Round 1 of the 2025 NFL Draft is underway. Below is Bucky Brooks’ analysis for every player drafted in Round 1.

NOTE: Only trades agreed to after Day 1 began are reflected below.

Reminiscent of former Tennessee QB Steve “Air” McNair, Ward is a gunslinger with the confidence and moxie to lead a franchise. Those traits brought out the best in his teammates and elevated his team at Miami, and I see him doing the same in Tennessee under Brian Callahan’s tutelage. Ward gives the Titans a chance to close the gap in the AFC. 

The Jaguars need a No. 2 receiver and No. 1 cornerback, and Hunter can play both of those spots. Hunter has elite ball skills and is a tremendous playmaker who’ll bring an electric game and a ton of pizzazz to Jacksonville. The Jags will want to get the ball in Hunter’s hands, and his versatility allows Liam Coen to use him as a chess piece on offense and defense.

I love this pick because the Giants are always at their best when led by their defense. Carter is an exceptional disruptor off the edge thanks to his elite get off and explosiveness. Putting him on a defensive line alongside Dexter Lawrence, Brian Burns and Kayvon Thibodeaux allows the G-Men to send multiple pass rushers after the quarterback on a regular basis.

The Patriots offensive line needs a guy on the edge who can lock it down, and Campbell does just that. He was an absolute beast in the SEC week in and week out. With firm hands and a good base, the technical Campbell puts on a clinic in pass protection. He has room for improvement in the run game, but the Patriots are setting Drake Maye up for success with this pick. 

Graham is one of the true dawgs in this draft class. He might not have the prototypical dimensions, but he can play ball. Graham is physical, aggressive, quick off the ball and has a nonstop, relentless motor. With Myles Garrett bringing pressure off the edge, Graham gives Cleveland a disruptor on the interior.

Jeanty joins an offense that desires a dominant rushing attack. The Boise State star is a workhorse who has drawn comparisons to LaDainian Tomlinson and Frank Gore. That’s not a surprise, as Jeanty can make big plays as a runner and receiver and has that closer mentality in the fourth quarter.

First-year head coach Aaron Glenn wants to play bully ball, and Membou gives the Jets another bully at the point of attack. The Missouri product is a supersized blocker with elite burst who can step in immediately at right tackle. This staff continues to shore up the offensive line for Justin Fields to work behind.