The buzz around the 2025 NFL Draft is reaching a fever pitch, with Roger Goodell set to officially kick things off. The Tennessee Titans have the first pick, and they’re about to make their choice known. But before the night unfolds, there are plenty of whispers about potential shake-ups and strategies that could unfold over the weekend, keeping fans and analysts alike on their toes.
The Cleveland Browns are open to trading their No. 2 pick and are receiving serious inquiries, with some teams believed to be ready to make “super strong” offers, according to FOX Sports’ Jordan Schultz. Jay Glazer mentioned a potential trade with the Jacksonville Jaguars, who hold the No. 5 pick, might happen. Schultz earlier noted that the Browns have been fielding “legitimate” calls for the No. 2 pick, and the New York Giants might also be considering offers for their No. 3 pick.
Travis Hunter from Colorado is a name associated with the Browns’ second pick, but there’s also speculation that Cleveland might target a quarterback. With names like Shedeur Sanders and Jaxson Dart available, a trade down could offer a better opportunity to pick up a quarterback of the future. Cameron Ward seems to be the likely first overall pick, but Sanders and Dart have had a mixed presence in mock drafts, sometimes slipping from the top spots.
Similar to the Browns, the Giants are weighing their options. They’ve been linked to Penn State’s Abdul Carter but are also in the market for a quarterback. Schultz has suggested that Sanders could still be on the table for them at No. 3, despite the uncertainty surrounding his draft position.
The New Orleans Saints, picking ninth, are also exploring trade options. They’re considering moving back a bit in the draft order as they face several challenges. After a 5-12 season, the Saints are dealing with potential changes in their lineup, including the possible absence of quarterback Derek Carr due to shoulder surgery and retirements affecting their offensive line.
Shedeur Sanders is keeping his cool ahead of the draft, even as his landing spot remains uncertain. He expressed confidence in a social media post saying, “I’m built for whatever today may bring.” There’s a wide range of predictions about where he might end up, with some projecting him as high as the third pick, while others see him potentially dropping out of the first round.
The Browns are also considering making moves beyond their No. 2 pick. Greg Newsome II and Ogbo Okoronkwo have reportedly been made available for trade. Newsome is in the final year of his rookie contract, while Okoronkwo has one year left on his three-year deal. Both players could be part of a strategy to reshape the Browns’ roster during the draft.
Meanwhile, the Pittsburgh Steelers are stirring the pot in their wide receiver lineup. After picking up DK Metcalf, they’re entertaining offers for George Pickens. With Pickens unfollowing the Steelers on Instagram, it hints at potential changes, as the team is cautious about extending two high-value contracts at receiver.
Pittsburgh’s Pickens, now extension-eligible, is entering the last year of his rookie deal. His performance over the last two seasons has been solid, with 1,140 receiving yards in 2023 and 900 yards in 2024. His social media move adds fuel to the speculation about his future with the team.
The Browns enter the draft with ten picks, four of which are in the top 100, giving them ample opportunity to make strategic moves. Their decisions could significantly impact their lineup and set the tone for their upcoming season, making the draft a pivotal moment for the franchise.
