With the 2025 NFL Draft drawing closer, analysts across the league are fine-tuning their boards and bold takes are flying. This week, ESPN’s Field Yates dropped his full Round 1 mock draft — and of course, it’s already turning heads 🧠🔥. Meanwhile, Mel Kiper Jr., the godfather of draft intel, chimed in with behind-the-scenes buzz that could signal some draft night fireworks. Here’s a deep dive into what the experts are saying — and why it matters.
🥇No Surprise at No. 1: Patriots Lock In Their QB of the Future Mock Draft
According to Yates, the New England Patriots (holding the No. 1 overall pick after a dismal 2024 season) are going quarterback — no shocker there. He’s projecting they’ll take Shedeur Sanders, the high-IQ, dual-threat signal caller out of Colorado who’s been lighting up defenses under Deion Sanders’ high-octane offense.
📢 Kiper’s Intel: “Don’t rule out a trade down,” says Kiper. He notes New England is fielding calls and could move back a few spots if they feel confident grabbing another top-tier QB like Carson Beck or Quinn Ewers later in the top 10.
🐻 Chicago Bears Double Down on Offense — Again! Mock Draft
Field Yates has the Chicago Bears staying aggressive, selecting a top-tier offensive lineman with their first pick and then doubling back into the first round to grab RB Ashton Jeanty (Boise State). That’s three offensive weapons in two years after landing Caleb Williams and Rome Odunze in 2024.
💬 Kiper’s Word: Kiper confirms the Bears are “in love with Jeanty” and have been doing private meetings with him since February. The buzz is real.
⭐ Cowboys Go Big and Local with Kelvin Banks Jr.
Texas OT Kelvin Banks Jr. continues to rise, and Yates thinks Dallas keeps it in-state, solidifying their offensive line with a young, high-floor talent. Banks is viewed as a plug-and-play LT who fits the Cowboys’ physical identity.
🔎 Kiper’s Take: “The Cowboys’ war room loves Banks. If he’s there, they’re sprinting the card up.”
🔥 Surprise of the Round: Falcons Take Brock Bowers at No. 8
Tight end in the top 10? Yates thinks Atlanta pulls the trigger on Georgia’s Brock Bowers, calling him a “matchup nightmare who fits perfectly with Arthur Smith’s scheme.”
📌 Kiper Intel: Kiper adds that Bowers interviewed “exceptionally well” and is viewed as one of the most NFL-ready players in the draft.
📈 Stock Watch – Movers & Sleepers
- Rising: WR Emeka Egbuka (Ohio State) – now a top-15 lock after dominating the combine.
- Falling: EDGE JT Tuimoloau – concerns over consistency and motor could push him to late Round 1.
- Sleeper Alert: QB Cam Ward (Miami) – Yates has him going late first to the Raiders, calling him “this year’s Jordan Love.”
🧠 Final Word: A Draft Full of Fireworks
With Yates’ bold predictions and Kiper’s trademark scoops, this year’s draft has the makings of a dramatic, trade-heavy, offense-focused first round. From Shedeur Sanders in New England to Ashton Jeanty rising fast in Chicago’s plans, the 2025 NFL Draft won’t just be about picks — it’s about statements.
📺 So get ready, football fans — April’s going to be WILD.
