Thursday night at 8 p.m., the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft will begin with little intrigue surrounding the Tennessee Titans’ selections, as Cam Ward appears virtually assured to be the top pick. However, the second pick may still be in contention, potentially forcing the Giants and Jets to modify their draft strategies.
According to Diana Russini of The Athletic, the Cleveland Browns remain a team to watch because they are likely to move beyond the second overall pick. Rather than selecting one player, Cleveland is expected to address multiple positions.
“Hours before the first round begins, Browns general manager Andrew Berry has reportedly been listening to offers for the No. 2 overall pick, and many believe he is willing to drop a few spots,” Russini said. “Cleveland has holes to fill and only four top-100 picks to address them.”
Two prospects expected to be available at the second selection include Penn State pass rusher Abdul Carter and Colorado cornerback and wide receiver Travis Hunter. Speculation is growing that the Giants may be interested in adding Carter. However, if another team jumps ahead and selects Carter, the Giants may need to pivot their plans and consider taking Hunter or trading down.
The Jets, who hold the seventh pick, need to add a wide receiver to ease the burden on Garrett Wilson and give him more one-on-one matchups. They also could use a tackle to provide additional protection for quarterback Justin Fields—and for the quarterback they eventually select, whether in this draft or next. If teams scramble because of the Browns’ move, the Jets might see players at other positions slide into their selection, leading to interesting discussions in their war room.
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Chris Franklin may be reached at [email protected].