2025 NFL Mock Draft: B/R NFL Scouting Department’s Post-Super Bowl Picks

With Super Bowl 59 in the books, the NFL world is already setting its sights on the upcoming 2025 NFL Draft. The Philadelphia Eagles’ dominant 40-22 victory over the Kansas City Chiefs has wrapped up the current season, but for NFL teams, the future is on the horizon. As franchises aim to bolster their rosters, the Bleacher Report NFL Scouting Department has released its post-Super Bowl mock draft, offering predictions for the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft.

This mock draft reflects the current needs of NFL teams as they prepare for the next season. With high stakes on the line, teams are looking for players who can immediately contribute to their roster and help them contend for championships in the years to come. Whether it’s a future franchise quarterback, a dominant edge rusher, or a versatile weapon who can contribute both on offense and defense, the 2025 NFL Draft is expected to be packed with top-tier talent. Here is a breakdown of the top seven picks in this highly anticipated draft.

1. Tennessee Titans: Cam Ward, Quarterback, Miami

The Tennessee Titans find themselves at a pivotal moment in their franchise’s history. The team has struggled to find consistent quarterback play from Ryan Tannehill, who has shown his age and limitations. Meanwhile, Malik Willis, once seen as a potential starter, has yet to live up to expectations. As such, the Titans select Cam Ward, a quarterback out of Miami, with the first overall pick.

Ward is one of the most exciting quarterback prospects in recent memory. He possesses an elite arm, combined with excellent mobility, making him a dual-threat weapon capable of breaking down defenses with both his arm and his legs. His poise under pressure and leadership are qualities that will endear him to his teammates and help him thrive in a high-pressure NFL environment. For a team that needs a new face to lead the offense, Ward represents both the present and the future.

Ward’s ability to make all the throws—whether it’s deep downfield or on intermediate routes—along with his athleticism to escape the pocket and pick up extra yards with his legs, makes him a perfect fit for the Titans’ offense, which has historically leaned on the running game and play-action passing. With Derrick Henry in the backfield, Ward could thrive in this system and take advantage of mismatches created by the play-action.

Why it makes sense for the Titans: The Titans need a quarterback who can become the centerpiece of their offense for years to come. Cam Ward offers the tools to develop into a franchise player who could elevate the team to new heights.

2. Cleveland Browns: Abdul Carter, Edge Rusher, Penn State

The Cleveland Browns are one of the more well-rounded teams in the league, but they have struggled to consistently put pressure on opposing quarterbacks. Despite having a strong defense overall, their inability to consistently disrupt the pocket has hampered their efforts against high-powered offenses in the AFC North. To fix this, the Browns select Abdul Carter, an edge rusher from Penn State, with the second overall pick.

Carter is a dynamic pass rusher with a unique combination of size, speed, and technique. Standing at 6’4″ and weighing 250 pounds, he has the frame to shed blockers and the quickness to outpace them. Carter’s strength as both a pass rusher and against the run would help provide balance to the Browns’ defensive front. His relentless motor and ability to disrupt plays make him an ideal fit for Cleveland’s defense, which will only be stronger with the addition of a disruptive edge rusher.

Why it makes sense for the Browns: With Myles Garrett already wreaking havoc on one side of the defensive line, adding Carter to the other side would form an incredibly dangerous pass-rushing tandem. This pairing could give the Browns the edge they need to take their defense to an elite level.

3. New York Giants: Shedeur Sanders, Quarterback, Colorado

The New York Giants enter the 2025 NFL Draft in a solid position. Their defense has improved under Brian Daboll, and they have a strong supporting cast on offense. However, their biggest question mark remains at quarterback. While Daniel Jones has shown flashes of potential, he has yet to consistently perform at an elite level. With the third overall pick, the Giants select Shedeur Sanders, a quarterback from Colorado.

Sanders, the son of NFL Hall of Famer Deion Sanders, has been one of the most talked-about quarterbacks in college football. He has a high football IQ, impressive arm strength, and the ability to make plays both from the pocket and on the move. Sanders is known for his leadership and ability to rise to the occasion, which would be vital for a Giants team looking to return to playoff contention. His ability to read defenses and make quick decisions under pressure makes him an excellent choice for a team that needs stability at quarterback.

Why it makes sense for the Giants: The Giants need a quarterback who can lead them into the future. Sanders brings the skill set and intangibles needed to be successful in the NFL, and his arrival would be the next step in the Giants’ rebuilding process.

4. New England Patriots: Travis Hunter, Cornerback/Wide Receiver, Colorado

The New England Patriots are looking to reload their roster with versatile and dynamic playmakers who can make an impact on both sides of the ball. Enter Travis Hunter, a hybrid cornerback and wide receiver from Colorado. Hunter’s unique skill set allows him to contribute to both the offense and defense, which makes him an ideal fit for a team that values versatility and the ability to exploit mismatches.

Hunter is widely regarded as one of the top cornerbacks in college football, known for his ball skills, speed, and ability to shut down opposing receivers. However, he has also shown his ability to excel as a wide receiver, with strong hands and the ability to make plays after the catch. His dual-threat capability gives the Patriots a unique weapon to use in various formations and packages, keeping opposing coaches guessing.

Why it makes sense for the Patriots: Hunter’s versatility offers the Patriots a rare opportunity to improve both their defense and offense. He would be a significant asset to a team looking for a playmaker who can contribute in multiple ways.

5. Jacksonville Jaguars: Travis Hunter, Cornerback/Wide Receiver, Colorado

The Jacksonville Jaguars have a franchise quarterback in Trevor Lawrence, and their offense has shown great potential. However, the team is still lacking elite depth on both sides of the ball. To address this, the Jaguars use the fifth overall pick to select Travis Hunter, a cornerback and wide receiver from Colorado, just like the Patriots.

Adding Hunter to their roster gives the Jaguars a much-needed boost in both their secondary and receiving corps. On defense, Hunter’s ability to lock down opposing receivers and make big plays on the ball will be invaluable. Offensively, he brings a dynamic playmaker who can stretch the field and create big plays for Lawrence. Hunter’s football IQ and ability to read the game from both sides of the ball make him a perfect fit for the Jaguars’ system.

Why it makes sense for the Jaguars: Hunter’s dual-threat skills allow the Jaguars to address multiple areas of need with one player. He will make an immediate impact on both offense and defense, helping the team stay competitive in a rapidly improving AFC South division.

6. Chicago Bears: Quandarrius Robinson, Edge Rusher, Alabama

The Chicago Bears are in a rebuilding phase and are looking to add players who can contribute immediately. The team’s most pressing need is on the defensive side of the ball, particularly at the edge rusher position. With the sixth overall pick, the Bears select Quandarrius Robinson, an edge rusher from Alabama.

Robinson has the physical tools to be an elite pass rusher in the NFL. He combines speed, power, and a relentless motor, making him a nightmare for offensive tackles. His ability to generate pressure on the quarterback will be a game-changer for the Bears defense, which needs to become more disruptive to compete in the NFC North. Robinson is also solid against the run, making him a well-rounded defensive player.

Why it makes sense for the Bears: Adding Robinson gives the Bears a much-needed presence in the pass-rush game, helping them apply pressure on quarterbacks in an increasingly pass-heavy NFL.

7. Arizona Cardinals: Jacob Bayer, Offensive Tackle, Arkansas State

The Arizona Cardinals have a promising young quarterback in Kyler Murray, but their offensive line has been a weak link for years. Protecting Murray and ensuring that he has time in the pocket is essential to the team’s success. With the seventh overall pick, the Cardinals select Jacob Bayer, an offensive tackle from Arkansas State.

Bayer is a physical and skilled blocker with the ability to dominate in both the run and passing games. His size, strength, and technical proficiency allow him to protect the quarterback’s blindside and open running lanes for the offense. As the Cardinals look to build around Murray, securing a top-tier offensive tackle is essential to creating a balanced and successful offense.

Why it makes sense for the Cardinals: The Cardinals have been plagued by poor offensive line play, and Bayer’s arrival would provide immediate stability and protection for Murray, allowing him to thrive and develop into one of the NFL’s elite quarterbacks.

As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, the stakes are high for teams looking to improve their rosters and secure their futures. Whether it’s selecting a future franchise quarterback like Cam Ward or a versatile dual-threat player like Travis Hunter, the draft will play a crucial role in shaping the NFL’s landscape for years to come. Teams are looking to address their most pressing needs, from quarterback to edge rusher, offensive line, and defensive secondary, and these first-round selections reflect the importance of building for both the present and future success.