The 2024 college football season started with a bang. Multiple top-end prospects came out of the gates with huge performances to provide some validity toward their preseason projections.

But the evaluations for the '25 cycle are just beginning.

Each individual has the entire season to stack games and piece together the best possible resume for all 32 NFL teams, as they aspire to enter the professional ranks as a draft pick.

The Bleacher Report Scouting Department will meet throughout the cycle to evaluate hundreds of prospects. With the season still in its neophyte stages, the team of Brandon Thorn, Brent Sobleski, Cory Giddings, Dame Parson and Matt Holder pieced together its initial projection based on where the top talents currently stand.

This early look provides some intriguing potential.

Could a cornerback be selected No. 1 overall for the first time in NFL history? A wide receiver may hear his name called in the top spot for the first time since Keyshawn Johnson in 1996. What if they're the same person? What if that individual may not even be the top prospect on his own squad?

The aura found within the 2025 class is different than what we've seen.

NOTE: DraftKings' reverse Super Bowl odds (as of Aug. 31) determined the draft order.

1. Denver Broncos: CB/WR Travis Hunter, Colorado

Colorado's two-way superstar Travis Hunter is college football's best all-around player.

The reigning Paul Hornung Award winner is an elite talent, either as a cornerback or wide receiver. During the the Buffaloes' season debut against the North Dakota State Bison, Hunter played 124 total snaps, caught seven passes for 132 yards and three scores and allowed only 18 yards in coverage, per Pro Football Focus.

"Hunter is an exceptional athlete and one of the better college football players to come around in quite some time," Giddings said. "Although he is an elite two-way player in college, the question will persist whether he will continue to be at the next level or choose a specific position.

"As a cornerback, Hunter has excellent length and movement skills. But his ball skills stand apart from the others and are what makes his dual positions a possibility."

At this juncture, there's no reason for anyone to pigeonhole Hunter into a specific position. Cornerback has long been a premium position. Meanwhile, the value of a playmaking wide receiver has skyrocketed in recent years. His future NFL team can find packages for him to do both.

In this case, the Denver Broncos keep him in-state and provide a playmaker opposite Patrick Surtain II, for quarterback Bo Nix or both.

2. Carolina Panthers: Edge James Pearce Jr., Tennessee

The Carolina Panthers decided to trade Brian Burns this offseason instead of signing their top defender to a premium contract extension. General manager Dan Morgan didn't stand pat at the position. But a long-term solution at edge-rusher doesn't appear to be on the roster.

"While the Panthers signed Jadeveon Clowney and D.J. Wonnum this offseason, both inked just two-year deals, and the potential found in Tennessee's James Pearce Jr. is too good to pass up," Holder said. "The Volunteer is reliant on winning with strength and athleticism right now, meaning his technique and hand usage could improve. But a pairing with the Panthers could be a great situation where he doesn't have to be an every-down player right away and develop for a season."

To further Holder's point, Pearce wasn't an instant-impact freshman, either. He blossomed during his second season on campus, with 14.5 tackles for loss and 10 sacks on his way to earning first-team All-SEC honors.

As long as new Panthers head coach Dave Canales develops quarterback Bryce Young, left tackle Ikem Ekwonu shows improvement and Jaycee Horn eventually re-signs, Carolina will have the traditional premium positions covered. There's plenty that still has to work in the team's favor for that to happen.

3. New England Patriots: OT Will Campbell, LSU

The New England Patriots invested in a first-round quarterback. Check. They added weapons to an anemic offense. Check. The offensive line still needs work, though.

One of the likely reasons Drake Maye didn't open the season as New England's starting quarterback, despite outperforming veteran Jacoby Brissett during preseason, is an attempt to avoid ruining his confidence.

With the Cincinnati Bengals, Seattle Seahawks, New York Jets and San Francisco 49ers starting the season, the Patriots should wait to try to build some continuity up front before placing the rookie in the lineup.

"The Patriots have their quarterback of the future in place with Maye and will need to pair him with a long-term answer at left tackle sooner rather than later," Thorn said. "While Campbell doesn't quite have the physical measurables of a prototypical blindside protector, he has nearly every other trait to thrive at the position.

"With excellent play strength, competitive toughness and balance in pass protection, Campbell can overcome middling length to succeed on the left side in a similar vein as Rashawn Slater has with the Los Angeles Chargers, giving the Patriots a crucial building block for the future."

4. New York Giants: QB Shedeur Sanders, Colorado

As exciting as Shedeur Sanders was in his first season with the Colorado Buffaloes, the season fell apart and his play was questionable at times.

If his performance against North Dakota State is any indication, Sanders has put in the work and grown as a passer. His creativity and accuracy were already strengths. But he looked more comfortable working from the pocket. On multiple occasions, he didn't bail under pressure. Instead, he stared down the barrel, took a hit and still delivered a pinpoint pass.

As long as Sanders plays at the same level against better competition, he could eventually find himself in the conversation as a future No. 1 overall pick. In this case, the New York Giants upgrade at the game's most important position.

"The Giants have done a good job adding playmakers on the offensive side of the football for current starter Daniel Jones," Parson said. "However, it's difficult to envision him as their starter after the season.

"Sanders is accustomed to the bright lights and high expectations. He would bring stability to the QB position with his innate passing ability, whether kept clean or under pressure. Sanders possesses a good NFL-caliber arm with high-end accuracy and ball placement. His selection provides New York's top target Malik Nabers with a potential franchise quarterback who can pepper him with quality targets and maximize his star potential."

5. Tennessee Titans: WR Luther Burden III, Missouri

The Tennessee Titans did a wonderful job adding pieces around veteran wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins. It's now time to replace him.

Hopkins remains a quality target. The 11-year veteran posted his seventh 1,000-yard campaign last season. He also led the Titans with 75 receptions. However, the Titans started to go in a different direction this offseason.

Calvin Ridley signed a four-year, $92 million contract. Tyler Boyd also followed his former offensive coordinator to Tennessee after Brian Callahan became the Titans head coach.

All the while, Hopkins is entering the final year of his contract.

"Aside from Hopkins, Treylon Burks has consistently battled injuries since being drafted in the first round," Parson said. "Missouri's Luther Burden III offers a nice complement of skills to pair with Ridley. Burden brings toughness, strength and burst to generate plays routinely after the catch."

Missouri wide receivers coach Jacob Peeler agrees with the assessment.

Said Peeler: "Getting the ball in his hands and (he becomes) kind of an old-school running back once he gets it. It's a scorer's mentality. It's a guy that wants to get in the end zone."

6. Washington Commanders: CB Will Johnson, Michigan

Under the supervision of new head coach Dan Quinn, the Washington Commanders have the ability to piece together a strong campaign, especially if rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels plays well.

The Commanders must make their way through the NFC East, though, which could be a difficult task depending on how the Philadelphia Eagles and Dallas Cowboys rebound after postseason disappointments.

Another early draft pick shouldn't be ruled out of the equation. In this instance, Washington has an opportunity to select an elite talent at a premium position to strengthen Quinn's defense.

"Michigan's Will Johnson is arguably college football's top pure cornerback prospect," Giddings said. "With his 6'2" frame, he has more than the desired length for the next level. He shows versatility to play in both man and zone schemes while displaying top-notch ball skills and playmaking abilities in either system.

"If all goes well for the Wolverine, he could crack the top five overall."

With Benjamin St-Juste and Michael Davis set to enter free agency after the season, as well as Emmanuel Forbes needing to step up his game, cornerback could be a real sore spot in Washington next offseason.

7. Las Vegas Raiders: QB Carson Beck, Georgia

Realistically, the Las Vegas Raiders can't go in any direction other than quarterback. Black Hole veterans will spend the entire collegiate season watching every signal-caller with a Sherlock Holmesian level of detail.

Granted, the season has yet to be played. No one knows exactly how things will work out with Gardner Minshew II or Aidan O'Connell leading the way. But it's clear to everyone that the position needs to be upgraded.

Georgia's Carson Beck is an ideal distributor who will enter the professional ranks after cooly leading the nation's top program for two seasons. He's a decisive passer who can execute a scheme at a high level. According to Pro Football Focus, the senior signal-caller had the fastest average time to throw among quarterbacks with 250 or more attempts last season (2.39 seconds).

"Beck can bring immediate stability to the Raiders' quarterback room," Parson said. "He is an accurate passer with great ball placement and timing on middle-of-the-field throws. Beck's superpower is toggling between throwing with velocity and touch."

A reunion between Beck and tight end Brock Bowers could be special, not to mention what it could do for wide receiver Davante Adams.

8. Minnesota Vikings: DL Mason Graham, Michigan

The makeup of the 2025 NFL draft class will be fascinating to watch. Its top players could very well turn out to be a hybrid corner/wide receiver, safety or a defensive tackle.

"Michigan's Mason Graham might end up being the top player in this year's draft class when it's all said and done," Holder said. "He's 6'3" and 318 pounds with the strength of what a person expects from someone of that build. But he also has the movement skills and quickness of someone closer to the 270- to 280-pound range.

"Meanwhile, the Minnesota Vikings need help on the interior defensive line, especially since Harrison Phillips is an impending free agent."

Granted, positional value inevitably comes into play.

Even so, Graham is a difference-maker in that he can consistently handle the point of attack and collapse the pocket. According to Pro Football Focus, the first-team All-Big Ten performer was one of two interior defenders last season—alongside Outland Trophy winner T'Vondre Sweat—with top-10 grades as a run defender and pass-rusher.

True three-down defensive tackles are rare and always highly valued.

9. Arizona Cardinals: Edge Abdul Carter, Penn State

When Jonathan Gannon served as the defensive coordinator for the Philadelphia Eagles, he was part of an organization that prioritized the defensive front and the ability to attack opposing quarterbacks in waves.

The Arizona Cardinals are far from reaching that same point. Last season, the Cardinals finished among the bottom three in sacks. General manager Monti Ossenfort did draft Darius Robinson in this year's first round, but the rookie opened the season on injured reserve thanks to a calf injury.

Robinson isn't the only pass-rusher on the shelf.

"While BJ Ojulari will be back next season, he's missing a crucial year for his development," Holder said. "The Cardinals need help on the edge, so they can't pass up on a talent like Penn State's Abdul Carter to pair him with Ojulari. The twosome can give Arizona a quality young edge-rush duo, while Robinson reduces down over the interior to push the pocket.

"Granted, the Penn State product is a project and has primarily lined up at off-ball linebacker, but his movement skills should make the position switch a smooth transition."

Carter is an explosive athlete. How he handles his full-time transition to edge will determine how high he lands in the process.

10. New Orleans Saints: Edge Mykel Williams, Georgia

The New Orleans Saints' seemingly never-ending search to find a quality edge-rusher opposite Cameron Jordan continues with the selection of Georgia's Mykel Williams.

Over the years, the team has cycled through draft picks Marcus Davenport, Payton Turner and Isaiah Foskey. The organization signed Chase Young this past offseason to a one-year, free-agent contract.

It's still searching for a long-term solution.

"Jordan is 35 years old, so the Saints could use more youth," Holder said. "Williams is more of a traits prospect who has impressive strength at the point of attack to collapse the pocket as a pass-rusher than he is a finished product. But he'd be a good addition for the future of New Orleans' defense."

Williams did suffer an ankle sprain in Georgia's season opener against the Clemson Tigers.

His development may be stunted to a degree while he makes the transition as a starter on the edge. Before the injury, Williams showed how good he is against the run yet underwhelmed when asked to rush the passer. His situation is one to watch closely because it can profoundly impact the class' makeup.

11. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: CB Benjamin Morrison, Notre Dame

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have rebuilt their roster on the fly.

After spending three years making every possible short-term gain in hopes of maximizing Tom Brady's final years, general manager Jason Licht has done an excellent job keep the Bucs in the playoff mix with smart moves while getting younger in multiple spots.

The organization traded long-time starter Carlton Davis III to the Detroit Lions this offseason. Jamel Dean, Zyon McCollum and Christian Izien will man the cornerback position this fall. Notre Dame's Benjamin Morrison can add another long and physical defensive back to outright replace Davis long-term.

"Morrison is one of the more technically sound cornerbacks in college football," Giddings said. "An aggressive cornerback who likes to press, he does a very good job of getting his hands on and disrupting receivers down the field. He has quick feet with little wasted movement when transitioning while also showing top-notch ball skill to make plays on downfield passes.

"A big year from Morrison can place him in the same conversation as Colorado's Travis Hunter and Michigan's Will Johnson."

12. Indianapolis Colts: S Malaki Starks, Georgia

Indianapolis Colts general manager Chris Ballard can be stubborn.

A year ago, the Colts went young at cornerback, with two rookie starters on the outside. That setup didn't go horribly wrong. This year, Ballard chose not to invest in the safety position, with hopes of Nick Cross finally emerging as a consistent starter opposite Julian Blackmon.

"I've always had a strong belief in myself and those around me. Strong belief in what we do," Ballard told reporters. "... If it gets me fired, so be it."

The selection of Georgia's Malaki Starks shows how little faith those outside of Indianapolis have in the Colts' safety tandem.

Starks is a rare elite talent at safety. An investment in him will go a long way to solidifying the Colts' back line.

"Starks is the best safety in college football," Giddings said. "An elite athlete, Starks is a versatile defender who is a ball hawk in coverage, whether he's working in a deep zone or man coverage. He does a great job of staying in the proper position and attacking the ball in the air.

"When playing the run, he can look like a heat-seeking missile."

13. Seattle Seahawks: WR Tetairoa McMillan, Arizona

A conversation will need to be had about the Seattle Seahawks' quarterback setup, but it can wait. Instead, the Seahawks continue to build around Geno Smith for one more year

In doing so, the franchise has an opportunity to build the NFL's most intimidating wide receiver duo.

DK Metcalf's physique has already broken the internet on multiple occasions. He's easily the sport's most overwhelming physical presence in the passing game. An addition of Arizona's Tetairoa McMillan gives opposing cornerbacks nowhere to run.

McMillan is a 6'5", 212-pound target. He obliterated the New Mexico Lobos in the Wildcats' season opener, with 10 receptions for 304 yards and four touchdowns. Smith may need to be replaced, but no quarterback can go wrong with the weapons Seattle can feature.

"Tyler Lockett's contract will expire after the 2025 season," Parson said, "but the team could save roughly $3 million if he were to be cut before June 1.

"McMillan blends height, weight, athleticism and agility. He wins reps before the catch and after the catch. A wide receiver of his stature should not be as fluid of a mover as he is. He's most dangerous after the catch where he decelerates easily to make defenders miss in space and generate YAC."

14. Los Angeles Chargers: TE Colston Loveland, Michigan

Either the Los Angeles Chargers' wide receivers will surprise this year, or the squad will need to add more weapons next offseason.

Since Jim Harbaugh is a true-blue Michigan man, with an affinity for a Bo Schembechler-style ground-and-pound offense, he can select a top talent at tight end like the Wolverines' Colston Loveland and serve two masters.

"Harbaugh's offense features young talent around star quarterback Justin Herbert to build and develop," Parson said. "The tight-end position lacks that type of talent, though. Loveland is the remedy.

"Loveland is an outstanding mix of size, athleticism, route running and ball skills. The former 4-star recruit that Harbaugh brought to Michigan is the favorite to end the cycle as TE1 for the 2025 NFL draft. Injecting his pass-catching talent and blocking prowess into offensive coordinator Greg Roman's offense is a perfect match. Roman's offense and pass attack have always been tight-end-centric, which bodes well for a talent like Loveland."

Furthermore, Hayden Hurst is only signed through the upcoming season, while Will Dissly is nowhere near the same caliber of pass-catcher as Loveland can be.

15. Jacksonville Jaguars: OT Kelvin Banks Jr., Texas

The Jacksonville Jaguars are in win-now mode. Owner Shad Khan said so himself.

Everyone on the roster, not named Trevor Lawrence or Josh Allen, better have taken notice. Expectations have changed. The team has sat at 9-8 for two straight seasons. The Jaguars have one playoff appearance in the last six seasons.

Anything less than a postseason run may signal significant change. That change will almost certainly start along the offensive line with a longtime starter on the blind side.

"With starting left tackle Cam Robinson set to hit free agency after this season and not being a bona fide top-10 left tackle, chances are he'll be let go with the aim of landing the blindside protector of the future," Thorn said. "Texas' Kelvin Banks Jr. uses smooth movement skills to mirror effectively on an island. Banks is also able to protect at a high level without help, which will help him stick outside in the NFL despite being a little undersized (6'4", 320 lbs).

"Questions do linger about his play strength that will need to get answered this season, but his pass-protecting skills will warrant him to be considered as a top-half-of-the-first-round blocker."

16. Pittsburgh Steelers: DL Deone Walker, Kentucky

Aside from the uncertainly at quarterback that will likely last into next offseason, the Pittsburgh Steelers have proven methods in how to build their roster. The opportunity to select a 6'6", 345-pound interior defender with the potential to create a Cam Heyward-like impact is far too tantalizing.

"It doesn't take long to see why NFL teams are intrigued by Walker," Holder said. "He's a massive human being and moves pretty well for his size. That gives the Wildcat a ton of potential at the next level and he could be as great as an eventual replacement for Hayward, whenever the 35-year-old decides to retire."

Walker playing alongside Heyward and Keeanu Benton could breathe new life into a Steelers defense that took a step back. In fact, the unit has fallen well short of the franchise's typical standard, having not finished among the top 10 in total defense during the last four seasons.

T.J. Watt is a superstar, of course. The franchise signed linebacker Patrick Queen this offseason. The cornerback room is young and talented. Minkah Fitzpatrick is an eraser at safety. But two behemoths controlling the line of scrimmage can make all the difference in reestablishing an updated version of the Steel Curtain.

17. Cleveland Browns: OT Aireontae Ersery, Minnesota

The selection of Jedrick Wills Jr. during the first round of the 2020 NFL draft has placed the Cleveland Browns in a bind.

Wills is a capable starter, but he hasn't come anywhere near the level of play expected from a top-10 pick. To make matters worse, the organization passed on Tristan Wirfs to select Wills.

The 25-year-old offensive lineman will play out the fifth year of his rookie deal before the Browns front office decides what to do at the premium position. A change seems appropriate.

"Wills hitting free agency next offseason opens up the left tackle position for a potential first- or second-round draft pick in 2025," Thorn said. "Minnesota's Aireontae Ersery is a powerful, imposing run-blocker and finisher who will need to continue improving his footwork and hands in pass protection to stick at left in the NFL. But he has enough movement skills to bridge that gap with added refinement."

The Browns do have Jack Conklin coming back from a season-ending injury, which could allow Dawand Jones to move from right to left tackle. However, that same transition never fully clicked for Wills. Cleveland could be falling into the same trap if it tries it again.

18. Chicago Bears: Edge Nic Scourton, Texas A&M

The Chicago Bears made a franchise-changing move at last year's trade deadline when they acquired Montez Sweat from the Washington Commanders. The move looked like an overpay at the time, yet Sweat's performance from that point forward was on par with some of the NFL's best defenders.

Sweat is now the centerpiece of an ascending defense to complement this year's No. 1 overall pick, quarterback Caleb Williams, and his talented group of targets.

A bookend can take some pressure off Sweat or take full advantage of the one-on-one opportunities he faces when protection slides in the other direction.

"While the Bears do have Darrell Taylor and Austin Booker to play on the other side of Sweat, Taylor is only on a one-year contract and Booker is a project who isn't a stout run defender," Holder said. "So Texas A&M's Nic Scourton should be on Ryan Poles' radar.

"The Purdue transfer lined up as a standup outside linebacker last year, which speaks to his athleticism even as a 6'4" and 280-pound edge. However, it will be interesting to see how Texas A&M uses him this year as he profiles better as a hand-in-the-ground defensive end, which would be a good fit in Chicago's defense."

19. Atlanta Falcons: CB Denzel Burke, Ohio State

After years of making top investments in the offense, the Atlanta Falcons finally turn to the other side of the ball.

Tight end Kyle Pitts, wide receiver Drake London, running back Bijan Robinson and quarterback Michael Penix Jr. became back-to-back-to-back-to-back top-10 draft picks. The last time Atlanta invested in a first-round pick on defense came in 2020 with A.J. Terrell.

It's time to revisit the cornerback position.

Dee Alford and Mike Hughes are free agents after this season. Ohio State's Denzel Burke can enter the fray and start opposite Terrell as a rookie.

"Burke brings a great combination of length and athleticism," Giddings said. "He shows the speed and short-area quickness to be an elite cover defender. He's a sticky defender, displaying quick feet and the ability to sink his hips through his transition.

"The first-team All-Big Ten performer can be too handsy at times, which puts him out of position and can lead to penalties. If he ups his technique and tackling, Burke can solidify his status as a first-round talent."

Going back for another collegiate season should prove highly beneficial in Burke's case.

20. Los Angeles Rams: OT Emery Jones Jr., LSU

The Los Angeles Rams achieve two goals with the selection of LSU's Emery Jones Jr.

First, offensive line fortifications will be a necessity next offseason. Left tackle Alaric Jackson isn't signed beyond this season. Right tackle Rob Havenstein turns 33 next May, with only one more year remaining on his current deal.

The Rams have made big investments along their offensive interior, but tackle is clearly a major need.

Secondly, added help to keep Matthew Stafford upright should keep the aging quarterback happy. The Rams must maximize the 36-year-old's next few years after he endured significant punishment throughout his career.

"Jones would be a bit of a stretch here to play tackle and may need to kick inside to guard as a pro due to shaky movement skills, footwork and overall technique as a pass protector," Thorn said. "But his size and raw power fit into the general mold that the Rams prefer in their linemen. Jones is a viable option because of the Rams' current setup."

The junior prospect has been a starter since his true freshman season. Yet his technique requires significant work. Jones must show improvement as the 2024 campaign progresses to remain in the first-round conversation.

21. Miami Dolphins: IOL Jonah Savaiinaea, Arizona

Everyone knows all about the Miami Dolphins' weapons and the investments the team has already made at quarterback and wide receiver.

Head coach Mike McDaniel is one of the best at devising a game plan and calling plays. He helps hide potential problem areas.

"The Dolphins have been and likely will continue to be able to make their offense click despite shaky offensive line play due to their potent scheme and playmakers," Thorn said. "Sooner or later, they'll need to address the unit. Guard will need to be more of a priority.

"Arizona's Jonah Savaiinaea is one of the more talented blockers in this class in terms of size (6'5", 336 lbs), power and quickness, signaling a rising prospect as the season plays out who could help fill a significant hole for the Dolphins."

Starting guards Liam Eichenberg and Robert Jones are free agents after this season, which leaves two potential openings. Isaiah Wynn is operating under a one-year deal as well, though he's still dealing with last season's quad injury.

Continued investments to create a strong front five can only help what's already an elite offense.

22. Dallas Cowboys: WR Emeka Egbuka, Ohio State

Wide receiver CeeDee Lamb has been taken care of by the Dallas Cowboys. Quarterback Dak Prescott has yet to sign a new contract extension. Whether the latter is actually back next season or not, the former still needs a quality running mate.

Lamb will undoubtedly post good numbers this season, as long as he stays healthy. However, a secondary threat will make the Cowboys' passing game even more potent.

Ohio State's Emeka Egbuka has an opportunity this fall to show he's more than a slot receiver while overcoming last season's lingering injury. He'll have to deal with the fact that true freshman Jeremiah Smith is another superstar in the pipeline.

"Egbuka, like Lamb, can line up anywhere in the formation," Parson said. "Egbuka is a good route-runner with a strong understanding of leveraging and separating from defensive backs. He is healthy now and expected to have a bounce-back season.

"An Egbuka pairing with Lamb will give whoever is under center a versatile and talented receiving duo to stress defenses vertically and horizontally for the foreseeable future."

If Prescott returns, Dallas could be deadly for years to come.

23. New York Jets: QB Cam Ward, Miami

Some may view this slotting as an overreaction to what was seen this past weekend when Cam Ward tore up the Florida Gators. It's not.

Instead, it's the beginnings of confirmation based on what was seen a season ago, when Ward played for the Washington State Cougars. Many of the same traits seen during his 385-yard, three-touchdown performance were on display then.

Ward slows the game down for himself. It's when he gets sped up that issues arise.

The biggest problem last season and during the Florida contest was a propensity to make certain throws he shouldn't. If the scales tip in favor of Ward's creativity throughout this season instead of unraveling after mistakes, he has the potential to entrench himself as a first-round option.

The New York Jets need a long-term plan at the game's most important position.

"The Jets have Aaron Rodgers and that's it at quarterback," Parson said. "If Rodgers were to play out the entirety of his contract, the Jets' faith in the 40-year-old signal-caller will have been rewarded.

"With that said, the organization must prepare for the future sooner rather than later.

"Ward is a great fit to learn behind Rodgers for at least a year. The two-time transfer's combination of upper-echelon arm talent, accuracy and off-script playmaking ability pairs well with the young playmakers on the Jets roster."

24. Green Bay Packers: CB Ricardo Hallman, Wisconsin

The Green Bay Packers' secondary setup is rather...interesting, to say the least.

The organization has made significant investments in the cornerback position. Yet Eric Stokes didn't have his fifth-year rookie option picked up by the team and will become a free agent after this season, while Jaire Alexander and the coaching staff haven't always been on the same page.

Even if Alexander and new defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley are simpatico, the Packers are likely looking to replace Stokes next offseason. They won't go far to find a replacement.

Wisconsin's Ricardo Hallman has some of the best natural instincts in coverage. Last season, the underclassman led all FBS cornerbacks with seven interceptions. He allowed a 37.4 quarterback rating into his coverage, according to Pro Football Focus.

"Hallman is a twitchy cornerback who shows the ability to play both outside cornerback and the slot position," Giddings said. "He shows great footwork with the ability to quickly transition without wasted movement. He's a tough defender who does a very good job of holding his own in coverage, even when matched against bigger receivers.

"With Hallman playing at Wisconsin, the Packers should be eager to keep him in-state."

25. Buffalo Bills: DL Kenneth Grant, Michigan

The Buffalo Bills made some changes on defense this offseason.

The likes of Micah Hyde, Jordan Poyer, Tre'Davious White, Leonard Floyd, Shaq Lawson and Tyrel Dodson are gone. General manager Brandon Beane must keep piecing the roster together while trying to take full advantage of quarterback Josh Allen's MVP-level window.

Michigan's Kenneth Grant adds a space-eater and presence in the middle of Buffalo's defensive front.

"Over the last few years, Michigan has been known for developing defensive tackles who are massive with impressive athleticism," Holder said. "Grant is the next one up.

"The 6'3" and 339-pound Wolverine is hard to move in the running game with the agility to be effective during line games as a pass-rusher. He lacks experience at this stage, and the sample size is small. That being said, with DaQuan Jones getting up there in age and on an expiring contract, Grant would be a great target for Buffalo at the end of the first round."

Grant can take up blockers from Ed Oliver and protect linebacker Matt Milano, once he's healthy next year.

26. Houston Texans: DL Tyleik Williams, Ohio State

The Houston Texans surprised everyone last year with their ascension to the top of the AFC South. Nobody is going to be caught off guard this year.

Furthermore, Houston's roster still isn't completely fleshed out to reflect DeMeco Ryans' defensive approach.

Of the Texans' top four defensive tackles, only Tim Settle is signed beyond this season. Interior help will be necessary next offseason.

"After trading away Maliek Collins, the Texans could already use some help at defensive tackle," Holder said. "Ohio State's Tyleik Williams might even remind the coaching staff of Collins, as the Buckeye presents a good combination of size (6'3" and 327 pounds) and movement skills to be disruptive along the interior. He just needs to be more consistent with his pad level."

When Williams is playing his best, he's a disruptive defender who reestablishes the line of scrimmage. He can be pushed around some because of the aforementioned pad-level issues. Yet as an explosive defensive tackle capable of creating upfield plays, he'd be valuable to a team that doesn't have any long-term plans for its defensive interior.

27. Philadelphia Eagles: LB Harold Perkins Jr., LSU

LSU's Harold Perkins Jr.'s draft status will vacillate depending on a team's plan for the hybrid defender.

Perkins is a natural pass-rusher with the movement skills of an off-ball linebacker and the build of a safety (6'1", 225 lbs). There's no reason to pigeonhole him into a specific position. Instead, he should be viewed as a defensive weapon who can be deployed in various manners.

"While the Philadelphia Eagles typically don't invest much into their linebacker corps, the position group has become a weakness over recent years," Holder said. "Perkins has the makings of a first-round backer, which has become rare in recent years, as he moves well and takes on blocks with his hands.

"The LSU product does need to add bulk, but he has some surprising strength at the point of attack when taking on blocks that NFL teams should be more than happy to work with."

Bryce Huff, Nolan Smith Jr., Jalyx Hunt and Nakobe Dean are all undersized front-seven defenders. Perkins fits the same mold. Defensive coordinator Vic Fangio can use this group by moving them all over formations to confuse opposing offenses.

28. Cincinnati Bengals: IOL Tyler Booker, Alabama

The Cincinnati Bengals like big, powerful offensive linemen. Alabama's Tyler Booker certainly fits the bill.

"The Bengals have the second-heaviest line in the NFL this season and don't make it a secret that they want to command the line of scrimmage with firm pass protectors in their spread-out, downhill run scheme," Thorn said. "Enter the 6'5", 325-pound Booker, who brings jarring power and physicality to the guard spot. His middling recovery skills may cap his ceiling as a pro, but there are clear strengths to his game that should translate quickly and with added refinement to his technique could see a similar sort of rise as recent second-round pick O'Cyrus Torrence."

Both of Cincinnati's starting guards, Alex Cappa and Cordell Volson, are signed through at least the 2025 campaign. Despite the continuity the duo maintains, the Bengals can be more stout along their offensive interior.

Booker's power will be a significant upgrade compared to the current options. Despite his limitations, the Bengals want to overwhelm defenders at the point of attack and make life miserable for anyone trying to reach quarterback Joe Burrow.

29. Detroit Lions: WR Elic Ayomanor, Stanford

The Detroit Lions are hoping for a breakout season from 2022 first-round pick Jameson Williams. A fully healthy and engaged Williams will give Lions a tremendous speed threat. At the same time, Detroit's wide receiver corps is still missing a component.

"The Lions' wide receiver room is size-deficient," Parson said. "If Williams breaks out and performs to his talent/draft position, they will have their Z-receiver to go along with Amon-Ra St. Brown. They do not have a true X-receiver to dominate at the catch point and play with physicality.

"Stanford's Elic Ayomanor is listed at 6'2", 210 pounds. His ball skills and play strength are great. He separates well enough for a bigger receiver. This selection could finally round out their receiving room alongside young star tight end Sam LaPorta."

The Stanford program may not be what it once was under Jim Harbaugh or David Shaw's early years, but Ayomanor is the type of talent it used to produce through keen evaluation and development. The Cardinal's top target already posted a 100-yard game to start the 2024 campaign. His big breakout came last year against the Colorado Buffaloes and Travis Hunter, when he caught 13 passes for 294 yards and three scores.

30. Baltimore Ravens: RB Ashton Jeanty, Boise State

Lamar Jackson plus Derrick Henry in the Baltimore Ravens backfield is nightmare fuel for opposing defenses. However, it's not a long-term partnership.

Henry isn't built like other running backs. But he's still 30 years old, with over 2,000 carries under his belt. The Ravens will always feature a strong ground attack as long as Jackson is behind center. However, the organization should look at another long-term investment for its backfield.

"Henry signed a two-year deal this off-season," Parson said. "This should not stop them from drafting a young running back in 2025.

"Boise State's Ashton Jeanty is in the mix to be the class' RB1. He blends vision, patience, low center of gravity, contact balance and a strong receiving profile to be a complete player. Jeanty will provide an exciting weapon for offensive coordinator Todd Monken to deploy alongside the two-time league MVP."

Jeanty exploded with 267 yards and six touchdowns in the Broncos' season debut against the Georgia Southern Eagles. As such, he staked the initial claim to be next year's top ball-carrier in what looks like a very talented group of runners.

31. San Francisco 49ers: OT Wyatt Milum, West Virginia

The San Francisco 49ers are slowly getting their affairs in order.

First, they signed wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk to a long-term contract extension. Then, All-Pro left tackle Trent Williams agreed to a reworked deal. Quarterback Brock Purdy is next in line since he'll enter the initial window to negotiate a contract extension this offseason.

All of these signings tie into what the Niners do elsewhere, specifically the offensive line. Clearly, the organization invested in its key contributors. It's time to protect those investments by potentially upgrading at multiple spots.

"The 49ers could be looking to improve at left guard, right tackle or even add a long-term replacement for Williams next offseason," Thorn said. "West Virginia's Wyatt Milum isn't a lock to stick at tackle at the next level due to being untested and unpolished in pass protection inside West Virginia's run-heavy scheme. However, his play strength and run-blocking skills should have some appeal to the Kyle Shanahan-led 49ers."

Of note, left guard Aaron Banks is a free agent after this season. Also, right tackle Colton McKivitz will be entering the final year of his current deal, with the potential to be released after June 1 to save $3.9 million.

32. Kansas City Chiefs: IOL Tate Ratledge, Georgia

A line may have been drawn in the sand by the Kansas City Chiefs organization when it agreed to a four-year, $72 million contract extension with center Creed Humphrey.

Humphrey and right guard Trey Smith came from the same draft class, which means their rookie deals ended at the same time. The guard market is far more lucrative, though, with six currently averaging or making more than Humphrey at his yearly average.

"The Chiefs may not be able to retain their Smith next offseason due to cap constraints and would lose their enforcer if that were the case," Thorn said. "Any team in the market for an interior blocker with a big, strong and physical presence should take a look at Georgia's Tate Ratledge, who over the last two seasons has garnered a reputation as one of the most physically imposing linemen in the SEC.

"The Chiefs' interior trio has been among the few elite groups in the NFL over their last couple of Super Bowl victories, serving as an underrated cog in the machine that is their offense. Ratledge could help maintain some of that status with this selection at the end of the first round."

Even if Kansas City re-signs Smith, Ratledge remains a possibility, because Joe Thuney turns 32 later this year and the Chiefs can save $16 million with his release next offseason.