NFL Draft 2025: Key Picks and Surprises from Rounds 1 and 2

NEW YORK, NY — The 2025 NFL Draft started with excitement and ended with multiple surprises on Day 1. Among the standout moments was the Tennessee Titans selecting Cam Ward as the No. 1 pick, signaling their commitment to improving their roster.

Ward, a quarterback from Miami, was seen as a franchise quarterback prospect, drawing comparisons to top league quarterbacks like Patrick Mahomes. With coach Brian Callahan at the helm, the Titans aim to revitalize their offense after a disappointing season.

Travis Hunter’s selection at No. 2 overall by the Jacksonville Jaguars turned heads. The Jaguars traded up to secure Hunter, a dynamic two-way player from Colorado, noted for his game-changing ability. “He can alter the dynamic of an entire team,” said Jaguars’ first-year general manager James Gladstone.

The New York Giants chose edge rusher Abdul Carter with the third pick. In a draft filled with impressive defensive talent, the Giants opted for Carter, who is expected to be a disruptive force on their defensive line.

Despite interest in offensive playmakers, the New England Patriots selected Will Campbell, an offensive tackle from LSU, at No. 4 overall. The Patriots’ decision reflects their focus on solidifying protection for quarterback Drake Maye, who is entering his second season.

The Cleveland Browns made a bold move to draft Derrick Harmon at No. 5. Harmon, a defensive tackle from Oregon, is anticipated to strengthen their line after they traded back from the second overall pick.

In another surprising twist, quarterback Shedeur Sanders went undrafted after a disappointing performance at the combine. He was eventually picked by the Browns as a fifth-round selection, highlighting the unpredictable nature of the draft.

As the draft continued, teams like the Buffalo Bills and Miami Dolphins made significant moves to enhance their defensive capabilities. Buffalo selected cornerback Maxwell Hairston at No. 30, capitalizing on his impressive speed showcased at the combine, while Miami bolstered their defensive line with Michigan‘s defensive tackle.

With the first-round excitement behind them, teams turned their focus to the second round, where promising talents continued to emerge. Notably, the Chicago Bears selected tight end Colston Loveland at No. 10 overall, further developing their offense to support quarterback Caleb Williams.

The draft remains a crucial turning point for NFL teams as they strategize and build for the future, focusing on filling gaps and maximizing talent.