Colin Cowherd Reveals His 2025 NFL Mock Draft: “What I Would Do” Edition
Colin Cowherd is never short on strong opinions, and his annual...
Colin Cowherd is never short on strong opinions, and his annual “What I Would Do” NFL Mock Draft continues that tradition with a bold, unconventional 2025 edition. Instead of predicting what teams will do, Cowherd takes the liberty of playing GM for all 15 teams in this mock, making selections based on his personal evaluations, team needs, and overall football philosophy.
Here’s a breakdown of the top 15 picks from Cowherd’s latest mock draft and the logic behind them:
Cowherd starts things off with a big swing. Cam Ward is one of the most dynamic quarterbacks in college football, and Colin sees him as a franchise-changing presence. For a Titans team in need of a true offensive identity, Ward’s arm talent and athleticism make him the face of the rebuild.
One of the most versatile prospects in recent memory, Travis Hunter goes second overall. Cowherd loves playmakers, and Hunter is exactly that—on both sides of the ball. The Browns get a Swiss Army knife who can shift games in multiple phases.
Colin doubles down on QB talent, putting Deion Sanders’ son in the Big Apple. Shedeur’s poise, pocket presence, and football IQ impressed Cowherd all season long. With Giants quarterback play still underwhelming, the Giants make a splash at quarterback.
Cowherd believes in defense—and Carter fits the modern NFL mold as a sideline-to-sideline playmaker with elite burst. The Patriots need defensive juice, and Carter provides it immediately.
The Jags bolster their defensive interior with Michigan’s powerhouse lineman. Graham brings grit, motor, and intelligence—Cowherd notes he’s a culture-setter in the trenches.
The first real surprise. In a league that often devalues running backs, Cowherd zigzags and picks Jeanty, a dynamic runner who can impact the game in multiple ways. He views Jeanty as a foundational offensive weapon.
Cowherd loves mismatches—and Warren is a huge one. He sees the Jets getting a red-zone monster and a reliable safety valve for whoever is under center.
Carolina desperately needs receiver help, and Cowherd provides it in the form of one of the most consistent, explosive pass-catchers in the draft. McMillan could be a true WR1 for years.
Cowherd stays defense-focused with the Saints, nabbing one of the most polished cover corners in the class. Johnson has lockdown potential and helps reestablish a defensive identity in New Orleans.
Physical, fast, and fundamentally sound—Walker checks all the boxes for Cowherd, who values instinctive linebackers who can lead a defense. He potentially sees Walker as a future All-Pro.
Smart, strong, and technically refined, Banks is a great fit for the 49ers’ offensive scheme. Cowherd emphasizes the importance of O-line depth and sees Banks as a plug-and-play starter.
Cowherd returns to the running back well, giving Dallas a power back to anchor their run game. With Tony Pollard gone and no clear RB1, Hampton brings toughness and home-run ability.
Campbell is nasty, experienced, and dependable—all traits Cowherd loves in linemen. The Dolphins get protection for Tua Tagovailoa and someone who can help control the line of scrimmage.
Indianapolis stays in the trenches with Membou, a rising star in the SEC. Cowherd calls this a “no-brainer” pick to ensure long-term success for Anthony Richardson.
To close out the top 15, Cowherd selects an explosive edge rusher to elevate Atlanta’s pass rush. Stewart has the upside of a game-wrecker—and Cowherd believes that’s exactly what the Falcons need.
Final Thoughts: Colin Cowherd’s mock draft isn’t about consensus—it’s about conviction. From bold quarterback picks to running backs in the top 15, this draft reflects Cowherd’s belief in production, potential, and positional impact. It might not mirror what NFL teams end up doing, but it offers a sharp perspective on what should happen on draft night.