Shocking 2025 NFL Mock Draft: Unexpected QB Picks Shake Up Round 2!

Shocking 2025 NFL Mock Draft: Unexpected QB Picks Shake Up Round 2!

Shocking 2025 NFL Mock Draft: Unexpected QB Picks Shake Up Round 2!

The 2025 NFL Draft is shaping up to be a quarterback-heavy spectacle, but don’t be surprised if linemen steal the show in the first two days. While signal-callers will undoubtedly grab headlines, teams know that winning games starts in the trenches.

In this three-round mock draft, I predict a major shift in focus toward linemen. Out of 32 first-round picks, 15 will be offensive or defensive linemen. Over the first 101 selections, an astonishing 45 linemen are expected to hear their names called. This trend underscores the importance of controlling the line of scrimmage in today’s NFL.

Beyond positional trends, trades will also play a significant role in shaping the draft. I forecast five first-round trades, mirroring last year’s action. Additionally, five compensatory picks are projected at the end of the third round. The first two will be awarded to teams that lost key free agents in 2024, as estimated by Over the Cap. The remaining three reflect the projected compensation for teams—namely the 49ers, Rams, and Lions—who lost minority candidates to head coach or general manager positions elsewhere.

Why Linemen Will Dominate the 2025 NFL Draft
Historically, quarterbacks drive draft-day excitement, but elite linemen are the backbone of championship teams. This year’s class is stacked with elite talent on both sides of the ball, making linemen some of the most valuable commodities available.

Offensive Line Prospects in High Demand
Protecting franchise quarterbacks is a priority for every team, which explains the strong demand for offensive linemen. Several teams picking early have glaring needs along the offensive front. Look for the following elite prospects to go off the board early:

– Joe Alt (Notre Dame, OT) – A polished, NFL-ready left tackle with exceptional footwork and power.

– Olu Fashanu (Penn State, OT) – A dominant pass protector who could be a Day 1 starter for a team in need of a franchise left tackle.

– JC Latham (Alabama, OT) – A versatile lineman who can play either tackle spot, making him a valuable asset.

Interior linemen will also be in high demand, as teams look to establish dominance in the running game and protect quarterbacks from interior pressure.

Defensive Linemen Could Be Even More Coveted
While protecting quarterbacks is crucial, disrupting them is equally important. That’s why defensive linemen will be just as sought after as their offensive counterparts. Some of the top defensive line prospects include:

– Jared Verse (Florida State, EDGE) – A dynamic pass rusher with elite burst and hand technique.

– Dallas Turner (Alabama, EDGE) – A relentless edge rusher with the speed to terrorize opposing quarterbacks.

– Jer’Zhan Newton (Illinois, DT) – A disruptive force in the middle who can collapse the pocket and stop the run.

With multiple teams looking to bolster their pass rush, expect defensive linemen to fly off the board early.

Quarterbacks Will Still Command Attention
While linemen will dominate the draft’s early rounds, quarterbacks remain the most valuable position in football. The 2025 class features several intriguing prospects who could go in the top 10, including:

– Caleb Williams (USC) – The consensus top quarterback prospect with elite arm talent and playmaking ability.

– Drake Maye (North Carolina) – A prototypical pocket passer with impressive accuracy and decision-making.

– J.J. McCarthy (Michigan) – A rising star with mobility and leadership skills that will appeal to teams in need of a franchise QB.

Projected Trades in the First Round
Draft-day trades always add excitement, and I’m predicting five in the first round. Teams looking for their next franchise quarterback could trade up, while others may move back to accumulate more picks. Some likely trade scenarios include: