10 NFL Draft Prospects Who Could Be the No. 1 Pick in 2025

Featured image

The NFL draft is one of the most exciting events in professional sports. Every year, 32 teams have the opportunity to add new talent to their rosters. The order of the draft is determined by the previous season’s records, with the worst team getting the first pick. In 2025, the team with the first pick in the NFL draft will be the Houston Texans. The Texans finished the 2024 season with a 2-14 record, the worst in the NFL. This will be the second time in the past three years that the Texans have had the first overall pick. They previously selected quarterback Deshaun Watson with the first pick in the 2017 NFL draft.

The Texans have a number of needs that they could address with the first pick in the draft. They need a quarterback, a wide receiver, and a pass rusher. The top quarterback prospect in the 2025 NFL draft is Cade Klubnik from Clemson. Klubnik is a 5-star recruit who is considered to be one of the best quarterback prospects in recent memory. He has a strong arm, good accuracy, and the ability to make plays with his feet. The Texans could also select wide receiver Marvin Jones Jr. from Georgia. Jones is a 6-foot-3, 210-pound wide receiver who is considered to be one of the best deep threats in the country. He has great speed and jumping ability, and he is a threat to score every time he touches the ball. Finally, the Texans could select pass rusher Shemar Stewart from Texas. Stewart is a 6-foot-5, 260-pound defensive end who is considered to be one of the most disruptive pass rushers in the country. He has a quick first step, good strength, and the ability to get to the quarterback. The Texans have a lot of options with the first pick in the 2025 NFL draft. They could select a quarterback, a wide receiver, or a pass rusher. Whoever they select, they will be adding a talented player who can help them improve their team.

The Texans have a lot of work to do this offseason, but they have a good foundation in place. They have a young quarterback in Davis Mills, a talented running back in Dameon Pierce, and a solid defense. With the first pick in the 2025 NFL draft, the Texans have the opportunity to add another talented player to their roster. They could select a quarterback, a wide receiver, or a pass rusher. Whoever they select, they will be adding a player who can help them improve their team and compete for a playoff spot in 2025.

The Countdown to the 2025 NFL Draft

The Number One Pick

As the NFL season winds down, the focus turns to the future and the upcoming draft. The 2025 NFL Draft is shaping up to be a particularly exciting one, with a number of talented players expected to be available.

The top prospect in the draft is widely considered to be quarterback Cade Klubnik, a five-star recruit out of Austin, Texas. Klubnik is the son of former NFL quarterback Craig Kubiak, and he has a pro-style pedigree. He has been a starter for the Texas Longhorns since his true freshman season, and he has thrown for over 3,000 yards and 30 touchdowns in his career.

Klubnik is a 6-foot-3, 230-pound quarterback with a strong arm and good mobility. He is also a very intelligent player, and he has a good understanding of the game. NFL scouts believe that he has the potential to be a franchise quarterback in the NFL.

Projected Top 10 Draft Picks

(According to DraftKings Sportsbook)

Pick	Player	Position	College
1	Cade Klubnik	QB	Texas
2	Arch Manning	QB	Texas
3	Domani Jackson	CB	Southern Cal
4	Shemar Stewart	DL	Texas
5	Kelvin Banks	OT	Texas

Evaluating Potential First-Round Candidates

Several talented players are expected to be available for selection in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft. These prospects possess a combination of athleticism, skill, and potential that make them highly coveted by NFL teams. Here’s a closer look at some of the top candidates who could go in the first round:

Quarterbacks

The quarterback position is always among the most important in the draft, and 2025 is expected to feature a strong class of signal-callers. Arch Manning, the nephew of Peyton and Eli Manning, is considered the top quarterback prospect and has been drawing comparisons to his famous relatives. Cade Klubnik, the top recruit in the 2022 class, is also expected to be a first-round pick. Other quarterbacks to watch include Dante Moore, Kyion Grayes, and Marcel Reed.

Edge Rushers

Edge rushers are highly sought-after in the NFL, and the 2025 draft is expected to produce several top prospects at this position. Shemar Stewart, the No. 1 overall recruit in the 2023 class, is considered a potential generational talent and is expected to be one of the first players selected. Other edge rushers to keep an eye on include Desmond Umeozulu, Nick Singleton, and Jayden McGowan.

Player	Position	College
Arch Manning	Quarterback	Texas
Cade Klubnik	Quarterback	Clemson
Dante Moore	Quarterback	UCLA
Shemar Stewart	Edge Rusher	Texas
Desmond Umeozulu	Edge Rusher	Ohio State
Nick Singleton	Edge Rusher	Penn State

Assessing Team Needs and Projections

Overall Team Needs

The 2025 NFL Draft is still a long way off, but it’s never too early to start assessing team needs. Which teams are in the best position to make a run at the Super Bowl? Which teams need to rebuild? Here’s a look at some of the biggest needs for each team in the league:

Quarterback: Several teams are in need of a franchise quarterback, including the New York Giants, Carolina Panthers, and Pittsburgh Steelers.
Offensive line: The offensive line is the foundation of any successful offense, and several teams need to upgrade their protection, including the Indianapolis Colts, Jacksonville Jaguars, and Las Vegas Raiders.
Wide receiver: A good wide receiver can make a huge difference in an offense, and several teams need to find a reliable target, including the New York Jets, Cleveland Browns, and Denver Broncos.

Top Prospects

The 2025 NFL Draft is expected to be loaded with talent, and several players have already emerged as potential top prospects. Here’s a look at some of the players who could be available:

Cade Klubnik, QB, Clemson
Marvin Jones Jr., WR, Georgia
Shemar Stewart, OT, Texas
Harold Perkins, LB, LSU
Dasan McCullough, DL, Indiana

Projection for the First Overall Pick

It’s still too early to say who will have the first overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, but there are several teams who could be in contention. Here’s a look at the teams with the worst records in 2022:

Team	2022 Record
Carolina Panthers	1-4
New York Giants	2-3
New York Jets	2-3
Jacksonville Jaguars	2-3
Las Vegas Raiders	1-4

Of these teams, the Carolina Panthers have the worst record and are in the best position to land the first overall pick. However, the NFL Draft is a long way off, and a lot can change between now and then.

The Intriguing Contenders for the Top Pick

4. Seattle Seahawks

The Seahawks have emerged as a prime candidate for the top spot in the 2025 NFL Draft after a dismal 2022 season. With a league-worst 3-13 record, Seattle’s rebuilding process is in full swing. Their defense has been particularly weak, allowing the most points per game (29.5) and yards per game (390.2) in the league. The Seahawks have a number of holes to fill on both sides of the ball, and the top pick in the draft would give them the opportunity to address their most pressing needs.

Seattle has been rebuilding its quarterback position since the departure of Russell Wilson, and they could use the top pick to select an elite prospect like Bryce Young or CJ Stroud. The Seahawks also need help on the defensive line, where they lack a consistent pass rush. Players like Will Anderson Jr. and Nolan Smith could be potential targets at the top of the draft.

With a new coaching staff led by head coach Pete Carroll and offensive coordinator Shane Waldron, the Seahawks are hoping to turn things around in 2023. If they continue to struggle, however, they could be in position to land the top pick in the 2025 NFL Draft and kickstart their rebuilding process.

Player	Pos	College
Bryce Young	QB	Alabama
CJ Stroud	QB	Ohio State
Will Anderson Jr.	DE	Alabama
Nolan Smith	DE	Georgia

Historic Perspective on Early Draft Picks

The Value of the First Pick

Draft selection with higher ranks generally offer a team more value. Recent history of No. 1 picks shows various outcomes, from successful players to players who didn’t live up to the hype. Notable examples include Peyton Manning, the 1998 top pick who achieved greatness as a Hall of Fame quarterback; and JaMarcus Russell, the 2007 top pick who flamed out in the NFL.

Draft Pick Trades

Teams often trade draft picks to move up or down the selection order. In recent years, teams have been willing to give up significant assets to secure the top pick. For example, the Cleveland Browns traded three first-round picks and a third-round pick to the Houston Texans in 2017 to move up to the No. 1 spot and select Myles Garrett.

Success Rate of Top Picks

While the top draft pick offers the most potential, there is no guarantee of success. A study by ESPN found that only about 50% of No. 1 picks become Pro Bowlers, and only about 25% make the Hall of Fame.

Factors Influencing Draft Position

Several factors influence a team’s draft position, including their record from the previous season and their needs. Teams with worse records get higher draft picks, and teams with more holes to fill may be more likely to trade up in the draft.

Recent Trends in the Draft

In recent years, there has been a trend towards teams trading down from the top pick. This is likely due to the uncertainty of the draft and the desire to acquire more picks. For example, the Indianapolis Colts traded down from the No. 1 pick in 2021 to the No. 4 pick and acquired additional picks in the process.

The Significance of a Franchise-Altering Selection

The NFL draft is a pivotal event for every team, offering the opportunity to acquire top talent and build a competitive roster. In 2025, the draft will take on even greater significance, as the league expands to 39 teams, creating an unprecedented need for young talent.

Draft Order and Team Needs

The draft order is determined by the previous season’s records, with the worst teams receiving the highest draft picks. This ensures that teams in need of a rebuild have the opportunity to acquire the best players available.

Projected Top Prospects

Several highly rated prospects are expected to enter the 2025 NFL Draft, including: [Insert names of projected top prospects]

Franchise-Altering Potential

A franchise-altering selection can have a transformative impact on a team. Some examples include:

Peyton Manning to the Indianapolis Colts (1998)
Eli Manning to the New York Giants (2004)
Aaron Donald to the Los Angeles Rams (2014)

The Value of the No. 1 Pick

The No. 1 overall pick is the most coveted selection in the draft. It gives a team the opportunity to select the best available player, regardless of position.

Recent History of the No. 1 Pick

In recent years, the No. 1 overall pick has often been used to select quarterbacks. Here is a table summarizing the picks from 2018 to 2024:

Year	Pick	Player
2018	No. 1	Baker Mayfield
2019	No. 1	Kyler Murray
2020	No. 1	Joe Burrow
2021	No. 1	Trevor Lawrence
2022	No. 1	Aidan Hutchinson
2023	No. 1	C.J. Stroud
2024	No. 1	Bryce Young

Predictions and Mock Drafts for 2025

Expected Top Picks

The 2025 NFL Draft is still a ways off, but that doesn’t mean we can’t start speculating about who might go first overall. Here are a few players who are currently projected to be at the top of the draft board:

Arch Manning, QB, Isidore Newman HS (LA)

Cade Klubnik, QB, Clemson

Dante Moore, QB, Michigan

Nick Singleton, RB, Penn State

Domani Jackson, CB, Southern Cal

Kelvin Banks, OT, Texas

Shemar Stewart, DL, Texas

Mock Drafts

Several mock drafts have been released, all with varying results. According to the latest mock drafts, the following teams are projected to have the top five picks in the 2025 NFL Draft:

Pick	Team	Player
1	Houston Texans	Cade Klubnik, QB, Clemson
2	Indianapolis Colts	Arch Manning, QB, Isidore Newman HS (LA)
3	Carolina Panthers	Domani Jackson, CB, Southern Cal
4	Seattle Seahawks	Dante Moore, QB, Michigan
5	Jacksonville Jaguars	Kelvin Banks, OT, Texas

Team Needs and Potential Trades

Of course, a lot can change between now and the 2025 NFL Draft. Teams’ needs will change, and there could be some major trades that shake up the draft order.

Houston Texans

– The Texans are in a full-blown rebuild mode, and they need help at just about every position. Quarterback is a major need, and they could potentially trade up to select Cade Klubnik or Arch Manning.

Indianapolis Colts

– The Colts have a lot of holes on their roster, but their biggest need is at quarterback. Matt Ryan is not the long-term answer, and they could be looking to draft a young quarterback to develop.

Carolina Panthers

– The Panthers have a lot of young talent on their roster, but they need to add some more playmakers. Domani Jackson is a dynamic cornerback who could be a major difference-maker for them.

Seattle Seahawks

– The Seahawks need to find a replacement for Geno Smith at quarterback. Dante Moore is a talented young quarterback who could be a good fit for their system.

Jacksonville Jaguars

– The Jaguars need to add some more protection for Trevor Lawrence. Kelvin Banks is a talented offensive tackle who could be a day-one starter for them.

Rising Stars and Under-the-Radar Prospects

Rising Stars

The 2025 NFL Draft features a plethora of promising prospects, including several standout performers who have already made their mark on the college football landscape.

Bryce Young of Alabama, Caleb Williams of USC, and Marvin Jones Jr. of Georgia are among the most highly touted quarterbacks. Young is a Heisman Trophy winner and one of the most electric players in the country, while Williams is a dynamic dual-threat with exceptional athleticism. Jones is a pro-style quarterback with a strong arm and excellent decision-making abilities.

Under-the-Radar Prospects

Beyond the highly-rated stars, there are several under-the-radar prospects who have the potential to make a big impact at the next level. These players may not have the same name recognition as the top recruits, but they possess unique skills and traits that could make them valuable contributors to NFL teams.

Quarterback: Cade Klubnik

Cade Klubnik is a 6’3″, 205-pound quarterback from Austin, Texas, who is committed to the University of Clemson. Klubnik is a polished passer with a quick release and excellent accuracy. He is also a mobile quarterback who can extend plays with his legs.

Name	Position	School
Cade Klubnik	Quarterback	Clemson

The Value of a Quarterback in the NFL Draft

In the NFL Draft, every team has draft picks to select players to add to their roster. The order of these picks is determined by each team’s record from the previous season, with the worst team getting the first pick. The first pick in the draft is highly coveted, as it gives a team the opportunity to select the player they believe is the best available. While there are many different positions that can be selected with the first pick, quarterbacks are often the most sought-after players.

Quarterbacks are the leaders of their teams, and they have a major impact on their team’s success. They are responsible for making quick decisions, reading the defense, and delivering the ball accurately to their receivers. Quarterbacks who can do all of these things well are rare, and they are often the most valuable players in the NFL.

Quarterbacks are also often the highest-paid players in the NFL. The top quarterbacks in the league can make tens of millions of dollars per year. This is because they are so important to their teams and can have a major impact on their team’s success.

Quarterbacks Taken with the First Overall Pick in the NFL Draft

Year	Player	Team
2023	C.J. Stroud	Houston Texans
2022	Trevor Lawrence	Jacksonville Jaguars
2021	Trevor Lawrence	Jacksonville Jaguars
2020	Joe Burrow	Cincinnati Bengals

First Pick in 2025 NFL Draft

The Financial Implications of a First-Round Contract

Being selected with the first overall pick in the NFL Draft is a dream come true for any young football player. It comes with a hefty financial reward, as first-round contracts are among the richest in the league. Here are some of the financial implications of such a contract.

Signing Bonus

The signing bonus is typically the largest single payment in a first-round contract. It is paid immediately upon signing and is not subject to the salary cap. The amount of the bonus varies depending on the player’s position, potential, and the team’s financial situation. It can range from several million dollars to over $20 million.

Base Salary

The base salary is the annual amount the player will receive from the team. It is guaranteed for the first four years of the contract and is subject to the salary cap. The base salary typically increases each year, reflecting the player’s development and contribution to the team.

Performance-Based Bonuses

In addition to the signing bonus and base salary, first-round contracts often include performance-based bonuses. These bonuses are contingent on the player meeting certain statistical thresholds or achieving specific milestones, such as making the Pro Bowl or winning a Super Bowl. The amount of the bonuses can vary significantly and can be substantial for top performers.

Deferred Payments

Some first-round contracts include deferred payments, which are bonuses or portions of the salary that are paid over multiple years. This strategy allows teams to spread the financial burden of a large contract over a longer period, while providing the player with additional financial security.

Salary Cap Implications

The salary cap is the limit on how much money a team can spend on player salaries in a given year. First-round contracts can have a significant impact on a team’s salary cap, especially if the player is a highly paid veteran. Teams need to carefully manage their salary cap space to ensure they can retain their star players while staying within the NFL’s financial regulations.

Taxes

First-round contracts are subject to both federal and state income taxes. The amount of taxes owed will vary depending on the player’s income and the state in which they reside. Players can potentially reduce their tax liability by taking advantage of available tax deductions and exemptions.

Financial Advisers

Due to the complex financial nature of first-round contracts, players often hire financial advisers to help them manage their money. These advisers provide guidance on investment decisions, tax planning, and navigating the financial pitfalls that can come with sudden wealth.

Long-Term Financial Planning

First-round contracts provide players with substantial financial security, but it is important to plan for the long term. Players need to make wise investments and prepare for life after football, as their playing careers are typically relatively short.

Endorsements and Sponsorships

Being a first-round pick can open doors to lucrative endorsement deals and sponsorships. Players who become popular and successful on the field can generate additional income through partnerships with brands and companies.

Contract Year	Signing Bonus	Base Salary	Total Compensation
1	$25,000,000	$7,500,000	$32,500,000
2	–	$8,000,000	$8,000,000
3	–	$9,000,000	$9,000,000
4	–	$10,000,000	$10,000,000
5	–	$11,000,000	$11,000,000

2025 NFL Draft: Who Will Have the First Pick?

The 2025 NFL Draft is still a few years away, but it’s never too early to start speculating about who will have the first overall pick. There are a few teams that could be in contention for the top spot, including the Jacksonville Jaguars, Houston Texans, and Detroit Lions. All three of these teams have struggled in recent years and could use a franchise-changing player to help them turn things around.

The Jaguars have the worst record in the NFL this season, so they are currently in the driver’s seat for the first overall pick. However, the Texans and Lions are not far behind, so the race for the top spot is still very much up for grabs.