Bold Predictions to Jot Down for This Year’s Draft - 2025

As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, a new generation of talent is poised to leave its mark, setting the stage for a draft filled with surprises and game-changing moves. Teams aren’t just looking for the best prospects—they’re refining their strategies, ensuring each selection aligns with their long-term vision. Every pick made on draft night is more than just adding talent; it’s about building the foundation for sustained success.

From surprising player selections to potential game-changing trades, join us as we explore what could unfold and which names might rise to the occasion. But, before jotting down any of these predictions, remember that BonusBandits has an entire page dedicated to free bet sportsbooks and casinos. So before even thinking about placing a wager, check out their list!

Ronnie Stanley Joins The Chiefs

The Chiefs have a major hole to fill after trading Joe Thuney to the Bears. While they still have strong pieces on the offensive line, losing Thuney creates a significant gap in experience and reliability. Their short-term solution of shifting Thuney to left tackle last season wasn’t ideal, and now they need a permanent fix. Enter Ronnie Stanley.

After a standout 2024 season, in which he started all 17 games, Stanley has proven he can stay healthy and perform at a high level. With his contract now expired, he’s in a prime position to explore new opportunities. Given the limited options in free agency, Stanley emerges as the best choice to protect Patrick Mahomes’ blindside. While the Chiefs could look at drafting a rookie or reshuffling their current lineup, Stanley’s experience and consistency make him the smartest and most reliable option.

The Charger’s Secure Chris Godwin

The Chargers are in desperate need of a reliable playmaker at wide receiver, and Chris Godwin could be the perfect fit. While he’s coming off a dislocated ankle that limited him to just seven games last season, he remains an elite talent and is still under 30. If the Buccaneers let him walk, he would be one of the biggest names available in free agency.

Adding Godwin would give Justin Herbert a proven, high-level target to help revamp the offense. However, the main challenge for the Chargers would be his price tag. A player of his stature won’t come cheap, and with salary cap concerns, the team would have to carefully consider whether they can afford such a blockbuster move. Still, if they’re serious about upgrading their receiving corps, Godwin would be a game-changing addition.

Derek Carr Returns To The Raiders

A Derek Carr reunion in Las Vegas might actually make sense. The Raiders need a quarterback, but picking sixth in the draft means they might miss out on a top prospect. If they can’t land their franchise QB this offseason, bringing back Carr as a temporary solution could be their best option.

Carr was deeply connected to the Raiders before Josh McDaniels let him go. Now, with Pete Carroll in charge, there’s a chance for a fresh start. Meanwhile, the Saints could be ready to move on from Carr to save $30 million in cap space, especially if they decide to roll with Spencer Rattler or trade up for a new quarterback.

DeAndre Hopkins Heads To New England

The Patriots have the cap space and draft picks to make major upgrades this offseason, with wide receiver being a top priority for rookie quarterback Drake Maye. While Tee Higgins has been a popular target, missing out on him would force New England to pivot to potentially  DeAndre Hopkins.

Hopkins, now with the Chiefs, posted 56 catches for 610 yards and five touchdowns in 2024 despite injuries. While no longer a top-tier No. 1 receiver, he’s a reliable veteran who could help Maye develop and mentor young wideouts.

Unlike Higgins, Hopkins would come at a much lower cost, allowing the Patriots to strengthen other key areas like the offensive line and defense. Pairing him with a promising rookie receiver could give New England a well-balanced attack. If they make the right moves, the Patriots could be a surprise contender in 2025.

Could Aaron Rodgers Land With The Giants?

With the Vikings out of the picture, Aaron Rodgers’ options for 2025 are narrowing down to the Giants, Steelers, or retirement. While the Steelers offer a stronger chance to win immediately, the Giants are desperate to make a move, keeping head coach Brian Daboll and GM Joe Schoen in hopes of turning things around.

Rodgers has yet to decide, and reports suggest he may wait until the NFL Draft to make his choice. Meanwhile, the Giants remain aggressive in their search for a quarterback, potentially pursuing both Rodgers and a top rookie like Shedeur Sanders.

If Rodgers wants to stay in the spotlight and take on a challenge, the Giants offer an intriguing opportunity—without even having to leave New York.