Mel Kiper Releases Final 2025 NFL Mock Draft: Cam Ward Goes No. 1, Big Moves in Top 8

With the 2025 NFL Draft just around the corner, ESPN draft analyst Mel Kiper Jr. has released his final mock draft, offering insight into how the top of the board could shake out. Kiper’s latest projection features a strong quarterback class, versatile defenders, and rising stars from both Power Five and Group of Five programs.

Here’s a breakdown of Kiper’s projected top 8 picks:

1. Tennessee Titans – QB Cam Ward, Miami
Kiper has the Titans taking the dynamic quarterback out of Miami with the first overall pick. Ward’s arm talent, poise under pressure, and ability to create plays make him the potential face of the franchise for Tennessee as they look to rebuild at the most important position.

2. Cleveland Browns – WR/CB Travis Hunter, Colorado
A two-way phenom, Hunter’s rare ability to dominate on both sides of the ball makes him a unique weapon. Kiper projects the Browns capitalizing on that versatility by adding an explosive playmaker who can change the game in all three phases.

3. New York Giants – OLB Abdul Carter, Penn State
Carter brings speed, power, and sideline-to-sideline range as a linebacker. The Giants are in need of a defensive tone-setter, and Carter’s high motor and tackling ability could instantly boost their front seven.

4. New England Patriots – OT Will Campbell, LSU
In classic Patriots fashion, Kiper has New England going trench-first, securing a dominant left tackle to protect their young quarterback. Campbell is one of the most polished linemen in the class and could be a Day 1 starter.

5. Jacksonville Jaguars – DT Mason Graham, Michigan
The Jags add power to their defensive interior with Graham, a disruptive force against both the run and pass. His athleticism and strength make him an ideal fit for a team trying to rebuild its defensive identity.

6. Las Vegas Raiders – RB Ashton Jeanty, Boise State
A surprise pick here, but Kiper sees the Raiders taking a chance on the electric Jeanty, who dominated college defenses with his vision, burst, and pass-catching ability. With Josh Jacobs gone, Jeanty becomes the new offensive focal point.

7. New York Jets – OT Armand Membou, Missouri
Protecting Aaron Rodgers (or whoever the QB may be post-2025) remains a priority. Membou has risen fast on draft boards thanks to his athleticism, length, and ability to hold his own against top pass rushers.

8. Carolina Panthers – LB Jalon Walker, Georgia
Kiper notes a projected superstar for the Panthers, where they land Georgia linebacker Jalon Walker. An instinctive and explosive player, Walker could be a foundational piece for Carolina’s rebuilding defense.

As always, Kiper’s final mock is bound to generate debate and speculation. With only days left until draft night, the stage is set for surprises, trades, and franchise-defining picks.