The 2025 NFL Draft is shaping up to be one of the most unpredictable in recent memory. With a mix of elite quarterback talent, surprising risers, and teams making aggressive moves, this latest three-round projection features shocking selections that could redefine the league’s future. From unexpected picks at the top to mid-round steals, let’s break down the biggest surprises in our latest 2025 NFL Mock Draft.
First Round Shocks: Quarterback Shake-Up at the Top
1. New York Giants – Shedeur Sanders, QB, Colorado
In a stunning turn of events, the Giants make a franchise-altering decision by selecting Shedeur Sanders as the No. 1 overall pick. With Daniel Jones failing to establish himself as a long-term option, New York takes a chance on the son of Hall of Famer Deion Sanders. Shedeur’s poise, arm talent, and leadership make him an intriguing prospect, but some expected Caleb Williams’ successor to claim the top spot instead.
2. New England Patriots – Quinn Ewers, QB, Texas
Many draft experts had pegged the Patriots as potential suitors for Shedeur Sanders or even Georgia’s Carson Beck. Instead, they opt for Quinn Ewers, whose deep-ball accuracy and pocket awareness have scouts buzzing. The move signals a reset for New England’s offense under their new regime.
6. Arizona Cardinals – Emeka Egbuka, WR, Ohio State
While many projected a defensive pick here, Arizona shocks the league by taking Egbuka over more heralded options like Luther Burden III. The Cardinals look to pair him with Kyler Murray in an effort to revamp their passing game, potentially forming one of the league’s most dynamic duos.
10. Minnesota Vikings – Michael Penix Jr., QB, Washington
Minnesota’s selection of Penix Jr. at No. 10 raises eyebrows, given his extensive injury history. However, the Vikings clearly believe in his elite arm talent and ability to make high-level throws. This pick signals the beginning of a new era in Minnesota, as they move on from the Kirk Cousins era.
Second Round Steals and Reaches
38. Los Angeles Rams – James Pearce Jr., EDGE, Tennessee
Pearce was projected as a mid-first-round talent, yet he falls to the Rams at 38. The former Tennessee standout has an elite pass-rushing arsenal and should immediately bolster a Rams defensive unit looking to replace Aaron Donald’s impact.
44. Chicago Bears – Blake Corum, RB, Michigan
The Bears shock the league by selecting a running back this early, especially after addressing the position in free agency. Corum, however, has an explosive skill set that Chicago envisions as a game-changer for their offense.
55. Dallas Cowboys – Jalen Milroe, QB, Alabama
One of the most surprising picks of the second round, the Cowboys invest in a developmental quarterback in Jalen Milroe despite Dak Prescott still being the team’s leader. With Milroe’s athleticism and arm strength, Dallas appears to be planning for the future.
Third Round Gems and Head-Scratchers
67. Green Bay Packers – Kamren Kinchens, S, Miami
A projected late-first or early-second-round pick, Kinchens inexplicably falls to Green Bay in the third round. The Packers land a defensive playmaker who can immediately contribute.
79. Tampa Bay Buccaneers – Xavier Worthy, WR, Texas
Worthy was once viewed as a potential first-rounder, but concerns about his frame and ability to handle physical defenders cause him to slide. The Buccaneers take a chance on his elite speed and route-running ability.
85. Detroit Lions – Bo Nix, QB, Oregon
Perhaps the most polarizing pick of the third round, Bo Nix lands in Detroit as a potential successor to Jared Goff. Some scouts love Nix’s experience and leadership, while others question his ability to process NFL defenses. The Lions see him as a high-upside project.
Final Thoughts: The Draft’s Biggest Winners and Losers
Winners:
- New York Giants – By securing Shedeur Sanders, they potentially land their franchise quarterback of the future.
- Los Angeles Rams – Getting James Pearce Jr. in the second round is an absolute steal.
- Green Bay Packers – Kamren Kinchens could be the defensive anchor they need.
Losers:
- Dallas Cowboys – Drafting Jalen Milroe instead of addressing other pressing needs may be a questionable decision.
- Minnesota Vikings – Taking a chance on Michael Penix Jr. at No. 10 is a huge gamble given his injury history.
The 2025 NFL Draft is shaping up to be full of surprises, and with unexpected moves shaking up the board, teams are making bold decisions that will define their future. Who will emerge as the biggest steals? Which selections will prove to be massive mistakes? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: this draft will be unforgettable.
