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The 2025 NFL Draft is upon us, as franchises across the league prepare to enhance their rosters with some of the best talent from college football ahead of the upcoming season.
Here’s a brief overview of this year’s Draft, with all three days available for live viewing on Sky Sports.
2025 NFL Draft
When: Thursday, April 24 – Saturday, April 26
Where: Green Bay, Wisconsin
First pick: Tennessee Titans
Most picks: Baltimore Ravens and San Francisco 49ers (11 picks each)
Fewest picks: Minnesota Vikings (4 picks)
Mr. Irrelevant: Kansas City Chiefs (last pick)
Total picks: 257
This year’s Draft will take place at Lambeau Field and the Titletown District in Green Bay, Wisconsin, spanning from April 24 to April 26. The first round kicks off live on Sky Sports Main Event, Action, and Mix at 1 AM on April 25, with rounds two and three following at midnight later that day. Day three will cover rounds four through seven, starting at 5 PM on April 26.
Live on Sky Sports:
1 AM, Friday, April 25: Round One
12 AM, Saturday, April 25: Rounds Two and Three
5 PM, Saturday, April 26: Rounds Four, Five, Six, and Seven
Understanding the Draft Process
The order of the draft is organized from worst to first, based on the previous season’s records. The reigning Super Bowl champions, the Philadelphia Eagles, will hold the final pick of the first round after their victorious Super Bowl run against the Kansas City Chiefs in February.
Usually, the team with the least favorable record receives the first overall selection. This year, the Tennessee Titans secured the top pick after completing the 2024 season with a record of 3-14. Following them are the Cleveland Browns and the New York Giants, both also finishing 3-14 but with a better Strength of Schedule. The fourth overall pick belongs to New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel, with the Jacksonville Jaguars and their new coach Liam Coen picking shortly thereafter.
Projected First-Round Order (subject to change)
NFL Draft Order
1. Tennessee Titans
2. Cleveland Browns
3. New York Giants
4. New England Patriots
5. Jacksonville Jaguars
6. Las Vegas Raiders
7. New York Jets
8. Carolina Panthers
9. New Orleans Saints
10. Chicago Bears
11. San Francisco 49ers
12. Dallas Cowboys
13. Miami Dolphins
14. Indianapolis Colts
15. Atlanta Falcons
16. Arizona Cardinals
17. Cincinnati Bengals
18. Seattle Seahawks
19. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
20. Denver Broncos
21. Pittsburgh Steelers
22. Los Angeles Chargers
23. Green Bay Packers
24. Minnesota Vikings
25. Houston Texans
26. Los Angeles Rams
27. Baltimore Ravens
28. Detroit Lions
29. Washington Commanders
30. Buffalo Bills
31. Kansas City Chiefs
32. Philadelphia Eagles
Who Will Be the First Selection?
In recent decades, NFL teams have often chosen a quarterback with the No. 1 pick. This trend is expected to continue in 2025. Miami quarterback Cam Ward is widely anticipated to be the first name called by NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell when the Titans make their initial selection.
Ward, recognized as a highly talented quarterback, previously began his collegiate career at Incarnate Word before transferring to Washington State and then to Miami for his senior year, where he had an impressive season, throwing for 4,313 yards and 39 touchdowns with only seven interceptions. His ability to execute plays under pressure and extend plays gives him a compelling edge.
The Draft’s Noteworthy Prospects
A standout story in this year’s Draft is Colorado’s Travis Hunter, a remarkable dual-threat player excelling as both a cornerback and wide receiver. Hunter’s diverse skills and his Heisman Trophy win position him as one of the most intriguing prospects available. Teams are grappling with how best to utilize his unique talents at the next level.
Hunter’s 2024 stats are telling: 96 receptions for 1,258 yards and 15 touchdowns, alongside significant contributions on defense with 32 tackles and four interceptions. His capacity to perform in multiple roles adds a fascinating dynamic to his draft stock.
Additionally, consider the potential of Penn State pass rusher Abdul Carter, known for his aggressive play style and record-breaking 23.5 tackles for loss in the previous season, placing him as a likely top-three pick. Meanwhile, quarterback Shedeur Sanders‘s path has become uncertain, with teams weighing his exceptional talent against potential doubts regarding his athleticism.
Other notable names like Boise State running back Ashton Jeanty and Georgia’s edge rusher Jalon Walker are also expected to make a significant impact given their standout collegiate careers.
Anticipating Trades
Draft day is ripe with potential for trades as teams eye specific players, which can drastically shift the dynamics of the event. Historical examples of successful trades show the inherent risks and rewards; for instance, past moves to acquire NFL greats like Jerry Rice and Patrick Mahomes highlight the high stakes that can come with trading up the draft board.
The Uncertainty of the Draft
Despite extensive preparation and analysis, the NFL Draft invariably comes with surprises. History reminds us of both triumphs and follies, from late-round gems to unexpected slips down the board. The unpredictability of the event adds to its excitement and allure, affirming that every selection matters.
Catch all three days of the 2025 NFL Draft live on Sky Sports Action, beginning with Round One at 1 AM on Friday morning.
Source
www.skysports.com