The 2025 NFL Draft kicked off on April 24 at Lambeau Field in Green Bay, Wisconsin, with high anticipation and a flurry of exciting picks. As the first round unfolded, teams addressed critical needs, targeted elite talent, and set the stage for the future of their franchises. Here’s a detailed update on which teams selected which players in the opening round of the 2025 NFL Draft, based on the latest reports and announcements.
1. Tennessee Titans: Cam Ward, QB, Miami
The Titans, holding the No. 1 overall pick after a dismal 2024 season, wasted no time addressing their quarterback woes. They selected Cam Ward, the highly touted Miami quarterback, who is widely regarded as the top passer in this draft class. Ward’s extensive college experience (57 starts), playmaking ability, and pocket presence drew comparisons to 2024 rookies Jayden Daniels and Bo Nix. Tennessee’s decision to stick with the top pick and hand Ward the keys to the franchise signals a new era for a team desperate to compete in the AFC.
2. Jacksonville Jaguars (via trade with Cleveland Browns): Travis Hunter, WR/CB, Colorado
In a surprising trade-up, the Jacksonville Jaguars moved to the No. 2 spot and selected Travis Hunter, the versatile Colorado star and Heisman Trophy winner. Hunter’s rare ability to excel as both a wide receiver and cornerback made him a polarizing yet coveted prospect. The Jaguars reportedly view him as a dynamic offensive weapon, though his defensive skills could see situational use. His selection underscores Jacksonville’s intent to add a game-changer to their roster.
3. New York Giants: Abdul Carter, Edge, Penn State
The Giants, picking third, opted for Abdul Carter, a disruptive edge rusher from Penn State. Carter’s explosive first step and relentless motor made him a top-rated pass rusher in this class, addressing New York’s need for a defensive cornerstone. With uncertainty surrounding their quarterback situation, the Giants chose to bolster their defense, passing on other high-profile passers like Shedeur Sanders.
4. New England Patriots: Ashton Jeanty, RB, Boise State
The Patriots made waves by selecting Boise State running back Ashton Jeanty at No. 4. Jeanty, a Heisman finalist, brings elite contact balance and vision to New England’s backfield. This pick reflects the Patriots’ aim to establish a strong ground game to support their young quarterback, Drake Maye, and compete in the AFC East. Some analysts projected Jeanty as a top-10 pick, but his selection this high raised eyebrows.
5. Las Vegas Raiders: Shedeur Sanders, QB, Colorado
The Raiders, desperate for a franchise quarterback, landed Shedeur Sanders at No. 5. Sanders, known for his accuracy and decision-making, was a popular mock draft pick for Las Vegas. His private workout with the team earlier in April sealed the deal, as the Raiders hope Sanders can stabilize their quarterback position and bring leadership to a rebuilding roster.
6. New York Jets: Tetairoa McMillan, WR, Arizona
The Jets bolstered their receiving corps by selecting Tetairoa McMillan, Arizona’s standout wide receiver, at No. 6. McMillan’s size, agility, and ability to dominate downfield make him a perfect complement to Garrett Wilson. This pick aims to give Aaron Rodgers (or a future quarterback) a true WR1 to elevate New York’s passing game.
7. New Orleans Saints: Jaxson Dart, QB, Ole Miss
With Derek Carr’s 2025 availability in doubt due to a shoulder injury, the Saints took Jaxson Dart at No. 7. Dart’s physical traits, work ethic, and ability to distribute passes from the pocket made him a fit for new head coach Kellen Moore’s system. The Saints’ decision to draft a quarterback early reflects their urgency to address the position long-term.
8. Chicago Bears: Kelvin Banks Jr., OT, Texas
The Bears, focused on protecting quarterback Caleb Williams, selected Kelvin Banks Jr., a dominant offensive tackle from Texas, at No. 8. Banks addresses Chicago’s need for a reliable left tackle, offering athleticism and strength to shore up an offensive line that struggled in 2024. This pick prioritizes building a strong foundation for Williams’ development.
9. Dallas Cowboys: Luther Burden III, WR, Missouri
The Cowboys, looking to pair a dynamic receiver with CeeDee Lamb, drafted Luther Burden III at No. 9. Burden’s explosiveness and ability to evade defenders make him a downfield threat for Dak Prescott. Dallas, which hasn’t had two 800-yard receivers since 2021, hopes Burden can elevate their passing attack.
10. Minnesota Vikings: Jahdae Barron, CB, Texas
The Vikings, under defensive guru Brian Flores, selected Jahdae Barron, a versatile Texas cornerback, at No. 10. Barron’s inside/outside flexibility and 4.39 40-yard dash speed make him a perfect fit for Minnesota’s aggressive secondary schemes. This pick strengthens a defense that helped the Vikings remain competitive in 2024.
Notable Later Picks in Round 1
- San Francisco 49ers (No. 11): Will Johnson, CB, Michigan – The 49ers addressed their secondary with Johnson, despite his injury concerns, banking on his elite coverage skills.
- Green Bay Packers (No. 12): Malaki Starks, S, Georgia – The Packers added a versatile safety to their defense, with Starks’ ability to play multiple roles in the secondary.
- Houston Texans (No. 13): Walter Nolen, DT, Ole Miss – A high-upside interior disruptor, Nolen bolsters Houston’s defensive line alongside Derrick Brown.
- Los Angeles Rams (No. 14): Isaiah Bond, WR, Texas – The Rams added a speedy receiver to complement Davante Adams and Puka Nacua, enhancing their passing attack.
- Philadelphia Eagles (No. 15): Tyler Warren, TE, Penn State – The Super Bowl champions surprised many by drafting a second tight end to pair with Dallas Goedert, aiming for a dominant 12-personnel package.
Trends and Takeaways
The 2025 first round saw a mix of expected selections and surprises. Only three quarterbacks (Ward, Sanders, and Dart) were taken in the top 10, a stark contrast to the 2024 draft’s six in the first 12 picks, reflecting a weaker quarterback class. Running backs, typically devalued in recent drafts, made a strong showing, with Jeanty going as high as No. 4 and projections for others like Omarion Hampton to follow early on Day 2.
Defensive players, particularly edge rushers and defensive backs, were heavily targeted, with Carter, Hunter (as a cornerback option), and Barron among the top selections. The draft also highlighted versatility, with players like Hunter and Starks prized for their multi-positional skills.
Looking Ahead
As Rounds 2 and 3 commence on April 25, teams will continue to address needs, with players like Alabama’s Jalen Milroe (QB), Ohio State’s Tyleik Williams (DT), and Texas’ Matthew Golden (WR) among the top prospects still available. Trades are expected to shake up the board, with teams like the Rams, Texans, and Bengals reportedly active in discussions.
The 2025 NFL Draft is shaping up to be unpredictable, with teams balancing immediate needs and long-term potential. Fans can follow the action live on ESPN, ABC, NFL Network, and NFL+, with Rounds 2-3 starting at 7 p.m. ET on Friday and Rounds 4-7 at noon ET on Saturday.
Note: This recap is based on reported picks and projections from reliable sources as of April 25, 2025. Some selections may differ as the draft progresses.