The 2025 NFL Draft kicked off with an electrifying first round, setting the stage for one of the most captivating drafts in recent history. Surprisingly, only two quarterbacks were selected, with one notably absent: Shedeur Sanders.

Sanders will have to sit tight until Friday as he was left out of the first round—a shocking twist for many.

In a historic move, the Tennessee Titans claimed the No. 1 draft pick for the first time since 1978, choosing Cam Ward from Miami as their franchise quarterback.

Shortly after, the Jacksonville Jaguars made headlines by executing a blockbuster trade with the Browns, seizing Colorado’s dual-threat star, Travis Hunter, at the No. 2 position. The New York Giants followed suit, grabbing Penn State's pass rusher Abdul Carter at No. 3. These initial picks were expected.

However, the Giants caused a stir by trading up to select Ole Miss quarterback Jaxson Dart later in the round, which earned them mixed reviews.

Curious about how each pick unfolded? I've got you covered. Keep this page refreshed for ongoing analysis and grades as the draft continues.

The outcome of this draft could significantly alter team trajectories and even influence next season’s Super Bowl betting odds. The exciting developments over the next few days are crucial.

Draft Grade Highlights for Round 1

Here’s a quick overview of how each first-round pick fared:

1. Titans: Cam Ward, QB, Miami - Grade: B-

Picking Ward first and passing on an elite talent like Travis Hunter raises eyebrows. While Ward is solid, the Titans might have waited until next year for their quarterback.

2. Jaguars: Travis Hunter, WR/CB, Colorado - Grade: A+

An absolute masterstroke! Hunter is the best player in this draft, and Jacksonville’s boldness in this pick shows they mean business.

3. Giants: Abdul Carter, EDGE, Penn State - Grade: A

Prioritizing defense over a quarterback, the Giants snagged the top pass rusher in the draft. It’s a strategic move that aligns with their championship-winning history.

4. Patriots: Will Campbell, OT, LSU - Grade: B-

While Campbell shows promise, it's uncertain he can excel at left tackle. Still, protecting a young quarterback is essential.

5. Browns: Mason Graham, DT, Michigan - Grade: C+

Cleveland has long sought upgrades on the interior, and Graham is a decent fit. However, his size raises questions about his dominance.

6. Raiders: Ashton Jeanty, RB, Boise State - Grade: B+

Seizing the best running back in the draft is a smart play as the Raiders lean toward a ground game, even if drafting a running back this high is typically frowned upon.

7. Jets: Armand Membou, OT, Missouri - Grade: B-

The Jets needed a right tackle, and Membou fits the bill, although he may need time to refine his skills.

8. Panthers: Tetairoa McMillan, WR, Arizona - Grade: C

This pick puzzled me. While the Panthers required offensive support, I believed Matthew Golden was a better choice.

9. Saints: Kelvin Banks, OT, Texas - Grade: B+

Banks is a versatile pick who can bolster the offensive line— a great fit as they look to solidify their front.

10. Bears: Colston Loveland, TE, Michigan - Grade: A

Fantastic choice! Loveland is my top tight end and will be a stellar addition to Chicago’s offensive scheme.

11. 49ers: Mykel Williams, EDGE, Georgia - Grade: B

San Francisco needed edge help, and while Williams' 2024 performance wasn't stellar, his potential is undeniable.

12. Cowboys: Tyler Booker, G, Alabama - Grade: B-

A fundamental pick for the Cowboys. While he’s not the athlete they might have hoped for, he’s tough and provides much-needed support.

13. Dolphins: Kenneth Grant, DT, Michigan - Grade: B+

A solid choice for a team desperately seeking defensive line reinforcement. Grant brings power to their front.

14. Colts: Tyler Warren, TE, Penn State - Grade: B

Warren is a versatile tight end who should make life easier for Indy’s quarterbacks.

15. Falcons: Jalon Walker, LB, Georgia - Grade: B+

Great value pick here. Walker’s slide due to injuries just means the Falcons got a steal.

16. Cardinals: Walter Nolen, DT, Ole Miss - Grade: B

Nolen brings much-needed talent to the interior. He has potential but must remain dedicated to his development.

17. Bengals: Shemar Stewart, EDGE, Texas A&M - Grade: C

The Bengals aimed to bolster their edge defense but chose a raw prospect lacking in production.

18. Seahawks: Grey Zabel, G, North Dakota St. - Grade: B

Versatile and capable of filling multiple roles on the line, Zabel is a much-needed addition for Seattle.

19. Buccaneers: Emeka Egbuka, WR, Ohio St. - Grade: B-

A smart pick, considering the aging receiving corps. But passing on defense raises some eyebrows.

20. Broncos: Jahdae Barron, CB, Texas - Grade: B-

A solid defensive back. Though versatile, there's a question of whether he’s a natural corner.

21. Steelers: Derrick Harmon, DT, Oregon - Grade: B-

Smart pick for a team looking to add youth to their defensive line. The Steelers clearly prioritize size early.

22. Chargers: Omarion Hampton, RB, North Carolina - Grade: B

A strong addition to the Chargers’ running game, Hampton's explosiveness is exactly what they need.

23. Packers: Matthew Golden, WR, Texas - Grade: A

Golden will be a crucial asset as Green Bay tackles injury concerns at wide receiver.

24. Vikings: Donovan Jackson, G, Ohio St. - Grade: B

Jackson fortifies the interior line, a much-needed enhancement for Minnesota.

25. Giants (from Texans): Jaxson Dart, QB, Ole Miss - Grade: C-

While the Giants clearly needed a quarterback, reaching for Dart raises doubts. Desperation often leads to hasty decisions.

26. Falcons (from Rams): James Pearce Jr., Tennessee - Grade: B+

A potential top-10 talent, the Falcons snagged him for value—great move!

27. Ravens: Malaki Starks, S, Georgia - Grade: B

A solid addition to bolster their defensive backend, but why not prioritize edge players?

28. Lions: Tyleik Williams, DT, Ohio St. - Grade: C+

They needed to strengthen their defensive line, and while Williams fits, I might have opted for an edge rusher.

29. Commanders: Josh Conerly Jr., OT, Oregon - Grade: B-

A straightforward pick that addresses a need. Good choice without taking unnecessary risks.

30. Bills: Maxwell Hairston, CB, Kentucky - Grade: A

An exceptional selection as the Bills snagged a dynamic corner who should start immediately.

31. Eagles (from Chiefs): Jihaad Campbell, LB, Alabama - Grade: B

This is a solid pick as Campbell can contribute right away—particularly with injury concerns looming.

32. Chiefs (from Eagles): Josh Simmons, OT, Ohio St. - Grade: A+

The Chiefs land the best tackle in this draft, ensuring their line remains strong for the future.