2025 NFL Draft: Top Teams Eye Quarterbacks, Defensive Stars

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — With the 2025 NFL Draft set to begin on April 24, teams holding top-10 picks are zeroing in on a deep class of quarterbacks and defensive standouts. The Tennessee Titans, Cleveland Browns, and New York Giants are among the franchises weighing their options as they aim to address critical roster needs.

The Titans, holding the No. 1 overall pick for the first time since 2016, are widely expected to target a quarterback. Miami‘s Cam Ward and Colorado‘s Shedeur Sanders are the top contenders for the QB1 spot, with Ward’s dual-threat ability and Sanders’ accuracy drawing significant attention. Titans coach Brian Callahan emphasized the importance of evaluating prospects during the East-West Shrine and Senior Bowl weeks. “We’re in position to potentially draft a quarterback,” Callahan said during his season-ending press conference.

At No. 2, the Cleveland Browns face a pivotal decision. While quarterback remains a possibility, general manager Andrew Berry has a history of prioritizing the best player available. “Whether we select a player or use [the pick] to maximize in another way, it gives us an opportunity to really pivot if we need to,” Berry said.

The New York Giants, picking third, are under pressure to find a long-term solution at quarterback. Owner John Mara has made it clear that addressing the position is a top priority. “This is the best-case scenario for the Giants,” ESPN’s Mel Kiper Jr. said in his first mock draft, predicting Colorado’s Shedeur Sanders as their selection. Sanders, who completed 74% of his passes in 2024, could provide an immediate boost to the Giants’ struggling offense.

Meanwhile, the New England Patriots, holding the fourth pick, are focused on rebuilding their offensive line. New coach Mike Vrabel highlighted the unit as a critical area for improvement. “Making sure that up front we’re sound, we’re strong — whether that’s through free agency or the draft — that’s something that’s critical,” Vrabel said.

Other teams in the top 10, including the Jacksonville Jaguars and Carolina Panthers, are expected to prioritize defensive upgrades. The Jaguars, who ranked last in pass defense in 2024, need help at cornerback and edge rusher. Carolina, meanwhile, is likely to focus on adding defensive playmakers after finishing last in total defense.

As the draft approaches, the Raiders’ quarterback search has drawn attention due to the involvement of Tom Brady, who joined the team as a minority owner. Raiders owner Mark Davis confirmed that Brady will play a role in evaluating prospects. “Tom can help us select a quarterback in the future and potentially train him as well,” Davis said.

With a mix of elite quarterbacks and defensive talent, the 2025 NFL Draft promises to reshape the league’s landscape. Teams will have until April 24 to finalize their strategies and make their selections.