Titans Take Cam Ward First Overall in Unpredictable 2025 NFL Draft

Green Bay, WI — The 2025 NFL Draft, held at the historic Lambeau Field, concluded with a blend of anticipated selections and surprising twists, setting the stage for the upcoming NFL season.

Top Picks and Notable Selections

The Tennessee Titans selected quarterback Cam Ward from the University of Miami as the first overall pick, marking the third consecutive year a quarterback has led the draft . The Jacksonville Jaguars, after a trade with the Cleveland Browns, secured the versatile Travis Hunter from Colorado at No. 2, aiming to bolster both their offense and defense.

The New York Giants focused on defense by picking edge rusher Abdul Carter from Penn State at No. 3. The New England Patriots addressed their offensive line needs by selecting LSU's Will Campbell at No. 4. The Cleveland Browns, after trading down, chose Michigan defensive tackle Mason Graham at No. 5, reinforcing their defensive front .

Shedeur Sanders' Unexpected Slide

One of the draft's most talked-about stories was the unexpected fall of quarterback Shedeur Sanders. Initially projected as a top-three pick, Sanders was selected by the Cleveland Browns in the fifth round at No. 144 . This surprising turn led to a $100 million lawsuit filed by a fan alleging emotional distress due to Sanders' draft position .

Team Performances and Grades

Analysts praised the Arizona Cardinals, Carolina Panthers, and Dallas Cowboys for their draft strategies, each earning A+ grades for securing multiple impact players and maximizing value . The San Francisco 49ers and Minnesota Vikings received lower marks due to questionable decisions regarding player value and roster fit.

Looking Ahead

As teams integrate their new talent, the focus shifts to training camps and preseason preparations. The 2025 draft has not only reshaped team rosters but also sparked discussions on scouting processes and player evaluations, especially in light of unexpected developments like Sanders' draft position.

For a complete list of draft picks and detailed analyses, visit the official NFL Draft Tracker https://www.nfl.com/draft/tracker/picks/