The Draft Network’s in-house scout Daniel Harms recently released his first 2025 NFL mock draft. The latest Draft Network 100 release has served as a reference point for his analysis and decisions.
All 32 franchises were tasked with finalizing their initial 53-man rosters on Tuesday. It signals that the 2024 NFL regular-season campaign has arrived.
I’ve been selected to dissect Harms’ mock. I've identified my favorite selections, scheme fits, and the best prospect not selected. I also have some question marks. Let’s dive into The Draft Network’s brand-new 2025 NFL mock draft.
Favorite pick: Mason Graham, DT, Minnesota Vikings (No. 9 overall)
Minnesota Vikings defensive coordinator Brian Flores has routinely squeezed more out of this defense than its talent level suggests. Sweeping changes arrived to the defensive line this offseason, too. The likes of Danielle Hunter and Marcus Davenport are no longer present. They've been replaced with Jonathan Greenard, Andrew Van Ginkel, and Dallas Turner.
Flores' aggressive defense would thrive with a dominant pass-rushing 3-tech. Michigan's Mason Graham, the top-ranked overall player on our latest draft board, would be an outstanding addition to this transitioning front. Flores could build his defense around a rare talent like Graham, who would replace Hunter as the new focal point of the pass rush.
Biggest Question Mark: Jalen Milroe QB, Pittsburgh Steelers (No. 14 overall)
The Pittsburgh Steelers completely retooled their quarterback room this offseason by trading away Kenny Pickett, trading for Justin Fields, and signing Russell Wilson following his release from the Denver Broncos. Harms makes a good point that both quarterbacks are free agents next offseason, but the Steelers are expected to continue their relationship with Wilson. Things can change if the season goes disastrously, but the plan is to keep things in-house by identifying a long-term solution.
Furthermore, it's going to require a bigger showing from Alabama's Jalen Milroe to elevate his pre-draft stock to a top-15 selection. Milroe must take developmental steps forward with his ball placement and accuracy, and he must target his pass catchers with better anticipation. Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin may not be anxious to jump back into the rookie QB market after Pickett went so poorly.
Best Scheme Fit: Travis Hunter, CB, Tampa Bay Buccaneers (No. 11 overall)
Will Travis Hunter play wide receiver or cornerback in the NFL? It's a question that could dominate the pre-draft landscape. Hunter is an elite two-way talent who could conceivably thrive at either position once a decision is reached with conviction.
Harms notes that the Tampa Bay Buccaneers could probably use both a receiver and cornerback next offseason, but I can especially envision Hunter as a corner in Todd Bowles' aggressive defense. Hunter's ball skills and instincts would lead to plenty of game-changing turnovers. Buccaneers general manager Jason Licht should continue overhauling his secondary via the 2025 draft.
Best Value: Malaki Starks, SAF, Buffalo Bills (No. 24 overall)
Georgia safety Malaki Starks is an elite athlete with the instincts necessary to be a versatile three-level defensive playmaker. The Bulldogs standout projects as one of the better overall players in the 2025 NFL Draft, but he does play a devalued position at safety. That could allow a franchise like the Buffalo Bills to pounce on his availability in the latter half of the first round.
The Bills got younger and cheaper at safety this offseason, but the position is still going through a transitional phase. GM Brandon Beane replaced veteran Jordan Poyer with rookie Cole Bishop, but an injury could limit Bishop's early-season involvement. Drafting a player like Starks would free up Bishop to attack underneath.
Best Player Not Selected: Jalon Walker, LB, Georgia
Bulldogs linebacker Jalon Walker is one of the more universally underrated prospects heading into the new college football season. Walker's potential was recognized by our latest Draft Network 100 release, as the scouts combined to deliver a top-25 grade. Despite that, Harms still couldn't find a first-round landing spot for the talented playmaker in his mock.
Walker is a hybrid off-ball linebacker/EDGE rusher who should receive more opportunities to rush the passer in 2024. The Salisbury, North Carolina native recorded 20 tackles and 5.0 sacks last season, utilizing an explosive first step and functional strength to stress backfields. A bigger campaign is on the horizon.