With the Philadelphia Eagles now flying high as champions following Super Bowl LIX, the NFL officially enters the offseason while rocketing toward April's draft.

Multiple steps take place between now and then, though, which will undoubtedly change the outlook of many projections.

From an evaluation standpoint, prospects still have the NFL combine, pro days and individual workouts before (hopefully) hearing their names called. In regards to the pro scouting side of things, organizations will be looking forward to free agency and other potential avenues to improve their respective rosters.

Based on what's currently known coming off the biggest game of the season and the draft cycle's all-star events, the Bleacher Report Scouting Department of Brandon Thorn, Brent Sobleski, Dame Parson and Matt Holder sat down to reassess the league's landscape.

A shift occurred, with a heavier emphasis on teams investing in the trenches.

Yes, the class' two notable quarterbacks—Miami's Cam Ward and Colorado's Shedeur Sanders—came off the board quickly. From there, half of the first round, including nine of the first 15 picks, either play along the offensive or defensive lines.

This year's class has a meat-and-potatoes feel that will be ultra-important when it comes to teams making the right investments in order to compete with the league's best.

1. Tennessee Titans: QB Cam Ward, Miami

First, let's all forget the comment made by Tennessee Titans president of football operations Chad Brinker about the franchise not passing on a "generational talent" with this year's No. 1 overall pick, because one doesn't exist in this year's draft class.

Second, the Titans have a crying need at quarterback that must be addressed, particularly when they're in a perfect position to do so.

Tennessee will have its choice between Miami's Cam Ward and Colorado's Shedeur Sanders. Either could be selected depending on preference. The Bleacher Report Scouting Department has Ward as QB1, and not by a narrow margin. Only one of those mentioned currently finds himself ranked among the site's top 10 prospects.

"Ward gives head coach Brian Callahan a physically gifted and natural passer to further develop toward his high ceiling," Parson said. "With Ward's innate off-script playmaking and never-say-die mentality, the Titans offense could look vastly different with an upgrade at quarterback.

"With the right coaching, Ward has the passing tools you want in a potential franchise QB."

A balance must be struck where the one-time FCS quarterback must rein in his propensity to play hero ball without taking away his aforementioned play-making skills. Even so, his skill set is exactly what teams should be looking for in a modern starting quarterback.

2. Cleveland Browns: EDGE Abdul Carter, Penn State

So much has yet to be decided in Cleveland which could drastically affect how the Browns affect the 2025 NFL draft.

At quarterback, the Browns don't have one. After making the worst trade in NFL history and subsequently signing quarterback Deshaun Watson to the worst contract ever, Cleveland is stuck with that decision for at least another season or two. Considering Watson's current injury status, the Browns should draft a quarterback at this slot.

But general manager Andrew Berry is also dealing with a trade request from the team's best player, Myles Garrett. Garrett wants to play for a contender. The Browns aren't one at the moment. Maybe they pursue the path of a veteran quarterback in order to win now and take the best player available here.

Or the team could just look at it and say that Penn State's Abdul Carter presents more upside than any other prospect in the draft and select him without worrying about quarterback or what ultimately happens with Garrett.

"Considering Garrett's current stance, the Browns are in desperate need of an edge-rusher," Holder said. "While Carter won't be able to fill Garrett's shoes right away—no one can—the Penn State product is by far the best pass-rusher in this year's draft class.

"Carter is an elite athlete, who can win with speed and bend around the edge. He's still new to the position, which gives him a higher ceiling at the next level."

3. New York Giants: QB Shedeur Sanders, Colorado

Is the New York City market big enough for the Sanders family? Let's find out together.

The Giants' situation makes it difficult for the front office to pass on Colorado's Shedeur Sanders without a strong alternative plan at the game's most important position.

"Daniel Jones is gone, and there is no QB of the future on the Giants roster," Parson said. "Sanders is the most accurate and polished QB in the class. Head coach Brian Daboll can not pass up a quarterback who is mentally and physically tough with the precision passing of Sanders.

"The Giants' offense does have some good and young weapons to develop Sanders for the foreseeable future."

Sanders' acquisition is a capitulation to a degree. To Parson's point, yes, Sanders is everything described as a deadly accurate rhythm passer. But he's not an elite athlete and lacks top-end arm talent.

So, an argument must be made whether the Giants would be wiser drafting Sanders over waiting another year to address the game's most important position. It's hard to imagine the latter based solely on falling behind for another year as the rest of the NFC East continues to get better.

Maybe the Giants make this entire conversation moot by pursuing a veteran starter in free agency, but that has yet to happen.

4. New England Patriots: OL Will Campbell, LSU

Some may look at this pairing and think it's a tad early. Let's keep in mind who the New England Patriots hired as their new head coach.

Mike Vrabel believes in building through the trenches, and his history previously serving in the same role with the Tennessee Titans proves as much. In six seasons at the helm, the Titans drafted five offensive or defensive linemen in the first two rounds.

Furthermore, the Titans were a run-based offense. Granted, Derrick Henry isn't walking through that door. But Vrabel will want to take pressure off of quarterback Drake Maye.

LSU's Will Campbell is the class' best offensive line prospect, though his exact fit has yet to be determined.

"There are some questions with Campbell's general pro projection as a better tackle or guard," Thorn said. "For the Patriots and their hole at tackle, there is no question that he would be slotted as Maye's blindside protector.

"Campbell is the draft's most well-rounded and polished offensive lineman with the power, athletic ability and demeanor to start at multiple positions and become a long-term answer—which is something this line desperately needs as it looks to build around Maye."

5. Jacksonville Jaguars: CB Travis Hunter, Colorado

The Jacksonville Jaguars should be absolutely thrilled to stand pat at No. 5 and still land the class' top-ranked prospect, Colorado's Travis Hunter, while also addressing a major need area.

This offseason has already served as an eye-opening experience for the Khan family in how to operate the team. Coaches pulling out of their interview process because they didn't want to work with Trent Baalke, only to subsequently fire the team's general manager in order to get their intended target in Liam Coen, shifted the franchise's entire direction.

A new general manager has yet to be hired, but Hunter's selection is a relatively easy projection.

"That Jaguars have invested regularly in their secondary in recent years," Sobleski said, "but they haven't brought in anyone anywhere close to Hunter in raw talent.

"Hunter isn't the most polished cover corner. However, he is as fluid of a playmaker as you could possibly want. Now, he'll get the opportunity to primarily concentrate on one position, while adding a few reps on offense when devised."

The reigning Heisman Trophy winner opposite Tyson Campbell with Jarrian Jones working over the slot should give the Jags a rock solid set of cornerbacks to improve upon last year's 32nd-ranked pass defense.

6. Las Vegas Raiders: CB Will Johnson, Michigan

The Las Vegas Raiders once again find themselves on the outside looking in regarding the top quarterback prospects. Ultimately, expectations are that the team will attempt to make a move for either Miami's Cam Ward or Colorado's Shedeur Sanders. But trade projections aren't included in this mock draft.

Maybe the Raiders even get lucky and one of the two top signal-callers slides to them. It's possible in a class where the top isn't all that settled. That's not the case here, though.

Instead, the new-look Fighting Tom Bradys immediately address a secondary with arguably the class' best pure cornerback prospect in Michigan's Will Johnson.

"The thought here is to pair a quality defensive front with talent on the back end," Sobleski said. "No one in the Raiders' cornerback room basically played above replacement level last season.

"Whereas Johnson presents legitimate top cover-corner traits. He's also bigger and longer than the other cornerbacks who took the majority of the snaps for the Raiders last season.

"Without being able to land a top quarterback again, Las Vegas' calling card needs to be on defense after finishing in the top half of the league last season."

7. New York Jets: WR Tetairoa McMillan, Arizona

A standoff at the NYJ corral seems to be forthcoming between what the Jets organization should do at quarterback and whether wide receiver Garrett Wilson wants to be part of it.

Wilson has been the subject of trade rumors for months. His utilization coupled with the team's acquisition of Davante Adams created an undercurrent of potential disappointment.

The Jets also have a decision to make, because Wilson enters his initial window to negotiate a long-term contract extension this offseason.

All of this is happening without knowing whether Aaron Rodgers will return, though current reports are that he won't be returning. The same applies to Adams since none of his contract is guaranteed during the upcoming season, and the Jets can release the veteran target to save $29.9 million toward the 2025 salary cap, per Over The Cap.

"Wilson is the best player on the Jets offense, " Parson said, "but he cannot carry the passing game alone. With Adams' and Rodgers' futures up in the air, Tetaiora McMillan's addition is the right choice.

"McMillan is alignment versatile, with the body of a prototypical X-receiver. His overall strengths mesh incredibly well with Garrett's, thus providing whoever is under center an extremely talented and young receiver duo."

8. Carolina Panthers: DL Mason Graham, Michigan

Thanks to quarterback Bryce Young playing well enough down the stretch, the Carolina Panthers' approach to the 2025 offseason drastically changed.

Young still isn't the player the Panthers hoped he'd be when the organization traded up in the 2023 NFL draft and made him the No. 1 overall pick. But he's not a complete flop, either, which was in question after being benched last season by head coach Dave Canales.

At this juncture, the franchise can continue to build around Young while trying to establish an identity. The quickest way to do the latter is by adding to an already talented defensive front after the Panthers showed improvement on that side of the ball over the second half of the season despite finishing 32nd overall in total defense.

"This was more of a 'best player available' pick as the Panthers don't have a pressing need at defensive tackle with Derrick Brown recently signing an extension," Holder said. "But the defense and team as a whole would benefit greatly by taking a premier talent in B/R's No. 3 overall prospect, Michigan's Mason Graham.

"A pair made up of Brown and Graham could give Carolina the best defensive tackle duo in the NFL for years."

9. New Orleans Saints: EDGE Mike Green, Marshall

The New Orleans Saints seemingly invest in their defensive front every offseason, yet here they are doing so again.

It's a team without an identity at the moment, multiple questions to be answered with the roster and a significant amount of salary-cap space to clear.

At this juncture, an investment in a premium position with a rising talent seems as smart of play as any other, especially without a quality quarterback prospect being available.

"The Saints should be entering rebuild mode this offseason, which will likely result in parting with 35-year-old Cameron Jordan," Holders said. "Plus, Chase Young and Payton Turner are free agents so the defense could use another edge-rusher.

"Marshall's Mike Green has been one of the biggest risers in this year's draft class, and he continued his ascent up draft boards with an impressive showing against top competition at the Senior Bowl."

Green led the nation this past season with 17 sacks. The sophomore prospect is quick, fluid and plays with more power than his 6'3", 251-pound frame indicates. The Saints could finally have a legitimate presence off the other edge to bookend Jordan after all of these years—if the team finds a way to keep him around.

10. Chicago Bears: OG Tyler Booker, Alabama

The Chicago Bears' Caleb Williams was the NFL's most sacked quarterback last season. In fact, Williams being dragged down on 68 different occasions is the third-most ever for a quarterback.

Granted, the rookie played a part in the amount of pressure he regularly faced. Still, the Bears must build a better cockpit for the 2024 No. 1 overall pick in order for the organization to thrive in new head coach Ben Johnson's offensive scheme.

A strong offensive interior will create better pocket depth, but the pieces aren't in the place currently to make that happen. Enter Alabama's Tyler Booker.

"While this slot is high for Booker in a vacuum he is the draft's best pure guard from a tools and traits perspective while checking every box off the field and in the locker room," Thorn said. "Despite closer-to-average athletic ability, Booker's size (6'5", 352 lbs), play-strength and nasty demeanor can provide the Bears with a fixture at guard. His stout anchor would be extremely difficult for Chicago to pass up considering how weak the middle of their pocket was last year, in conjunction with the importance of protecting Williams in a crucial second season."

11. San Francisco 49ers: DL Walter Nolen, Ole Miss

The San Francisco 49ers feel further away from being able to compete at a high level than they have at any point since Kyle Shanahan became head coach.

It's an easy statement to make after the Niners fell to 6-11 last season after three straight playoff appearances. But the roster doesn't necessarily feel like it's trending up any longer as well.

San Francisco is getting older in certain spots and pieces need to be replaced. Case in point, the defensive tackle duo of Javon Hargrave and Maliek Collins are set to enter free agency and turn 30 this offseason, respectively.

Ole Miss' Walter Nolen can provide the exact type of skill set that Shanahan and Co. prefer along their defensive interior, as a penetrating defender capable of playing up and down the line of scrimmage.

"San Francisco likes athletic defensive tackles, who can put pressure on the quarterback, and the club is about to lose one in Hargrave," Holder said. "Nolen fits that description well. He's a disruptive enough player on the interior to be a suitable replacement for Hargrave. The Ole Miss product and Nick Bosa can wreak havoc in the backfield together.

12. Dallas Cowboys: OL Armand Membou, Missouri

The Dallas Cowboys operate at their best when they make smart, non-flashy moves during the NFL draft.

Could Dallas select their preferred running back prospect at this point? Of course. Should they seriously consider another wide receiver to pair with CeeDee Lamb? Definitely.

But the Cowboys' previous success was built upon strong offensive line play.

While the left side of Dallas' current front five is built upon three recent high-round draft picks, the right side could be in transition, with Zack Martin entering free agency for the first time ever and Terence Steele entering the portion of his contract where no guaranteed money exists.

The selection of Missouri's Armand Membou, who currently grades as B/R's top offensive tackle prospect, presents an intriguing succession plan.

"Dallas is known for heavily investing into their line with bets on physical traits and talent, which is where Membou comes into play," Thorn said. "At just 21 years old, with excellent movement skills and natural power, this unit could slot him inside at guard to replace a legend in Martin, with the potential of replacing 2026 free agent right tackle Terence Steele in the future."

13. Miami Dolphins: IOL Grey Zabel, North Dakota State

The protection of Tua Tagovailoa should at the forefront of everything the Miami Dolphins do this offseason. The organization must make significant improvements to its offensive interior to keep its quarterback upright since all three spots are currently in flux.

Robert Jones, Liam Eichenberg and Isaiah Wynn are all free agents. Center Aaron Brewer remains. Beyond that point, the Dolphins need someone who can secure a spot. In the case of North Dakota State's Grey Zabel, how about addressing any of the five?

The FCS product is earmarked to play along the interior, but he has experience playing every offensive line position. Zabel's versatility, strong showing at the Senior Bowl and an early run on offensive linemen pushes him up the board to fill a major hole in the Dolphins' lineup.

"Zabel may not wind up going quite this high," Thorn said, "but there is no question that his stock is on the rise after an excellent week in Mobile, Ala., both on and off the field.

"With proven versatility and solid or better traits everywhere else, Zabel immediately slots into one of the guard spots in Miami while providing the team with a Graham Barton-esque, sticky, run-blocker who fits perfectly into their run-first mentality."

14. Indianapolis Colts: S Nick Emmanwori, South Carolina

The Indianapolis Colts could go in numerous directions now that the organization has realized it's not close to consistently competing at a high level.

Tight end is a specific target that general manager Chris Ballard already discussed during an end-of-season media session. However, this year's position class is deep. Meanwhile, the defensive needs a pretty massive overhaul with coordinator Lou Anarumo taking the reins.

In particular, the secondary desperately needs talent upgrades and a shift in skill sets after moving on from previous coordinator Gus Bradley.

"The selection of South Carolina's Nick Emmanwori satisfies two specific Colts' preferences," Sobleski said. "First, Ballard is the NFL's traits-hunter. He's going to find the most athletic guys in the class and draft them. He adheres more strongly to relative athletic scores than modern musicians rely on Auto-Tune. Emmanwori is an explosive 6'3", 227-pound athlete, who can be used all over the field.

"Second, the safety prospect's inclusion can help set the tone for Anarumo's defense, which operated at its best in Cincinnati when Jessie Bates III still played for the Bengals. With Julian Blackmon set to enter free agency after a down campaign, a gaping hole exists on the Colts' roster."

15. Atlanta Falcons: EDGE Shemar Stewart, Texas A&M

The NFL-watching world was taken aback when the Atlanta Falcons were finally able to generate some pressure and record a few sacks over the second half of the 2024 season.

Previously, the squad proved nearly incapable of doing so. However, its improvement came primarily through scheme and getting creating with linebacker Kaden Elliss. What the lineup actually needs is a prospect with the skill set to win one-on-ones and force offenses to take account of his presence at all times.

Texas A&M's Shemar Stewart has yet to develop into that caliber of pass-rusher. But he can eventually.

Stewart has the size, length and explosiveness to be a dynamic edge defender. Whatever team ultimately selects him must do so knowing that he's a gigantic ball of clay that must be molded over time.

"It's widely known that the Falcons defense needs pass-rush help and Stewart has the ability to shine," Holder said. "But the former Aggie doesn't have much production with only 4.5 sacks in three seasons at Texas A&M. His traits are worth betting on, though.

"Stewart started putting it all together and was pretty dominant at the Senior Bowl to build up his draft stock heading into the spring."

16. Arizona Cardinals: CB Jahdae Barron, Texas

The Arizona Cardinals are still at the point where they just need talent. Yes, the squad improved in Year 2 under the direction of head coach Jonathan Gannon. But the team is still starting from a point prior to the 2023 season where it was considered the least talented in the entire league.

The chance to build a strong foundation takes time. Arizona does have solid pieces in place with quarterback Kyler Murray, wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr., tight end Trey McBride, offensive tackle Paris Johnson Jr., defensive lineman Darius Robinson and safety Budda Baker. What do they all have in common? They're all former first- or second-round draft picks.

Another opening-round selection should be used on a different position group. With that said, Texas' Jahdae Barron has the skill set to contribute in multiple different areas.

"The reigning Jim Thorpe Award winner should pair nicely with Baker in the same defensive backfield," Sobleski said. "The two present flexible playmaking ability from multiple positions.

"Barron can line up over the slot, out wide, at safety or near the box. He and Baker are perfect chess pieces to disguise coverages and attack opposing offenses."

17. Cincinnati Bengals: EDGE Nic Scourton, Texas A&M

Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow publicly laid forth the path for his organization to follow this offseason.

"We need Trey Hendrickson back," Burrow said during an interview on ESPN's First Take (via Malik Brown of Clutch Points). "We need to give him what he's worth and what he deserves; he's earned that.

"We need our young guys to come on. We need to draft well, we need guys to come in and produce immediately; we don't have time to wait around. I think we have the young guys that are capable of going into an offseason training the way they need to, taking advantage of all of the opportunities they can, and come out and play well early."

The Bengals are a team in desperate need of defensive help at any level. A clarification of Hendrickson's status is at the forefront of the franchise's plans. But Cincinnati still needs to prepare as if it won't have him in the fold either in the near future or when his contract ends next offseason.

"Hendrickson is asking for a new contract or to be traded, and Sam Hubbard could be a cap casualty this offseason," Holder said. "So, even with Myles Murphy in the fold, the Bengals might be looking for some help at defensive end during the draft.

"Texas A&M's Nic Scourton fits the organizational type as a 6'4" and 280 pounds with a physical playing style."

18. Seattle Seahawks: OL Kelvin Banks Jr., Texas

Klint Kubiak joined the Seattle Seahawks as the team's offensive offensive coordinator this offseason after a one-year failed experiment with Ryan Grubb calling plays.

Kubiak should bring a more traditional approach rooted in the philosophies handed down by his father, via the Shanahan family tree. In order for that scheme to work, the Seahawks need better athletes in the trenches.

Starting left guard Laken Tomlinson is a free agent anyhow. Right guard Sataoa Laumea is a work in progress and may not be a fit when it's all said and done. Furthermore, the organization has decisions to make regarding potential extensions for left and right tackles Charles Cross and Abe Lucas.

Seattle selects the most talented blocker still on the board in Texas' Kelvin Banks Jr.

"Projecting Banks is a bit of a wildcard after an up-and-down season that exposed his middling anchor and shaky footwork in pass protection," Thorn said. "His run blocking did improve and he has good athletic ability, with plenty of pedigree to develop.

"On a desperate Seahawks line with holes across the interior, Banks could transition inside to a guard spot and be a solid starter right away thus stabilizing a shaky interior group."

19. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: LB Jalon Walker, Georgia

Some projections feel too perfect to actually believe they're going to happen. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers selecting Georgia linebacker Jalon Walker is one of them.

"This pairing just makes too much sense," Holder said. "The Buccaneers' starting linebackers—Lavonte David and K.J. Britt—are impending free agents, and the defense could use an extra edge-rusher.

"Walker has experience playing both positions, automatically placing him in general manager Jason Licht's radar."

Tampa is one of the few teams with the defensive mentality to take full advantage of Walker's skill set. With Todd Bowles calling plays, the Bucs will remain one of the league's most aggressive defenses. Walker, meanwhile, is adept playing downhill, blitzing and rushing off the edge. If he's used in that manner, he can be a versatile chess piece and game-wrecker.

If a team expects the reigning Butkus Award winner to be a traditional linebacker, it's barking up the wrong tree. Walker has the skill set to completely change Tampa's defense approach from the linebacker spot, even with how great David has been over his impressive 13-year career.

20. Denver Broncos: TE Tyler Warren, Penn State

The Denver Broncos got more out of rookie quarterback Bo Nix than anyone could have imagined after making him the 12th overall pick in the 2024 NFL draft.

Nix was always viewed as an excellent fit for Sean Payton's offense. But he was an older prospect with a certain glass ceiling in regard to his natural skill set. Still, the 24-year-old excelled, with 4,205 yards from scrimmage and 33 total touchdowns.

More importantly, the Broncos entered the postseason for the first time since Peyton Manning last donned the uniform. But the team can still ascend, particularly by adding more talent around Nix.

Penn State's Tyler Warren can give Sean Payton the type of weapon at tight end that he hasn't had since Jimmy Graham played for the New Orleans Saints.

"Warren is like pushing the 'easy button' for his quarterback, with his ability to control the middle of the field in the short and intermediate areas," Parson said. "Warren's ball skills and tracking will be welcomed as another big target in the red zone to pair with Courtland Sutton.

"Payton gets another Swiss Army knife-like tight end to work into his passing offense."

21. Pittsburgh Steelers: WR Emeka Egbuka, Ohio State

Normally, the Pittsburgh Steelers are content waiting until Day 2 of the NFL draft to select a wide receiver. After all, the approach has yielded the likes of Emmanuel Sanders, JuJu Smith-Schuster, James Washington, Diontae Johnson, Chase Claypool and George Pickens over the past 15 years.

Upon closer inspection, each of those names provided a few years of production. But they never really stuck long term, hence why a change of pace may be necessary.

In Pickens' case, he hasn't blossomed into the dominant consistent force that he looked like he could become. While the Steelers continue to figure out his case, Pittsburgh's front office can invest in a much safer bet with the addition of Ohio State's Emeka Egbuka.

"Egbuka is one of the best, if not the very best route-runner in this year's draft class," Parson said. "He has suction cups for his hands and will do the dirty work on third downs in the middle of the field.

"Unlike the Steeler's recent history at receiver, he is a low-maintenance but highly skilled pass catcher, who can pair with George Pickens to create a nice one-two punch."

22. Los Angeles Chargers: TE Colston Loveland, Michigan

The selection of tight end Colston Loveland at this juncture is about far more than rejoining his former collegiate head coach, Jim Harbaugh, at the professional level. The Los Angeles Chargers sincerely need a tight end who can consistently work the middle of the field and make life easier on quarterback Justin Herbert.

"While Loveland is reunited with Harbaugh, he also presents a big-volume target for Herbert to exploit based on the mismatches the tight end can create," Parson said. "He is a true flex (F) tight end with the movement skills and fluidity of a big-bodied wide receiver.

"Last year, Ladd McConkey turned into a home-run draft selection by the Chargers, Loveland could be the organization's grand slam."

Will Dissly had a solid season as the Chargers' primary tight end last season. He managed 50 receptions for 481 yards. But he lacks the traits to be an actual weapon in the offense. He's a better inline option, particularly in a scheme that loves to utilize 12 and 13 personnel.

Loveland has the physical traits at tight end to become an offense's top target, even one that already features McConkey, who caught 82 passes and eclipsed 1,000 yards as a rookie.

23. Green Bay Packers: CB Benjamin Morrison, Notre Dame

Jaire Alexander's time with the Green Bay Packers seems to be running short. With the team's best cover corner possibly on the outs, Green Bay should be looking for a replacement.

Regarding Alexander's status, the Packers can cut or trade the cornerback and save $18.1 million toward this year's salary cap, per Over The Cap. From there, Green Bay did an excellent job building up the secondary last offseason with the free-agent signing of Xavier McKinney and selecting Javon Bullard and Evan Williams in the draft.

However, an outside corner acquisition will be necessary upon Alexander's potential departure.

"Notre Dame's Benjamin Morrison may have gone much higher in the process had he been healthy for the entire 2024 campaign," Sobleski said. "Unfortunately, he suffered a season-ending hip injury during an Oct. 12 contest against the Stanford Cardinal.

"Prior to the injury, the 20-year-old showed some of the best man-to-man cover traits in the class. He has the size (6'0", 190 lbs) and length to excel in a heavier press-man scheme. He'd bring a different dynamic to an already young and exciting secondary, as long as his medical evaluations are satisfactory coming out of the NFL combine."

24. Minnesota Vikings: S Malaki Starks, Georgia

The Minnesota Vikings' biggest decision will come at quarterback, with whatever the organization decides to do with Sam Darnold. Whether he returns or not, the organization is set at the position after drafting J.J. McCarthy with last year's 10th overall draft pick.

While not totally settled at the game's most important position, the Vikings are much better off than they were a year ago. Now, Minnesota's front office can concentrate on adding talent elsewhere.

In a twist, the Vikings may be losing the quarterback of their defense since 36-year-old Harrison Smith is a free agent. Smith could return for another season. But the chance to land a prospect the caliber of Georgia's Malaki Starks is far too tempting.

Starks is a top-five prospect in this year's class, according to the Bleacher Report Scouting Department. But he slid due to positional value and team fit. The Vikings benefit.

"Starks isn't a typical safety prospect," Sobleski said. "He brings high-end athleticism and coverage skills to the secondary. He's a fluid defender, who excels in all phases of the game.

"To be clear, Starks wouldn't be the same physical presence as Smith. But the transition should go smoothly from one top-end safety to another."

25. Houston Texans: WR Matthew Golden, Texas

Texas wide receiver Matthew Golden helped himself this past season as much as any other prospect in the 2025 class. Golden wasn't viewed as a first-round option, let alone WR3 (possibly WR2 depending on which team is drafting) after transferring from the Houston Cougars to join the Longhorns program.

Yet the early entrant went on to lead his new team with 987 receiving yards and nine touchdown grabs. The suddenness seen in Golden's game is startling. His ability to change gears as quickly as he does makes up for a slight frame, because he's going to create separation. At the same time, he's also willing to fight for balls if necessary.

For the Houston Texans, they made the postseason for the second straight season, though the squad clearly took a step back in Year 2 with head coach Demeco Ryans and quarterback C.J. Stroud at the helm. The roster needs a further injection of play-making talent.

"Injuries to Stefon Diggs and Tank Dell hampered the 2024 Texans passing attack," Parson said. "Insert Golden to step in as a WR2 alongside Nico Collins. Golden is dynamic and explosive, with good route-running and space-creating skills. He will command the Z-receiver role while being able to create yards after the catch."

26. Los Angeles Rams: OT Josh Conerly Jr., Oregon

The Los Angeles Rams, specifically general manager Les Snead, deserve far more credit as one of the NFL's best drafting teams.

Even when the team didn't have a first-round pick for a seven-year span, the front office and scouting department still found quality contributors. This past year with a first-round pick in hand, the Rams chose the current NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year in Jared Verse.

The Rams have built a strong sense of trust in what they do. What they generally like to do is target experienced players, especially those who participated in the Senior Bowl.

"The Rams could draft Oregon's Josh Conerly Jr. here and still re-sign Alaric Jackson on a team-friendly deal to bring along the former Duck slowly or notch their 2025 starting left tackle at the end of the first round," Thorn said of the team's options. "While the former plan is ideal, the latter scenario would require some creative scheming to help provide Conerly with some help in pass protection against more powerful edge-rushers considering his struggles against the bull-rush.

"Conerly still has rough spots in his game, but he's very young. He would be playing alongside a stout left guard in Steve Avila and inside one of the most offensive line-friendly schemes in football that would place him in a very good spot to get the most out of his game."

27. Baltimore Ravens: EDGE James Pearce Jr., Tennessee

The Baltimore Ravens' draft approach is the same as it ever was: The organization lets the draft come to it and usually finds a high-end prospect readily available when it's on the clock.

Entering the 2024 season, Tennessee's James Pearce Jr. had the makings of a potential No. 1 overall pick. Clearly, he didn't quite live up to those expectations.

"Pearce's stock has fallen since the summer," Holder said, "but he's still an athletic pass-rusher with a high ceiling. That combination sounds right up the Ravens' alley since the defense could definitely use some help on the edge. Baltimore is a good landing spot for the former Volunteer to add some size and strength, while he immediately joins the team as a pass-rush specialist."

Baltimore relied heavily on Kyle Van Noy this past season, and he led the squad with 12.5 sacks. But he turns 34 in March.

The chance for Pearce to play behind Van Noy for a year and learn from the veteran, while also adjusting to the pro game before getting a full NFL offseason under his belt in 2026, could result in the Ravens ultimately landing the best pass-rusher in this year's class.

28. Detroit Lions: EDGE Mykel Williams, Georgia

Frankly, the Detroit Lions should go all-in at the opportunity to acquire Myles Garrett from the Cleveland Browns. If that doesn't happen, the team should still be looking for a long-term bookend to its franchise centerpiece, Aidan Hutchinson.

With Za'Darius Smith still on the roster for one more year, the Lions have some flexibility. The situation allows the front office to look at a talent like Georgia's Mykel Williams, who's far from a finished product, and make him a realistic choice based purely on upside.

"Injuries stunted Williams' growth this year," Holder said, "but he is a good traits prospect with his combination size (6'5", 265 lbs) and athleticism. Going to Detroit would be a good destination for the Georgia product since he could sit and develop behind Smith and then take over opposite Hutchinson.

"Williams could become exactly what the organization was hoping it was getting when it signed Marcus Davenport this past offseason."

In the meantime, Williams is an adept run defender capable of playing up and down the line of scrimmage. He can present quality reps in the rotation, while hopefully growing as a pass-rusher.

29. Washington Commanders: WR Tre Harris, Ole Miss

Jayden Daniels turned out to be everything the Washington Commanders hoped he'd be and more after making him the second overall pick in the 2024 NFL draft class.

The next step is making sure the quarterback has the talent around him to maximize his ability, particularly when he'll be operating under a rookie contract over the next four seasons.

Washington is now a real contender, but the front office can do a lot to upgrade the rest of the squad's skill positions.

Beyond Terry McLaurin, veteran tight end Zach Ertz finished second on the team with 66 receptions. But he's 34 and not currently signed. Ben Sinnott should expect a drastic increase in usage, though he's basically unproven.

Meanwhile, Olamide Zaccheaus provided half of what McLaurin did as the team's WR2. A second legitimate threat out wide could help this offense tremendously.

"McLaurin is a sure-fire WR1," Parson said, "but he needs more help around him. Ole Miss' Tre Harris is a true X-receiver with his combination of route-running, strong hands and outstanding ball skills. He was one of the best isolated, man-coverage beaters in the nation before suffering a lingering injury. This move ensures Daniels has what he needs to avoid a sophomore slump."

30. Buffalo Bills: DL Derrick Harmon, Oregon

At this point, the Buffalo Bills are left wondering what they can do to beat the Kansas City Chiefs when the game really matters. One magic move won't make the difference. Instead, the Bills can look to where they can gain an advantage over time.

Specifically, a stronger defensive interior may ultimately provide an area where the Bills can gain the upper hand.

The Chiefs could very well lose standout right guard Trey Smith in free agency since he's due a massive new contract. At left guard, Joe Thuney turns 33 later this year, and he could be closer to retirement than coming back for another season.

If Kansas City loses both of its guards, it's an area where opponents can attack and make life uncomfortable for quarterback Patrick Mahomes. Oregon's Derrick Harmon created as much or more pressure than any other defensive tackle this past season. Plus, he's an ideal fit for what the Bills like to do.

"The Bills' DaQuan Jones is B/R's comparison for Harmon, as the 33-year-old will enter a contract year next season," Holder said. "While the former Duck may not get much playing time as a rookie, he should fit well in Buffalo as Jones' eventual replacement."

31. Kansas City Chiefs: OT Josh Simmons, Ohio State

As good as the Kansas City Chiefs have been, left tackle has been somewhat of a revolving door over the last two seasons, with Donovan Smith, Wanya Morris, Kingsley Suamataia, D.J. Humphries and Joe Thuney all starting games. The Philadelphia Eagles did everything in their power to exploit that mismatch during Super Bowl LIX.

Patrick Mahomes is better than any quarterback in the history of the game at improvising and making the most out of a bad situation. But the Chiefs should do their best to settle the premium position and make life easier for their all-universe signal-caller.

Fortunately, the class' best pure left tackle prospect is available at this juncture because Ohio State's Josh Simmons suffered a season-ending patellar tear during his final season on campus.

"Simmons' injury status remains a question mark heading into the NFL combine," Thorn said, "but there is no doubt that he made a significant jump from his 2023 play to the '24 season when watching film, with a dominant first five games before going down.

"With high-end physical traits and an ascending skillset, Simmons has a strong case to regain OT1 depending on his upcoming medical reports. Nabbing him at the tail end of round one and inserting him next to an All-Pro left guard in Thuney while playing inside an Andy Reid offense, is about as ideal of a situation as possible for Simmons to reach his considerable potential."

32. Philadelphia Eagles: EDGE Princely Umanmielen

The Philadelphia Eagles aren't hiding any secrets when it comes to how it built a roster that allowed them to represent the NFC in two of the last three Super Bowls. General manager Howie Roseman will invest in the trenches early and often while primarily securing talent from pipeline collegiate programs—with a few notable exceptions.

Looking at where the Eagles stand coming off of Super Bowl LIX, they're set to lose the likes of Milton Williams, Josh Sweat and Brandon Graham in free agency (or retirement). The chance to add yet another talented young pass-rusher falls right in line with the organization's modus operandi.

Ole Miss' Princely Umanmielen improved each year on campus and produced career-highs in 2024 with 14 tackles for loss and 10.5 sacks during his lone season with the Rebels.

"Roseman loves to draft athletic edge-rushers who can put pressure on the quarterback, and the potential loss of multiple veterans makes this an even stronger possibility," Holder said. "It wouldn't be surprising to see Roseman take a swing at Umanmielen at the end of the first round.

"The Ole Miss product has shown several pass-rush moves he can win with at the next level to fit the general manager's type."