How has Week 7 impacted the potential order for the 2025 NFL Draft?
To understand the current situation, we can look at projections by Austin Mock. Mock uses his NFL betting model to forecast scores for each game along with the final winning percentages for every team. This model gradually updates its data, phasing out older information and incorporating data from the current season. After each game day, the simulation runs 100,000 times, providing us with a projected top 10 draft order, as well as each team’s expected win total and playoff odds.
You can explore Mock’s playoff model in more detail here. Below is the latest projected top 10 for April’s draft:
Projected top 10 (as of Oct. 23)
Some insights on this week’s projections from The Athletic draft analyst Nick Baumgardner:
Who is on the lookout for a quarterback?
At least seven teams among our projected top 10 could be seeking a QB next offseason, whether through the draft or other means.
The 2024 NFL Draft showcased impressive quarterback depth, which is not expected for the 2025 draft. Considering this, which of the NFL’s struggling teams — apart from New England (with Drake Maye) and Jacksonville (Trevor Lawrence) — are best positioned, in terms of their rosters, to pursue and develop a rookie quarterback?
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In a Great Position
Las Vegas Raiders
It remains puzzling why the Raiders not only bypassed a quarterback early in last year’s draft but also failed to aggressively pursue one at any point during the weekend. Although Las Vegas lacked the capital for a significant move, they could have identified a way to acquire a QB on Day 2 or 3. Fast forward to today, and the need for a new direction at quarterback for the Raiders has become painfully clear.
While this roster is far from perfect, GM Tom Telesco has successfully added young talent to vital positions (TE Brock Bowers, OL Jackson Powers-Johnson) last season, and Maxx Crosby remains under contract (for now). The Raiders may choose to trade for a more experienced passer, but their current roster appears to be in a good position to adopt a rookie and start planning for the future.
Tennessee Titans
The situation is somewhat complex, as Tennessee could still witness growth from Will Levis before the conclusion of the 2024 season. However, significant growth would be necessary. The Titans’ strategy of combining a rather costly roster with a young quarterback on a non-First-Round rookie deal has placed them in an uncertain and directionless position.
Tennessee’s roster may be ready for a young quarterback next season, but this is not guaranteed and depends on the offensive line’s development. Bringing in a high-priced rookie to compete with Levis could either lead to complications later or motivate Levis to elevate his performance — potentially giving the Titans two valuable assets.
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It’s Complicated
New York Giants
Indeed, the Giants can part ways with Daniel Jones’ contract after this season, though it will be quite costly. Simultaneously, if Jones continues to show only average performances at best, and abysmal ones at worst, action will need to be taken.
The Giants might actually be in a position to sign a free-agent quarterback this offseason, someone who could properly challenge Jones for a year before any long-term choices are made. A top-10 QB in the upcoming spring should not be ruled out for New York.
Cleveland Browns
The Browns’ circumstances mirror those of the Giants, but they are significantly worse — like a level of distress not often witnessed. It’s truly that severe.
Cleveland is likely stuck with Deshaun Watson for at least another year, if not longer. Given this reality and the fact that the team hasn’t had a first-round pick since 2021, drafting a quarterback in the top five and placing him into this chaotic environment seems like a recipe for disaster. The Browns need to start addressing other aging components of their roster to avoid further complications.
New York Jets
Here we go again. The remainder of the season will reveal what lies ahead for Aaron Rodgers, but if the first two months are indicative, it may soon be time to turn the page once the year concludes. Similar to several teams discussed, the Jets (who do possess talent) must evaluate whether it makes more sense to focus on the 2025 draft class or to pursue a veteran — perhaps even (gasp) Sam Darnold?
Should Look Elsewhere
Carolina Panthers
In less than two seasons, the Panthers have damaged the confidence of a No. 1 pick, and their immediate task is to assess Bryce Young’s situation. Additionally, they need to remedy the rest of their roster to avoid subjecting another rookie QB to a similar fate before he’s adequately prepared.
New Orleans Saints
The Saints remain tied to Derek Carr for a while, having selected Spencer Rattler in the fifth round last April. The progression of that decision remains to be seen, but Rattler possesses enough talent to make that a worthwhile choice over time. Although New Orleans doesn’t boast an excellent quarterback scenario, they are heavily invested in their current situation — and thus, they are committed.
(Photo of Gardner Minshew: Joe Scarnici / Getty Images)
Week 7 NFL Draft Projections: A Look at How the 2025 Order is Taking Shape
Understanding the 2025 NFL Draft Order
As we reach Week 7 of the NFL season, teams are not only focused on their current performance but also on how their position in the 2025 NFL Draft order is shaping up. The draft order, at this stage, is influenced by team records, trading strategies, and player performances. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for fans and analysts alike who are eager to predict which college stars will join the NFL ranks.
Current Draft Order Snapshot
The draft order is determined by the inverse order of the previous season’s standings, with adjustments for playoff teams and trades. Below is a snapshot of the current projected 2025 NFL Draft order after Week 7:
| Pick | Team | Record | Projected Needs |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Chicago Bears | 1-6 | Quarterback, Offensive Line |
| 2 | Arizona Cardinals | 2-5 | Defensive Line, Linebacker |
| 3 | New York Giants | 2-5 | Quarterback, Wide Receiver |
| 4 | New England Patriots | 2-5 | Quarterback, Defensive Back |
| 5 | Washington Commanders | 3-4 | Offensive Line, Tight End |
Top Prospects to Watch in the 2025 NFL Draft
With the draft order starting to take shape, it’s essential to keep an eye on the top prospects who could be game-changers in the NFL. Here are some of the players expected to make a big impact:
1. Caleb Williams, Quarterback, USC
– **Height/Weight**: 6’1″, 220 lbs
- **Strengths**: Exceptional arm talent, mobility, and playmaking ability. Williams won the Heisman Trophy in 2023 and has consistently been touted as a franchise quarterback.
2. Drake Maye, Quarterback, North Carolina
– **Height/Weight**: 6’4″, 225 lbs
– **Strengths**: Strong arm, good decision-making, and athleticism. Maye has been a standout performer and is considered a top-tier QB prospect.
3. Malik Nabers, Wide Receiver, LSU
– **Height/Weight**: 6’0″, 200 lbs
– **Strengths**: Speed, route-running, and ability to create separation. Nabers has emerged as a go-to target in the LSU offense.
4. Dallas Turner, Edge Rusher, Alabama
– **Height/Weight**: 6’4″, 240 lbs
– **Strengths**: Explosive first step, athleticism, and versatility. Turner is a disruptive force on the defensive line.
5. Olumuyiwa Fashanu, Offensive Tackle, Penn State
– **Height/Weight**: 6’6″, 320 lbs
– **Strengths**: Athleticism, footwork, and pass protection. Fashanu is widely regarded as the top offensive lineman in the class.
Key Team Needs Shaping the Draft Strategy
Every team’s draft strategy will be influenced by its current roster and future aspirations. Here’s a closer look at the key needs for some of the teams projected to have top picks in the 2025 NFL Draft:
Chicago Bears
– **Need for a Franchise QB**: With the struggles of Justin Fields, the Bears may look to draft a new quarterback like Caleb Williams, who offers the dual-threat capability to revitalize their offense.
Arizona Cardinals
– **Defensive Rebuilding**: The Cardinals need to shore up their defense, making players like Dallas Turner attractive options to strengthen their pass rush.
New York Giants
– **Offensive Overhaul**: With Daniel Jones’ inconsistent play, the Giants might seek a new quarterback. Additionally, adding a dynamic wide receiver like Malik Nabers could provide much-needed support.
New England Patriots
– **Quarterback Uncertainty**: The Patriots are in a tough spot with Mac Jones. A fresh quarterback prospect could spark a new era in New England.
Washington Commanders
– **Offensive Line Improvements**: Protecting the quarterback and enhancing run blocking are essential for the Commanders, making Olumuyiwa Fashanu a prime target.
Benefits of Analyzing Draft Projections
Understanding NFL Draft projections offers several benefits to fans, analysts, and teams alike:
– **Informed Fan Engagement**: Fans can engage more deeply with the sport by understanding potential draft picks and their impact on team strategy.
– **Strategic Team Planning**: Teams can align their scouting efforts and strategy based on projected player availability, ensuring they target key positions of need.
– **Anticipating Trades**: Knowledge of the draft order and team needs can provide insights into potential trades, enhancing the overall excitement of the draft process.
Practical Tips for Following the NFL Draft Process
For those interested in keeping up with the NFL Draft and its developments, here are some practical tips:
1. **Follow College Football**: Engaging with college football can provide early insights into emerging talent. Watching games and highlights can familiarize fans with potential draft prospects.
2. **Utilize Social Media**: Follow NFL analysts and insiders on platforms like Twitter for real-time updates on draft rumors and team needs.
3. **Engage in Mock Drafts**: Participate in mock drafts to understand the strategy behind team selections and refine your ability to predict outcomes.
4. **Study Team Histories**: Familiarize yourself with team drafting patterns to better anticipate their selections and strategies.
5. **Join Online Communities**: Engage with forums and discussion groups centered around the NFL Draft for diverse perspectives and insights.
Case Studies: Recent Draft Trends
Examining past draft trends can reveal how certain positions and player types are valued across the league:
– **2023 Draft**: The emphasis on quarterbacks was evident, with three QBs taken in the top five picks. Teams are prioritizing franchise quarterbacks to secure their future.
– **2024 Draft**: A focus on offensive tackles and edge rushers demonstrated the league’s growing need for offensive protection and defensive disruption.
By analyzing these trends, teams can align their strategies accordingly for the upcoming draft.
First-Hand Experience: NFL Draft Day
Being part of the NFL Draft experience, whether as a fan or a team representative, can be exhilarating. The anticipation of which player will be selected can create an electric atmosphere. Teams often have war rooms filled with analysts and scouts making real-time decisions based on the draft flow. For fans, attending the draft or watching it live provides an opportunity to witness the culmination of years of hard work for these young athletes.
as the 2025 NFL Draft order continues to take shape through the weeks of the NFL season, staying informed and engaged will make for a more enriching experience for everyone involved. From the top prospects to team needs and draft strategies, the excitement is only set to grow as we approach the big day.
