The 2025 NFL Draft, held from April 24 to 26, delivered a mix of strategic picks, bold trades, and unexpected slides.Here’s a breakdown of how teams fared, based on expert analyses and draft grades.
Top Performers
New York Giants
The Giants earned high marks for selecting defensive standout Abdul Carter and quarterback Jaxson Dart, addressing key needs on both sides of the ball.
Cleveland Browns
Despite trading down from the #2 pick, the Browns capitalized by selecting quarterback Shedeur Sanders at No. 144, a move praised for its value and potential upside. 
Seattle Seahawks
Under new head coach Mike Macdonald, the Seahawks focused on versatility, drafting players like Notre Dame DT Rylie Mills and Alabama TE Robbie Ouzts. Analysts commended the team’s balanced approach to bolstering both offense and defense.
Teams with Questionable Drafts
Detroit Lions
The Lions faced criticism for their draft strategy, particularly for trading up to select Arkansas WR Isaac TeSlaa in the third round. Many analysts viewed this as a reach, and the team’s overall draft was ranked among the lower tiers.
Pittsburgh Steelers
The Steelers were noted for not addressing their quarterback situation early in the draft, a decision that raised concerns given the team’s current roster needs.
Notable Trades and Picks
Jacksonville Jaguars
The Jaguars made a bold move by trading up to the #2 pick to select dual-threat star Travis Hunter. While the trade cost them multiple high picks, including a future first-rounder, the acquisition of a player capable of contributing at both wide receiver and cornerback was seen as a significant win.
Kansas City Chiefs
The Chiefs traded down one spot for an extra fifth-round pick and selected offensive tackle Josh Simmons, a top talent who had slipped due to a prior injury. This move was lauded for its strategic value.
Surprising Slides
Shedeur Sanders
Once projected as a first-round pick, quarterback Shedeur Sanders fell to the fifth round, where he was picked by the Browns at No. 144. This unexpected slide became one of the draft’s most talked-about storylines.
Final Thoughts
The 2025 NFL Draft showcased teams taking calculated risks and making strategic decisions to shape their rosters. While some franchises emerged as clear winners, others faced scrutiny for their choices. As always, the true impact of these selections will unfold in the seasons to come.
