The NFL trade deadline serves as a delineation point to help determine each team's direction for the rest of the season. Based on what they did at the deadline, several teams appear to have determined that their season is basically lost.

Nine teams currently own 2-6 or 2-7 records. The race toward the top of the draft is officially on, with each capable of capturing the 2025 No. 1 overall pick.

The makeup of the projected draft class is different than it has been in recent years. Only two quarterbacks—Miami's Cam Ward and Colorado's Shedeur Sanders—have established themselves as legitimate top prospects. A hybrid cornerback/wide receiver, defensive tackle and safety are among the top-five prospects.

With the trade deadline over, the NFL is now clearly divided between the haves and have-nots. Many of the latter need a new quarterback, but their options may be limited.

The Bleacher Report Scouting Department of Brandon Thorn, Cory Giddings, Dame Parson, Matt Holder and Brent Sobleski pieced together its latest 2025 NFL mock draft to see which prospects are worth a high first-round pick and who might be available later in the first round.

1. New England Patriots: CB/WR Travis Hunter, Colorado

The New England Patriots haven't drafted first overall since they selected quarterback Drew Bledsoe with the No. 1 overall pick in 1993. More than 30 years could pass before it finally happens again.

If it does, they won't be looking for a quarterback this time. Drake Maye looks like he was well worth the No. 3 overall pick this year. He now needs help of any kind, whether on offense or defense, since the Patriots rank among the league's bottom 10 on both sides of the ball rank.

What if they address both with one selection? Colorado's Travis Hunter could primarily be a cornerback, although he should also contribute as part of certain offensive packages.

"Hunter's blend of elite athleticism, length and football IQ would elevate just about any secondary in the NFL," Giddings said. "His natural playmaking ability and versatility would allow him to excel in Jerod Mayo's scheme, which emphasizes physicality and intelligence in coverage. His ball-hawking skills and willingness to tackle make him a strong fit for a defense that prioritizes creating turnovers and limiting big plays.

"Given the Patriots' need for a cornerstone cornerback opposite Christian Gonzalez, Hunter's potential to develop into a Pro Bowl-caliber talent aligns perfectly with New England's defensive goals."

2. Jacksonville Jaguars: CB Will Johnson, Michigan

A cornerback has never been selected first or second overall, let alone going back-to-back with the first two picks. The incoming 2025 crop is a unique class, to say the least.

The Jacksonville Jaguars currently rank 31st overall in pass defense. Cornerback Tyson Campbell has already signed a long-term extension and Jarrian Jones has played well at the nickel spot, but a true cover corner like Michigan's Will Johnson appears to be a necessity.

"The Jaguars could greatly benefit from selecting Johnson, whose physicality and size perfectly align with their need for a dominant presence in the secondary," Giddigns said. "Johnson's versatility in both man and zone coverage would fit well within the Jaguars' defensive scheme, adding depth and reliability to a secondary that has struggled at times against larger, more physical receivers.

"His aggressive mindset and proficiency in the run game align with the team's approach, bringing added value as both a tackler and occasional blitzer. With his potential to become an impact player early on, Johnson would offer the Jaguars a strong potential pairing with Campbell."

3. New Orleans Saints: QB Shedeur Sanders, Colorado

Head coach Dennis Allen is gone. Cornerback Marshon Lattimore has been traded. The New Orleans Saints will once again be mired in salary-cap hell.

A fresh start is the best thing the organization can do after running beyond its means for years. The disastrous season that it's currently enduring may prove to be fortuitous if it results in the chance to invest in a young, franchise quarterback who will be on a cost-controlled rookie contract for the next four or five seasons.

Colorado's Shedeur Sanders would allow the Saints to forget about a veteran stopgap like Derek Carr and finally build toward something of substance.

"The Saints need to hit factory reset," Parson said. "Sanders would add to an offense that is not devoid of playmakers but lacks an accurate point guard/distributor under center.

"Sanders is a functional athlete who prefers to play from the pocket and beat defenses with accuracy and ball placement. The Saints need a safe option to grow with as their new face of the franchise."

4. Carolina Panthers: DL Mason Graham, Michigan

Could Bryce Young possibly still be the Carolina Panthers' quarterback of the future? If he isn't, does the organization want to risk sinking another top-five pick on a quarterback? Will the Panthers look to add another veteran to get back on track?

All of those questions are swirling around the franchise right now.

In this case, Carolina chooses the safe route. The front office will continue to evaluate the quarterback position and then draft a difference-maker in Michigan defensive tackle Mason Graham.

"Graham is quick off the ball to immediately put pressure on offensive linemen, and he has the agility to throw off linemen's angles when slanting," Holder wrote. "He's very effective when slanting to get penetration in the backfield, and he has the strength and physicality at the point of attack to control blocks when taking them on straight up."

Graham and Derrick Brown can form a dominant duo along the Panthers' defensive front, which currently ranks last against the run.

5. Cleveland Browns: QB Cam Ward, Miami

Longtime Cleveland Browns fans know there's something about a former Miami Hurricanes quarterback being heralded as the savior of the franchise. While Cam Ward's skill set couldn't be more different than Bernie Kosar's, the pipeline to prominence could remain the same.

Cleveland shouldn't consider any path that still includes Deshaun Watson beyond this season. The quarterback can heal from his ruptured Achilles tendon, collect the remainder of his guaranteed $230 million contract and move on with his life.

The Browns will have to endure a record-setting dead-cap hit if they release Watson. But they can do so and reinvest in a rookie deal that provides hope again.

"Cleveland's roster remains one of the league's better ones," Parson said. "The Browns have young offensive weapons that need an upgrade at quarterback. Ward's ability to make plays inside and outside of offensive structure can elevate the effectiveness of the Browns' offense. Ward's outstanding arm talent can maximize the young targets, too.

"Change is needed, and Ward has the physical talent and mentality to fit the AFC North.

6. Las Vegas Raiders: QB Garrett Nussmeier, LSU

The Las Vegas Raiders find themselves in a familiar position. Unlike last year's draft, which featured multiple legitimate first-round quarterbacks, the 2025 class isn't as bountiful. However, the Raiders cannot go another draft without landing their next franchise signal-caller.

LSU's Garrett Nussmeier looks like a surefire first-round pick when he's slinging it well. Then everyone sees moments of doubt with his decision-making, as evidenced by his six interceptions against three ranked opponents. Nussmeier is only one touchdown pass behind SEC leader Jaxson Dart, though.

The junior prospect displays more than enough ability to warrant this selection, especially for a desperate team willing to take a chance on upside.

"Nussmeier is an inexperienced prospect with great NFL talent," Parson said. "Plenty of 'NFL throws' can be seen on film, where he processes information well and anticipates throwing lanes.

"Nussmeier would be a significant upgrade over Aidan O'Connell and Gardner Minshew. The Raiders must find their next quarterback to lead the franchise for the foreseeable future."

7. New York Giants: OL Will Campbell, LSU

Daniel Jones may or may not be the long-term answer at quarterback for the New York Giants. He certainly isn't being helped by his inconsistent offensive line.

The Giants have invested in their front five, but they've had some big whiffs along the way. The solution isn't just to hope for the best. New York needs to continually reinvest in its offensive line and make sure whomever takes the snaps will be adequately protected.

LSU left tackle Will Campbell is an interesting prospect. No one can deny his level of play since becoming a starter as a true freshman. However, he may not be in line to become an NFL left tackle.

"The Giants have an offense in flux and holes across the line that they'll need to address early in this draft, especially considering the unit's top player (by far) in Andrew Thomas has had serious injuries in back-to-back seasons," Thorn said. "Campbell would give the group its second blue chip-caliber starter with the skill set to fill in at any of the five positions."

8. Miami Dolphins: S Malaki Starks, Georgia

The Miami Dolphins are currently slotted eighth overall, but that's primarily based on their performance without quarterback Tua Tagovailoa in the lineup.

Miami should drastically improve upon its 2-6 record over the second half of the season. If it doesn't, it may have the perfect opportunity to take an elite talent via the best-player-available approach.

Georgia safety Malaki Starks is currently graded as a top-four prospect by the B/R Scouting Department. He could immediately step into the Dolphins defense and replace Jordan Poyer or Jevon Holland, both of whom are free agents after this season.

"Starks' athleticism, instincts and versatility would align well with the Dolphins' aggressive defensive style," Giddings said. "His ball-hawking ways and intelligence in zone coverage could bolster the Dolphins' secondary by providing valuable support in both deep coverage and underneath zones. His physicality and effectiveness in run support would also complement Miami's need for a safety who can step up in short-yardage situations and disrupt plays in the backfield.

"As a top-five talent, Starks would offer the Dolphins an immediate-impact player with Pro Bowl potential, strengthening their defense against both the pass and run."

9. Tennessee Titans: OT Kelvin Banks Jr., Texas

The Tennessee Titans' offensive line certainly hasn't been an organizational blind spot. It remains a significant issue, though.

Even after splurging on center Lloyd Cushenberry III—who's now on injured reserve with a torn Achilles tendon—and spending this year's seventh overall pick on left tackle JC Latham, the Titans still need to further bolster their line. Adding another top-10 pick wouldn't be overkill, especially if they could land someone as smooth as Texas' Kelvin Banks Jr.

"Tennessee's line has been a collection of adequate or better players, minus a glaring hole at right tackle, where they currently don't have an answer on the roster," Thorn said. "That has lowered the floor for the entire unit. In a draft with few clear first-round options at offensive tackle, Banks should squarely be on the Titans' radar.

"Banks has the necessary body control and pass-protection skills to stick at tackle, which would give the Titans options. They could keep Latham on the left side or potentially switch him back to right tackle, thus bolstering the entire position group."

10. New York Jets: TE Tyler Warren, Penn State

A tight end this early in the draft may be surprising, but it's entirely dependent on the New York Jets continuing to build around soon-to-be 41-year-old quarterback Aaron Rodgers.

Penn State's Tyler Warren would add a completely different dynamic as a queen-like chess piece who can be moved all over the board, which Rodgers could exploit to his advantage.

Warren is an excellent receiver as a traditional tight end. He can also line up out wide, in the slot, off the wing, in the backfield and even take snaps as a quarterback depending on the play-caller.

"The senior prospect elevated his game this season and is in the discussion for the best tight end of this year's draft," Parson said, with Michigan's Colston Loveland and Bowling Green's Harold Fannin Jr. also in the conversation. "Warren combines alignment versatility, height, weight and speed to become a mismatch.

"His addition to an offensive supporting cast that already features Davante Adams, Garrett Wilson and Breece Hall would give the Jets four bona fide playmakers for Rodgers to enjoy."

11. Dallas Cowboys: WR Tetairoa McMillan, Arizona

The Dallas Cowboys acquired Jonathan Mingo from the Carolina Panthers prior to Tuesday's trade deadline. While the 2023 second-round pick still has significant upside, he's yet to show how he can impact an offense with any regularity.

The Cowboys shouldn't stop there when it comes to bolstering their depth at wide receiver, though. Arizona's Tetairoa McMillan is a 6'5", 212-pound target who could help vary up Dallas' wide receiver corps.

The Cowboys could go into next season with Dak Prescott throwing to CeeDee Lamb, McMillan and Mingo. That's a drastic change after not having a legitimate WR2 over the last two-plus seasons.

"The Cowboys receiver room still needs a shot in the arm," Parson said. "McMillan is a big-time playmaker with the ball in his hands. Whether running routes, working the middle of the field or dominating at the catch point, his skill set would benefit Dallas' offense.

"Lamb needs a reliable receiver to feast against favorable coverages and possibly pull defensive attention away from him. McMillan is the guy for the job."

12. Indianapolis Colts: S Xavier Watts, Notre Dame

The Indianapolis Colts' mishandling of second-year quarterback Anthony Richardson blew up in their face when veteran Joe Flacco played as badly (if not worse) in a loss to the Minnesota Vikings this past Sunday. That makes it difficult to ascertain which direction they plan to take this offseason.

Outside of quarterback, the secondary has also been a sore spot. General manager Chris Ballard wanted to see what the team had in its young defensive backs. They've rewarded him to a degree. But with Julian Blackmon set to become a free agent after this season, safety remains a concern.

The Colts don't even need to go outside of their state to find a replacement.

"Watts' aggressive play against the run would be invaluable in the Colts' scheme, particularly in situations that require a downhill safety to make immediate tackles and prevent extra yardage," Giddings said. "His solid footwork and ability to cover short and intermediate routes would also suit the Colts' need for a safety who can provide dependable coverage closer to the line of scrimmage.

"Though he may need refinement in coverage awareness, Watts' toughness, ball skills and potential to be a reliable, versatile safety would make him an appealing choice for Indianapolis."

13. Cincinnati Bengals: DL Walter Nolen, Ole Miss

The Cincinnati Bengals are far from done this season despite their sub-.500 record. In fact, they feel like they're just hitting their stride with three wins in their last four games.

With Joe Burrow and Co. flying high offensively, the Bengals defense just needs to play complementary football. Their interior is soft, though.

B.J. Hill has played well. Otherwise, the rest of Cincinnati's defensive tackles are marginal. Additionally, fellow starter Sheldon Rankins is set to be a free agent after this season.

Another talented body for the middle of the defense could go a long way toward making this group far more effective. Ole Miss' Walter Nolen may be the nation's most explosive defensive tackle. Going into this past weekend, the Texas A&M transfer ranked among college football's best defensive tackles in pass-rush win rate against true pass sets.

With Nolen, Hill, Trey Hendrickson and Sam Hubbard, Cincinnati would be able to win one-on-one matchups across the entire defensive front and make like far more difficult on opposing quarterbacks when the Bengals establish a lead.

14. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Edge James Pearce Jr., Tennessee

The Joe Tryon-Shoyinka experiment can end for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after this season. The 2021 first-round pick never developed as expected. The mistake cost the Bucs the ability to rush the passer with any consistency.

Nose tackle Vita Vea currently leads the team with five sacks. Edge-rusher YaYa Diaby, who showed massive promise as a rookie, took a step back during his second campaign.

The Buccaneers are built to compete in the NFC South. But they must acquire someone with the ability to consistently apply pressure off the edge.

Tennessee's James Pearce Jr. started slowly this year after many projected him as the potential No. 1 overall pick. But his numbers are starting to pick up, and his pass-rush traits can't be denied.

"Pearce is a great athlete with impressive movement skills, long arms and plenty of room for growth on his frame," Holder wrote. "That shows up the most as a pass-rusher, as he can win around the edge with speed, turn speed to power and effortlessly glide when moving laterally to be an effective looper when working line games or stunts."

15. Seattle Seahawks: OL Jonah Savaiinaea, Arizona

The Seattle Seahawks need to make decisions along their offensive line.

Left guard Laken Tomlinson and center Connor Williams aren't signed beyond this season. Seattle must decide whether to pick up its fifth-year rookie option for left tackle Charles Cross. Right tackle Abe Lucas will be entering the final year of his rookie contract as well.

A lot of moving parts could be settled with the right addition. Arizona's Jonah Savaiinaea is arguably the class' most versatile offensive lineman.

"Savaiinaea has impressively played both tackle spots over the last two seasons after starting out at guard," Thorn said. "While his long-term home as a pro is likely inside, this pick would give Seattle's shaky line a solid starter to help plug what's been a bad pass-protecting group at the midway point of this season. Savaiinaea is a stout, firm presence with the anchor to handle power and enough burst to get to spots in the run game with some pop."

16. Los Angeles Rams: CB Mansoor Delane, Virginia Tech

The Los Angeles Rams have done a fantastic job rebuilding on the fly. We aren't even three full seasons removed from them raising the Lombardi Trophy in Super Bowl LVI.

Between then and now, the roster underwent significant changes to clear old contracts and aging veterans, including the retirement of all-world defensive tackle Aaron Donald.

General manager Les Snead made sure to invest heavily in the Rams' defensive front after Donald's departure. He now needs to do the same with the secondary. The Rams currently rank among the league's bottom 10 in pass defense, with no real solution at either outside cornerback spot.

"Mansoor Delane's fluid movement and ability to read the quarterback would make him a strong fit for the Rams' mixed-coverage schemes, particularly in zone setups where his instincts can shine," Giddings said. "The Virginia Tech product's quick reaction and closing speed would help bolster the Rams' pass defense, providing a dependable corner with the potential to limit big plays.

"Although he may need to build functional strength, Delane's high ceiling and natural coverage ability would give the Rams a legitimate long-term option at a premium position."

17. San Francisco 49ers: CB Jahdae Barron, Texas

The San Francisco 49ers secondary has been a slippery slope for some time. The unit tends to play well together, but injuries and a slight decline from certain players appear to be catching up with the group.

As it stands right now, significant upheaval is expected on the Niners' back end. Charvarius Ward, Deommodore Lenoir, Isaac Yiadom and Rock Ya-Sin are all set to enter free agency after this season.

It's time for San Francisco to spend a first-round draft pick on another cornerback prospect, which it hasn't done since selecting Mike Rumph in 2002. Texas' Jahdae Barron would have the flexibility to play numerous roles within San Francisco's scheme.

"Barron's ability to cover larger receivers and tight ends would address a critical need for the 49ers, who value defensive backs who are capable of handling multiple roles in the secondary," Giddings said. "His instincts and football IQ align would well with San Francisco's zone-heavy schemes, where his awareness and timing in coverage can shine.

"With his toughness in run support, he has the ability to play every position in the secondary. Barron would offer the 49ers a versatile defensive piece ready to make an impact."

18. Chicago Bears: IOL Tyler Booker, Alabama

An understanding of the symbiotic relationship between a solid offensive line and a playmaking quarterback is growing in Chicago. The Bears have struggled to protect No. 1 overall pick Caleb Williams, who is the NFL's third-most sacked quarterback.

Some of that falls on the rookie. But Chicago needs to upgrade its offensive line as well, specifically at guard.

Alabama's Tyler Booker has a strong chance to be the first guard selected in April's draft.

"The Bears have multiple free agents along what is an already leaky interior, putting guard and center high on the priority list this offseason," Thorn said. "Booker is in the mold of the Bills' O'Cyrus Torrence, in that they both can anchor on command while bringing a difference-making blend of size and power to the run game.

"Booker has been extremely consistent this year at Alabama and is the same player on every tape. That bodes well for his chances of being solid out of the gate and bolstering one of Chicago's guard spots."

19. Denver Broncos: TE Colston Loveland, Michigan

How good was Sean Payton's offense when Drew Brees could throw to peak Jimmy Graham? The Broncos could try to replicate that magic with quarterback Bo Nix and Michigan tight end Colston Loveland.

"Payton's offense featured an outstanding physical presence at tight end during the glory days with the New Orleans Saints," Parson said. "Graham created mismatches and gave defenses fits. Loveland is made in a similar mold, with a better run-blocking profile.

"The 6'5" Loveland is big, athletic and runs good routes (when allowed). Nix is not an accurate deep-ball passer, so Loveland's leaping ability and catch radius could improve the quarterback's shortcomings."

The Broncos don't have a tight end who can serve as Nix's security blanket, let alone one who's also a legitimate threat over the middle of the field and down the seam. Parson's final point is important: Loveland can make Nix better, which would make Denver significantly better in the coming years.

20. Arizona Cardinals: Edge Nic Scourton, Texas A&M

The Arizona Cardinals clearly felt they needed to improve their pass rush given their acquisition of Baron Browning on Monday. But Browning isn't a polished option. Plus, he's a free agent after this season.

Arizona needs a long-term solution to provide a legitimate presence off the edge.

Texas A&M's Nic Scourton would be perfect for Jonathan Gannon's defensive scheme. The Purdue transfer has the potential to be a complete pass-rusher.

"Scourton does show promise to develop some finesse moves, as he sets up his pass-rush moves well during the stem phase of the rush and shows impressive quickness, especially for his size," Holder wrote. "On top of that, he already has a nasty spin move that can beat offensive tackles. He also has active hands to help add to his pass-rush arsenal and a good motor to get coverage sacks."

The 6'4", 285-pound Scourton working alongside the 6'5", 285-pound Darius Robinson in sub-packages has the potential to do significant damage against opposing schemes.

21. Los Angeles Chargers: DL Kenneth Grant, Michigan

Familiarity definitely helps when an organization identifies an area of concern and the head coach has a previous working relationship with a player who could fill that need.

The Los Angeles Chargers require upgrades along their defensive interior. Otito Ogbonnia is struggling, while veterans Poona Ford and Teiar Tart are free agents after this season. They need a more permanent solution.

Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh recruited the 6'3", 339-pound Kenneth Grant to Michigan. The draft-eligible junior could now rejoin Harbaugh and his former collegiate defensive coordinator, Jesse Minter.

Grant is a space-eater, but he has the ability to be so much more.

"I've never seen a guy that big, just crush a conditioning test," former UM running backs coach Mike Hart told The Athletic's Bruce Feldman. "I was shocked, but that's who he is. We had senior defensive linemen on the team that aren't passing it, and you just got there, been there for four weeks, and you crush that test. That tells you everything you need to know about him. He's a special kid. He's super flexible. His work ethic is phenomenal."

22. Atlanta Falcons: Edge Abdul Carter, Penn State

The Atlanta Falcons have been searching for an edge-rusher so long that we might as well insert the Titanic GIF into this spot.

Ever since whiffing on the selection of Vic Beasley nearly a decade ago, the Falcons have been looking to acquire a long-term edge-rusher. Defensive lineman Grady Jarrett currently leads the team with 2.5 sacks. Atlanta ranks dead last with only nine sacks this season. No Falcons defender has registered 10 or more sacks during a campaign since Beasley in 2016.

Penn State's Abdul Carter may be a work in progress when it comes to being a full-time edge defender, but no one can deny his quickness and explosiveness as a pass-rusher.

"Carter is an elite athlete, which gives him a high ceiling as a pass-rusher at the next level," Holder wrote. "His get-off is very impressive as he explodes off the line of scrimmage, and he can win with speed around the edge when times up the snap. He's also shown a decent dip-rip move and the potential to develop a stick move as an inside counter with his movement skills."

23. Green Bay Packers: DL Deone Walker, Kentucky

Kentucky's Deone Walker is a mountain of clay with the potential to become a dominant force along the defensive interior.

"With his combination of upper-body strength and size (6'6", 345 lbs), Walker can win at the point of attack to be hard to move as a run defender against one-on-one blocks and can collapse the pocket when bull-rushing," Holder said. "He's also flashed an impressive swim move and has shown the ability to use his quickness to win as a pass-rusher and defeat blocks against the run.

"Ultimately, the Kentucky product can be physically dominant when he wants to be or has a full tank of gas. The problem is that he can get lazy and his conditioning is poor, which leads to him getting beat at certain points during a game more often than he should be losing for someone with his profile."

The Green Bay Packers might be the ideal landing spot for Walker. Kenny Clark, who turns 30 next season, could serve as a mentor for him. Meanwhile, T.J. Slaton is a free agent after this season. Walker could be worked into the rotation as he learns to be a professional.

24. Baltimore Ravens: Edge Mykel Williams, Georgia

Georgia's Mykel Williams feels like a perfect fit for the Baltimore Ravens, who typically get optimal value during the draft because they adhere to the best-player-available approach.

Some view Williams' upside as the best of any defensive prospect in this class. He did get off to a slow start this season due to an ankle injury, but his performance picked up in recent weeks.

Baltimore tends to love highly athletic (albeit unfinished) prospects, particularly when it comes to pass-rushers. Williams' upside is why he's been highly regarded. The 6'5", 265-pound defender made a full-time transition to edge this season.

"Right now, he'll occasionally win with pure strength and athleticism, and he has the quickness and general movement skills to develop," Holder wrote. "However, his use of hands is subpar, as offensive tackles often make the first significant contact and thwart his moves before they can get started."

Williams could replace an aging Kyle Van Noy as one of Baltimore's edge-defenders and hopefully push Odafe Oweh.

25. Houston Texans: DT Tyleik Williams, Ohio State

The Houston Texans don't have a long-term plan along their defensive interior.

The organization made a big splash this past offseason by bringing in Danielle Hunter to pair with fellow edge-defender Will Anderson Jr. However, the defensive tackle spot is currently filled by short-term solutions.

Folorunso Fatukasi and Mario Edwards Jr. are working on one-year deals. Kurt Hinish is a restricted free agent after this season. Only Tim Settle Jr. is signed going into 2025.

For Demeco Ryans' defense to realize its full potential, the Texans must make legitimate investments at defensive tackle, starting with Ohio State's Tyleik Williams.

The 6'3", 327-pound defender can eat double-teams while also providing upfield penetration when asked to do so. He can reset the line of scrimmage and collapse the pocket. Having that type of player along the interior would make Hunter and Anderson even more effective when working off the edge.

The Texans may be 6-3 at the moment, but they still have areas where they can improve.

26. Philadelphia Eagles: LB Jalon Walker, Georgia

All jokes aside about the Philadelphia Eagles drafting another member of the Georgia Bulldogs, Jalon Walker would provide defensive coordinator Vic Fangio with a chess piece who can play off-ball linebacker, work off the edge and attack from numerous alignments.

His trigger and quickness when working downhill are staggering and generally overwhelming for opposing offenses. He currently leads the Bulldogs with 4.5 sacks despite not being a full-time edge. He posted 9.5 (and counting) over the last season-plus. Walker has also showed the ability to drop in coverage and make a play or two in space.

Eschewing the inevitable argument that the Eagles "don't draft linebackers," think of Walker as a defensive weapon who can be deployed in variety of manners. He and Zack Baun (if the Eagles re-sign him) could keep offensive coordinators up at night based on how the duo can line up just about anywhere to attack.

27. Pittsburgh Steelers: WR Emeka Egbuka, Ohio State

The Pittsburgh Steelers acquired Mike Williams from the New York Jets ahead of this year's trade deadline. That shouldn't preclude them from drafting a wide receiver, though.

Williams, who turned 30 in October, is on a one-year deal. George Pickens has only one year left on his rookie contract after this season, too. Even if the Steelers re-sign Williams and hand Pickens an extension, Ohio State's Emeka Egbuka could give the Steelers a vastly improved wide receiver corps.

"Regardless of who will be under center for the Steelers in 2025, their offense still needs upgrades at wide receiver," Parson said. "Egbuka is a savvy and nuanced route-runner who will thrive as a quick-game receiver out of the slot. He will move the chains and make timely plays in the red zone.

"Egbuka's skill set should pair well with Pickens and Roman Wilson."

When quarterback remains a question mark, as it does for the Steelers long term, build up everything around the position.

28. Minnesota Vikings: RB Ashton Jeanty, Boise State

Boise State's Ashton Jeanty is a legitimate top-10 talent regardless of position in the projected 2025 draft class. However, it's always tough to find the right fit for a running back based on how teams want to invest in the position.

The Minnesota Vikings are already a successful team. They seem to have two quarterbacks whom they could build around in the coming years. Whether Sam Darnold continues as is or J.J. McCarthy takes over next season, both can benefit by having a ball-carrier of Jeanty's caliber sharing the backfield.

"Aaron Jones still has some juice in the tank after leaving the Green Bay Packers," Parson said. "Even so, the Vikings need a young, reliable running back to carry their rushing attack.

"Jeanty is RB1 on Bleacher Report's rankings, and he's an ideal fit for the Vikings zone rushing attack. Jeanty has good footwork, short-area quickness and outstanding contact balance. He would face much lighter defensive fronts in the NFL with Justin Jefferson, Jordan Addison and T.J. Hockenson surrounding him as receiving threats."

29. Washington Commanders: WR Tre Harris, Ole Miss

The Washington Commanders have something special in rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels. The next step for the organization is doing everything in its power to maximize what it has in the Offensive Rookie of the Year front-runner.

At LSU, Daniels had the pleasure of throwing to Malik Nabers and Brian Thomas Jr., a pair of future first-round wide receivers. In Washington, Terry McLaurin is quietly among the league's best, but the Commanders lack a legitimate secondary threat.

The 6'3", 210-pound Tre Harris may come out of Ole Miss' gimmicky offensive scheme, but he's a legitimate target.

"Harris would provide the Commander's offense with a true X-receiver with his height, weight and play strength," Parson said. "Daniels is one of the league's best deep-ball throwers. He could elevate Harris' ability to win vertically with 50-50 balls, back-shoulder fades, etc.

"Harris and McLaurin would immediately become one of the NFC's most talented pass-catching duos."

30. Buffalo Bills: CB Will Lee III, Texas A&M

The Buffalo Bills revamped their secondary this offseason by moving on from cornerback Tre'Davious White and safety Jordan Poyer and Micah Hyde. The group is still in transition.

After this season, Rasul Douglas is a free agent. Buffalo also has a decision to make regarding Kaiir Elam's fifth-year rookie option, though he hasn't played significant snaps this season.

Next year's draft may be a good time to reset with another youth infusion. Christian Benford can hold down one outside spot, while Taron Johnson maintains the slot. Texas A&M's Will Lee III could become Benford's bookend.

"Lee's press-coverage skills allow him to disrupt receivers at the line and play physically throughout the route," Giddings said. "His willingness to engage in run support and tackle aggressively also complements the Bills' emphasis on versatile defenders who can contribute in multiple facets.

"While the junior prospect may need refinement to reduce penalties, Lee's athleticism and potential would make him a promising, high-upside addition to Buffalo's defense."

31. Detroit Lions: Edge JT Tuimoloau, Ohio State

The Detroit Lions' willingness to acquire Za'Darius Smith ahead of the trade deadline shows their understanding of the roster's weaknesses.

Despite being one of the NFL's best and deepest teams, the Lions were forced to make a move because of Aidan Hutchinson's leg injury. Smith should come in and provide a consistent presence off the edge.

While the veteran is signed through next season, Detroit should view the current setup as a learning experience. Even with a healthy Hutchinson, the Lions needed a quality bookend to create pressure off the other edge. Smith should be a great addition, though he's already 32.

The Lions need another defensive end not only to account for potential injuries, but to provide them with better overall depth at a premium position.

Ohio State's JT Tuimoloau feels like he's tailor-made for Lions head coach Dan Campbell. The Buckeye is strong and relentless. He's going to give everything he has on the field, even if he isn't the quickest or most polished edge-rusher.

32. Kansas City Chiefs: WR Luther Burden III, Missouri

Could the Kansas City Chiefs potentially win another Super Bowl, then land a prospect who was viewed as a top-five talent entering the season?

Missouri's Luther Burden III hasn't put up the numbers or created the caliber of plays that he did last season. The Alabama Crimson Tide held him to three yards this past weekend. He'll need some big efforts over the next four games (and possibly more) to even reach 1,000 yards this season.

But his ability to impact an offense can be seen all over last season's tape, especially for a Chiefs squad that's just trying to piece together a complete wide receiver corps.

"Patrick Mahomes could stand to have one or two more wide receivers since Rashee Rice suffered a major knee injury and could miss time to start the 2025 season," Parson said. "Burden is a dynamic run-after-the-catch wide receiver who could fill Rice's role in this passing attack.

"With Andy Reid designing plays, Burden could be a highly impactful weapon for the Chiefs given their pass-catching situation."