Round 1 - Pick 1: Cam Ward, QB, Miami (FL) - Projected Team: Tennessee Titans

The Titans are gearing up for what appears to be a significant change at the quarterback position. With limited free-agent options available, Tennessee is likely to take a chance on the standout performer Cam Ward, who has thrown for over 4,300 yards with 43 touchdowns in the past season. His undeniable talent makes him a worthy first overall pick.

Round 1 - Pick 2: Abdul Carter, EDGE, Penn State - Projected Team: Cleveland Browns

Cleveland has smartly chosen to forgo drafting another quarterback this year. Instead, they are expected to bolster their defense with one of the premier EDGE players in Abdul Carter, who has proven to be a relentless force. With Myles Garrett commanding attention, Carter could thrive and add significant pressure to opposing quarterbacks.

Round 1 - Pick 3: Shedeur Sanders, QB, Colorado - Projected Team: New York Giants

Desperation is setting in for the Giants, who are searching for a franchise quarterback. Shedeur Sanders, with his impressive credentials and experience, is the best available option. Having performed brilliantly under pressure, Sanders can be the catalyst to reignite the Giants' sputtering offense.

Round 1 - Pick 4: Travis Hunter, ATH, Colorado - Projected Team: New England Patriots

Travis Hunter stands out as the first overall prospect in this draft and is set to join the Patriots. While many teams view him primarily as a cornerback, his versatility makes him a dual threat, potentially lining up as a wide receiver as well. Bill Belichick's history of utilizing players in multidimensional roles means Hunter will thrive in New England.

Round 1 - Pick 5: Mason Graham, DL, Michigan - Projected Team: Jacksonville Jaguars

With a new head coach in the mix, the Jaguars need to shore up their defensive front. Mason Graham, weighing in at 320 pounds, brings both size and skill to the table, promising to be a key player as Jacksonville looks to elevate their performance.

Round 1 - Pick 6: Tetairoa McMillan, WR, Arizona - Projected Team: Las Vegas Raiders

As the Raiders prepare for a coaching change, they will focus on addressing their lack of depth at wide receiver with Tetairoa McMillan. With impressive stats from his prior season, including over 1,300 yards receiving, he will be a significant addition to their offense.

Round 1 - Pick 7: Will Campbell, OT, LSU - Projected Team: New York Jets

The Jets face a major decision regarding their quarterback situation, but their offensive line also needs bolstering. Will Campbell's skill set makes him an ideal pick to shore up protection, especially if they aim to set up their new signal-caller for success.

Round 1 - Pick 8: Will Johnson, CB, Michigan - Projected Team: Carolina Panthers

Despite needing to address their pass rush, the Panthers are likely to take a best-player-available approach and draft Will Johnson, a top-tier cornerback. His exceptional talent could elevate Carolina’s defense even further.

Round 1 - Pick 9: Mykel Williams, EDGE, Georgia - Projected Team: New Orleans Saints

With coaching changes looming, the Saints will likely bolster their pass rush by selecting Mykel Williams. His raw potential paired with the current makeup of New Orleans’ defense makes this an attractive choice.

Round 1 - Pick 10: James Pearce Jr., EDGE, North Carolina - Projected Team: Chicago Bears

The Bears' rosters have gaping holes, particularly along the lines. James Pearce Jr. offers a dynamic pass-rush ability that would bolster Chicago's defensive front considerably.

Round 1 - Pick 11: Shemar Stewart, DL, Texas A&M - Projected Team: San Francisco 49ers

The 49ers need to infuse their aging defensive line with youth. Shemar Stewart has the potential to become a key player on this competitive squad.

Round 1 - Pick 12: Ashton Jeanty, RB, Boise State - Projected Team: Dallas Cowboys

With Dak Prescott likely staying put, the Cowboys will look for a running back to support their offensive strategy. Ashton Jeanty's ability as a pass-catcher will relieve pressure off Prescott during games.

Round 1 - Pick 13: Tyler Warren, TE, Penn State - Projected Team: Miami Dolphins

With Miami wanting to maximize the potential of their offensive system, Tyler Warren’s dual-threat capabilities will give them flexibility in play calling as they continue to cultivate their roster.

Round 1 - Pick 14: Malaki Starks, S, Georgia - Projected Team: Indianapolis Colts

The Colts continue to strengthen their secondary with Malaki Starks, who has shown versatility and leadership on the field.

Round 1 - Pick 15: Jalon Walker, EDGE, Georgia - Projected Team: Atlanta Falcons

As the Falcons strive to enhance their pass-rushing capabilities, Jalon Walker emerges as an intriguing option to develop alongside existing players on their defense.

Round 1 - Pick 16: Derrick Harmon, DL, Oregon - Projected Team: Arizona Cardinals

After stocking up on defensive talent last year, the Cardinals will add Derrick Harmon to help strengthen their interior line further.

Round 1 - Pick 17: Tyler Booker, IOL, Alabama - Projected Team: Cincinnati Bengals

Cincinnati continues its investment in the offensive line with Tyler Booker, who will shore up their protection in a league known for explosive defenses.

Round 1 - Pick 18: Nick Emmanwori, S, South Carolina - Projected Team: Seattle Seahawks

The Seahawks focus on bolstering their secondary by selecting Nick Emmanwori, known for his size and athleticism.

Round 1 - Pick 19: Luther Burden III, WR, Missouri - Projected Team: Tampa Bay Buccaneers

As the Buccaneers aim to revitalize their offense, Luther Burden III could provide dynamic playmaking abilities and depth following potential departures.

Round 1 - Pick 20: Colston Loveland, TE, Michigan - Projected Team: Denver Broncos

With the tight end position needing an upgrade, the Broncos are expected to draft Colston Loveland, who showcased his talent at Michigan.

Round 1 - Pick 21: Emeka Egbuka, WR, Ohio State - Projected Team: Pittsburgh Steelers

In a bid to enhance their passing offense, the Steelers aim to bring in Emeka Egbuka, who has the potential to create plays alongside their existing wideouts.

Round 1 - Pick 22: Donovan Jackson, IOL, Ohio State - Projected Team: L.A. Chargers

To solidify their talented offensive lineup, the Chargers will potentially draft Donovan Jackson who could thrive among former first-rounders.

Round 1 - Pick 23: Benjamin Morrison, CB, Notre Dame - Projected Team: Green Bay Packers

Green Bay is looking to boost its secondary by drafting Morrison but must take into account recovery from injury to ensure his readiness for the league.

Round 1 - Pick 24: Jonah Savaiinaea, OT, Arizona - Projected Team: Minnesota Vikings

With an eye on enhancing their offensive line, the Vikings may opt for Jonah Savaiinaea to provide depth and protection.

Round 1 - Pick 25: Walter Nolen, DL, Ole Miss - Projected Team: Houston Texans

The Texans continue to strengthen their defensive unit with the dynamic addition of Walter Nolen, adding depth and talent.

Round 1 - Pick 26: Josh Simmons, OT, Ohio State - Projected Team: L.A. Rams

As Los Angeles looks to enhance its offensive capabilities, drafting Josh Simmons offers immense potential given his previous performances.

Round 1 - Pick 27: Nic Scourton, EDGE, Texas A&M - Projected Team: Baltimore Ravens

The Ravens are poised to bolster their pass rush by selecting Scourton, known for his consistent growth as a player.

Round 1 - Pick 28: Landon Jackson, EDGE, Arkansas - Projected Team: Detroit Lions

As Detroit develops a robust defense, adding Jackson could provide them with a promising future.

Round 1 - Pick 29: Josh Conerly, OT, Oregon - Projected Team: Washington Commanders

With pressing needs across the offensive line, Washington will look to secure Josh Conerly to give their unit a much-needed boost.

Round 1 - Pick 30: Tyleik Williams, DL, Ohio State - Projected Team: Buffalo Bills

The Bills are set to enhance their defensive front with Tyleik Williams, who offers impressive run-stopping ability.

Round 1 - Pick 31: Kelvin Banks Jr., OT, Texas - Projected Team: Philadelphia Eagles

The Eagles always seem to find top talent, and Kelvin Banks Jr. is a perfect addition, ensuring depth along their formidable offensive line.

Conclusion

This mock draft holds surprises that could reshape the NFL landscape moving into the 2025 season. With teams passing on quarterbacks, the draft may focus heavily on bolstering defenses and key offensive positions. Keep an eye on these rising stars as they enter the league!