2025 NFL Draft- The Best Fits for Each Team in the First Round

Fans looking to bet on the first round should check what each team lacks before placing wagers. The bet365 NC bonus code can be a great way to start. Here’s a breakdown of the best first-round pick for each team based on their most significant needs and the top talent available.

Arizona Cardinals: EDGE Mykel Williams

A defensive line that finished 30th in PFF pass-rushing grade needs foundational talent. With $76 million in cap space, Arizona will likely invest in free agency, but a long-term edge rusher remains necessary. 

Despite a 70.7 pass-rushing grade in 2024, Williams has elite athletic traits and untapped potential. At 26 years old, he offers the Cardinals an upside pick who can develop into a dominant force.

Atlanta Falcons: EDGE Jalon Walker

A defense ranked 27th in success rate cannot afford to ignore the pass rush. Walker posted a 17.2% pass-rush win rate, ranking second among qualified linebackers. His ability to play both as an off-ball linebacker and edge rusher provides versatility. 

The Falcons, limited to two picks inside the top 116, must maximize their draft capital, making Walker a logical choice.

Baltimore Ravens: OT Josh Simmons

Baltimore could be facing a major void at left tackle if Ronnie Stanley does not return. Simmons recorded an 82.0 pass-blocking grade before an ACL injury cut his 2024 season short. His injury history may cause him to slide, but his skill set makes him a valuable investment, particularly given the Ravens' need to protect Lamar Jackson.

Buffalo Bills: CB Shavon Revel Jr.

Josh Allen led Buffalo to another AFC Championship appearance, but the secondary needs reinforcement. Christian Benford emerged as a reliable corner, but depth remains a concern. Revel finished 2024 with an 85.4 coverage grade and displayed elite ball skills. 

Carolina Panthers: EDGE Mike Green

A defense that ranked dead last in 2024 needs immediate upgrades. Green’s 20.2% pass-rush win rate was among the best in the country, and he has continued to improve since his breakout campaign at Marshall. Carolina’s free agency moves will shape draft decisions, but Green’s ability to get after the quarterback makes him an ideal pick.

Chicago Bears: OT Will Campbell

Chicago has the luxury of four picks in the top 72, but securing offensive line protection remains a priority. Campbell’s 80.6 pass-blocking grade ranks among the best in the draft, but concerns over his arm length might push him down the board. 

Despite that, Ben Johnson’s offensive scheme prioritizes pass protectors who can hold up in space, and Campbell fits the profile.

Cincinnati Bengals: DL Kenneth Grant

Cincinnati’s interior defenders finished 2024 with the sixth-worst PFF grade in the NFL. Grant, with an 87.5 run-defense grade, immediately strengthens the defensive line. Given the financial challenges of keeping both Tee Higgins and Ja’Marr Chase, the Bengals must hit on their defensive selections to maintain competitiveness.

Cleveland Browns: QB Cameron Ward

Deshaun Watson struggled last season, and the Browns need a backup plan. Ward earned a 91.7 passing grade, showing deep ball accuracy and mobility. The second overall pick is a perfect spot to take a quarterback who could be their future starter.

Dallas Cowboys: DL Walter Nolen

Jerry Jones faces multiple decisions on defense, and upgrading the trenches should be a focus. Nolen graded at 91.6 in run defense, making him a strong fit for a Cowboys team that struggled against physical rushing attacks. 

Denver Broncos: RB Ashton Jeanty

Denver’s offense needs a spark, and Jeanty’s 96.9 rushing grade stands out. Sean Payton has emphasized adding playmakers to support Bo Nix, and Jeanty’s production at the collegiate level suggests he can be a dynamic asset. 

Detroit Lions: EDGE Nic Scourton

Scourton’s 80.8 pass-rushing grade indicates he has the tools to develop into a reliable pass rusher. The Lions’ defensive scheme benefits from aggressive edge defenders, and pairing Scourton with Aidan Hutchinson provides a formidable combination.

Green Bay Packers: CB Shavon Revel

With Eric Stokes entering free agency and Jaire Alexander’s future uncertain, cornerback is a pressing need. Revel, before his ACL injury, was a projected top-15 pick. His ability to play man and zone coverage makes him an ideal candidate for Jeff Hafley’s defensive system.

Houston Texans: OT Armand Membou

Membou’s 85.5-plus grades in both pass and run blocking make him a potential long-term piece on the Texans’ offensive line. With uncertainty surrounding some interior linemen, adding Membou ensures protection for C.J. Stroud and strengthens the run game.

Indianapolis Colts: TE Tyler Warren

Anthony Richardson needs a reliable target, and Warren is a 6’6” tight end who can catch and block. The Colts’ offense depends on big-bodied pass-catchers, making him a great fit.

Jacksonville Jaguars: DL Mason Graham

Graham posted two straight seasons with a 90.0+ grade, making him an attractive option. With Josh Hines-Allen and Travon Walker already on the roster, Graham’s presence solidifies the Jaguars’ defensive front.

Kansas City Chiefs: OL Grey Zabel

The Chiefs' offensive line was inconsistent last year. Zabel had a 90.4 PFF grade and can play multiple positions. Kansas City must improve pass protection for Patrick Mahomes.

Las Vegas Raiders: QB Shedeur Sanders

The Raiders need a quarterback, and Sanders is a smart pick. He threw very few interceptions and is calm under pressure. If the team wants stability at QB, he’s a great choice.

Miami Dolphins: OT Josh Simmons

Miami’s offensive line took a hit with Terron Armstead’s likely retirement. Simmons allowed just one pressure in 158 snaps last season. He could be a long-term starter at left tackle.

Minnesota Vikings: CB Azareye’h Thomas

With Byron Murphy Jr. and Shaquill Griffin entering free agency, Minnesota needs secondary help. Thomas, at only 20 years old, brings length and playmaking ability to the position.

New England Patriots: WR Tetairoa McMillan

The Patriots don’t have a true No. 1 receiver. McMillan finished with an 85.8 receiving grade and can win contested catches. He would give Drake Maye a much-needed deep threat.

Summary

The 2025 NFL Draft presents each team with the opportunity to address key needs and secure foundational pieces. With free agency reshaping rosters, the first round will determine how franchises build for immediate impact and future success. These selections align with team needs, performance metrics, and draft positioning, making them logical choices for each franchise.