The NFL Draft is one of my favorite sporting events of the entire year. I am addicted to mock draft's during the spring and usually spent time daily on a mock draft generator. Some call it a sickness but I have always loved the draft process. Here is my best guess on how the first round will look on Thursday night, just for fun. Bio: Cam Ward transferred to Miami for the 2024 season, showcasing his dual-threat capabilities with impressive passing and rushing statistics. Why: The Titans are seeking a dynamic quarterback to lead their offense, and Ward's athleticism and arm strength make him a promising choice to revitalize their quarterback position. Bio: Travis Hunter made history in 2024 by winning the Heisman Trophy as a two-way player, excelling at both wide receiver and cornerback. Why: The Browns are intrigued by Hunter's versatility and playmaking abilities, envisioning him as a unique asset who can contribute on both sides of the ball. Bio: Abdul Carter is a fast, physical linebacker from Penn State known for his explosive pass-rushing ability and sideline-to-sideline range. One of the most dominant players in college football this past season. Why: With questions surrounding their current quarterback situation, the Giants signed Jameis Winston and Russell Wilson. Doesn't seem like it's a QB here. Carter is one of the best players in the draft. You take him at 3 even if his position is not a need. Bio: Will Campbell is a physically imposing offensive tackle known for his athleticism and ability to protect the quarterback's blind side. Why: The Patriots aim to strengthen their offensive line, and Campbell's skill set aligns with their need to provide better protection and run-blocking. Don't be surprised if Armand Membou goes here as well. Bio: Mason Graham emerged as a dominant force on Michigan's defensive line, disrupting opposing offenses with his strength and technique. Why: The Jaguars are looking to bolster their interior defense, and Graham's presence could significantly improve their run defense and pass rush. Bio: Ashton Jeanty had a record-breaking season in 2024, rushing for 2,601 yards and earning accolades including the Doak Walker Award. Why: The Raiders are seeking a dynamic playmaker in the backfield, and Jeanty's explosive running style and versatility make him an ideal fit. Bio: “T-Mac” is a tall, smooth wideout with excellent hands and contested-catch skills. Bio: Jalon Walker is recognized for his athleticism and leadership on Georgia's defense, contributing significantly to their success. Why: The Panthers aim to enhance their defensive unit, and Walker's ability to read offenses and make impactful plays aligns with their goals. Bio: Shedeur Sanders' leadership and performance have caught the attention of multiple teams, showcasing his readiness for the NFL stage. Why: The Saints are in search of a quarterback with the Carr injury news, and Sanders' track record suggests he could be that player. Sanders could fall to the 20's in this draft or even out of the first round. Bio: Tyler Warren has been a reliable target at Penn State, known for his catching ability and blocking skills. Why: With uncertainties at the quarterback position, the Saints are looking to add versatile offensive weapons, and Warren fits that need. Bio: Membou is a versatile lineman with experience at both guard and tackle, standing out with his technique and strength. Bio: Hampton is a power back with great contact balance, vision, and production in the ACC. Why: Inside or outside...Golden is a great compliment to CeeDee Lamb. I know they need a running back but that would not go with the history of the Cowboys with Jerry Jones. Golden seems like a reach here at 12 but Dallas has been decent with 1st round picks in the past. Bio: A big, rangy safety who flies downhill and thrives in run support and robber zones. Bio: Loveland has excellent hands, route-running, and size. He’s been a security blanket and red zone threat. Why: With uncertainties overall the Colts go with a safe pick and provide a big target. Bio: A breakout pass-rusher, Green uses speed and leverage to disrupt QBs, with a high motor and growing technique. Why: Atlanta continues to invest in their pass rush, and Green’s upside fits their long-term defensive rebuild. Bio: Barron is a smart, fluid corner who thrives in zone coverage and offers strong tackling ability. Bio: A small-school riser, Zabel has strong hands and is a mauler in the run game with tackle/guard flexibility. Bio: Fast, instinctive, and athletic, Campbell is a modern sideline-to-sideline linebacker with upside. Why: Tampa is preparing for the future with Lavonte David aging. Campbell brings speed and versatility. Bio: Egbuka is a savvy route-runner with reliable hands and YAC ability. He’s played inside and out. Why: Pittsburgh adds to their WR room as Diontae Johnson is gone and George Pickens needs a reliable complement. Bio: Big nose tackle that doesn't just take up space. Guy is fluid and can move. Why: The Chargers need to replace Poona Ford and get better in the interior. Oh yeah he also played under Harbaugh at Michigan. The fit makes too much sense. Bio: A physical, smart, and technically sound corner, Johnson has been a lockdown defender in Michigan’s elite defense. Why: Green Bay could use another corner opposite Jaire Alexander, especially with Stokes’ injuries. Bio: Starks is an instinctive, rangy safety who can cover ground and make plays in the box. Why: The Vikings bolster their secondary with an elite athlete who fits modern hybrid-safety roles which is a need. Bio: Banks is a polished left tackle who has started since his freshman year and dominated SEC edge rushers. Why: Protecting C.J. Stroud remains a priority, and Banks provides elite blind-side protection. Bio: Athletic and technically sound, Conerly is one of the best pass-protecting tackles in the draft. Why: L.A. needs to rebuild their offensive line to extend Stafford’s window (or protect their next QB). Bio: Barron is a smart, fluid corner who thrives in zone coverage and offers strong tackling ability. Bio: Disruptive interior DL who collapses the pocket and plugs gaps with power. Why: Buffalo needs trench help after losing key veterans. Harmon brings interior pressure next to Ed Oliver. Bio: Big-bodied tackle who’s been quietly dominant in the Big Ten with smooth footwork and punch. Bio: Former five-star recruit with freakish strength and burst; still putting it all together. Why: The Eagles love to build through the trenches. Nolen can rotate early and eventually be a dominant starter.
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