Round 1 of the 2025 NFL Draft: 7 Bold Predictions That Could Shock the League
As the clock ticks toward the 2025 NFL Draft, the mock drafts are locked in — but the real drama happens when the unexpected takes center stage. Here’s a breakdown of the boldest Round 1 predictions, straight from the war rooms, whispers, and what-if scenarios buzzing around the league.
1. Drake Maye Doesn’t Go First Overall
While Maye has long been the presumed No. 1 pick, don’t be shocked if the Chicago Bears pull a curveball and draft a defender — particularly EDGE monster Dallas Turner — to anchor their pass rush.
“If you’re confident in your bridge QB and the edge talent is generational, why not?” says one anonymous scout.
2. A Top-10 Trade for Marvin Harrison Jr.
The New England Patriots, sitting at No. 3, might trade down. The Jets or Commanders could package picks to land Marvin Harrison Jr., arguably the safest WR prospect in a decade. He’s that valuable.
3. Bo Nix Sneaks Into the Top 15
With QB-hungry teams in the middle of Round 1, Bo Nix — once seen as a second-rounder — could get scooped by the Raiders, Broncos, or even the Vikings in a surprise early call.
4. A Top Defensive Prospect Falls Due to Injury
It happens every year. This time, don’t be surprised if CB Kool-Aid McKinstry or S Caleb Downs drops due to medical red flags teams are keeping under wraps.
5. Tight End Goes Top 5: Brock Bowers to Arizona
The Cardinals are known for surprise picks, and Brock Bowers could be the most dynamic TE since Kyle Pitts. With Kyler Murray needing targets, this one’s a sleeper that makes sense.
6. Two Interior Linemen Go Before a QB
Keep your eye on Olu Fashanu (Penn State) and JC Latham (Alabama). If there’s an early run on O-line talent, expect a team to panic and grab protection before going for flashy picks.
7. No RBs Go in Round 1
In this year’s draft, no running back is seen as Round 1-worthy. Even talents like Blake Corum and Trey Benson are projected Day 2 — making it the first RB-free first round in recent memory.
Final Thought
Round 1 is never predictable. Between front office smokescreens, late risers, and high-stakes trades, expect chaos — and plenty of bold moves that reshape franchises overnight.
Stay locked in — and check back here for full live coverage and post-draft analysis.
