The 2025 NFL Draft kicked off with high energy and drama as the Tennessee Titans made the first overall selection, while the Jacksonville Jaguars pulled off a blockbuster trade to secure one of the most dynamic players in the class.
Tennessee Titans Select QB Cameron Ward No. 1 Overall
The Titans wasted no time in making their choice official, selecting Miami quarterback Cameron Ward with the first pick. Ward, who began his college career at Incarnate Word before transferring to Miami, now becomes the third Hurricane to be selected first overall in the Common Draft era, joining Vinny Testaverde (1987) and Russell Maryland (1991).
Ward, known for his ability to extend plays and create outside of structure, gives Tennessee a franchise quarterback with high upside. His quick processing and improvisational skills make him an exciting fit for the Titans’ offense, especially with weapons like Calvin Ridley at his disposal.
When asked about the moment, Ward was emotional but focused. “It’s special. God did everything for me, my family, and I’m just blessed to be here,” he said. “I’m ready to get to work with the Titans and my teammates. This is all I’ve been dreaming of.”
Jaguars Trade Up for Two-Way Star Travis Hunter
The biggest shock of the night came when the Jacksonville Jaguars traded up from No. 5 to No. 2, sending future picks to the Cleveland Browns to select Colorado’s Travis Hunter, the most versatile player in the draft.
Hunter, a dynamic wide receiver and cornerback, made history as the first player in the Common Draft era to be selected in the top two as a two-way prospect. The last time a receiver was taken this high was Calvin Johnson in 2007, and no pure cornerback has gone in the top two since at least the 1970s.
Hunter’s elite ball skills and conditioning make him a unicorn in this class. At Colorado, he played over 115 snaps per game, excelling on both sides of the ball. His ability to mirror receivers in coverage while also being a game-breaking offensive weapon gives Jacksonville an instant-impact player.
“I had no conversations with them outside of the Combine, so I didn’t know what to expect,” Hunter admitted after being drafted. “I wanted to cry, but I’m too excited!”
Giants, Patriots, and Browns Round Out the Top 5
- New York Giants (No. 3): Penn State edge rusher Abdul Carter
- A Von Miller-like pass rusher, Carter joins a stacked defensive front featuring Kayvon Thibodeaux and Brian Burns.
- “I’m thankful to be here. New York is getting everything out of me,” Carter declared.
- New England Patriots (No. 4): LSU tackle Will Campbell
- The Patriots prioritize protecting Drake Maye, selecting a mauling offensive lineman with All-Pro potential.
- “I’m all fight—I’ll die to protect Drake Maye,” Campbell said.
- Cleveland Browns (No. 5): Michigan defensive tackle Mason Graham
- Graham, a dominant interior force, will pair with Myles Garrett to form a terrifying defensive line.
- “I’m going to do everything I can to put Cleveland back on top,” Graham stated.
Raiders, Jets, Panthers Make Bold Picks
- Las Vegas Raiders (No. 6): Boise State RB Ashton Jeanty
- The first pick of the Pete Carroll era, Jeanty is a tackle-breaking machine compared to Marshawn Lynch.
- “I’m ready to entertain in Vegas every Sunday!” Jeanty exclaimed.
- New York Jets (No. 7): Missouri OT Ahman Mambu
- The Jets bolster their offensive line to protect Aaron Rodgers, passing on a tight end.
- Carolina Panthers (No. 8): Arizona WR Tetairoa McMillan
- A massive 6’5″ target for Bryce Young, McMillan brings elite 50-50 ball skills.
- “The Cali connection with Bryce is going to be something different,” McMillan promised.
Saints, Bears Close Out Top 10
- New Orleans Saints (No. 9): Texas OT Kelvin Banks Jr.
- The Saints continue building their offensive line under Kellen Moore.
- Chicago Bears (No. 10): Michigan TE Colston Loveland
- A smooth route-runner compared to Mark Andrews, Loveland gives Chicago another weapon.
Conclusion: A Draft Full of Surprises
The 2025 NFL Draft delivered fireworks from the start, with Cam Ward leading the way as the new face of the Titans and Travis Hunter making history as the ultimate two-way threat. Teams like the Jaguars and Raiders made aggressive moves, while franchises like the Patriots and Giants stuck to their blueprints.
As these rookies prepare to enter the league, one thing is certain: the future of the NFL is in exciting hands.