turpin can emerge as a legitimate weapon.

Still, just taking one RB in a stacked class before Round 7 – especially one with such a niche projection – is another missed opportunity.

This draft grade will probably be higher than most, but Dallas’ draft record suggests they are fine just hitting doubles year after year. FWIW, they needed to add another off-ball-linebacker and that’s who they selected in Round 5.

Miami Dolphins: A

• Kenneth Grant (DT – MIA): Round 1 Pick 13
• Jonah Savaiinaea (OG – MIA): Round 2 Pick 37
• Jordan Phillips (DT – MIA): Round 5 Pick 143
• Jason Marshall Jr. (CB – MIA): Round 5 Pick 150
• Dante Trader (S – MIA): Round 5 Pick 155
• Ollie Gordon II (RB – MIA): Round 6 Pick 179
• Quinn Ewers (QB – MIA): Round 7 Pick 231
• Zeek Biggers (DT – MIA): Round 7 Pick 253

Miami’s two biggest needs were DL and OL entering the NFL Draft. And based on where they were selecting, they got arguably the top options at the respective positions. In fact, I applaud them for moving up to boost the offensive line with Arizona guard Jonah Savaiinaea, with the position starting to dry up quickly.

Miami traded up with the Raiders at No. 37, using their third-round pick to ensure more protection for their quarterback.

The Dolphins also approached Day 3 with a mindset, bolstering the secondary and defensive line, while adding RB Ollie Gordon as the thunder to Miami’s lightning running backs. Texas’s Quinn Ewers provides some insurance at the QB position for next to nothing.

Indianapolis Colts: C+

• Tyler Warren (TE – IND): Round 1 Pick 14
• JT Tuimoloau (DE – IND): Round 2 Pick 45
• Justin Walley (CB – IND): Round 3 Pick 80
• Jalen Travis (OT – IND): Round 4 Pick 127
• DJ Giddens (RB – IND): Round 5 Pick 151
• Riley Leonard (QB – IND): Round 6 Pick 189
• Tim Smith (DT – IND): Round 6 Pick 190
• Hunter Wohler (S – IND): Round 7 Pick 232

Indianapolis, we have a problem. Sort of.

At least not a tight end. Tyler Warren can start and contribute immediately for a team desperate for tight end production.

The issue with the Colts’ draft is that they drafted one offensive lineman inside the top 150 players. Iowa State’s Jalen Travis possesses upside with his athleticism, but I’d say his immediate impact is minimal.

The interior of the offensive line needed major fine-tuning, given that the center Ryan Kelly (Vikings) and guard Will Fries (Vikings) are both gone. The two projected starting tackles will be free agents in 2026.

Going CB over OL after revamping the secondary in free agency was malpractice in my opinion. The Colts’ first two picks give them a passable grade. But I’m not over the moon with the draft haul entirely.

Atlanta Falcons: B-

• Jalon Walker (LB – ATL): Round 1 Pick 15
• James Pearce Jr. (DE – ATL): Round 1 Pick 26
• Xavier Watts (S – ATL): Round 3 Pick 96
• Billy Bowman Jr. (S – ATL): Round 4 Pick 118
• Jack Nelson (OT – ATL): Round 7 Pick 218

The worst trade of Round 1 came late into the night. The Falcons sent a future 2026 first-round pick to move up 20 spots with the Los Angeles Rams to select James Pearce Jr. Atlanta did get a third-rounder back.

Even so, it was a massive overpay. Especially as it came right after the Giants moved up for significantly less draft capital.

The Falcons arguably had the steal of the draft when Jalon Walker fell into their lap at 15^th overall, and they pissed all the value away.

Atlanta also didn’t stop trading after Round 1. They traded up five spots into Round 3, moving a 5^th-round pick to the Eagles.

When you just look strictly at the players the Falcons selected, it’s an A+ draft. They took care of the top needs at EDGE and safety. And if Pearce turns into an absolute game-wrecker, nobody will care what the Falcons traded to acquire him.

But until we know that, we have to stick to grading the draft approach. And Atlanta paid WAY too much to move up. Especially considering if they had instead waited, they could have drafted Donovan Ezeiruaku or Mike Green without giving up a 1^st-rounder next year. Sweet, sweet hindsight.

Arizona Cardinals: A-

• Walter Nolen (DT – ARI): Round 1 Pick 16
• Will Johnson (CB – ARI): Round 2 Pick 47
• Jordan Burch (DE – ARI): Round 3 Pick 78
• Cody Simon (LB – ARI): Round 4 Pick 115
• Denzel Burke (CB – ARI): Round 5 Pick 174
• Hayden Conner (OG – ARI): Round 6 Pick 211
• Kitan Crawford (S – ARI): Round 7 Pick 225

Arizona went all defense in the 2025 NFL Draft until Rd 6, and I’m here for it. Walter Nolen can be a lynchpin piece in Jonathan Gannon’s defense. Nolen has some off-field concerns, but I think a veteran like Calais Campbell can take him under his wing and show him how to be a professional.

Will Johnson is a top 5 CB talent when healthy and the Cardinals got insane value on him falling to 47^th overall. Maybe it doesn’t work out, but a lot of “healthy” second-round CBs bust. And Johnson may not need to even start right away, given Arizona has Sean Murphy-Bunting, Max Melton and Garrett Williams as their top-3 CBs.

I love taking the shot here on the Michigan CB.

And what pushed me to give the Cardinals an A-grade was them doubling down on DL. I just love it when teams throw multiple assets at a position in the draft.

The front 7 was bad last year for the Cardinals, and they are practicing due diligence to ensure it’s not a repeat performance in 2025.

Cincinnati Bengals: B+

• Shemar Stewart (DE – CIN): Round 1 Pick 17
• Demetrius Knight (LB – CIN): Round 2 Pick 49
• Dylan Fairchild (OG – CIN): Round 3 Pick 81
• Barrett Carter (LB – CIN): Round 4 Pick 119
• Jalen Rivers (OG – CIN): Round 5 Pick 153
• Tahj Brooks (RB – CIN): Round 6 Pick 193

The Bengals didn’t mess around in this draft. They took care of their defense with their top two picks and bolstered the interior offensive line with a former Georgia Bulldog.

I could argue they should have gone CB/DT instead of LB in Round 2, but they only have some many picks to fix a broken defense. Linebacker Germaine Pratt is in the last year of his deal.

And the offensive line was the only acceptable offensive direction they should have gone in early.

Lucas Patrick and Ted Karras will be free agents in 2026.

Oh and I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention. Chase Brown RB1 szn is a full go.

chase brown szn https://t.co/JGhyQ0VghL

— Andrew Erickson™ (@AndrewErickson_) April 27, 2025

Seattle Seahawks: A+

• Grey Zabel (OG – SEA): Round 1 Pick 18
• Nick Emmanwori (S – SEA): Round 2 Pick 35 (via Titans)
• Elijah Arroyo (TE – SEA): Round 2 Pick 50
• Jalen Milroe (QB – SEA): Round 3 Pick 92
• Rylie Mills (DT – SEA): Round 5 Pick 142
• Tory Horton (WR – SEA): Round 5 Pick 166
• Robbie Ouzts (TE – Alabama): Round 5 Pick 176
• Bryce Cabeldue (OG – SEA): Round 6 Pick 192
• Mason Richman (OT – SEA): Round 7 Pick 234
• Ricky White III (WR – SEA): Round 7 Pick 238
• Damien Martinez (RB – SEA): Round 7 Pick 223

The Seahawks did the right thing in Round 1 by immediately upgrading the offensive line. I had mocked it for weeks, but Sam Darnold and I both rejoiced when the Grey Zabel selection was made official.

On Day 2, Seattle sent an additional third to the Tennessee Titans to select Nick Emmanwori at the top of Round 2. It’s an awesome fit for Mike Macdonald’s defense to add a super athletic safety like Emmanwori.

The remaining picks on Day 2 were also excellent additions to the offense.

The Seahawks needed to add a vertical threat to this offense, and they got exactly that with Miami’s Elijah Arroyo. Noah Fant has been an utter disappointment since arriving in Seattle and will be a free agent at the end of the season.

Jalen Milroe was a great pick by the Seahawks. Take a developmental quarterback with a sky-high ceiling in case (inevitably) things go south with Darnold.

New Seahawks offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak utilized Taysom Hill in a hybrid rushing role in 2024 with the Saints.

The Seahawks ended the draft with a total of 11 selections, tied for the most with the Ravens, Raiders, Patriots, and 49ers.

Among the 7 Day 3 picks they made, my favorite was WR Tory Horton.

The former Colorado State WR is coming off a season-ending knee injury after back-to-back dominant seasons from 2022-2023.

In 2022, he trailed only Rashee Rice in catches of 20+ air yards. Horton also posted an eye-popping 57% dominator rating, accounting for nearly 50% of the team’s total receiving yards.

Seattle got an injury discount with Horton, but he seems back to full health now. Seahawks got a steal with him just one year removed from a nearly 100-catch, 1,200-yard season.

Before his injury, Horton ranked fourth in the nation in yards per route run.

According to Sports Info Solutions, Horton posted the No. 1 target rate over expectation (+22.2%) in this year’s class. Players who have posted a 15% or higher target rate over expectation the last three seasons: Horton, Rashee Rice and Puka Nacua.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers: B+

• Emeka Egbuka (WR – TB): Round 1 Pick 19
• Benjamin Morrison (CB – TB): Round 2 Pick 53
• Jacob Parrish (CB – TB): Round 3 Pick 84
• David Walker (EDGE – TB): Round 4 Pick 121
• Elijah Roberts (EDGE – TB): Round 5 Pick 157
• Tez Johnson (WR – TB): Round 7 Pick 235

Did the Buccaneers NEED to draft Emeka Egbuka? Probably not. But I credit teams that draft the best player available, and he was firmly in that consideration among offensive players left when the Buccaneers were selecting at 19.

Egbuka finished his college career with 205 receptions for 2,867 yards (14.0 YPR) and 24 touchdowns, making him Ohio State’s all-time receptions leader.

And I’d argue maybe WR was a bigger need than most would consider. All the Buccaneers’ WRs got hurt last season. Mike Evans and Chris Godwin probably aren’t reliable enough to bank on staying healthy all year.

And after the Egbuka selection, the Buccaneers went right after their needs with back-to-back CB selections (and good ones at that). Then on Day 3, they took some shots at DL/EDGE players.

While not a perfect draft by any means, coming away with a strong WR and two potential starting CBs should be praised.

Denver Broncos: B

• Jahdae Barron (CB – DEN): Round 1 Pick 20
• RJ Harvey (RB – DEN): Round 2 Pick 60
• Pat Bryant (WR – DEN): Round 3 Pick 74
• Sai’vion Jones (DE – DEN): Round 3 Pick 101
• Que Robinson (EDGE – DEN): Round 4 Pick 134
• Jeremy Crawshaw (P – DEN): Round 6 Pick 216
• Caleb Lohner (TE – DEN): Round 7 Pick 241

The Broncos went with a bit of a shocker in Round 1 by selecting Texas CB Jahdae Barron. But snagging the consensus CB1 at 20^th is just doing good business, regardless of positional need.

Denver addressed its running back need in Round 2 with UCF’s R.J. Harvey.

He was one of my favorite running back sleepers in this class, and he has already exceeded expectations by being selected in the second round.

Harvey is a super explosive running back and was highly efficient at the college level.

The efficiency is worth chasing alongside an elite dominator rating of 43% – tied for second-best in the draft class. He finished in the top 10 in the FBS in forced missed tackles, trailing only Ashton Jeanty in rushes of 10+ yards.

Harvey landed on a team with a wide-open backfield where he can establish himself as the lead back, or at least the 1A, if not the clear-cut No. 1 RB for the Denver Broncos.

But as much as I loved the Harvey selection, I hated the Pat Bryant pick. So many other and higher-ranked WRs on the board were worth considering.

Denver moved up 10 spots with the Eagles by sending a 6^th-round pick (while flip-flopping fourth-round picks) in the third round to select Sai’vion Jones .

Addressing the defensive line was a need for the Broncos with three defensive ends on the roster hitting free agency in 2026 between Zach Allen, John-Franklin Meyers and Malcolm Roach.

Pittsburgh Steelers: B+

• Derrick Harmon (DT – PIT): Round 1 Pick 21
• Kaleb Johnson (RB – PIT): Round 3 Pick 83
• Jack Sawyer (EDGE – PIT): Round 4 Pick 123
• Yahya Black (DT – Iowa): Round 5, Pick 164
• Will Howard (QB – PIT): Round 6 Pick 185
• Carson Bruener (LB – PIT): Round 7 Pick 226
• Donte Kent (CB – PIT): Round 7 Pick 229

The Steelers drafted one of the best defensive linemen in a loaded class with Oregon’s Derrick Harmon. And despite not having a second-round pick (used in the trade to acquire DK Metcalf), they still were able to land one of the top RBs in the class with Iowa’s Kaleb Johnson.

A masterclass by Mike Tomlin to resist the urge to reach for an inferior QB option and wisely address other needs on the roster.

The Johnson selection was a home run.

The Steelers now have a dynamic 1-2 punch between Johnson and Jaylen Warren.

We’ve seen this Arthur Smith offense have two running backs produce in the past, so I am still holding out some hope that Warren can be solid in fantasy football, even if he is not a three-down workhorse.

Warren is also under contract for just one season after signing his restricted free agent (RFA) tender.

Johnson’s ceiling could be Derrick Henry-esque in this offense if they load him up with all he can handle.

I compared Johnson to Henry in my first article on this rookie running back class. His new offensive coordinator is Arthur Smith: Henry’s former offensive coordinator in Tennessee from 219-2020.

Johnson was one of the most dominant running backs in college football this past season, posting a 48% dominator rating (96th percentile). He rushed for a career-high 1,535 yards (6.4 yards per attempt) and 21 touchdowns on 240 carries.

On Day 3, the Steelers scooped more falling value with Jack Sawyer off the edge. They also added Ohio State QB Will Howard.

I’d imagine that an Aaron Rodgers-Steelers signing will happen in the coming days/weeks, with Pittsburgh’s current room consisting of just Mason Rudolph, Skylar Thompson, and Howard.

I think I would have preferred they just selected Sanders over Howard (especially with how far Sanders fell), but I have no other qualms about the Steelers’ draft. Although if Sanders ends up hitting for the Browns, it’s going to be a real bad look for Pittsburgh, considering the opportunities they also had to select him during the 2025 NFL Draft.

Personnel-wise, it’s an A-grade draft. But the QB question marks just have me a bit bearish to lock in an official A grade for the Steelers.

Los Angeles Chargers: A-

• Omarion Hampton (RB – LAC): Round 1 Pick 22
• Tre Harris (WR – LAC): Round 2 Pick 55
• Jamaree Caldwell (DT – LAC): Round 3 Pick 86
• Kyle Kennard (EDGE – LAC): Round 4 Pick 125
• KeAndre Lambert-Smith (WR – LAC): Round 5 Pick 158
• Oronde Gadsden II (TE – LAC): Round 5 Pick 165
• Branson Taylor (OT – LAC): Round 6 Pick 199
• R.J. Mickens (S – LAC): Round 6 Pick 214
• Trikweze Bridges (S – LAC): Round 7 Pick 256

The Chargers knocked it out of the park with their top two picks. Top skill players for the offense that fit style and vision of Los Angeles’ offense.

Running backs drafted on Day 2 or earlier that have averaged at least 30 receiving yards/gm in their final college seasons:

Saquon Barkley, David Johnson, Joe Mixon, Antonio Gibson, Najee Harris, Travis Etienne Jr. Rachaad White, Zach Charbonnet, Jahmyr Gibbs and Omarion Hampton.

Tre Harris was one of the more polarizing receivers in this draft class, and I felt he would be very landing spot dependent to find fantasy football success.

And I am so glad for Derek Brown’s sake that he landed in Los Angeles with the Chargers.

He can slide right into the Josh Palmer role (whom I compared Harris to a few months back) and take on even more of the target share after he supplants Quentin Johnston.

Because you better believe he is coming right for it. The guy wants to snatch the souls of opposing defensive backs. No wonder Jim Harbaugh made the pick. He recognizes the dog of the former Ole Miss wideout.

And the production ain’t too shabby.

Harris started the season on fire, leading the FBS in receiving yards (nearly 1,000) through seven weeks. He averaged a ridiculous 5.12 yards per route run, ranking first in college football (no other receiver was above 4.0).

DT Jamaree Caldwell at 332 pounds can help fill the massive void left in the interior defense by DT Poona Ford.

And I was a big fan of the Day 3 picks. Kyle Kennard fills a need at edge, and KeAndre Lambert-Smith is wide receiver insurance in case Tre Harris runs into more injury issues.

They also added a developmental tight end, Oronde Gadsen, to pair with veteran Tyler Conkin.

Green Bay Packers: C-

• Matthew Golden (WR – GB): Round 1 Pick 23
• Anthony Belton (OT – GB): Round 2 Pick 54
• Savion Williams (WR – GB): Round 3 Pick 87
• Barryn Sorrell (EDGE – GB): Round 4 Pick 124
• Collin Oliver (LB – GB): Round 5 Pick 159
• Warren Brinson (DT – GB): Round 6 Pick 198
• Micah Robinson (CB – GB): Round 7 Pick 237
• John Williams (OT – GB): Round 7 Pick 250

Yeah, not the best draft for the Green Bay Packers. They went fully on the offensive, selecting two WRs in the top-3 rounds. I understand that WR was a need, and I tend to reward teams for doubling down on positions of need. I’ll give them that.

However, it doesn’t need to be two of your top-3 picks that you use on the “need” when you have to play defense.

GB has major concerns for a CB and edge rusher.

And although I like the value they got with edge rusher Barryn Sorrell in Round 4, should the Packers be banking on a healthy season from CB Jaire Alexander?

I understand that bolstering the offensive line is always good practice, but would it have killed Green Bay to just go edge instead of Anthony Belton in Round 2? If all their pass rush targets were gone, I can understand the pivot to offensive line (never can go wrong adding protection).

But then to go WR again so early in Round 3…I wasn’t a fan. And neither was Pat Fitzmaurice.

Minnesota Vikings: B

• Donovan Jackson (OG – MIN): Round 1 Pick 24
• Tai Felton (WR – MIN): Round 3 Pick 102
• Tyrion Ingram-Dawkins (DL – MIN): Round 5 Pick 139
• Kobe King (LB – MIN): Round 6 Pick 201
• Gavin Bartholomew (TE – MIN): Round 6 Pick 202

The Vikings entered the draft with just four picks to work with, so we have to keep that in mind when giving their final grade. They landed one of the top offensive linemen in the class with Ohio State’s Donovan Jackson in Round 1, giving their QB more protection up front.

Although that was the main highlight of the Vikings’ draft, they neglected to add any noteworthy secondary pieces.

DT Tyrion Ingram-Dawkins was a solid selection in Round 5 given the Vikings’ need for younger interior depth.

We also have to include quarterback Sam Howell as part of the draft haul equation, given the Vikings traded one of their higher draft picks to bring in Howell as a backup for J.J. McCarthy.

Houston Texans: B+

• Jayden Higgins (WR – HOU): Round 2 Pick 34
• Aireontae Ersery (OT – HOU): Round 2 Pick 48
• Jaylin Noel (WR – HOU): Round 3 Pick 79
• Jaylin Smith (CB – HOU): Round 3 Pick 97
• Woody Marks (RB – HOU): Round 4 Pick 116
• Jaylen Reed (S – HOU): Round 6 Pick 187
• Graham Mertz (QB – HOU): Round 6 Pick 197
• Kyonte Hamilton (DT – HOU): Round 7 Pick 224
• Luke Lachey (TE – HOU): Round 7 Pick 255

The Houston Texans traded out of the first round on Day 1, but more than made up for it with a flurry of efficient picks in Rounds 2 and 3.

Specifically, they added serious offensive firepower. They drafted both Iowa State WRs Jayden Higgins and Jaylin Noel, while also selecting offensive tackle Aireontae Ersery.

Ersery was a slam-dunk mid-round two selection for the Texans.

On Day 3, Houston moved back into Round 4 by sending Miami to the future 2026 third-round pick.

The player they moved up for was USC’s RB Woody Marks.

I was surprised they gave up that much to move up to select an RB in the fourth round. I also wasn’t the highest on Marks during the pre-draft process. Not a particularly dominant producer at the college level nor overly efficient on a per-snap basis.

My only other nitpick was a lack of attention to the defensive line. I felt the interior DL was probably the biggest area they could upgrade based on the current personnel.

But a great draft nonetheless, based solely on the top-3 selections.

Los Angeles Rams: A-

• Terrance Ferguson (TE – LAR): Round 2 Pick 46 (then traded)
• Josaiah Stewart (DE – LAR): Round 3 Pick 90
• Jarquez Hunter (RB – LAR): Round 4 Pick 117
• Ty Hamilton (DL – LAR): Round 5 Pick 148
• Chris Paul Jr. (LB – LAR): Round 5 Pick 172
• Konata Mumpfield (WR – LAR): Round 7 Pick 242

The Rams fleeced the Atlanta Falcons for a future 2026 first-round pick. That transaction by itself warrants LA at least an A-grade to go along with their draft selections.

I liked the Terrance Ferguson selection. We saw at the end of last season after Tyler Higbee‘s return, how a tight end can be an integral part of Sean McVay’s offense.

Ferguson tested extremely well at the NFL Scouting Combine and finished first in the nation in yards after the catch per reception (9.0) in 2024.

This didn’t go unnoticed by the Rams, who used their first pick (46th) to select the former Oregon Ducks tight end. We know Higbee isn’t meant for the long haul (32 years old in a contract year), and Colby Parkinson is a limited player.

The Rams were in the running for Brock Bowers last season, so I could see them having big plans for an athletic tight end like Ferguson.

Then, to follow the Ferguson selection with a value in edge rusher Josaiah Stewart. Stewart ranked second in the Big Ten in sacks (8.5) in 2024 and finished the season as the second-highest rated EDGE in college football.

On Day 3, Los Angeles traded back into Round 4 (moving up 10 spots), flipping a 6^th-rounder to the Colts so they could select Auburn RB Jarquez Hunter.

Not necessarily the direction I would have gone in, but Hunter is an awesome running back prospect.

Against SEC-level competition, Jarquez Hunter finished fifth in the class in total forced missed tackles and fifth in elusive rating (PFF) while leading the conference in yards per carry (The Athletic).

That led to a 24% dominator rating. Also, Hunter carved out a bit of a timeshare in his second season at Auburn behind future third-round pick, Tank Bigsby.

The numbers between the two RBs weren’t very drastic despite the experience difference, and that suggests Hunter won’t back down from a competitive NFL backfield.

My only two gripes with the Rams’ draft are the lack of offensive tackles and cornerbacks selected. Although I feel like I have been clamoring for the Rams to invest in their secondary and I’ve been completely ignored like an old man yelling at the clouds.

It’s a B-level draft, but the additional 2026 first-round pick put it over the top.

Also, I really like WR Konata Mumpfield as a sleeper and I’m not ignoring the fact he did indeed get drafted by the Rams – the recent kings of finding WR diamonds in the rough in the later rounds.

The 5-foot-11, 186-pound wideout is undersized, but he’s a good route runner. A true sleeper in this class after proving he could still produce with a level-up in competition. He out-produced future fifth-round wideout Bub Means in the two years they played together at Pitt, despite Mumpfield being the younger player.

Baltimore Ravens: A-

• Malaki Starks (S – BAL): Round 1 Pick 27
• Mike Green (LB – BAL): Round 2 Pick 59
• Emery Jones (OT – BAL): Round 3 Pick 91
• Teddye Buchanan (LB – BAL): Round 4 Pick 129
• Carson Vinson (OT – BAL): Round 5 Pick 141
• Bilhal Kone (CB – BAL): Round 6 Pick 178
• Tyler Loop (K – BAL): Round 6 Pick 186
• LaJohntay Wester (WR – BAL): Round 6 Pick 203
• Aeneas Peebles (DT – BAL): Round 6 Pick 210
• Robert Longerbeam (CB – BAL): Round 6 Pick 212
• Garrett Dellinger (OG – BAL): Round 7 Pick 243

The Ravens played their cards right and just let the value fall right into their laps. Malaki Starks fits into the defense like a glove, and the Mike Green pass rush upside was worth his off-field risk at 59^th overall.

Baltimore added to the offensive line in the third round, soundly filling out their remaining needs.

The reigning AFC North champions added defensive line and secondary depth on Day 3 while also drafting a replacement kicker.

Detroit Lions: C+

• Tyleik Williams (DT – DET): Round 1 Pick 28
• Tate Ratledge (OG – DET): Round 2 Pick 57
• Isaac TeSlaa (WR – DET): Round 3 Pick 70 (originally via Jacksonville)
• Ahmed Hassanein (EDGE – DET): Round 6 Pick 196
• Miles Frazier (OG – DET): Round 5 Pick 171
• Dan Jackson (S – DET): Round 7 Pick 230
• Dominic Lovett (WR – DET): Round 7 Pick 244

The Lions made an eyebrow-raising move in Round 3, trading essentially two future third-round picks to move up to 70^th overall to select WR Isaac TeSlaa.

Detroit did get back two 6^th-rounders, but this was an overly aggressive move that doesn’t look great on paper for a WR that many believed would be selected on Day 3.

Now, the last time the Lions made some curious selections in this draft (going against consensus), we all know they had the last laugh when it came to them “reaching” on certain guys. They don’t care what “we” think.

It’s clear the team highly valued the 6-foot-4, 214-pound receiver’s projection to the next level, making sure they were able to draft him.

I liked TeSlaa as a sleeper pre-draft, and he will be rising in the rookie rankings after earning third-round draft capital.

Although his counting stats in the SEC don’t jump off the page, TeSlaa was very efficient. He had the fourth-highest passer rating generated when targeted in the FBS last season (145.5) and a perfect passer rating on targets of 20+ air yards (eye emojis).

Detroit also sent a fourth-round pick to move up three spots to select Tate Ratledge 57^th overall. This was my favorite selection they made in the first three rounds.

Graham Glasgow‘s performance declined in 2024. He allowed 36 pressures and earned a 57.9 PFF grade, highlighting the need for upgrades. Kevin Zeitler also signed with the Titans in free agency. Ratledge, along with sixth-rounder Miles Frazier, gives the Lions more options at the guard spot.

I also felt that the Lions needed an edge rusher more than a defensive tackle. I’m not burying the Tyliek Williams pick by any means – he was rumored to be a backend 1^st-round pick and he is a massive interior disruptor – but it seemed a bit redundant with the defensive tackle signing they made in free agency.

The overall grade goes back to the TeSlaa trade-up decision selection. Because more often than not, trading multiple future picks for a Round 3 WR doesn’t pan out. And now he enters the league with loftier expectations.

Washington Commanders: B+

• Josh Conerly Jr. (OT – WAS): Round 1 Pick 29
• Trey Amos (CB – WAS): Round 2 Pick 61
• Jaylin Lane (WR – WAS): Round 4 Pick 128
• Kain Medrano (LB – WAS): Round 6 Pick 205
• Jacory Croskey-Merritt (RB – WAS): Round 7 Pick 245

Very focused on the top two selections that the Commanders made, and I love both the selections. Josh Conerly provides some tackle/guard flexibility with Sam Cosmi coming off an injury. Ole Miss’s Trey Amos provides experience against defending WRs from the SEC over the last two seasons.

The secondary needed help after finishing bottom 3 in PFF passing grade in 2024. A healthy CB Marson Lattimore should help – they also signed CB Jonathan Jones to a one-year deal worth $5.5 million – but they had to add depth. Lattimore’s not exactly known for staying healthy.

I think the only fault with the Commanders’ draft that keeps them out of the A range was not selecting an RB/EDGE player earlier. They went WR in Round 4 and LB in Round 6.

I know the Commanders were lighter on picks given the trades they made earlier in the offseason, but passing out on such a strong class for RB/EDGE is my one main criticism.

Although they might have found a sleeper with Jacory Croskey-Merritt.

Jacory Croskey-Merritt had a very unusual finish to his college career, as eligibility limitations allowed him just one game played for the Wildcats in 2024. And this was after he came off a monster 2023 season with New Mexico when he posted a 33% dominator rating.

He was PFF’s 4^th-highest graded running back in 2023. JCM’s real-life draft capital was expected to be low after essentially missing all of 2024 without an NFL Combine invite (although he did have pro day testing numbers), but his film and Shrine Bowl Offensive MVP honors suggested that somebody will take a shot at him.

Croskey-Merritt has shades of Aaron Jones to his play style. It’s a shame we couldn’t see more of him in 2024, as he came out of the gates red hot. On 13 carries in Arizona’s opener against New Mexico, Croskey-Merritt rushed for 106 yards on 13 carries with one rushing touchdown and seven forced missed tackles.

Buffalo Bills: B

• Maxwell Hairston (CB – BUF): Round 1 Pick 30
• T.J. Sanders (DT – BUF): Round 2 Pick 41
• Landon Jackson (DE – BUF): Round 3 Pick 72
• Deone Walker (DT – BUF): Round 4 Pick 109
• Dorian Strong (CB – BUF): Round 6 Pick 177
• Chase Lundt (OT – BUF): Round 6 Pick 206
• Jordan Hancock (CB – BUF): Round 5 Pick 170
• Jackson Hawes (TE – BUF): Round 5 Pick 173
• Kaden Prather (WR – BUF): Round 7 Pick 240

The Bills traded with the Bears to move up to No. 41. The Bills also got picks 72 and 240.

This was a very rich deal for the Bills to make, especially for DT T.J. Sanders. It seemed like there was still a decent defensive tackle depth on the board, and I’m not sure Buffalo had to move up 15 slots to fall back 10 slots in Round 3 (while also losing a 4^th to a 7^th).

That being said, I think they more than made up the value by taking edge rusher Landon Jackson in Round 3. I think the Jackson value makes up almost all the value lost by moving up for Sanders. Although it’s still a slight loss, given they burned a fourth-rounder to move up.

I do like the next defensive lineman they selected early in Round 4, Deon Walker, although the Bills had to trade a 5^th-rounder to move up.

All in all, the Bills addressed their biggest and most immediate roster needs by beefing up the defense while drafting CB Maxwell Hairston in Round 1.

Solid draft.

Philadelphia Eagles: A

• Jihaad Campbell (LB – PHI): Round 1 Pick 31
• Andrew Mukuba (S – PHI): Round 2 Pick 64
• Ty Robinson (DT – PHI): Round 4 Pick 111
• Mac McWilliams (CB – PHI): Round 5 Pick 145
• Smael Mondon Jr. (LB – PHI): Round 5 Pick 161
• Myles Hinton (OT – PHI): Round 6 Pick 191
• Drew Kendall (C – PHI): Round 5 Pick 168
• Kyle McCord (QB – Syracuse): Round 6 Pick 181
• Antwaun Powell-Ryland (EDGE – PHI): Round 6 Pick 209
• Cameron Williams (OT – PHI): Round 6 Pick 207

Should we expect anything less than another A Draft Grade from the Eagles?

I’m sure, as not giving them a bad grade after they scooped Alabama’s Jihaad Campbell, who fell due to medical concerns. And among the “team needs” the loaded Eagles had to address; safety was atop the list.

And naturally, it’s the first position they select in Round 2. And they got a great one from Texas.

The Eagles finished the draft with 8 selections on Day 3. The Eagles picked up an additional sixth-round pick from Denver at the end of Round 3.

And as one would expect, they selected the top defensive tackle remaining on Daniel Jeremiah’s top-150 big board.

They also added another CB, a Georgia linebacker and two offensive linemen who will undoubtedly turn into Pro Bowlers in the next three years.

Kansas City Chiefs: A-

• Josh Simmons (OT – KC): Round 1 Pick 32
• Omarr Norman-Lott (DT – KC): Round 2 Pick 63
• Ashton Gillotte (DE – KC): Round 3 Pick 66
• Nohl Williams (CB – KC): Round 3 Pick 85
• Jalen Royals (WR – KC): Round 4 Pick 133
• Jeffrey Bassa (LB – KC): Round 5 Pick 156
• Brashard Smith (RB – KC): Round 7 Pick 228

Offensive tackle Josh Simmons was the perfect fit for the Chiefs in the back of Round 1. When healthy, the former Buckeye had an argument to be the best tackle in this year’s draft class. Now with KC, he can be eased back slowly from his injury.

After adding more protection for Patrick Mahomes, the next priority was beefing up the defensive line. Bang-bang.

Then, to tie a bow on Day 2, CB Nohl Williams from California. The perfect Steve Spagnuolo cornerback.

KC made a great trade at the end of Round 3, moving a 2026 fourth-round pick to move up ten spots to select Williams.

And then of course, the Chiefs add a YAC monster in Jalen Royals in the fourth round.

When healthy, the Utah State WR was very productive this past fall and was well on his way to another supremely dominant campaign. Per Sports Info Solutions, Royals posted a 30% target share while ranking seventh in yards after the catch per reception and fourth in forced broken tackle rate (35%).