Rain City Rivals Second NFL Mock Draft

We are officially only days away from the 2025 NFL Draft, and so much of the smoke that was present when I made my first mock pre-free agency has dissipated, so there is no better time to give it another go. As before, there will be no trades in this mock draft, although I don't see many happening in the first round. Without further delay, here is my second and final mock draft for this year.

1. Tennessee Titans: Cam Ward, QB, Miami

This pick has become one of the most predictable in recent weeks, as it is now clear the Titans intend to draft Cam Ward. Early in the draft process, there was little indication they were targeting a quarterback here. That suggests one of two things: either they've grown enamored with Ward recently, or they missed out on free agency and now have no choice but to draft a quarterback. Ward brings impressive raw athleticism and elite arm talent, but concerns remain about his inconsistent footwork and decision-making. He can become their franchise quarterback if the Titans can develop him properly and build around his strengths.

2. Cleveland Browns: Travis Hunter, CB/WR, Colorado

The Browns find themselves in a completely different situation than the Titans. Not long ago, it seemed certain they would draft a quarterback, especially since they had just one active quarterback on the roster. But things have changed. Cleveland recently signed Joe Flacco, signaling a shift in direction and a lack of enthusiasm for the quarterback prospects behind Ward. Now, the Browns appear to be heavily interested in Travis Hunter. Reports suggest they're intrigued by his potential as a wide receiver, which makes sense, given that Jerry Jeudy is the only proven receiver on the team. However, they may still use Hunter as a cornerback. Hunter offers elite athleticism and unmatched ball skills regardless of position, making him a special prospect.

3. New York Giants: Abdul Carter, EDGE, Penn State

Like the Browns, the Giants initially seemed like a lock to draft a quarterback. However, after signing Russell Wilson and Jameis Winston in free agency, it's clear they're they're not sold on the options available at their pick. Instead, they're more likely to target Abdul Carter or Travis Hunter; in this scenario, it's Carter. While the Giants don't need an edge rusher urgently, Kayvon Thibodeaux is entering a contract year unless the team picks up his fifth-year option. Even if they do, he'll be expecting a big payday soon. Given how much the Giants have already invested in their defensive line, they may not be willing to commit even more to Thibodeaux. Adding Carter to a line featuring Thibodeaux, Brian Burns, and Dexter Lawrence would give the Giants one of the league's most formidable defensive fronts, a strength they can lean on while continuing their search for a franchise quarterback.

4. New England Patriots: Will Campbell, OL, LSU

This pick hasn't changed since my original mock draft. Will Campbell is the top blocker in this class, and the Patriots had the worst offensive line in the league last season. If they want to give Drake Maye a real shot at becoming their franchise quarterback, they need to invest in the trenches, and this pick will do just that. There are some concerns about Campbell's arm length potentially limiting him at left tackle, but his three strong years at the position in college have earned him the chance to prove himself. If left tackle doesn't work out, the Patriots can shift him to right tackle or even inside to guard. No matter where he lines up, Campbell is a polished run and pass blocker who could become a cornerstone on a line that badly needs one.

5. Jacksonville Jaguars: Mason Graham, DL, Michigan

The Jaguars' draft strategy will likely hinge on whether either Hunter or Carter falls to them at this spot. If not, they're expected to take the best player available, Mason Graham. While some scouts have fixated on Graham's shorter-than-average arm length for a defensive lineman, it would be a mistake to let that overshadow his dominance at Michigan. Graham is a true interior disruptor, combining explosive power with refined technique to consistently take on double teams in the run game and collapse the pocket on passing downs. He'd be an ideal fit alongside Josh Hines-Allen and Travon Walker on Jacksonville's defensive front.

6. Las Vegas Raiders: Ashton Jeanty, RB, Boise State

At this point, it's almost certain the Raiders will draft Jeanty, and it's a move that makes perfect sense. If Seahawks fans know one thing about Pete Carroll, he places a high value on the run game. Last season, the Raiders were dead last in rushing, and there's no way Carroll will let that slide. There's not much left to say about Jeanty that hasn't already been said: he's a generational talent at running back, equally dangerous as a runner and a receiver, and he'll immediately elevate any offense he joins.

7. New York Jets: Armand Membou, OT, Missouri

The Jets have committed to Justin Fields as their quarterback, and to get the most out of his skill set, they'll need to shift to a more run-heavy offense than what they ran with Aaron Rodgers. A significant upgrade to the offensive line is essential to make that work. After securing their left tackle of the future last year, they now solidify the right side by drafting Membou. While his technique is still a work in progress, Membou is an explosive athlete who held his own against some of the top edge rushers in this draft class during college. With Fashanu on the left and Membou on the right, the Jets have their tackle duo locked in for the long haul.

8. Carolina Panthers: Jalon Walker, EDGE, Georgia

The Panthers' defense was the worst in the league last season, and while it improved over the year, it still lacked any real punch; Jalon Walker can fix that. What makes Walker special is his versatility. At Georgia, he played edge rusher and linebacker, and at both positions, he displayed elite instincts and explosive athleticism. Walker can be a do-it-all player on the Panther's defense who can keep the offense guessing, giving them the x-factor they desperately missed last season, which could elevate the entire defense.

9. New Orleans Saints: Shedeur Sanders, QB, Colorado

Somehow, the situation in New Orleans has gotten even worse, something I didn't think was possible. It's now been revealed that quarterback Derek Carr is dealing with a shoulder injury that could require surgery, potentially sidelining him for most or even all of next season. The Saints were already facing long-term questions at quarterback, but now those concerns have become immediate, which is where Sanders comes in. Sanders is one of the most polarizing prospects in this class. Some view him as the clear-cut second-best quarterback, while others question whether he should be drafted. He's the most accurate passer in the draft and thrives when improvising, but he has serious flaws in his footwork and pocket presence that need development. While his lack of elite physical tools, particularly arm strength, may limit his ceiling, he can become a solid starter in the league. And for the Saints, that would be the best quarterback play they've seen since Drew Brees retired.

10. Chicago Bears: Tyler Warren, TE, Penn State

After addressing their offensive line in free agency, the Bears have shifted their focus in the draft to adding playmakers for Caleb Williams. While reports suggest they were hoping to land Jeanty with this pick, his absence leads them to pivot to the next-best offensive weapon: Tyler Warren. At Penn State, Warren was a true matchup nightmare. His versatility allowed him to line up all over the field, exploit mismatches, and consistently pressure opposing defenses. With a blend of sharp route running, high football IQ, and elite athleticism, Warren gives Williams another dynamic target and adds a new layer to the Bears' offense.

11. San Francisco 49ers: Kelvin Banks Jr., OL, Texas

The 49ers are coming off a disappointing, injury-plagued season and are hoping to recapture the formula that took them to the Super Bowl just two years ago. However, a wave of key departures has made that goal more challenging, especially along the offensive line, where they've lost several core pieces. Acknowledging this, San Francisco has focused heavily on scouting offensive linemen in this year's draft. One name that consistently comes up is Banks, and for good reason. While his arm length may limit him from playing left tackle at the NFL level, Banks has all the tools to thrive as a dominant guard or right tackle. His powerful leverage and explosive strength could make him one of the league's best at either spot.

12. Dallas Cowboys: Tetairoa McMillan, WR, Arizona

There are plenty of reasons the Cowboys fell short of expectations last season, but one of the biggest was their one-dimensional offense. They struggled to establish a consistent run game and got little production from their wide receivers outside CeeDee Lamb. As a result, the offense became predictable; if the ball wasn't going to Lamb, it wasn't moving. Once defenses caught on, they focused on shutting him down, and the Cowboys had no reliable alternative. To turn things around, Dallas needs another big-play threat alongside Lamb, and that's where McMillan comes in. While there are concerns about his top-end speed and ability to separate consistently, Lamb already brings those strengths, making them a complementary duo. At 6'4" and 219 pounds, McMillan has a size advantage over most corners, and his strong route-running and elite ball skills make him a dangerous target. He could add a new dynamic to the Cowboys' offense and take pressure off Lamb.

13. Miami Dolphins: Will Johnson, CB, Michigan

The Dolphins' secondary was already thin before Jalen Ramsey requested a trade. Now, their cornerback room needs reinforcements, making it crucial for them to land the best pure corner in this draft. Enter Will Johnson. Before last season, most analysts projected him as a lock for a top-five pick. However, an injury cut his final year at Michigan short, bad news for him but potentially great news for Miami. While there are some concerns about his top-end speed, Johnson's solid length and high football IQ help him make up for it. He also brings impressive ball skills, snagging six interceptions during his time with the Wolverines, and plays with the kind of physical edge you love to see in a corner.

14. Indianapolis Colts: Colston Loveland, TE, Michigan

The Colts have been open about their intentions for this year's draft. General Manager Chris Ballard has made it clear that upgrading the tight end position is a priority, and Colston Loveland would be precisely that. Although there were initial concerns following his surgery to repair an AC joint sprain last season, all medical evaluations have since come back clean. Loveland offers the complete package: athleticism, precise route-running, and great size, making him a force over the middle of the field. While it's still uncertain who will start at quarterback for Indianapolis this season, whoever gets the job will benefit from having a reliable target like Loveland.

15. Atlanta Falcons: Mike Green, EDGE, Marshall

I know people have been predicting the Falcons will finally draft an edge rusher for years—and it never happens. But this year feels different. Atlanta's pass rush was virtually non-existent last season, which left their secondary exposed and routinely shredded by even average quarterbacks; enter Mike Green. He's been skyrocketing up draft boards after a breakout season; he led college football with 17 sacks. Some questioned whether his dominance was just a product of weak competition, but he silenced those doubts with a standout performance at the Senior Bowl, where he held his own and then some against top-tier offensive linemen. While Green doesn't have the prototypical length teams usually covet, he makes up for it with an elite burst, polished technique, and relentless motor.

16. Arizona Cardinals: Shemar Stewart, DL, Texas A&M

The Cardinals have spent the past few years trying to bolster their defensive line, with mixed results. I expected them to continue that effort by selecting Stewart. He's the ultimate boom-or-bust prospect in this draft class. At the Combine, Stewart proved he's a physical anomaly, measuring 6-foot-5 and 267 pounds; he ran a 4.58-second 40-yard dash, posted a 40-inch vertical, and recorded a 10-foot, 11-inch broad jump. He ranked in the top percentile across nearly every athletic metric. The concern is that despite his elite physical tools, Stewart's college production was underwhelming—just 4.5 sacks over three seasons at Texas A&M. He's extremely raw, but if he can refine his game, he has the potential to become one of the league's top defensive linemen.

17. Cincinnati Bengals: Derrick Harmon, DL, Oregon

The Bengals' defense is in disarray, and puzzlingly, they chose to do little about it in free agency. With last season's sack leader, Trey Hendrickson, now requesting a trade, drafting a defensive lineman here is no longer optional; it's a necessity. Fortunately for them, Harmon is a solid choice.

Harmon may not stand out in any one area, but he's consistently good across the board, which is precisely what a team with as many defensive holes as Cincinnati needs. He's a strong run defender, has an effective bull rush, and shows the quickness to attack off the edge. His versatility allows him to line up anywhere along the defensive line. While Harmon isn't the flashiest prospect, he's reliable, and with so much riding on this pick, the Bengals need a player they can count on. Harmon is about as safe a pick as they could make.

18. Seattle Seahawks: Grey Zabel, North Dakota State, OL

After making no moves to improve the league's second-worst offensive line in free agency, the Seahawks' strategy became clear: they believe in the talent already on the roster and likely have their eye on a specific lineman in the draft. As mentioned in a previous article, their inaction suggests confidence in their current group, but it also hints that a draft prospect has caught their attention. Based on John Schneider's history of targeting versatile, athletic linemen, that player is Zabel. Zabel fits the mold perfectly. Though he projects best as a guard, he can play all five offensive line positions. His quickness and agility, especially for his size, make him an ideal fit for Klint Kubiak's zone-blocking scheme. While pick 19 might seem a bit high for Zabel, the Seahawks have never shied away from drafting for fit over perceived value. Given the need and the scheme match, Zabel will be the pick.

19. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Jihaad Campbell, LB, Alabama

This pick remains unchanged from my original mock draft, and for good reason—the Buccaneers desperately need linebacker help. Unfortunately, this year's linebacker class is thin, with Campbell standing out as the only top-tier prospect. He's the prototype of a modern linebacker, offering sideline-to-sideline speed and sharp instincts that allow him to make plays all over the field. Campbell also excelled as a blitzer at Alabama and has the versatility to line up as an edge rusher—another area of need for Tampa Bay. While inside linebacker isn't typically seen as a premium position, the combination of scheme fit, versatility, and lack of better options makes Campbell the clear choice.

20. Denver Broncos: Omarion Hampton, RB, North Carolina

Head Coach Sean Payton has made it clear that finding a true workhorse running back is a priority in this draft, and Hampton is one of the prospects most strongly linked to the Broncos for good reason. He's a rare combination of power and explosiveness. At 221 pounds, Hampton brings the physicality needed to be a tough, downhill runner, but his 4.46-second 40-yard dash also makes him a legitimate home run threat. Adding a back like Hampton would give Denver much-needed balance on offense and provide a massive boost for Bo Nix as he looks to build on a strong rookie season.

21. Pittsburgh Steelers: Jaxson Dart, QB, Ole Miss

The Steelers have long been one of the NFL's most conservative franchises, typically steering clear of quarterback prospects like Dart. But given their current situation, they may not have a choice. With the draft just days away, Pittsburgh is no closer to landing Aaron Rodgers than a month ago. Rodgers recently told The Pat McAfee Show that he hasn't even decided whether he'll retire, let alone if he'll sign with the Steelers. Enter Jaxson Dart. He's one of this class's most intriguing quarterback prospects, offering a potent blend of size, arm talent, touch, and mobility. However, the most significant question mark is how well he can adapt to an NFL offense. At Ole Miss, Dart operated in one of the most quarterback-friendly systems in college football, designed to simplify reads and decision-making. While he has all the physical tools you'd want in a pro quarterback, his ability to succeed will depend on whether he can handle the complexities of a pro-style offense.

22. Los Angeles Chargers: Kenneth Grant, DL, Michigan

After losing multiple players in free agency, the Chargers urgently need reinforcements along the defensive line, and who better to turn to than a player Jim Harbaugh once recruited during his time at Michigan? Kenneth Grant is an absolute force, standing 6'3" and weighing 330 pounds. But don't be fooled by his size; Grant moves with surprising speed and is easily one of the most athletic defensive linemen in this draft class. Though he's still raw from a technical standpoint, his physical tools are undeniable. That potential was enough for Harbaugh to recruit him in college, and it's likely more than enough for Harbaugh to bring him to the NFL.

23. Green Bay Packers: Matthew Golden, WR, Texas

The Packers have long followed an unwritten rule of avoiding wide receivers in the first round, regardless of need, but that trend might finally end this year. Green Bay has openly stated its desire for a true No. 1 receiver, and their scouts have spent considerable time evaluating Golden, unusual attention for a team that typically avoids early-round receivers. Golden is the exception they're willing to make, and it's easy to see why. He ran a blazing 4.29-second 40-yard dash at the combine, and that speed shows up on tape, particularly in his ability to stretch the field vertically. If he can refine other aspects of his game, Golden has the potential to develop into Jordan Love's go-to target in Green Bay.

24. Minnesota Vikings: Nick Emmanwori, S, South Carolina

The Vikings are a strong candidate to trade back in this draft, especially since they currently hold only four total picks. However, that could prove difficult in a year with few prospects worth trading up for. If they cannot move the pick, selecting Emmanwori might be their best option. Minnesota needs help on the defense's back end, and Emmanwori has the tools to become a game-changer. He made a massive impression at the combine, posting a 4.38-second 40-yard dash, a 43-inch vertical, and an 11-foot-6 broad jump at 6'3" and 220 pounds. His rare athleticism and a physical, aggressive play style make him a true difference-maker, precisely what the Vikings could use as they navigate a transition period.

25. Houston Texans: Josh Simmons, OT, Ohio State

It's no hot take to say the Texans' offensive line struggles derailed what could have been a breakout season last year. In response, they've completely overhauled the line this offseason, rebuilding it from the ground up. Simmons would be a lock for the top ten in a different scenario. However, a serious knee injury last season will likely cause him to slide in the draft, potentially to Houston's benefit. Simmons brings a nasty edge in the run game and displays elite technique in pass protection. If he can stay healthy, he has the potential to be one of the biggest steals of the draft at a position the Texans urgently need to solidify.

26. Los Angeles Rams: Jahdae Barron, CB, Texas

If the Rams hope to squeeze one last championship run out of Matthew Stafford before he retires, upgrading the cornerback position is necessary. The current group is a mix of aging veterans and unproven young players, far from ideal for a team in win-now mode. Landing Barron at this point in the draft would be a steal. At 5'11" and 194 pounds, he doesn't have the prototypical size teams usually look for in modern corners, but he plays much bigger than his frame suggests. Barron stands out for his high football IQ and controlled aggression, often baiting quarterbacks into risky throws before breaking on the ball with perfect timing. His instincts and playmaking ability could significantly boost a Rams secondary needing top-tier talent.

27. Baltimore Ravens: Mykel Williams, EDGE, Georgia

Mykel Williams is one of the draft's most unpredictable prospects—he has the talent to go as high as eighth overall, but there's also a real chance he slips out of the first round entirely. His wide draft range stems from an up-and-down career at Georgia. While Williams boasts elite athleticism and has flashed true game-wrecking potential, his progress was often stalled by injuries and inconsistent technique. The Ravens would be an ideal landing spot for him. Edge rusher isn't an urgent need in Baltimore, which means they can afford to give Williams time to develop. At the same time, they lack a long-term solution at the position, something Williams could become if he reaches his potential.

28. Detroit Lions: Donovan Ezeiruaku, EDGE, Boston College

After Aidan Hutchinson went down with a broken leg last season, the Lions' pass rush vanished, highlighting their need for additional players who can generate pressure. That's precisely what Donovan Ezeiruaku brings to the table. Thanks to his explosive burst and refined technique, Ezeiruaku finished last season with 16.5 sacks, the second-most in college football. While he's an elite athlete, his thin frame presents a clear limitation, especially when matched against bigger, stronger offensive linemen. His size may prevent him from being an every-down player. Still, as a situational pass-rush specialist, he fits exactly what the Lions need to complement Hutchinson and bolster their defense.

29. Washington Commanders: James Pearce Jr., EDGE, Tennessee

James Pearce Jr. would likely be a top-ten pick if teams drafted purely on raw talent. However, serious character concerns are clouding his draft stock. Coaches at Tennessee have said Pearce was frequently late to practice and often gave minimal effort when he did show up. One assistant even described him as "undeniably uncoachable," not exactly what teams want to hear about a potential first-round pick. Due to these issues, multiple teams have reportedly taken Pearce off their draft boards entirely, according to Walter Football. Still, his upside is undeniable. Pearce has a rare combination of length, explosiveness, and technical skill could make him one of the league's top pass rushers, something Washington badly needs. While many teams may be hesitant, Dan Quinn is known for his disciplined approach and strong leadership. If there's any coach who could get the best out of Pearce, it's likely Quinn.

30. Buffalo Bills: Malaki Starks, S, Georgia

They say good things come to those who wait, and in this case, the Bills may be rewarded with the chance to draft an elite prospect like Malaki Starks. On talent alone, Starks belongs in the top half of the draft, but he could slide due to the lower positional value placed on safeties. Make no mistake—Starks is a high-impact player. He's the textbook definition of a proper deep safety, with outstanding football IQ, sharp route recognition, and elite ball skills that allow him to shut down big plays before they happen. The Bills' secondary struggled last season, which was a significant factor in their failure to reach the Super Bowl. If Buffalo wants to finally get over the hump, adding a difference-maker like Starks on the back end could be precisely what they need.

31. Kansas City Chiefs: Tyler Booker, OG, Alabama

The Chiefs' offensive line was exposed on the biggest stage during the Super Bowl, and it's clear the front office didn't take it lightly. Kansas City tore down the line this offseason and began rebuilding it from the ground up. One of the most notable moves was trading away Pro Bowl guard Joe Thuney, leaving a significant hole they'll likely look to fill early in the draft. At 6'5" and 320 pounds, Booker is an imposing presence who plays with the kind of explosive strength that can easily move defenders. While he's more effective in pass protection than in the run game, where his limited mobility can occasionally be a liability, his primary job in Kansas City will be to keep Patrick Mahomes upright. For that role, Booker fits the bill perfectly.

32. Philadelphia Eagles: Walter Nolen, DL, Ole Miss

The Eagles have long prioritized building through the trenches, a philosophy that paid off when their dominant offensive and defensive lines powered them to a Super Bowl victory. However, that success came at a cost; other teams took notice, and several of the Eagles' top defensive linemen left in free agency for big paydays. As a result, the defensive front is thinner heading into next season. They can address that gap by selecting Walter Nolen. Nolen possesses rare explosiveness for his size, and when paired with his refined technique and natural leverage, he looks like a player who can contribute from day one. He also offers significant long-term upside, making him an ideal fit for a team like the Eagles looking to reload and make another championship run.

Well, there you have it—my final mock draft for the 2025 NFL draft. Of course, there is no way to predict what will happen on draft night, but I feel pretty confident about my predictions. My next post will likely focus more specifically on what the Seahawks should do in the draft, so watch for that.

Until then,

Go Hawks!