NFL Offseason Insights: Team Strategies and Draft Projections Ahead of 2025

With the Philadelphia Eagles emerging as champions following Super Bowl LIX, the NFL officially transitions into its offseason while looking ahead to April's draft. A series of important evaluations and assessments will occur leading up to the draft, including the NFL Combine, pro days, and individual workouts that could impact many players' prospects. Additionally, teams are preparing for free agency and exploring various paths to enhance their rosters. Amidst these changes, Moneyline's scouting department convened to reassess the league's landscape, noting a shift towards teams prioritizing investments in the trenches.
The 2025 NFL Draft is set to feature notable quarterbacks such as Miami's Cam Ward and Colorado's Shedeur Sanders, who are expected to be selected early. Impressively, nine of the first 15 picks are projected to belong to players on the offensive or defensive lines, signifying the importance of foundational positions in today's game. Despite Tennessee Titans President of Football Operations Chad Brinker suggesting that a 'generational talent' may not be present, the Titans are in dire need of addressing the quarterback position. With a chance to choose between Ward and Sanders, Moneyline's scouting department currently designates Ward as the top quarterback prospect, emphasizing his potential to evolve into a franchise player under the right guidance.
Meanwhile, the Cleveland Browns are facing uncertainty at quarterback as they navigate the aftermath of a high-profile trade and a lucrative contract deal for Deshaun Watson. Given Watson's injury history, the Browns may opt to secure a quarterback during this draft. General Manager Andrew Berry must also contend with trade rumors surrounding Myles Garrett, their standout player who desires to join a winning team. The Browns could enhance their roster by selecting Penn State's Abdul Carter, who is highly regarded as a top pass-rusher in this draft. Such a decision would help solidify their defensive front while providing a long-term solution regardless of Garrett's future.
The New York Giants find themselves at a crossroads regarding their quarterback situation, making it crucial for the front office to consider Colorado's Shedeur Sanders. With Daniel Jones no longer an option, Sanders offers accuracy and mental fortitude, essential traits the Giants require. Head Coach Brian Daboll faces the difficult choice of committing to a quarterback now or waiting another year while rivals in the NFC East improve. The New England Patriots, led by new Head Coach Mike Vrabel, also share a common interest in the trenches, and their selection may focus on LSU's Will Campbell to fortify their offensive line amid an evolving roster.
Meanwhile, the Jacksonville Jaguars hold the fifth overall pick and are projected to select Colorado's Travis Hunter, recognized as a top prospect. The franchise aims to rectify prior management missteps and improve their secondary after finishing last season with a dismal pass defense. The Las Vegas Raiders may explore options for quarterbacks Ward or Sanders, but in this mock draft, they are focused on bolstering their defense by selecting Michigan's Will Johnson, a top cornerback. Despite lacking a strong showing in previous seasons, the team is making necessary adjustments to ensure competitiveness moving forward.
Across the AFC, the New York Jets are confronting uncertainty with star receiver Garrett Wilson amid trade speculation. With the potential exits of Aaron Rodgers and Davante Adams, the Jets may seek to optimize their offense by acquiring versatile receiver Tetaiora McMillan, who could complement Wilson perfectively. The Carolina Panthers have shifted their focus following a challenging second season with quarterback Bryce Young. By targeting Michigan's Mason Graham, the Panthers aim to elevate their defensive unit while establishing a clearer identity moving forward.
In New Orleans, the Saints continue their pattern of building a strong defensive front, now considering Marshall’s Mike Green as a valuable edge-rusher. Green’s remarkable production last season aligns with the Saints’ need for defensive reinforcements. The Chicago Bears, who struggled to protect rookie quarterback Caleb Williams last season, must prioritize bolstering their offensive line. Alabama's Tyler Booker emerges as the ideal candidate to help stabilize the line and safeguard Williams as he continues to develop.
The San Francisco 49ers, who experienced a disappointing season, could address their aging roster by selecting Ole Miss' Walter Nolen. The defensive tackle’s ability to disrupt opposing offenses may be exactly what San Francisco requires to rejuvenate its lineup. Meanwhile, the Dallas Cowboys can maximize their offensive line strategy by potentially selecting Missouri's Armand Membou, who possesses the physical traits that Dallas values. The Miami Dolphins are also committed to protecting Tua Tagovailoa by seeking a versatile lineman like North Dakota State's Grey Zabel, who can adapt to various roles on the front.
The Indianapolis Colts face the reality of needing significant upgrades on defense as they transition into a new era with coordinator Lou Anarumo. Selecting South Carolina's Nick Emmanwori will provide the Colts with an athletic safety capable of impacting multiple facets of their game. Over in Atlanta, the Falcons need to strengthen their pass-rush capabilities, which could lead them to Texas A&M’s Shemar Stewart—a prospect with significant untapped potential.
Arizona Cardinals remain focused on talent acquisition as they hope to build a foundation under Head Coach Jonathan Gannon. Texas' Jahdae Barron could bring much-needed versatility to their secondary while pairing effectively with safety Budda Baker. The Cincinnati Bengals must navigate uncertain defensive needs, particularly at edge rusher, with regard to Trey Hendrickson's potential departure. Texas A&M's Nic Scourton fits this mold as a disruptive player with promise.
As the Seattle Seahawks transition into a new offensive strategy under Klint Kubiak, addressing their offensive line becomes paramount. The organization may look to Texas’ Kelvin Banks Jr. as a promising talent to bolster their front five. Lastly, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers may find the solution to their linebacker needs in Georgia's Jalon Walker, who embodies the aggressive defensive identity they should pursue moving forward.
Overall, these selections and strategies underscore the diverse approaches teams are considering as they gear up for an exciting offseason and the upcoming NFL Draft. By prioritizing essential roles and drafting top talent, organizations will position themselves better for future success.








