As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches in just two weeks, the excitement is palpable, with teams scrambling to fine-tune their strategies. The uncertainty surrounding key prospects like Shedeur Sanders and the potential emergence of a third quarterback on Day 1 are just a few of the factors that make this draft one of the most unpredictable in recent memory.
With every pick potentially altering the future of NFL franchises, let’s break down the updated first-round projections for this year’s draft, where a blend of risks and rewards could make or break a team’s season.
Shedeur Sanders: A Wild Card for the New Orleans Saints?
Shedeur Sanders, the Colorado quarterback who has rapidly gained recognition as the consensus No. 2 passer in the draft, is still facing a degree of uncertainty regarding his exact placement in the first round. Many expected Sanders to be a top contender for a pick near the top of the draft, but recent reports suggest that teams like the Cleveland Browns and the New York Giants are looking elsewhere for their future quarterbacks.
The Saints, at No. 9, are poised to make one of the most intriguing selections of the draft. New Orleans’ front office has built a reputation for being aggressive, always operating in a “win-now” mentality. This could mean that they might be reluctant to gamble on a young, unproven quarterback like Sanders. However, it could also present an opportunity for the Saints to prepare for life after Derek Carr, potentially setting the stage for a transition to Sanders as early as 2026.
If the Saints pass on Sanders, it could trigger a free-fall, with teams like the Browns and Giants jumping at the chance to trade back into the first round to secure him. In this scenario, the possibility of Sanders reuniting with his college teammate, Travis Hunter, becomes an exciting prospect for fans.
Jalen Milroe: A Potential Steelers Surprise
The Steelers’ pick at No. 17 is another one likely to cause a stir. Jalen Milroe, whose physical traits are unparalleled in this year’s quarterback class, has a lot of room to grow as a passer. However, his upside is undeniable, and it appears that teams are increasingly willing to take a chance on him much earlier than originally expected.
Milroe’s recent decision to accept an invitation to attend the draft only fuels the speculation that he won’t have to wait long on Day 1. This move could signal that the NFL, as well as Milroe himself, are confident that he will be off the board well before the second round begins.
For Pittsburgh, this is a pivotal moment. With the potential addition of future Hall of Famer Aaron Rodgers, the Steelers could use every available resource to build a contender around him. However, planning for the future is just as important. Milroe offers a viable succession plan, allowing Pittsburgh to have a backup quarterback who can develop behind a veteran and learn the ropes before being thrust into the spotlight.
Tetairoa McMillan: The Perfect Fit for the Dallas Cowboys’ Offense
As the Dallas Cowboys look to strengthen their offense, one name that is quickly rising up the board is Tetairoa McMillan. The Cowboys’ receiving corps could use another dynamic playmaker alongside the talented CeeDee Lamb, and McMillan could be just the answer.
McMillan brings explosive playmaking ability to the boundary, something that could be the perfect complement to Lamb’s skillset. With Ashton Jeanty likely off the board by this point, waiting until Day 2 to address the running back position makes sense for the Cowboys. However, with the receiver class not as deep as some other years, McMillan stands out as one of the few prospects with true star potential at this spot.
Colston Loveland: A Big Addition for the Los Angeles Rams
The Los Angeles Rams are in an intriguing position at No. 28, where they could go in several different directions. While defense is always a consideration, the Rams have already shown interest in bolstering their offense. After reportedly exploring the possibility of trading up for tight end Brock Bowers last year, Colston Loveland could be a strong choice at this spot.
Loveland is a versatile tight end from Michigan who offers the ability to make big plays in the passing game while also contributing as a reliable in-line blocker. With the Rams’ receiving core led by Puka Nacua and the newly added Davante Adams, Loveland could quickly emerge as the third option in the offense. His addition would only make Los Angeles’ offense that much more difficult to stop.
The 2025 NFL Draft promises to be full of twists and turns, with several teams making bold moves that could have lasting impacts on the future of the league. From Shedeur Sanders’ potential fall to the Saints at No. 9 to the possibility of Jalen Milroe’s early rise in the first round, this draft is shaping up to be one of the most exciting in recent memory.
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