The 2025 NFL Draft is rapidly approaching, and with Week 13 of the 2024 season in the books, the draft order is taking shape. This article analyzes the current first-round projections, highlighting each team’s biggest needs and potential draft targets.
The Top Contenders for the No. 1 Pick
The New York Giants currently hold the coveted No. 1 overall pick with a dismal 2-9 record. Their biggest needs include a quarterback, offensive tackle, cornerback, wide receiver, and offensive guard. If they retain this position, they’ll have their choice of quarterbacks in a potentially loaded draft class. This would mark the first time in 60 years that the Giants have had the first overall pick.
The Las Vegas Raiders are close behind with an identical 2-9 record, but a slightly stronger strength of schedule. They are also in dire need of a quarterback, along with a top-tier wide receiver, defensive tackle, cornerback, and safety.
The Jacksonville Jaguars, at 2-9, round out the bottom three. Their needs lie in the secondary with cornerback and safety being top priorities. They also need help at wide receiver, offensive tackle, and defensive tackle.
Mid-First Round Needs and Potential Targets
Several teams in the middle of the first round are focusing on bolstering their offensive and defensive lines. The New England Patriots (3-9) and Cleveland Browns (3-8) both need offensive tackles to protect their quarterbacks and open up running lanes. The Browns also have a significant need at wide receiver.
The Carolina Panthers (3-8) are prioritizing an edge rusher to improve their pass rush. Quarterback is also a potential need, depending on the development of their current starter. The Tennessee Titans (3-8) and Chicago Bears (4-7) are both looking to strengthen their offensive lines, with the Bears also needing help on the interior defensive line.
Playoff Teams and Their Remaining Needs
Even playoff contenders have areas they need to address in the draft. The Seattle Seahawks (6-5) need help at edge rusher and linebacker. The Washington Commanders (7-5) need a wide receiver and edge rusher. The Denver Broncos (7-5) and Houston Texans (7-5) are both seeking offensive line improvements.
High-flying teams like the Philadelphia Eagles (9-2) and Buffalo Bills (9-2), while currently successful, are always looking to add talent. The Eagles could use another wide receiver and edge rusher, while the Bills need help at edge rusher and cornerback. The Kansas City Chiefs (10-1) and Detroit Lions (10-1), despite their dominant records, are also looking to add depth at cornerback and edge rusher, respectively.
Conclusion
The 2025 NFL Draft promises to be an exciting event, with several teams looking to rebuild and contend for a championship. The Week 13 draft order provides a glimpse into the potential landscape of the first round, highlighting the needs and potential targets for each team. As the season progresses and the college football season concludes, the draft picture will become clearer, but for now, the race for the No. 1 pick and the pursuit of talented prospects are in full swing.
