After months of anticipation and speculation, the 2025 NFL Draft has come to a close. From unexpected trades to rising stars, the draft once again delivered a thrilling spectacle that will shape the league for years to come. In this recap, we’ll explore the most surprising picks, the teams that nailed their selections, and what fans can expect from the league’s newest talents.
Biggest Surprises of the 2025 NFL Draft
Every draft comes with its share of surprises, and the 2025 NFL Draft was no different. While the first few picks largely followed expectations, the intrigue began when teams made bold moves that shook up the draft board.
1. The Arizona Cardinals Trade Up for a Quarterback
A major shock came early in the first round when the Arizona Cardinals, initially slated to pick at No. 4, made a blockbuster trade with the Atlanta Falcons to move up to No. 1 overall. The Cardinals selected Zayden Carter, a quarterback out of Georgia Tech, bypassing consensus top prospects at other positions. Carter, a dual-threat QB with incredible mobility and arm strength, was projected as a mid-to-late first-round pick but impressed scouts with his athleticism and leadership during private workouts.
2. Miami Dolphins Select a Defensive Tackle in Round 1
The Miami Dolphins were expected to prioritize offensive line or secondary help, but in a surprising twist, they chose Damien Harris, a defensive tackle from LSU, with the 19th overall pick. Harris, a dominating presence on the interior, bolsters an already stout Miami defense, but many questioned the decision given the team’s pressing needs on offense. However, Harris’ ability to disrupt the pocket and stop the run made him too valuable to pass up.
3. The Rise of Wide Receiver Prospects
While wide receivers are often highly sought after in the draft, this year saw an unexpected surge in talent. Players like Noah McKenzie from Ohio State and Jamal Turner from Alabama, who were originally thought to be second-round picks, both went in the top 10, with McKenzie being drafted at No. 6 by the Seattle Seahawks. McKenzie, a versatile and dynamic receiver, impressed teams with his speed and playmaking ability, which led to his rise up draft boards.
Top Picks of the 2025 NFL Draft
With so much excitement surrounding this year’s crop of rookies, the first few picks were highly anticipated. Here’s a look at some of the top selections from the 2025 NFL Draft:
1. Zayden Carter (QB, Georgia Tech) – Arizona Cardinals (1st Overall)
After trading up to the first pick, the Arizona Cardinals made a bold move by selecting Zayden Carter, who was regarded as one of the most physically gifted quarterbacks in the draft. Carter’s dual-threat ability, combined with his high football IQ, gives the Cardinals a potentially franchise-altering player. His ability to extend plays with his legs and make every throw in the book will immediately make him a fan favorite in Arizona.
2. Jaxson Reed (DE, Alabama) – Houston Texans (2nd Overall)
The Houston Texans took Jaxson Reed, a pass rusher from Alabama, with the second overall pick. Reed, known for his elite speed and power off the edge, was one of the most dominant defensive players in college football last season. The Texans are hoping Reed can be the cornerstone of their defense for years to come, bringing much-needed pressure to the quarterback.
3. Seth Daniels (RB, Michigan) – New York Giants (3rd Overall)
A surprise in the early part of the draft was the New York Giants selecting running back Seth Daniels with the third overall pick. Daniels, a versatile back with explosive speed, could be the dynamic offensive weapon the Giants need. His ability to make defenders miss and contribute in the passing game has many experts projecting him as a future star.
4. Damien Harris (DT, LSU) – Miami Dolphins (19th Overall)
As mentioned earlier, the Dolphins shocked many by selecting Damien Harris in the first round. Despite concerns over their offensive line, Miami chose to bolster their defense with the powerful defensive tackle from LSU. Harris brings an unmatched combination of strength, agility, and the ability to penetrate the backfield, making him a potential game-changer on the defensive line.
5. Noah McKenzie (WR, Ohio State) – Seattle Seahawks (6th Overall)
Noah McKenzie has been one of the most talked-about players leading up to the draft, and his selection by the Seattle Seahawks at No. 6 was a reflection of his rapid rise up draft boards. McKenzie’s route-running and ability to track deep passes make him an ideal fit for the Seahawks’ offense. He’ll immediately become a favorite target for quarterback Russell Wilson, adding another weapon to the high-powered passing attack.
Teams That Nailed Their Selections
Some teams clearly excelled in the 2025 NFL Draft, with smart picks that will help them build for both the present and future.
1. Arizona Cardinals
The Cardinals were the winners of the draft, with the bold decision to trade up for Zayden Carter paying off. They also secured a key defensive piece in the second round by selecting cornerback Tyreke Adams from Florida. Adams, known for his ball skills and athleticism, will help shore up the Cardinals’ secondary and complement their new franchise quarterback.
2. Miami Dolphins
The Dolphins’ decision to pick Damien Harris in the first round raised eyebrows, but their overall strategy paid off. In the second round, Miami snagged Cameron Banks, a talented left tackle from Michigan, to help protect their quarterbacks. Harris’ presence on the defensive line will give the Dolphins a legitimate pass rush to complement their already talented defense.
3. Dallas Cowboys
The Cowboys made waves with their pick of Jamal Turner, a wide receiver out of Alabama, at No. 15. Turner, known for his size and speed, could be the ideal counterpart to star receiver CeeDee Lamb. With their strong offensive line and quarterback Dak Prescott in place, Turner gives the Cowboys another weapon to target in their passing game.
What to Expect from the 2025 NFL Draft Class
The 2025 NFL Draft class is brimming with talent, and while it will take time for the rookies to develop, there’s no shortage of high expectations. Several top picks, especially quarterbacks like Zayden Carter and running backs like Seth Daniels, will be tasked with making an immediate impact.
Expect Carter to be a potential Rookie of the Year candidate, especially given his playmaking ability and the attention he’ll draw from opposing defenses. Similarly, Seth Daniels is expected to have a significant role in New York’s offense, potentially revitalizing their running game.
On the defensive side, pass rushers like Jaxson Reed and Damien Harris are poised to become key contributors on their respective teams. Reed, in particular, could make an immediate impact as a disruptive force on the Texans’ defense.
Conclusion
The 2025 NFL Draft has delivered a new generation of talent ready to make their mark on the league. With several teams making smart and surprising picks, the draft set the stage for an exciting future in the NFL. While it’s impossible to predict exactly how each rookie will fare, one thing is certain: the next wave of football stars is here.
