Alright, enough of the chitter-chatter, shall we get one thing straight? Having “Sanders” on your jersey might automatically buy you a front-row seat at the draft conversation. But it doesn’t necessarily guarantee a first-round selection. Shedeur Sanders, son of Deion Sanders (hype, summed up), is walking into the 2025 NFL Draft with a name that commands respect. Coach Prime, yes. But his son’s prime is yet to come because this can’t be ‘it’.

I want you to ask yourself: if his last name wasn’t Sanders, would you still be talking about him as a surefire one of the top picks in the first round? Or would he be another solid but not spectacular QB prospect buried in a weak draft class?

Let’s be real—NFL teams aren’t exactly lining up to draft ‘just solid’ in the first round. They want signal-callers with elite traits, guys who can single-handedly tilt the field. Think Josh Allen’s cannon, Lamar Jackson’s wheels, or Justin Herbert’s everything. And while Shedeur has some polished tools—good accuracy, decent processing, solid mechanics—he doesn’t quite have the “wow” factor that gets front offices writing blank checks. Some teams do see first-round potential, sure. But others? They’re hesitant, and for good reason.

Dane Brugler of The Athletic confirmed that not every team has a first-round grade on Shedeur. That doesn’t mean he won’t hear his name called on Day 1—because, let’s face it, quarterback desperation in the NFL is very much predictable. All it takes is one team willing to roll the dice. But here’s the kicker: Sanders’ production (4,137 yards, 37 touchdowns, 10 picks) is good, not jaw-dropping. So, that’s where I will be heading with this mock draft: Shedeur dropping out of Top 20... Now, if you remember the chaos from my 1.0 First Round Mock Draft and Second Round Mock Draft, this one’s not going to be any different.

1. New York Giants (from the Titans) – Cam Ward (QB), Miami

The Giants are staring down a lifeless QB room if they don’t act pronto. And Cam Ward might be their only golden ticket. Trading up from No. 3 to No. 1 isn’t exactly a casual Tuesday move—no team has pulled it off since 1975—but desperate times, eh? Ward’s electric playmaking and confidence have made him a hot commodity, and the Giants can’t afford to play it safe. “Cam Ward is far and away the best quarterback in this year’s draft,” says Jordan Reid. If the Big Blue wants their guy, they better be ready to roll the dice.

2. Cleveland Browns – Abdul Carter (Edge), Penn State

The Browns don’t need a Myles Garrett replacement—they need a running mate. And Abdul Carter fits the bill. The Penn State pass rusher is an absolute wrecking ball, racking up 12 sacks and 24 tackles for loss last season. With Garrett locked in on a record-setting extension (seems to be the only way of locking him in Cleveland), the Browns can prioritize impact over desperation. They need more pressure, more chaos. And Carter? He delivers both.

3. Tennessee Titans (from the Giants) – Travis Hunter (CB/WR), Colorado

The Titans have options, but unless they’re all-in on Cam Ward, trading back might be the smarter play. That way, they stay in range for Travis Hunter—arguably the most versatile player in the draft—while stockpiling picks. The Heisman winner’s elite coverage skills make him an immediate asset at cornerback, though Tennessee could eventually unleash his offensive potential. Coach Brian Callahan seems set on Hunter as a defensive cornerstone, but his game-changing ability on both sides of the ball is hard to ignore. If the Titans pass on a quarterback, Hunter is the kind of talent worth the gamble.

4. New England Patriots – Will Campbell (OT), LSU

The Patriots didn’t go big in free agency to fix their O-line, so the draft is where they have to make it count. That’s why I see them grabbing LSU’s Will Campbell at No. 4. Sure, his arm length isn’t ideal for a tackle, but his tape speaks louder—just two sacks allowed in two SEC seasons, elite balance, and a nasty streak that fits Mike Vrabel’s mindset. “His lack of length shows up on film,” but the Patriots might not have the luxury of being picky. Whether he sticks at tackle or shifts to guard, Campbell is a foundational piece for keeping Drake Maye upright.

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

The Jags want to level up their defense—and they should. Enter Mason Graham. As Tom Fornelli put it, he’s “extremely athletic, strong, and has a motor that goes forever.” Another expert sees him as a “perennial Pro Bowler and anchor of a defense,” who doesn’t need long arms to wreck the opposition. If he does end up going to Jacksonville, then maybe Shad Khan’s claim of strong contenders could come through. Not that it all depends on Mason, especially when Liam Coen might want O help. But passing on such a disruptor? Think again!

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

The Cowboys were all in on Ashton Jeanty at No. 12. Not too fast, Jerry Jones… Tom Brady and the Raiders might have other plans. With Geno Smith now leading the offense, Vegas wants to bet on one of the most electric playmakers in the draft. Jeanty is a do-it-all back—explosive, tough, and lethal as a receiver. Pete Carroll has preached the importance of a strong run game, and Jeanty fits that vision perfectly. “If you don’t take care of the ball, none of that matters,” Carroll said. Well, Jeanty takes care of business.

7. New York Jets – Tyler Warren (TE), Penn State

The Jets need more weapons for Justin Fields, and Tyler Warren could provide him with a pair of security in that department. He’s got the size, athleticism, and swagger—just ask NFL.com’s Lance Zierlein, who calls him the “ultimate ‘whatever, whenever’ player” in this draft. Garrett Wilson can’t do it all himself, and with Warren in the mix, the Jets finally secure their receiver corps while also making sure that the security blanket is one heck of a freight. No wonder Colin Cowherd believes in this Fields era with the Gang Green.

8. Carolina Panthers – Jalon Walker (Edge), Georgia

After fielding one of the most laughably bad defenses in NFL history, the Panthers can’t make a mockery of themselves. AGAIN! Enter Jalon Walker. A Carolina native who just might be the sleeper pick of this draft. When the hype train is running for your Carters, Sanders, Wards, Hunters, Walker aims for a walk more than a talk. GM Dan Morgan tried to beef up the trenches in free agency, but let’s be real—Tershawn Wharton and Bobby Brown III aren’t striking fear into anyone. So why not take the guy who calls playing for his hometown team a “great opportunity”? And considering Carolina gave up a league-worst 179.8 rushing yards per game, they need him everywhere.

9. New Orleans Saints – Will Johnson (CB), Michigan

This is another no-brainer, if you ask me. Before a toe injury cut his 2024 season short, Will Johnson was the guy—one of the best corners in the draft class. And even with the limited tape from last year, his talent isn’t up for debate. The Saints need to get younger, faster, and cheaper on defense, and Johnson checks every box. As Bob McManaman put it, he’s “the total package.” New Orleans’ secondary has been in desperate need of a lockdown corner, and Will’s got the will alongside size, speed, and instincts that scream instant impact. If the Saints want to stop relying on aging vets and overpriced contracts, this is ‘IT’.

10. Chicago Bears – Armand Membou (OT), Missouri

The Bears are done playing turnstile at offensive line. If not, then they should be. WAKEY WAKEY, Windy City, Armand Membou could be the one with all the answers. Chicago already made waves by trading for Joe Thuney and Jonah Jackson—but that’s just the appetizer. Membou is the main course. The Bears gave up 68 sacks last season, so yeah, Caleb Williams deserves better than running for his life every Sunday. Membou brings power, athleticism, and versatility—the guy who can let Williams actually throw the football. Protect Caleb, win games—that could be his Sophomore Symphony.

11. San Francisco 49ers – Mike Green (Edge), Marshall

The 49ers’ defensive line took some hits in free agency—now it’s time to reload. What better than to start the revamp with Mike Green? He led the FBS with 17 sacks in 2024 and brings the kind of juice this front seven needs. Chris Trapasso calls him “ridiculously productive,” and San Francisco already got a close look at him during the Senior Bowl, where assistant coach K.J. Wright worked with him firsthand. There’s risk, sure—his transfer from Virginia came with some baggage—but talent-wise? Green is made for the Niners’ system. If they want to keep harassing quarterbacks, this is the pick.

12. Dallas Cowboys – Shemar Stewart (DT), A&M

Ah, the Big D. I love to call it the Jerry Jones’ Circus. I hope I don’t need any explanations for that… Consider the recent example where he once again sat on his hands, signing a few guys early and then basically saying, ‘Yeah, we’re good.’ Meanwhile, the Cowboys still need a legit pass-rusher to line up with Micah Parsons. For the sake of the history the Cowboys have, JJ should look to pair Parsons with Shemar Stewart, a 6’5”, 267-pound athletic freak who tested like Myles Garrett at the combine but somehow finished college with just 4.5 career sacks. Concerning? Sure. But hey, the Cowboys love betting on upside, and if Stewart puts it all together, he could be the heir to DeMarcus Lawrence, who just packed his bags for Seattle.

13. Miami Dolphins – Kelvin Banks Jr. (OT), Texas

Miami needs to protect Tua like he’s the last slice of pizza at a Super Bowl party. Especially with his run with the concussions. Securing James Daniels in free agency was a start, but this O-line is a work in progress still. Enter Kelvin Banks Jr., a monster from Texas who could step in immediately at right tackle, keeping Tua’s blindside safe. That means Austin Jackson shifts over to left tackle—a move that makes sense, considering his run-blocking upside (even if his pass pro still gives Dolphins fans heartburn).

14. Indianapolis Colts – Matthew Golden (WR), Texas

If the Colts want to cash in on their Golden Ticket, Matthew Golden is the pick. Whether it’s Anthony Richardson or Daniel Jones under center, they need a true playmaker—someone who can turn a routine catch into six points. Golden isn’t just a receiver; he’s a walking highlight reel. He led his college team in receiving yards (987) and receptions (58). Sure, he’s got some focus drops, but his big-play ability, elite body control, and game-changing speed make him worth the bet. This could be the start of Indy’s Golden era in offense

15. Atlanta Falcons – Colston Loveland (TE), Michigan

Colston Loveland could be the Falcons’ hit in a game of hit or miss. This Michigan product is a walking mismatch—too big for corners, too fast for linebackers, and a reliable third-down target for any quarterback. Now, before you yell, “But we have Kyle Pitts!”—hear me out. Pitts is an athletic marvel, but Atlanta’s O still needs a true chain-mover, a middle-of-the-field dominator who can be a QB’s best friend. Enter Loveland, fresh off setting a Michigan program record for tight end receptions in 2024. His skill set pairs perfectly with Drake London and Bijan Robinson, giving Kirk Cousins the kind of security blanket he’s thrived with in the past (see: Hockenson, Rudolph, Reed).

16. Arizona Cardinals – Jahdae Barron (CB), Texas

Cardinals and roster holes? This goes hand in hand. At this point, they might need more patches than a worn-out practice jersey. With the 16th overall pick, they’re in an awkward draft spot—too early for some, too late for others—but Jahdae Barron might just be the help they need. A Texas product and the reigning Jim Thorpe Award winner, Barron is the kind of defensive back who doesn’t just play football—he studies it, diagnoses it, and then wrecks your offensive game plan. Versatility? Check. He’s lined up at corner, safety, and nickel, making him a Swiss Army Knife for a defense that desperately needs a reliable playmaker on the boundary. Barron’s five interceptions and 11 pass breakups in 2024 scream: “I am the one you need.”

17. Cincinnati Bengals – Mykel Williams (Edge), Georgia

Trey Hendrickson can explore trade after Cincy gives the green signal. Jay Tufele? Gone to the Big Apple. If Trey’s still here, then he’d be needing an opposite destructor. Mykel Williams, says, ‘Hi!’ Okay, the elephant in the room? Once touted as a potential top-five pick, his stock dipped after an ankle injury limited him to just five sacks in 2024. But let’s be real—his tape still screams “problem” for opposing offenses. And with Cincinnati ranking 25th in sacks last season (Hendrickson basically carrying the pass rush on his back), they can’t afford to run it back with the same crew.

18. Seattle Seahawks – Tyler Booker (OG), Alabama

Sam Darnold to Seattle? Sure, why not keep the fans on edge after his solid (but possibly fluky) stint in Minnesota? If the Seahawks are actually serious about making this work, they need to give him protection—something they’ve completely ignored in free agency. John Schneider admitted they whiffed on top O-line targets, but desperation spending isn’t his style. That’s why at No. 18, Alabama’s Tyler Booker feels inevitable. Two sacks allowed in 978 pass-pro snaps in the SEC? Yeah, that’ll do. He’s strong, polished, and plug-and-play at left guard.

19. Tampa Bay Buccaneers – Donovan Jackson (OG), Ohio

Guarding an in-form Baker Mayfield might be the best investment the Bucs can make, and Donovan Jackson looks like the perfect bodyguard for the job. Tampa Bay’s offensive line needs some muscle, and Jackson brings just that. A national champion with Ohio State, a First-Team All-American, and a three-time All-Big Ten selection, he’s already got a résumé that screams made for pro. With the Bucs allowing 40 sacks last season, adding Jackson isn’t just a good move—it’s a necessity.

20. Denver Broncos – Emeka Egbuka (WR), Ohio

The Broncos know that Bo Nix and Sean Payton could be the QB-HC duo of the current footballing scene. All things considered, there’s no reason to believe otherwise. But a QB can only prepare a meal for himself. To feast in the postseason football next season, he’s going to need some weapons. Let’s start with Emeka Egbuka, the Ohio State receiver who has spent his college career as the “other guy” next to Marvin Harrison Jr.—but don’t get it twisted, this dude can ball. He’s got crisp routes, reliable hands-81 receptions for 1011 yards, scoring 10 TDs.  Nix needs a target he can trust on third downs, in the red zone, and when things break down. Egbuka is that guy.

21. Pittsburgh Steelers – Shedeur Sanders (QB), Colorado

Shedeur Sanders in Pittsburgh? Now that’s a plot twist. The Steelers are stuck in quarterback limbo ever since Justin Fields takes the highway to join the Jets—waiting on Aaron Rodgers (seriously?), bringing back Mason Rudolph (for what, exactly?), and now staring at a draft scenario where Sanders somehow slips to No. 21. Feels like a long shot, right? The kid has top-10 talent, but if teams get antsy about his fit, Pittsburgh could pounce. Imagine Sanders slinging it to George Pickens and DK Metcalf? That’s the kind of firepower that could finally wake up this offense. But let’s be real—if the Steelers want him, they’ll have to move up more than expecting him to fall this low. But I feel like Steel City could also be the place for him from where he could send out a loud and clear message to all the teams who missed him.

22. Los Angeles Chargers – Omarion Hampton (RB), North Carolina

The Chargers taking a running back in the first round? Bold move, but Jim Harbaugh loves himself a bruising back, and Omarion Hampton fits the bill. With J.K. Dobbins likely testing free agency and Gus Edwards’ future uncertain, L.A. needs a workhorse. Hampton checks all the boxes—1,660 rushing yards, 15 touchdowns, and just enough juice in the passing game to keep defenses honest. Some mocks have him going earlier, but if the Chargers land him at No. 22, Harbaugh gets his ground-and-pound identity locked in.

23. Green Bay Packers – Derrick Harmon (DT), Oregon

The Packers’ run defense has been about as sturdy as a paper wall in a windstorm, so that’s where the whole Derrick Harmon talks have sneaked in. But I don’t see no nonsense. I mean, he is big, mean, and built to plug gaps. Losing TJ Slaton to the Bengals didn’t help, and while Kenny Clark, Devonte Wyatt, and Karl Brooks are holding down the fort, they need a wrecking ball in the middle. Harmon fits like a glove in Jeff Hafley’s scheme, and let’s be real—Brian Gutekunst loves a freak athlete. Redundant? Maybe. Necessary? Absolutely. Green Bay’s defensive front just got a whole lot nastier (if they land Harmon), and that’s exactly what they need to compete in the NFC.

24. Minnesota Vikings – Nick Emmanwori (S), South Carolina

Nick Emmanwori in a Brian Flores defense? That’s like giving a Ferrari to a speed freak (maybe the F1 fans would laugh after Ferrari’s Australian GP showing, but for the laymen that’s fast)—pure chaos, in the best way. At 6’3″, 220 pounds, and running a 4.38, he’s got the range of a free safety and the physicality of a linebacker. The Vikings still have Harrison Smith playing Jedi master, which gives Emmanwori time to refine his game before taking over. Sure, instincts need sharpening, but his ability to fly downhill and wreck plays is undeniable. If Flores gets his hands on him, Minnesota’s secondary could become troublesome.

25. Houston Texans – Josh Simmons (OT), Ohio

The Texans taking an OL here would be about, well, very predictable, to say the least. Although, I won’t be surprised if they don’t. But needs must… After nuking their offensive line by trading away Laremy Tunsil and firing Bobby Slowik, Houston has made it clear: the old protection plan for C.J. Stroud wasn’t cutting it. Enter Josh Simmons, a high-ceiling tackle with the kind of athleticism that makes scouts drool. Sure, he’s coming off a torn patellar tendon, but if he bounces back, he might just be the best tackle in this class. The Texans need a rebuild up front, and Simmons could be the foundation.

26. Los Angeles Rams – Donovan Ezeiruaku (Edge), Boston

The Chargers landing Donovan Ezeiruaku? Now that’s a move with some serious juice. With 16.5 sacks last season—second in the FBS—this guy doesn’t just get after quarterbacks; he haunts them. And let’s talk athleticism—fastest three-cone time among edge rushers? That’s freaky. The Chargers’ pass rush was already running on fumes despite having Khalil Mack and Joey Bosa, so adding Ezeiruaku gives them a spark now and a future star when Mack inevitably slows down. Sure, he needs work against the run, but the pass-rush upside? Ridiculous.

27. Baltimore Ravens – Malaki Starks (S), Georgia

The Ravens love nothing more than scooping up elite talent that inexplicably slides on draft night, and Malaki Starks could be their next steal. A rangy, instinctive safety, Starks would give Baltimore’s defense even more versatility alongside Kyle Hamilton—because why settle for one elite chess piece when you can have two? He’s got the speed, the smarts, and the ball-hawking ability to thrive in a system that loves disguising coverages and keeping quarterbacks guessing. If Starks somehow falls into Baltimore’s lap, expect Eric DeCosta to sprint to the podium. Another classic Ravens move—letting the draft come to them and winning big.

28. Detroit Lions – Kenneth Grant (DT), Michigan

The Lions’ defensive line is getting a Hutch boost, but let’s not pretend everything is sunshine and kneecap bites just yet. Alim McNeill’s ACL tear left a big ol’ gap in the trenches, and here’s where Ruke Orhorhoro—I mean, Tyler Davis—wait, no—T’Vondre Sweat—okay, fine, Kenneth Grant—could step in. At 6’4″, 331 pounds, Grant moves like a guy half his size, but he’s still figuring out how to turn those freakish traits into production. Detroit loves a nasty, physical front, and Grant could be their next wrecking ball—assuming they don’t let him slip past them like a missed gap assignment.

29. Washington Commanders – James Pearce Jr. (Edge), Tennessee

The Commanders’ Cinderella run came up just short, but with Jayden Daniels proving he’s the real deal, Washington is shifting its focus to the other side of the ball. Enter James Pearce Jr., a quarterback’s worst nightmare. Over the past two seasons, he’s piled up 28 tackles for loss, 17.5 sacks, and two forced fumbles—numbers that scream game-wrecker. With the O-line reinforced and the roster beefed up through trades and free agency, adding Pearce gives Washington a relentless edge presence. The NFC East is a battlefield, and the Commanders might’ve just found their newest pass-rushing weapon.

30. Buffalo Bills – Maxwell Hairston (CB), Kentucky

The Bills need a second cornerback, and Maxwell Hairston brings speed they don’t currently have. He ran a 4.28 at the combine—the fastest among all corners—and plays with the kind of aggression Buffalo likes in its secondary. His frame (6-foot, 180 pounds) isn’t ideal for matching up with bigger receivers, but his ability to jump routes and recover quickly should make him a solid fit. Imagine a heavy-lifter dropping you… Man, it’s not WWE, but that’s where he makes the gridiron his ring. With Rasul Douglas still unsigned and no clear replacement on the roster, adding Hairston would give the Bills a high-upside option in a division loaded with receivers who can stretch the field.

31. Kansas City Chiefs – Walter Nolen (DT), Ole Miss

Kansas City’s defensive line isn’t in crisis, but it’s not exactly set for the long haul either. Chris Jones is still dominant, but he’s 30, and Tershawn Wharton is out the door. So, Walter Nolen doesn’t really sound like a bad pick, right? Okay, he shouldn’t have slipped this far. But I am saying he could. All good for KC, eh? At 6-foot-4, 290 pounds, he’s not a space-eating nose tackle, but that’s not what the Chiefs need. They need someone who can knife through gaps, collapse pockets, and make life miserable for quarterbacks. If Spags can refine his technique, Nolen could be a nightmare for offensive lines in an already dangerous Chiefs defense.

32. Philadelphia Eagles – Grey Zabel (OL), North Dakota State

Howie Roseman loading up on offensive linemen? Shocking. But seriously, Grey Zabel makes perfect sense for an Eagles team that never stops investing in the trenches. He held his own at left tackle for North Dakota State before shifting inside at the Senior Bowl, where he looked like a natural. With Mekhi Becton gone, Zabel steps in as a versatile depth piece who could develop into a long-term starter. He’s athletic, technically sound, and exactly the type of lineman Jeff Stoutland turns into a monster. Classic Philly move—win the Super Bowl, then reload up front like nothing happened.