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\u2019s 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Titans, holding the No. 1 overall pick after a dismal 2024 season, wasted no time addressing their quarterback woes. They selected Cam Ward<\/strong>, the highly touted Miami quarterback, who is widely regarded as the top passer in this draft class. Ward\u2019s extensive college experience (57 starts), playmaking ability, and pocket presence drew comparisons to 2024 rookies Jayden Daniels and Bo Nix. Tennessee\u2019s 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In a surprising trade-up, the Jacksonville Jaguars moved to the No. 2 spot and selected Travis Hunter<\/strong>, the versatile Colorado star and Heisman Trophy winner. Hunter\u2019s 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\u2019s intent to add a game-changer to their roster.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Giants, picking third, opted for Abdul Carter<\/strong>, a disruptive edge rusher from Penn State. Carter\u2019s explosive first step and relentless motor made him a top-rated pass rusher in this class, addressing New York\u2019s 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Patriots made waves by selecting Boise State running back Ashton Jeanty<\/strong> at No. 4. Jeanty, a Heisman finalist, brings elite contact balance and vision to New England\u2019s backfield. This pick reflects the Patriots\u2019 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Raiders, desperate for a franchise quarterback, landed Shedeur Sanders<\/strong> 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Jets bolstered their receiving corps by selecting Tetairoa McMillan<\/strong>, Arizona\u2019s standout wide receiver, at No. 6. McMillan\u2019s 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\u2019s passing game.<\/p>\n\n\n\n With Derek Carr\u2019s 2025 availability in doubt due to a shoulder injury, the Saints took Jaxson Dart<\/strong> at No. 7. Dart\u2019s physical traits, work ethic, and ability to distribute passes from the pocket made him a fit for new head coach Kellen Moore\u2019s system. The Saints\u2019 decision to draft a quarterback early reflects their urgency to address the position long-term.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Bears, focused on protecting quarterback Caleb Williams, selected Kelvin Banks Jr.<\/strong>, a dominant offensive tackle from Texas, at No. 8. Banks addresses Chicago\u2019s 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\u2019 development.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Cowboys, looking to pair a dynamic receiver with CeeDee Lamb, drafted Luther Burden III<\/strong> at No. 9. Burden\u2019s explosiveness and ability to evade defenders make him a downfield threat for Dak Prescott. Dallas, which hasn\u2019t had two 800-yard receivers since 2021, hopes Burden can elevate their passing attack.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Vikings, under defensive guru Brian Flores, selected Jahdae Barron<\/strong>, a versatile Texas cornerback, at No. 10. Barron\u2019s inside\/outside flexibility and 4.39 40-yard dash speed make him a perfect fit for Minnesota\u2019s aggressive secondary schemes. This pick strengthens a defense that helped the Vikings remain competitive in 2024.<\/p>\n\n\n\n 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\u2019s 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n As Rounds 2 and 3 commence on April 25, teams will continue to address needs, with players like Alabama\u2019s Jalen Milroe<\/strong> (QB), Ohio State\u2019s Tyleik Williams<\/strong> (DT), and Texas\u2019 Matthew Golden<\/strong> (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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n2. Jacksonville Jaguars (via trade with Cleveland Browns): Travis Hunter, WR\/CB, Colorado<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
3. New York Giants: Abdul Carter, Edge, Penn State<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
4. New England Patriots: Ashton Jeanty, RB, Boise State<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
5. Las Vegas Raiders: Shedeur Sanders, QB, Colorado<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
6. New York Jets: Tetairoa McMillan, WR, Arizona<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
7. New Orleans Saints: Jaxson Dart, QB, Ole Miss<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
8. Chicago Bears: Kelvin Banks Jr., OT, Texas<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
9. Dallas Cowboys: Luther Burden III, WR, Missouri<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
10. Minnesota Vikings: Jahdae Barron, CB, Texas<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Notable Later Picks in Round 1<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Trends and Takeaways<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Looking Ahead<\/h2>\n\n\n\n