Sanders, once considered a potential first- or second-round talent, had been passed over for more than 140 selections. Many analysts, including NFL.com’s Eric Edholm, had projected Sanders to the Browns on Day 2. Instead, Cleveland waited until early in Day 3 to make their move.

Ironically, Sanders is not even the first quarterback the Browns selected this draft — Cleveland also took Dillon Gabriel out of Oregon in the third round. With Joe Flacco and Kenny Pickett already on the roster, the Browns now find themselves with a crowded and unpredictable quarterback room.

How the competition will shake out is anyone’s guess. Flacco offers veteran leadership, Pickett is still trying to revive his young career, Gabriel brings mobility and upside, and Sanders — despite his tumble — arrives with the same polished arm and poise that made him a star at Colorado.

For Sanders, the slide might sting now, but Cleveland could offer a valuable opportunity. With no entrenched long-term starter in place, the door is wide open for him to carve out a role and prove doubters wrong.

Most importantly for Sanders: the long, painful wait is finally over.

No Shedeur, No Shock?

Sanders, the son of NFL Hall of Famer and Colorado head coach Deion Sanders, entered the draft with high expectations following a high-profile collegiate career. However, through 102 picks across three rounds, no team has taken a chance on him. Whether it’s due to perceived on-field limitations, scheme fit, or off-field concerns, teams are clearly hesitant — at least for now.

Day 2 Highlights & Storylines

While Shedeur waits, teams were busy adding future starters and high-upside prospects across both rounds:

Cleveland Browns Load Up

After trading down from the No. 2 overall pick to allow Jacksonville to take Travis Hunter, the Browns began restocking their roster with quantity. Cleveland opened Day 2 by selecting Carson Schwesinger (LB, UCLA) at No. 33 and later added Quinshon Judkins (RB, Ohio State) and Harold Fannin Jr. (TE, Bowling Green). They also grabbed Dillon Gabriel (QB, Oregon) late in Round 3, a notable move as they continue to build depth behind Deshaun Watson.

Quarterbacks Trickling In

While the quarterback class beyond Cam Ward (No. 1 to the Titans) hasn’t generated much excitement, we did see a few passers go:

• Tyler Shough (Saints, 40th overall)

• Dillon Gabriel (Browns, 94th overall)

• Jalen Milroe (Seahawks, 92nd overall)

None of them were named Shedeur Sanders.

Weapons and Protectors

The Patriots gave themselves a boost by selecting TreVeyon Henderson (RB, Ohio State) and Kyle Williams (WR, Washington State). The Bears added offensive firepower with Luther Burden III (WR, Missouri), while the Chargers grabbed Tre Harris (WR, Ole Miss).

Jaguars Stay Aggressive

After trading up on Day 1 for Travis Hunter, the Jaguars remained active, adding Caleb Ransaw (CB, Tulane) and Wyatt Milum (G, West Virginia) in Round 3. Jacksonville’s front office clearly believes they’re close to serious contention.

Defensive Arms Race

Edge rushers and defensive backs flew off the board. Some of the big names included:

• Donovan Ezeiruaku (Cowboys)

• JT Tuimoloau (Colts)

• Nick Emmanwori (Seahawks)

• Will Johnson (Cardinals)

The defensive depth in this draft continues to show, with multiple teams doubling down on bolstering their front seven and secondary.

Looking Ahead to Day 3

Shedeur Sanders’ wait for a phone call now heads into Saturday. It’s rare for a quarterback with his production and pedigree to go undrafted this long, but as the league has shown time and again — nothing is guaranteed.

Will a team finally take a shot on him in Rounds 4–7? Or will Sanders go the undrafted free agent route, entering the league with a chip on his shoulder?

Either way, all eyes will remain on one of the most talked-about names of the 2025 draft class — still on the board heading into Day 3.

While Sanders watched his name go uncalled, another Buffalo stole the spotlight.

Jaguars Land Travis Hunter in Aggressive Trade-Up

The Jacksonville Jaguars stunned the draft world by trading up to the No. 2 overall spot — originally owned by the Cleveland Browns — to select the dynamic two-way phenom Travis Hunter. The cornerback/wide receiver hybrid from Colorado became the centerpiece of the draft’s biggest move, with Jacksonville surrendering a package of picks to secure Hunter.

Hunter, widely regarded as the most versatile player in the draft, is expected to start immediately at corner and contribute offensively in specialty packages under head coach Doug Pederson.

Titans Go QB at No. 1, Giants Build in the Trenches

The Tennessee Titans kicked off the draft by selecting Miami quarterback Cam Ward, ushering in a new era after a season of quarterback uncertainty. The pick signals the franchise’s commitment to youth and dynamic playmaking at the position.

At No. 3, the New York Giants beefed up their defensive front with the selection of Penn State edge rusher Abdul Carter, a high-motor defender with elite burst and versatility.

Round 1 Highlights and Full Recap

Other major storylines included:

• The New England Patriots went offensive line with LSU’s Will Campbell at No. 4, continuing their rebuild in the trenches.

• Ashton Jeanty, the explosive Boise State running back, was taken by the Las Vegas Raiders at No. 6.

• Kelvin Banks Jr. (OT, Texas) went to the Saints at No. 9, while Colston Loveland, a rising tight end from Michigan, landed in Chicago with the Bears at No. 10.

• Defensive depth dominated the middle and back of the round, with selections like Mykel Williams (EDGE, Georgia), Kenneth Grant (DT, Michigan), and Shemar Stewart (EDGE, Texas A&M).

Here’s the full list of Round 1 selections:

1. Titans – Cam Ward, QB, Miami

2. Jaguars (via Browns) – Travis Hunter, CB/WR, Colorado

3. Giants – Abdul Carter, EDGE, Penn State

4. Patriots – Will Campbell, OT, LSU

5. Browns (via Jaguars) – Mason Graham, DT, Michigan

6. Raiders – Ashton Jeanty, RB, Boise State

7. Jets – Armand Membou, OT, Missouri

8. Panthers – Tetairoa McMillan, WR, Arizona

9. Saints – Kelvin Banks Jr., OT, Texas

10. Bears – Colston Loveland, TE, Michigan

11. 49ers – Mykel Williams, EDGE, Georgia

12. Cowboys – Tyler Booker, G, Alabama

13. Dolphins – Kenneth Grant, DT, Michigan

14. Colts – Tyler Warren, TE, Penn State

15. Falcons – Jalon Walker, EDGE, Georgia

16. Cardinals – Walter Nolen, DT, Mississippi

17. Bengals – Shemar Stewart, EDGE, Texas A&M

18. Seahawks – Grey Zabel, G, North Dakota State

19. Buccaneers – Emeka Egbuka, WR, Ohio State

20. Broncos – Jahdae Barron, CB, Texas

21. Steelers – Derrick Harmon, DT, Oregon

22. Chargers – Omarion Hampton, RB, North Carolina

23. Packers – Matthew Golden, WR, Texas

24. Vikings – Donovan Jackson, G, Ohio State

25. Giants (via Texans) – Jaxson Dart, QB, Mississippi

26. Falcons (via Rams) – James Pearce Jr., EDGE, Tennessee

27. Ravens – Malaki Starks, SAF, Georgia

28. Lions – Tyleik Williams, DT, Ohio State

29. Commanders – Josh Conerly Jr., OT, Oregon

30. Bills – Maxwell Hairston, CB, Kentucky

31. Eagles (via Chiefs) – Jihaad Campbell, LB, Alabama

32. Chiefs (via Eagles) – Josh Simmons, OT, Ohio State

The Shedeur Sanders Fallout

Despite entering the first round of the draft with significant media buzz and impressive collegiate numbers, Shedeur Sanders’ name was never called. Multiple sources reported concerns around his interview process, perceived entitlement, and leadership questions — all of which may have contributed to his shocking slide out of the round altogether.

Still, league insiders expect Sanders to land with a team as a second rounder, with interest reportedly coming from several quarterback-needy franchises.

Looking Ahead

With Travis Hunter now a Jaguar and Cam Ward expected to start Day 1 in Tennessee, the 2025 draft may be remembered as a turning point for multiple franchises — but it could also be defined by the player who wasn’t picked at all.

The next chapter begins now.

Here’s a breakdown of the top 15 picks from Cowherd’s latest mock draft and the logic behind them:

1. Tennessee Titans — QB Cam Ward, Miami (FL)

Cowherd starts things off with a big swing. Cam Ward is one of the most dynamic quarterbacks in college football, and Colin sees him as a franchise-changing presence. For a Titans team in need of a true offensive identity, Ward’s arm talent and athleticism make him the face of the rebuild.

2. Cleveland Browns — WR/CB Travis Hunter, Colorado

One of the most versatile prospects in recent memory, Travis Hunter goes second overall. Cowherd loves playmakers, and Hunter is exactly that—on both sides of the ball. The Browns get a Swiss Army knife who can shift games in multiple phases.

3. New York Giants — QB Shedeur Sanders, Colorado

Colin doubles down on QB talent, putting Deion Sanders’ son in the Big Apple. Shedeur’s poise, pocket presence, and football IQ impressed Cowherd all season long. With Giants quarterback play still underwhelming, the Giants make a splash at quarterback.

4. New England Patriots — EDGE Abdul Carter, Penn State

Cowherd believes in defense—and Carter fits the modern NFL mold as a sideline-to-sideline playmaker with elite burst. The Patriots need defensive juice, and Carter provides it immediately.

5. Jacksonville Jaguars — DT Mason Graham, Michigan

The Jags bolster their defensive interior with Michigan’s powerhouse lineman. Graham brings grit, motor, and intelligence—Cowherd notes he’s a culture-setter in the trenches.

6. Las Vegas Raiders — RB Ashton Jeanty, Boise State

The first real surprise. In a league that often devalues running backs, Cowherd zigzags and picks Jeanty, a dynamic runner who can impact the game in multiple ways. He views Jeanty as a foundational offensive weapon.

7. New York Jets — TE Tyler Warren, Penn State

Cowherd loves mismatches—and Warren is a huge one. He sees the Jets getting a red-zone monster and a reliable safety valve for whoever is under center.

8. Carolina Panthers — WR Tetairoa McMillan, Arizona

Carolina desperately needs receiver help, and Cowherd provides it in the form of one of the most consistent, explosive pass-catchers in the draft. McMillan could be a true WR1 for years.

9. New Orleans Saints — CB Will Johnson, Michigan

Cowherd stays defense-focused with the Saints, nabbing one of the most polished cover corners in the class. Johnson has lockdown potential and helps reestablish a defensive identity in New Orleans.

10. Chicago Bears — LB Jalon Walker, Georgia

Physical, fast, and fundamentally sound—Walker checks all the boxes for Cowherd, who values instinctive linebackers who can lead a defense. He potentially sees Walker as a future All-Pro.

11. San Francisco 49ers — OT Kelvin Banks Jr., Texas

Smart, strong, and technically refined, Banks is a great fit for the 49ers’ offensive scheme. Cowherd emphasizes the importance of O-line depth and sees Banks as a plug-and-play starter.

12. Dallas Cowboys — RB Omarion Hampton, North Carolina

Cowherd returns to the running back well, giving Dallas a power back to anchor their run game. With Tony Pollard gone and no clear RB1, Hampton brings toughness and home-run ability.

13. Miami Dolphins — OT Will Campbell, LSU

Campbell is nasty, experienced, and dependable—all traits Cowherd loves in linemen. The Dolphins get protection for Tua Tagovailoa and someone who can help control the line of scrimmage.

14. Indianapolis Colts — OT Armand Membou, Missouri

Indianapolis stays in the trenches with Membou, a rising star in the SEC. Cowherd calls this a “no-brainer” pick to ensure long-term success for Anthony Richardson.

15. Atlanta Falcons — EDGE Shemar Stewart, Texas A&M

To close out the top 15, Cowherd selects an explosive edge rusher to elevate Atlanta’s pass rush. Stewart has the upside of a game-wrecker—and Cowherd believes that’s exactly what the Falcons need.

Final Thoughts: Colin Cowherd’s mock draft isn’t about consensus—it’s about conviction. From bold quarterback picks to running backs in the top 15, this draft reflects Cowherd’s belief in production, potential, and positional impact. It might not mirror what NFL teams end up doing, but it offers a sharp perspective on what should happen on draft night.

Here’s a breakdown of Kiper’s projected top 8 picks:

1. Tennessee Titans – QB Cam Ward, Miami
Kiper has the Titans taking the dynamic quarterback out of Miami with the first overall pick. Ward’s arm talent, poise under pressure, and ability to create plays make him the potential face of the franchise for Tennessee as they look to rebuild at the most important position.

2. Cleveland Browns – WR/CB Travis Hunter, Colorado
A two-way phenom, Hunter’s rare ability to dominate on both sides of the ball makes him a unique weapon. Kiper projects the Browns capitalizing on that versatility by adding an explosive playmaker who can change the game in all three phases.

3. New York Giants – OLB Abdul Carter, Penn State
Carter brings speed, power, and sideline-to-sideline range as a linebacker. The Giants are in need of a defensive tone-setter, and Carter’s high motor and tackling ability could instantly boost their front seven.

4. New England Patriots – OT Will Campbell, LSU
In classic Patriots fashion, Kiper has New England going trench-first, securing a dominant left tackle to protect their young quarterback. Campbell is one of the most polished linemen in the class and could be a Day 1 starter.

5. Jacksonville Jaguars – DT Mason Graham, Michigan
The Jags add power to their defensive interior with Graham, a disruptive force against both the run and pass. His athleticism and strength make him an ideal fit for a team trying to rebuild its defensive identity.

6. Las Vegas Raiders – RB Ashton Jeanty, Boise State
A surprise pick here, but Kiper sees the Raiders taking a chance on the electric Jeanty, who dominated college defenses with his vision, burst, and pass-catching ability. With Josh Jacobs gone, Jeanty becomes the new offensive focal point.

7. New York Jets – OT Armand Membou, Missouri
Protecting Aaron Rodgers (or whoever the QB may be post-2025) remains a priority. Membou has risen fast on draft boards thanks to his athleticism, length, and ability to hold his own against top pass rushers.

8. Carolina Panthers – LB Jalon Walker, Georgia
Kiper notes a projected superstar for the Panthers, where they land Georgia linebacker Jalon Walker. An instinctive and explosive player, Walker could be a foundational piece for Carolina’s rebuilding defense.

As always, Kiper’s final mock is bound to generate debate and speculation. With only days left until draft night, the stage is set for surprises, trades, and franchise-defining picks.

This isn’t your average mock. We’ve gone beyond the headlines to give you real insight into each pick—why it makes sense, what each team needs, and how these players can reshape their futures. From Cam Ward going No. 1 overall to Shedeur Sanders’ landing spot, this mock delivers a fresh look at where the top college stars could land next spring.

We’re also projecting trades, addressing quarterback situations, and spotlighting rising stars you need to know—like Travis Hunter’s versatile impact and Ashton Jeanty’s fit in the NFL. Every selection comes with a full breakdown to help you understand the logic behind each move.

Whether you’re a draft junkie, a casual fan, or someone trying to get a leg up in your dynasty league, this mock draft has something for you.

Read the full breakdown now and see how your team stacks up in our latest 2025 NFL Mock Draft.

Let the debates begin!

Here’s a breakdown of the top quarterbacks in the 2025 draft class:

Top Quarterback Prospects

• Cam Ward (Miami) – A dynamic playmaker with a strong arm and impressive mobility, Ward has positioned himself as one of the top quarterbacks in this class. His ability to extend plays and deliver deep throws will make him highly sought after by QB-needy teams.

• Shedeur Sanders (Colorado) – The son of Hall of Famer Deion Sanders, Shedeur has proven himself as a top-tier passer. With elite accuracy, poise in the pocket, and a strong football IQ, he’s expected to be a high draft pick.

• Jaxson Dart (Ole Miss) – A gunslinger with a fearless mentality, Dart has shown the ability to make big plays under pressure. His experience in a high-powered SEC offense makes him an intriguing option.

• Quinn Ewers (Texas) – One of the most hyped quarterbacks in recent memory, Ewers possesses elite arm talent and has shown flashes of brilliance. If he can improve his consistency, he could be a franchise QB.

• Kyle McCord (Syracuse) – After transferring from Ohio State, McCord had a breakout year with Syracuse. His ability to make quick decisions and execute in a pro-style offense makes him a solid prospect.

• Jalen Milroe (Alabama) – A dual-threat quarterback with explosive athleticism, Milroe is a dangerous playmaker who can hurt defenses with both his arm and legs. His upside is immense.

• Dillon Gabriel (Oregon) – A seasoned veteran, Gabriel’s leadership and accuracy make him an intriguing mid-round prospect. His experience in multiple offensive schemes adds to his value.

• Tyler Shough (Louisville) – A big-bodied quarterback with a strong arm, Shough has the tools to develop into a reliable starter at the next level.

• Will Howard (Ohio State) – A steady and reliable passer, Howard’s experience in a competitive program makes him an attractive option for teams looking for a well-rounded QB.

• Riley Leonard (Notre Dame) – A strong, athletic quarterback with great size and mobility, Leonard has the potential to rise up draft boards as teams look for dual-threat capabilities.

Final Thoughts

This year’s quarterback class features a mix of potential franchise signal-callers and high-upside developmental prospects. With teams constantly searching for their next cornerstone quarterback, expect many of these names to come off the board early in the draft.

Who will emerge as the top pick? That remains to be seen, but one thing is certain—this class has the talent to shake up the league for years to come.

1. Tennessee Titans – Cam Ward, QB, Miami

The Titans are in need of a franchise quarterback, and Cam Ward’s dual-threat ability makes him an exciting prospect. Ward has showcased elite arm talent and mobility, making him a perfect fit for a Tennessee team searching for stability under center.

2. Cleveland Browns – Travis Hunter, WR/CB, Colorado

Travis Hunter is arguably the most versatile player in this draft. As both a wide receiver and cornerback, he brings a rare skill set that could immediately impact the Browns on both sides of the ball. While Cleveland may primarily use him as a receiver to bolster their offense, his defensive ability is also elite.

3. New York Giants – Shedeur Sanders, QB, Colorado

With Daniel Jones struggling to prove he’s the long-term answer, the Giants turn to Shedeur Sanders. The son of Deion Sanders, Shedeur is known for his precision passing and football IQ. He has the poise and leadership to handle the pressure of playing in New York.

4. New England Patriots – Abdul Carter, OLB, Penn State

The Patriots prioritize their defense with Abdul Carter, a dominant pass rusher with the ability to disrupt offenses. With New England looking to rebuild, Carter gives them a cornerstone piece to develop on the edge.

5. Jacksonville Jaguars – Mason Graham, DT, Michigan

Jacksonville strengthens its defensive line with Mason Graham, a powerful interior lineman from Michigan. His ability to stop the run and generate interior pressure will be crucial in a division that features strong rushing attacks.

6. Las Vegas Raiders – Ashton Jeanty, RB, Boise State

The Raiders opt for an offensive weapon in Ashton Jeanty. With uncertainty surrounding Josh Jacobs, Jeanty provides an explosive playmaker who can contribute in both the running and passing game.

7. New York Jets – Armand Membu, OT, Missouri

The Jets prioritize offensive line help with Armand Membu, a dominant tackle prospect. Protecting their quarterback has been an issue, and Membu provides a reliable pass protector with excellent size and athleticism.

8. Carolina Panthers – Tetairoa McMillan, WR, Arizona

Carolina gives young quarterback Bryce Young a dynamic target in Tetairoa McMillan. The Arizona star has great hands, size, and route-running ability, making him a perfect addition to an offense in need of weapons.

9. New Orleans Saints – Will Campbell, OT/G, LSU

The Saints invest in their offensive line with LSU’s Will Campbell, a versatile lineman who can play both tackle and guard. With their offensive line needing reinforcements, Campbell brings both talent and flexibility.

10. Chicago Bears – Tyler Warren, TE, Penn State

The Bears look to give Caleb Williams or Justin Fields another weapon by selecting Penn State’s Tyler Warren. A strong blocker and reliable receiver, Warren will help Chicago’s offense both in the passing and run game.

Final Thoughts

Field Yates’ mock draft highlights the depth and versatility of this year’s class. While quarterbacks dominate the top selections, impact players on both sides of the ball make this an intriguing projection. As the draft nears, expect movement in these rankings based on team needs and pre-draft performances.

1. Tennessee Titans – Cam Ward (QB, Miami)

• Analysis: The Titans targeting a quarterback makes sense given their need for a franchise leader. Cam Ward has shown significant upside with his ability to make plays both inside and outside the pocket. If Tennessee wants a fresh start at QB, Ward could be a strong choice.
• Fit: The Titans’ offensive rebuild could benefit from Ward’s mobility and arm strength, but it might take time for him to adjust to the NFL level.

2. Cleveland Browns – Travis Hunter (WR/CB, Colorado)

• Analysis: Hunter is a rare two-way player, excelling as both a wide receiver and cornerback. While the Browns already have solid wide receiver talent, his versatility could be a game-changer for a team that has struggled with depth in the secondary and playmakers on offense.
• Fit: This pick could make waves, but Cleveland may need to decide whether they want to prioritize his development as a WR or CB.

3. New York Giants – Shedeur Sanders (QB, Colorado)

• Analysis: The Giants have been inconsistent at quarterback, and Shedeur Sanders could bring a dynamic presence to their offense. His poise and ability to handle high-pressure situations could make him a strong candidate to lead the team moving forward.
• Fit: New York might need to invest in its offensive line to ensure Sanders’ success, but this pick signals a potential reset at QB.

4. New England Patriots – Abdul Carter (OLB, Penn State)

• Analysis: Abdul Carter is a ferocious pass rusher and an athletic linebacker who fits the Patriots’ defensive schemes. Vrabel has a history of valuing versatile defenders, and Carter could become a cornerstone for their defense.
• Fit: New England’s need for defensive playmakers makes Carter a logical and impactful pick.

5. Jacksonville Jaguars – Mason Graham (DT, Michigan)

• Analysis: The Jaguars solidify their defensive line with Mason Graham, a dominant force in the trenches. His ability to clog running lanes and pressure the quarterback could complement Jacksonville’s rising defensive unit.
• Fit: Adding Graham would further bolster the Jaguars’ ability to compete in the AFC South, especially against run-heavy teams.

Overall Thoughts:

• Balance: The mock draft emphasizes teams addressing critical needs, with a mix of offensive and defensive focus.
• Surprises: Travis Hunter at No. 2 is a bold prediction, as his two-way play might not translate immediately at the NFL level. His long-term potential is undeniable, though.
• Trends: The emphasis on quarterbacks early highlights how teams are prioritizing the position as foundational for success.

Tennessee’s glaring need at quarterback has been evident throughout the season. Will Levis struggled with accuracy and showed an inability to handle pressure, leaving the Titans in search of a long-term solution at the game’s most important position. Shedeur Sanders has been one of the most talked-about prospects, but questions linger about whether he’s truly worth the top overall selection. Some analysts argue his hype outpaces his production, and just last week, a draft expert on The Rich Eisen Show noted that Sanders wasn’t even projected as a first-round pick earlier this season.

For those doubting Sanders, Miami’s Cam Ward has emerged as another potential candidate for QB1. Ward’s combination of arm strength, mobility, and poise has led some to suggest he’s the better prospect compared to Sanders. If the Titans were to pass on Ward for Sanders, it could be viewed as a significant gamble—or even a mistake.

Meanwhile, Travis Hunter’s name is also in the mix. The Heisman Trophy-winning wide receiver and cornerback is a generational talent who can transform a team on both sides of the ball. However, selecting a non-quarterback with the first overall pick always comes with risks, especially for a team like Tennessee that lacks stability at quarterback.

Adding intrigue to the situation, Shedeur Sanders’ father and head coach, Deion Sanders, has openly stated he will be selective about where his son plays at the next level. The Titans’ recent struggles, lackluster offensive line, and questionable roster depth could make them a less-than-ideal destination for Shedeur. The question looms: Would Coach Prime and Shedeur be willing to say “no” to Tennessee?

The Titans face a monumental decision as they evaluate their options. Do they bet on Shedeur Sanders to be their franchise quarterback, consider the raw but promising Cam Ward, or opt for the once-in-a-lifetime talent of Travis Hunter? With the clock ticking toward draft day, Tennessee’s choice could define the future of the franchise for years to come.