​2025 NFL Draft So Far: Top Winners and Strategic Surprises

The 2025 NFL Draft has already delivered its share of surprises and strategic maneuvers through the first three rounds. As we look ahead to the final day, here's an in-depth analysis of the standout picks, unexpected developments, and what's next in the draft process.

🏆 Top Winners of Round 1

Tennessee Titans – Cam Ward (QB, Miami)

The Titans made a decisive move by selecting Cam Ward as the first overall pick. Ward's dynamic playmaking ability and strong arm make him a promising franchise quarterback. His selection signals Tennessee's commitment to revitalizing their offense and building around a young, talented leader.​

New York Giants – Abdul Carter (EDGE, Penn State) & Jaxson Dart (QB, Ole Miss)

General Manager Joe Schoen executed a brilliant draft strategy by selecting Abdul Carter, an explosive edge rusher from Penn State, with the No. 3 overall pick. Carter’s speed and pass-rushing instincts fill a crucial need for the Giants' defense. Later, Schoen traded up to snag Jaxson Dart, a talented quarterback from Ole Miss, at No. 25. Dart’s strong arm and mobility offer the Giants a developmental quarterback with the potential to lead the franchise into the future — all without sacrificing major future assets.

Kansas City Chiefs – Value Picks Across the Board

The Chiefs once again showed why they are perennial contenders by maximizing value on Day 1. Kansas City selected three players who were projected to go higher, showcasing their ability to stay patient and pick the best available talent. Their strategic moves strengthened both depth and starting positions, setting the team up for continued success without needing flashy trades.

Josh Simmons -  (OL, Ohio State)

Omarr Norman - (DT, Tennessee)

Ashton Gillotte - (EDGE, Louisville)

Philadelphia Eagles – Jihaad Campbell (LB, Alabama)

Looking to reinforce the heart of their defense, the Eagles selected Jihaad Campbell, a versatile linebacker from Alabama. Campbell’s athleticism, range, and ability to cover tight ends and running backs give Philadelphia much-needed flexibility in their defensive scheme. His value at the spot they picked him made this a particularly savvy move.

Green Bay Packers – Matthew Golden (WR, Texas)

The Packers addressed a long-standing need by drafting Matthew Golden, a dynamic wide receiver out of Texas, at No. 23. Known for his crisp route running and explosive acceleration, Golden instantly becomes a dangerous new weapon in Green Bay’s evolving offense. His presence will open up the field for both the running game and the young quarterback’s development.

Chicago Bears – Luther Burden III (WR, Missouri)

The Bears addressed their need for offensive weapons by drafting Luther Burden III. Known for his explosive speed and reliable hands, Burden is poised to become a key target in Chicago's passing game, providing a boost to their aerial attack.​

Cleveland Browns – Dillon Gabriel (QB, Oklahoma)

The Browns made headlines by selecting Dillon Gabriel, a prolific college quarterback known for his accuracy and leadership. Gabriel's addition adds depth to Cleveland's quarterback room and presents a potential future starter to develop within their system.​

Baltimore Ravens – Mike Green (DL, Georgia)

Baltimore continued its tradition of strong defensive drafting by picking Mike Green. Green's strength and agility on the defensive line are expected to bolster the Ravens' pass rush and run defense, fitting seamlessly into their aggressive defensive scheme.​

Jacksonville Jaguars – Travis Hunter (WR/CB, Colorado)

In a bold trade-up, the Jaguars secured Travis Hunter, a rare two-way player excelling at both wide receiver and cornerback. Hunter's versatility offers Jacksonville flexibility on both sides of the ball, and his athleticism is expected to make an immediate impact.​

❗️ Surprising Picks and Reaches

Chicago Bears: The Bears' selection of tight end Colston Loveland at No. 10 was considered a reach, as he was projected to go later in the first round. ​

Dallas Cowboys: Choosing guard Tyler Booker earlier than expected raised eyebrows, as analysts had him projected in the second round. 

Miami Dolphins: The Dolphins' pick of defensive tackle Kenneth Grant was seen as a reach, with many expecting him to be a Day 2 selection. ​

New York Giants: Opting for quarterback Jaxson Dart over higher-ranked Shedeur Sanders at No. 25 was a notable surprise, especially given Sanders' pre-draft projections.

😲 The Biggest Surprises of the Round 1 Draft

Malaki Starks (S, Georgia)

While Malaki Starks was projected as a top-10 pick, he slid down the board, eventually being selected by the Baltimore Ravens. Starks' fall was unexpected, but his ball-hawking skills and field awareness make him a valuable addition to Baltimore's secondary.​

Shedeur Sanders (QB, Colorado)

Quarterback and son of NFL legend Deion Sanders, Shedeur Sanders was once projected as a top pick, experienced a significant slide, going undrafted in the first round. Analysts speculate that concerns over his father Deion Sanders' influence and demands may have contributed to teams passing on him. His wait has become a focal point of draft discussions, as teams weighs in on his potential against other positional needs.​