| # | Team | Player | Pos | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Rueben Bain Jr. | EDGE | ||||
|
Realistically, the Titans will try their best to move out of the No. 1 spot for a haul of picks. From a player fit perspective, though, Bain feels like the perfect defensive end to pair with Jeffery Simmons on the interior. He's an enforcer who resets the line in the run game and pushes pockets consistently as a pass rusher. |
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| 2 | Peter Woods | DL | ||||
|
The Giants already have one of the most-feared pass rushes in the NFL, but they have one of the least-feared front sevens against the run. Woods would not only add to the former, but also transform the latter. He is a powerful 3-technique who'd give them the best defensive interior in the NFL with Dexter Lawrence. |
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| 3 | Ty Simpson | QB | ||||
|
Simpson continues to be one of the most impressive downfield passers in college football. His ability to find throwing lanes at the intermediate level is second to none this season. He's thrown for 22 scores compared to only two interceptions this year. |
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| 4 | Jordyn Tyson | WR | ||||
|
For the Saints, it's only going to get worse before it gets better. Because of that, they may choose to pass on this year's quarterback class to give Tyler Shough a little longer leash at the helm. Giving him a No. 1 receiver like Tyson would transform New Orleans' passing attack with a true every-level route winner. |
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| 5 | Fernando Mendoza | QB | ||||
|
Mendoza has drawn comparisons to Lions quarterback Jared Goff, which would make sense with former Lions passing game coordinator Tanner Engstrand being the OC for the Jets. He leads college football with 30 touchdown passes and is averaging 9.4 yards per attempt. |
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| 6 | Arvell Reese | LB | ||||
|
Reese is the perfect modern hybrid linebacker to give a defensive coordinator flexibility. He looks just as comfortable rushing the passer as he does dropping deep into coverage. And he's got the body type to easily do both. |
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| 7 | Carnell Tate | WR | ||||
|
Tate is the vertical threat the Commanders offense has sorely missed with Terry McLaurin sidelined for most of the year. The long, rangy receiver is averaging 18.2 yards per reception while hauling in 84.8% of his targets. |
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| 8 | Caleb Downs | S | ||||
|
The Rams are a nickel-base team through and through. They want as many defensive backs on the field as possible on every play, and Downs is the kind of defender who can keep them strong against the run, even out of those looks. |
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| 9 | Jeremiyah Love | RB | ||||
|
Obviously the Bengals need help defensively, but they've spent so much draft capital on that side of the ball in recent years that free agency might be where they have to turn to fix things. Adding Love to their room of playmakers gives them a terrifying amount of speed. |
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| 10 | Chris Brazzell II | WR | ||||
|
Brazzell is a throwback deep threat at 6-foot-5 with exceptional wheels. The Cardinals have really been missing a vertical element to their passing attack this season, so Brazzell's 12 deep catches would be a welcome addition. |
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| 11 | Spencer Fano | IOL | ||||
|
This one is predicated on Mike McDaniel still being the head coach, as Fano is the perfect fit for his offense. He's an incredibly athletic run blocker who could slot in at either guard or tackle. |
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| 12 | Jermod McCoy | CB | ||||
|
McCoy has still yet to play a snap of football this year after a January ACL tear, but his sophomore tape was still good enough to keep him as CB1. He can be the island-man corner the Vikings defense has been missing this season. |
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| 13 | David Bailey | EDGE | ||||
|
Bailey brings back the juice the Cowboys' pass rush lost when they traded away Micah Parsons. He's the most explosive rusher in the draft and leads college football with 71 pressures. |
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| 14 | Keldric Faulk | DT | ||||
|
Faulk has high-end developmental tools, but unrefined tape. He needs to go to a good spot to develop, and Baltimore has as strong a track record in that regard as anyone. |
||||||
| 15 | Francis Mauigoa | OT | ||||
|
If the Chiefs really don't make the playoffs, they'll be looking to revamp the offensive line in front of Patrick Mahomes once again. Mauigoa is the perfect right tackle to replace Jawaan Taylor. He'd form one of the league's best double-team combos with Trey Smith. |
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| 16 | Olaivavega Ioane | IOL | ||||
|
Ioane isn't the left tackle the Texans need, but he's a high-end pass protector nonetheless, and beggars can't be choosers. He'd be a Day 1 starter at left guard. |
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| 17 | Avieon Terrell | CB | ||||
|
The Panthers have a lot of holes to fill defensively, but none seem more pressing than cornerback. Terrell is a distinctly different type of corner from Jaycee Horn, as the Clemson corner is more capable of handling shiftier, smaller receivers. |
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| 18 | Emmanuel Pregnon | IOL | ||||
|
The Lions want to keep their offensive line a dominant unit, and this is how you do it. Pregnon is having a standout year after transferring from USC. He's only allowed two pressures all season. |
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| 19 | CJ Allen | LB | ||||
|
Allen is built in a lab to play linebacker for Todd Bowles. He's exceptional coming downhill, as he's one of the best run defenders in college football. |
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| 20 | Caleb Lomu | OT | ||||
|
Lomu has all the traits to be a high-end pass protector in the NFL. He's already been one this year for Utah. He's allowed only six pressures all season. |
||||||
| 21 | Mansoor Delane | CB | ||||
|
Delane has been the stingiest corner in college football this season. On 34 targets, he's allowed only 13 catches for 167 yards with two picks and nine pass breakups. He's an immediate upgrade from what the Steelers have. |
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| 22 | Kayden McDonald | DL | ||||
|
The Chargers' rotation of defensive tackles has been lacking the depth Jim Harbaugh usually prefers. That changes with the addition of McDonald. He's the single best run-defending defensive lineman in the country. |
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| 23 | T.J. Parker | EDGE | ||||
|
Parker has had a disappointing season, but the physical talent is obviously still there. He's a powerful three-down 4-3 defensive end. His addition would provide the 49ers some insurance with Nick Bosa's health and give them a rotation of edge rushers. |
||||||
| 24 | Sonny Styles | LB | ||||
|
Styles is another infusion of athleticism into the Cowboys' front seven. He's the best sideline-to-sideline linebacker in college football. His ability to cover ground at the second level would be a massive value-add in coverage for the Cowboys. |
||||||
| 25 | Kadyn Proctor | IOL | ||||
|
Proctor is likely to end up as a guard at the next level, but Ben Johnson's offense is one where he could still play tackle. That's because it's so predicated on the run game, where Proctor is an easy people mover. |
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| 26 | KC Concepcion | WR | ||||
|
Concepcion is the separator the Bills offense has been missing. He'd add a vertical element as well as the ability to be their go-to guy on third downs. He's caught 47 passes for 787 yards and eight scores this year. |
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| 27 | Christen Miller | DL | ||||
|
Miller is yet another versatile defensive tackle to add to the Seahawks' rotation up front. The Seahawks thrive by stopping the run with their front four, and Miller can do just that. He's got a prototypical 3-4 defensive end body type with long arms to two-gap in the NFL. |
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| 28 | Makai Lemon | WR | ||||
|
Lemon is the perfect slot to pair with Garrett Wilson and Adonai Mitchell on the outside. He brings a level of reliability the Jets have been desperately missing. He's dropped only three passes on 126 catchable targets over the past two seasons. |
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| 29 | Jake Golday | LB | ||||
|
Golday is a former edge rusher who's turned into one of the most complete linebackers in college football. He still has that edge size but moves like an undersized linebacker in space. |
||||||
| 30 | Caleb Tiernan | OT | ||||
|
Tiernan has been one of the most impressive pass protectors in college football this season with only eight pressures allowed all year. He's a four-year starter who has experience on the right side as well, where he started in 2022. |
||||||
| 31 | Kenyon Sadiq | TE | ||||
|
This is consistently one of my favorite fits in the draft for a few reasons. Dallas Goedert turns 31 years old in January and is an impending free agent. Even if he's re-signed, the Eagles still play a good deal of two-tight end sets. Sadiq is the perfect No. 2 tight end with his high-level explosiveness, YAC ability and blocking in space. |
||||||
| 32 | Denzel Boston | WR | ||||
|
With Bo Nix's spotty accuracy this season, adding another big-bodied wideout with exceptional ball skills is probably a good idea. Boston is exceptional at plucking the ball outside of his frame and would give them a second receiver who can haul in the back-shoulder throws Nix is so good at. |
||||||
| # | Team | Player | Pos | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Arvell Reese | LB | ||||
|
An explosive, high-motor LB with a versatile skill set that includes elite closing speed vs. both the run and the pass. He is a terror coming downhill, showcasing his strength and athleticism to shoot gaps, shed blocks, and collapse the pocket. Reese is a wrap-up tackling machine who consistently plays with an aggressive edge and the versatility to line up across the front seven. One of the biggest risers over the first month of the college season. |
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| 2 | Fernando Mendoza | QB | ||||
|
Mendoza is a poised, accurate passer who has plus arm talent, consistently delivering catchable balls on time and in rhythm and excelling on layered second-level routes. He shows NFL-level field vision and coverage recognition, consistently ripping throws with anticipation. While not a true creator, Mendoza navigates collapsing pockets effectively and can make accurate off-platform throws, showing a calm, efficient style reminiscent of Jared Goff. |
||||||
| 3 | Caleb Downs | S | ||||
|
Downs could be a Troy Polamalu-level talent in the NFL. He's only 5-foot-11, and he may not end up running a 4.35-second 40-yard dash, but I don't care. Not even a little bit. Both Kyle Hamilton and Brian Branch slipped on draft day because of mediocre 40 times. They're two of the best young defensive backs in football. Downs is a run-game enforcer and has the sideline-to-sideline juice, coupled with the short-area burst, to excel in pass coverage. |
||||||
| 4 | Peter Woods | DL | ||||
|
Woods is a powerful, explosive interior defensive lineman who consistently wins at the point of attack with violent hands, low pad level, and exceptional strength. He's immovable against the run -- stacking, shedding, and disrupting plays in the backfield while maintaining gap integrity -- and can overwhelm interior blockers. Though not reliant on a deep move set, Woods' athleticism, effort, and persistence allow him to collapse pockets and create chaos from multiple alignments. |
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| 5 | Dante Moore | QB | ||||
|
Moore is a composed, confident pocket passer who thrives under pressure, consistently working through progressions and delivering accurate, tight-window throws with anticipation. He's highly effective when moving the launch point, showing the arm strength and touch to attack every level of the field -- often off-platform. While not a true dual-threat, Moore's poise, vision, and athleticism allow him to extend plays and create when protection breaks down, and he repeatedly shows up in big moments. |
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| 6 | Keldric Faulk | DT | ||||
|
First, Faulk just turned 20 in September. Second, he's unofficially 6-foot-6 and 288 pounds, and he is already near-elite as a run defender. The power and athleticism with which he plays makes it an easy projection to see him as a dominant pass rusher down the road. Maybe it doesn't happen this season, and maybe it doesn't happen until, say, Year 2 in the league, but when it all comes together, it's going to be scary. |
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| 7 | Ty Simpson | QB | ||||
|
Simpson is a big-armed pocket passer who plays with composure and outstanding mental processing both before and after the snap. He plays with an aggressive confidence and excels at navigating muddy pockets, throwing accurately on short and intermediate routes, and ripping tight-window throws with anticipation -- though he has been historically inconsistent on deep balls. Simpson is athletic enough to buy time with his legs to extend plays and move the sticks. |
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| 8 | Spencer Fano | IOL | ||||
|
Fano is an athletic, technically sound right tackle who plays with a strong base, quick feet, and excellent balance in pass protection, consistently mirroring speed rushers and handling stunts with patience and control. He redirects well against bendy edge rushers and anchors effectively despite not being an overpowering mauler. In the run game, Fano excels in wide-zone schemes, using his mobility to reach the second level and finish blocks. |
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| 9 | Francis Mauigoa | OT | ||||
|
Road grader/earth-mover in the run game with enormous size and insane athleticism for that size. He plays with an edge and is better vs. the run than in pass protection right now but well above average in both departments. He could play right tackle or kick inside to guard. |
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| 10 | Rueben Bain Jr. | EDGE | ||||
|
Bain Jr. is an explosive, violent edge rusher with rare power and bend, capable of turning the corner from wide alignments and overwhelming tackles with speed-to-power. He wins with a deep arsenal of pass-rush moves -- from bull rushes to inside counters -- and plays with exceptional contact balance and hand usage to shed blocks both as a rusher and run defender. Relentlessly disruptive and highly explosive off the snap, Bain consistently collapses pockets, sets a firm edge, and makes impact plays from whistle to whistle. |
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| 11 | Jeremiyah Love | RB | ||||
|
Love has legit track speed and high-end acceleration. He can stop on a dime and redirect with rare change of direction, while playing with good contact balance and the footwork to jump-cut to avoid defenders before hitting the crease. |
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| 12 | Carnell Tate | WR | ||||
|
Tate is a long strider with a big catch radius and reliable hands who makes contested catches downfield look easy. He flashes quickness and short-area agility to create separation at the top of his route and has the ability to make defenders miss after the catch. His ball-tracking, route-running, and ability to operate in space make him a Day 1 impact player at the next level. |
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| 13 | Brandon Cisse | DB | ||||
|
Cisse is a versatile corner who can consistently lock down receivers in press man coverage and showcases elite athleticism, with explosive downhill speed and next-level change-of-direction ability. Whether he's driving on quick routes from off coverage or playing in press, he's consistently in position for pass-breakup opportunities. He's also one of the best run-defending CBs in this entire class. |
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| 14 | Kadyn Proctor | IOL | ||||
|
Proctor is a massive, athletic LT with impressive balance and the ability to move effectively in space, making him a first-round talent in both pass protection and perimeter run schemes. When locked in, he can dominate defensive linemen in the run game and neutralize elite edge rushers pass protection. While his weight, footwork and consistency can be an issue at times, his size, athleticism, and upside make him a potential top-tier tackle when fully focused. |
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| 15 | Jermod McCoy | CB | ||||
|
McCoy is a physical corner who can play man on an island and is also comfortable in zone looks. He's in phase on vertical routes, and in run support he comes downhill looking to thump someone. He's coming off a January ACL injury and while he's yet to get back on the field, he could end up being the best CB in this class. |
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| 16 | Quincy Rhodes Jr. | EDGE | ||||
|
Quincy Rhodes Jr. is a rare size-speed athlete who overwhelms tackles with power and length while flashing advanced pass-rush moves for his age. His long-arm bull rush and explosive inside spin consistently collapse the pocket, and his balance and quickness allow him to chase down mobile quarterbacks. Still just 20 years old, his best football is ahead of him. |
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| 17 | Olaivavega Ioane | IOL | ||||
|
Ioane is one of the cleanest prospects in this class, excelling as an earth-mover in the run game, and the athleticism to be effective in both gap and zone schemes. In pass protection, he plays with a strong base, using a well-timed, powerful punch to neutralize the bull rush. |
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| 18 | Emmanuel Pregnon | IOL | ||||
|
Pregnon is an absolute mauler in the run game, possessing the strength to move defensive linemen at the point of attack and the athleticism to easily get to and handle second-level defenders -- he anchors as well as any interior offensive lineman in the class. In pass protection, a balanced base, strong hands, and smooth footwork allow him to mirror and redirect rushers and he makes it look easy. |
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| 19 | A'Mauri Washington | DL | ||||
|
Washington is a powerful, athletic defensive lineman who can collapse the pocket or blow up a run play when he fires off low and plays with leverage. He's at his best attacking gaps, where his burst, strength, and motor let him disrupt plays before they develop. When he's locked in, he looks like a true difference-maker who can overwhelm blockers with both quickness and power. |
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| 20 | CJ Allen | LB | ||||
|
Allen is a consistent problem for offensive linemen trying to block him because of his combination of speed, quickness and power. He has a nose for the ball, rarely takes false steps, and is a reliable, physical tackler who limits yards after contact all over the field. He can more than hold his own in coverage vs. TEs and slot receivers, and he brings juice as a blitzer too. |
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| 21 | Jordyn Tyson | WR | ||||
|
Tyson is an explosive receiver with the size, speed, and catch radius to win at all three levels. A smooth hands-catcher, he consistently makes contested and high-point grabs look effortless while creating surprising separation at the top of his routes for his size. Tyson can hit top end in just a few steps and shows the type of short-area quickness reserved for smaller, shiftier WRs. He's also an asset in the screen game, making him a dynamic threat both outside and from the slot. |
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| 22 | T.J. Parker | EDGE | ||||
|
Parker is an explosive, high-motor edge rusher with the juice to both collapse pockets with a bull rush and the bend to win around the corner. He's stout and disciplined against the run, from setting the edge, to blowing up plays in the backfield with his quickness. He shows surprising versatility, with the athleticism to drop into coverage from wide alignments and disrupt passing lanes. |
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| 23 | KC Concepcion | WR | ||||
|
Concepcion is a versatile WR who uses his quickness and burst to consistently get open against man coverage, proving himself a deep threat with the speed to stack defenders. He is a natural hands catcher who runs precise routes to all three levels and adds significant value as a dynamic punt returner with impressive YAC ability. |
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| 24 | Denzel Boston | WR | ||||
|
A big, physical WR with a massive catch radius, contested-catch ability, and the speed to separate quickly and hit top-end velocity in 2–3 steps. Boston is an effective route runner at all three levels, will run through arm tackles in space, and can outmuscle defenders in the red zone. While primarily an outside threat, his size, strength, and hands make him a potential matchup problem in the slot too. Added bonus: he's a legit threat as a punt returner. |
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| 25 | Avieon Terrell | CB | ||||
|
Terrell has NFL bloodlines -- his brother is former first-round pick AJ Terrell. Avieon plays bigger than his listed size (see his matchup in 2024 against former Stanford WR Elic Ayomanor). He can stay in phase on vertical routes and has good ball skills and he will try to bait QBs into making throws. In run support, he plays outside CB like he's a strong safety |
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| 26 | Carter Smith | IOL | ||||
|
Smith is a smooth and athletic pass protector who hasn't allowed a sack this season, he excels at mirroring speed rushers and seamlessly handles stunting defensive linemen. He plays with a strong anchor and heavy hands, flashes lateral quickness and change of direction that allows him to get to the second level or blowing up defenders in the screen game. |
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| 27 | Colton Hood | CB | ||||
|
Hood, who is still 20 years old, is a physical, aggressive CB with excellent man and zone coverage skills, consistently in phase and creating opportunities for PBUs and interceptions. He shows elite change-of-direction ability in space, drives on quick routes and screens, and is a reliable wrap-up tackler who can limit YAC against shifty ball carriers. |
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| 28 | Julian Neal | DB | ||||
|
Neal is a long-striding, physical corner who excels in vertical coverage, using his height and makeup speed to consistently stay in phase and be in position for pass-breakup opportunities downfield. He's comfortable in both man and zone schemes, is a red zone asset due to his size and physicality, and his willingness to come downhill and tackle like a safety makes him a reliable run defender. |
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| 29 | Emmanuel McNeil-Warren | S | ||||
|
McNeil-Warren is a sideline-to-sideline missile who is an explosive thumper coming downhill. He offers versatility and range on the back end, using his closing speed and ball skills to make at all three levels of the defense. |
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| 30 | David Bailey | EDGE | ||||
|
Bailey brings a mix of power and athleticism off the edge, pairing a strong long-arm move and a nasty bull rush with the burst to win around the corner. At 247 pounds, he's lighter than some, but his strength, motor, and variety of pass-rush moves make him a constant problem for tackles who don't anchor well. |
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| 31 | Caleb Lomu | OT | ||||
|
There was a reason the Utes felt comfortable enough moving Spencer Fano to the right side and giving the LT job to Lomu. He has a long frame and plays with surprisingly good footwork, and while he had his struggles vs. Texas Tech ... so did every other offensive line that had to see Romello Height and David Bailey. Lomu's a high-upside, athletic offensive lineman. |
||||||
| 32 | Sonny Styles | LB | ||||
|
Styles is a fast, physical linebacker who flies downhill and makes plays all over the field. He's tough enough to take on offensive linemen in the box, athletic enough to cover ground in space, and smart enough to handle multiple roles across a defense. Whether he's blitzing, filling a gap, or dropping into coverage, he plays with urgency, confidence, and the kind of versatility coaches love. |
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| # | Team | Player | Pos | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Arvell Reese | LB | ||||
|
Trades are not being projected until the draft order is settled after the regular season. In a real-life scenario, Tennessee would be fielding offers for the No. 1 overall selection. However, they stay put here and add the best player in college football this season. Arvell Reese may play linebacker, but there is confidence in projecting him to a full-time edge rusher as well. At 6-foot-4, 243 pounds, he has the size to make that transition. |
||||||
| 2 | Fernando Mendoza | QB | ||||
|
Tyler Shough led New Orleans to a win over the weekend, so it's possible—though still unlikely—that the team plays itself out of the quarterback market. Still, unless the Saints are completely sold on Shough as their long-term answer, they're going to take a quarterback if they have the opportunity. |
||||||
| 3 | Carnell Tate | WR | ||||
|
Carnell Tate may not be the clear-cut WR1 in this class, but he's certainly made his case. His skill set complements Malik Nabers, who has been one of the league's best when healthy. And unlike several teams picking early, New York already has its quarterback of the future; giving him another weapon only helps his development. |
||||||
| 4 | Dante Moore | QB | ||||
|
Cleveland would be choosing between Alabama's Ty Simpson and Moore in this scenario. It's also worth noting that all three quarterbacks mentioned so far still have remaining eligibility. If the Browns can finally land their quarterback of the future, years of frustration will be forgotten. Shedeur Sanders will start at some point this season, but the reality is he couldn't do enough to deter the franchise from drafting a quarterback. |
||||||
| 5 | Ty Simpson | QB | ||||
|
Ty Simpson has been arguably the most efficient passer in college football this season. He's not ideal in terms of height, but even a competent passing game would be a significant improvement over the Jets' current situation. New York also has a few young wideouts -- Garrett Wilson and Adonai Mitchell among them -- who would benefit greatly from Simpson's arrival. |
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| 6 | Peter Woods | DL | ||||
|
Las Vegas is a team in transition, whether or not it has the self-awareness to admit it. There are needs all over the roster, with the defense standing out as especially problematic. Peter Woods hasn't lived up to expectations this season, but Clemson as a whole has been disappointing. Once he gets to the NFL, Woods could still grow into the best version of himself. |
||||||
| 7 | Jermod McCoy | CB | ||||
|
Miami is one of the more fascinating teams this year, with major decisions looming on both head coach Mike McDaniel and quarterback Tua Tagovailoa. In this scenario, they're out of range for a quarterback and may be forced to stay the course unless an alternative emerges. Jermod McCoy has been M.I.A. this season due to injury, but last year he was viewed as a top-10 overall talent. |
||||||
| 8 | Rueben Bain Jr. | EDGE | ||||
|
Washington needs pass-rush help, and Rueben Bain fits the powerful profile Dan Quinn tends to favor. The Commanders did well to add veteran talent that could accelerate their timeline, but they got a bit too aggressive last offseason and over-leveraged their future. Now it's time to start replacing some of those veterans. |
||||||
| 9 | Caleb Downs | S | ||||
|
Bad angles and poor tackling have defined Cincinnati's defense, especially in the secondary. Caleb Downs may be one of the best overall players in this class, but safeties rarely go in the top five -- which could allow him to fall right into the Bengals' lap. |
||||||
| 10 | Francis Mauigoa | OT | ||||
|
Los Angeles takes a player who would theoretically block the prospect Atlanta traded its first-round pick for (James Pearce Jr.) back in April. Francis Mauigoa is the first of two selections for the Rams in the opening round. |
||||||
| 11 | Spencer Fano | IOL | ||||
|
Arizona will probably give head coach Jonathan Gannon at least one more year. However, a split from Kyler Murray feels like it's coming sooner rather than later. Whether it's Jacoby Brissett or another quarterback taking snaps for the Cardinals next season, the offensive line has to improve. Injuries -- and the loss of offensive line coach Klayton Adams -- have played a part, but the team simply hasn't invested enough in the trenches. |
||||||
| 12 | Keldric Faulk | DT | ||||
|
Dallas has historically gravitated toward bigger, more powerful edge rushers like DeMarcus Lawrence and Dorance Armstrong. Keldric Faulk isn't a shifty, one-for-one replacement for Micah Parsons, but he can help boost a depleted pass rush. |
||||||
| 13 | Sonny Styles | LB | ||||
|
Baltimore finds a new running mate for Roquan Smith. The linebacker group hasn't been the same since Patrick Queen was paired with Smith, and they've been searching for that complement ever since. Sonny Styles gets overlooked on Ohio State's defense because of how well Arvell Reese has played this season, but he's been a major part of their success. His father played six NFL seasons with the Falcons and Rams, and he'll brings that same pedigree to the next level. |
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| 14 | Mansoor Delane | CB | ||||
|
Minnesota could move forward with Isaiah Rodgers and Mansoor Delane on the boundary, with Byron Murphy Jr. sliding back into the slot. There are several quality pieces on this Vikings roster, but injuries and suspensions have kept them from building any real momentum. |
||||||
| 15 | Caleb Lomu | OT | ||||
|
Houston plugged Aireontae Ersery in at left tackle, but that hasn't been the answer in the post-Laremy Tunsil era. Caleb Lomu has surged as the season has progressed, and my summer claim that he could be OT1 is very much alive. |
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| 16 | CJ Allen | LB | ||||
|
Former second-round pick Trevin Wallace can produce the occasional splash play, but the down-to-down consistency just isn't there. CJ Allen, meanwhile, is the leader of a talented Georgia defense. The Panthers simply need to build some positive momentum by season's end, because it's been a rollercoaster to this point. |
||||||
| 17 | Avieon Terrell | CB | ||||
|
Jaylen Watson and Joshua Williams are slated to hit free agency after the season. Watson likely returns, but the Chiefs haven't historically overvalued the position -- and a Trent McDuffie extension should be a priority. Aveion Terrell steps in to fill the potential void. |
||||||
| 18 | A'Mauri Washington | DL | ||||
|
San Francisco drafted two defensive tackles last year, but neither has shown they can be more than rotational pieces. Jamaree Caldwell and Derrick Harmon have both gone on to find success in the NFL, and now Washington may follow in their webbed footsteps. |
||||||
| 19 | Jordyn Tyson | WR | ||||
|
Jordyn Tyson will likely finish the pre-draft process as my WR1. If he were to fall, as he does in this scenario, a team would probably trade up for him — but the clubs picking ahead of Cleveland have bigger needs to address. The Browns end up landing a dream pairing with Oregon quarterback Dante Moore and Tyson, who happens to be the younger brother of Cavaliers guard Jaylon Tyson. |
||||||
| 20 | Makai Lemon | WR | ||||
|
Few teams were as aggressive in their pursuit of wide receiver help as Pittsburgh at the trade deadline. Although the Steelers came up short, they're able to quench their thirst for a complement to DK Metcalf with the selection of Makai Lemon. And if they're drafting this far back, they'll be out of range to trade up for one of the perceived top quarterback prospects anyway. |
||||||
| 21 | Denzel Boston | WR | ||||
|
Has George Pickens played so well that he's priced himself out of Dallas? Or will this be another case of the Cowboys franchise-tagging a player only to pay him top of the market a year or two later? If Pickens ends up elsewhere next season, Denzel Boston is a worthy replacement. He's relatively young and brings the size and downfield playmaking ability that would complement CeeDee Lamb well. |
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| 22 | Jeremiyah Love | RB | ||||
|
Ben Johnson took an offensive approach to his first draft, adding an offensive tackle, wide receiver and tight end. The organization had been linked to a running back in the first round last year, but ultimately went in another direction. Kyle Monangai's ascension may preclude Chicago from taking a running back early, but there's no question Love would be a dynamic addition. |
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| 23 | Chris Bell | WR | ||||
|
Buffalo has taken a committee approach to replacing Stefon Diggs' lost production. The hope is that Chris Bell eventually becomes Josh Allen's go-to outlet, and he certainly brings an element to the offense that Keon Coleman doesn't provide. |
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| 24 | Anthony Hill Jr. | LB | ||||
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Devin White was supposed to be the heir apparent to Lavonte David, but it's ended up looking more like Tom Brady outlasting every quarterback drafted to replace him in New England. Anthony Hill Jr. becomes the latest to take on the challenge of replacing a legend. |
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| 25 | Matayo Uiagalelei | EDGE | ||||
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Josh Paschal and Marcus Davenport just haven't been able to stay healthy. The situation is reminiscent of San Francisco, where the 49ers cycled through free agents for years before finally investing premium draft capital at the position. Matayo Uiagalelei can be Detroit's version of Mykel Williams. |
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| 26 | Olaivavega Ioane | IOL | ||||
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Three of Los Angeles' last five first-round picks have gone toward the offensive line, and the trend continues here. Ioane gives Jim Harbaugh another piece to fully commit to his vision of a physical, downhill rushing attack. With Joe Alt and Rashawn Slater presumably returning from injury, it will feel like the Chargers are installing three new starters up front next season. |
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| 27 | Colton Hood | CB | ||||
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With the second of their two first-round picks, the Rams continue pushing their chips to the middle of the table in support of Matthew Stafford. They addressed right tackle with Atlanta's pick earlier, and now they add an ascending cornerback to bolster the secondary. |
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| 28 | Cashius Howell | EDGE | ||||
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New England has managed to piece together its pass rush with Harold Landry and K'Lavon Chaisson, but you'd expect Mike Vrabel to eventually seek a long-term solution. Cashius Howell has been one of the top performers in college football this season, posting 10.5 sacks and an 18.8% pressure rate, per TruMedia. |
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| 29 | David Bailey | EDGE | ||||
|
Boye Mafe is a scheduled free agent, and it's entirely possible Seattle pays him to keep a good thing going in the Pacific Northwest. But as the franchise stares down some tough financial decisions, it has to weigh the opportunity cost of re-signing Riq Woolen and/or Mafe with extensions for Devon Witherspoon and others on the horizon. If Mafe moves on, David Bailey becomes a viable replacement. |
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| 30 | KC Concepcion | WR | ||||
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The NC State transfer has elevated his profile on one of the best teams in the country. KC Concepcion is primarily used in the short to intermediate areas and is averaging 7.5 yards after the catch per reception. Denver already has Courtland Sutton, so adding Concepcion brings a new dynamic to the offense. |
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| 31 | Malik Muhammad | DB | ||||
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Philadelphia felt the need to add cornerback help at the trade deadline. With Jaire Alexander and Michael Carter both on expiring contracts, that issue could resurface next season as well. Malik Muhammad is more than a Band-Aid in a secondary that already features Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean. |
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| 32 | Caleb Banks | DL | ||||
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The Jets were already thin along the interior defensive line, and then they made the decision to part with All-Pro Quinnen Williams. The resources acquired in the Sauce Gardner and Williams deals give them a chance to rebuild the roster in their own vision, but the burden of replacing those players now falls squarely on leadership. |
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| # | Team | Player | Pos | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Rueben Bain Jr. | EDGE | ||||
|
I'd expect the Titans to trade the pick to a QB-needy team, but Bain is a plug-and-play disruptive edge who has delivered a dominant season in both phases. He's powerful and twitchy off the edge and offers versatility to kick inside if needed. |
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| 2 | Arvell Reese | LB | ||||
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The Giants will likely shop this pick to a quarterback-needy team, but Reese provides versatility on defense. He can stay on the field every down as an outside linebacker and also has the ability to rush the passer. |
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| 3 | Dante Moore | QB | ||||
|
Moore may or may not declare, but he should, given his poise, accuracy and ability to use his legs as a weapon. He has a big arm and delivers the ball with anticipation, particularly in tight windows and clutch moments. |
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| 4 | Ty Simpson | QB | ||||
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Simpson has produced strong tape in his lone season as a starter, showing quick processing and the ability to anticipate and hit tight windows at all levels. He offers big upside with multiple NFL-caliber traits. |
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| 5 | Spencer Fano | IOL | ||||
|
Fano is a consistent left tackle who will likely kick inside despite his impressive résumé manning the blind side over the last few seasons. He shows great feet and balance and displays power in the run game. |
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| 6 | Fernando Mendoza | QB | ||||
|
The Jets, like the Browns, keep swinging and missing, and Mendoza remains a big question mark as a potential elite quarterback in the NFL. He's an accurate passer with adequate athleticism to extend plays. Mendoza processes well, gets the ball out on time and brings good experience and production. |
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| 7 | Jordyn Tyson | WR | ||||
|
Tyson is a dynamic and speedy receiver who can stretch the defense. He's also capable of making tough contested catches to move the chains. |
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| 8 | Caleb Downs | S | ||||
|
Downs is one of the top prospects in the draft but may fall due to safety not being viewed as a premium position. He's a high-IQ player who has competed in three elite defensive systems. Downs is strong in coverage and physical in the box as well. |
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| 9 | Jeremiyah Love | RB | ||||
|
Love is one of the safest bets in the draft with elite traits across the board. He's a dynamic player with elite speed and vision and is also a receiving weapon. |
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| 10 | Keldric Faulk | DT | ||||
|
Faulk has not produced the dominant stats that I expected, but he has been effective at pressuring the quarterback with his length and ability to convert speed to power. He also offers positional versatility to play inside. |
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| 11 | Francis Mauigoa | OT | ||||
|
Mauigoa is a thick and powerful right tackle who could move to any position on the offensive line except left tackle. He's strong at the point of attack in the run game and maintains a solid anchor against power. |
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| 12 | Mansoor Delane | CB | ||||
|
Delane has returned to his 2023 form and has been an eraser in coverage. He shows excellent change of direction and competitiveness at the catch point and should transition well to the next level. |
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| 13 | Makai Lemon | WR | ||||
|
Lemon plays with a defensive mentality at the catch point and brings a competitive edge. He's a problem in the slot due to his ability to create separation and make plays after the catch. |
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| 14 | Cashius Howell | EDGE | ||||
|
Howell is a twitchy edge rusher who has put it all together in 2025. He has an explosive get-off and the ability to convert speed to power. |
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| 15 | Kayden McDonald | DL | ||||
|
McDonald is a strong run stuffer who can clog interior gaps with leverage and explosive lower-body strength. He also shows some upside as a pass rusher. |
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| 16 | Carnell Tate | WR | ||||
|
Tate is a savvy and experienced route runner who plays beyond his years. He demonstrates excellent spatial awareness and dependable hands, projecting as the next OSU receiver to make an immediate impact in the NFL. |
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| 17 | Olaivavega Ioane | IOL | ||||
|
Loane brings excellent size and experience. He's a powerful run blocker with heavy hands and physicality at the point of attack and has improved his pass protection in 2025. |
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| 18 | Kelley Jones | CB | ||||
|
Jones is a rare 6-foot-4 corner with both athleticism and range. He excels in press coverage and shows quickness and the ability to run with receivers on in-breaking routes. |
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| 19 | A'Mauri Washington | DL | ||||
|
Washington is a dominant run stuffer who can reset the line of scrimmage and shows lateral quickness on stunts. He brings excellent power as a rusher and has upside. |
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| 20 | David Bailey | EDGE | ||||
|
Bailey is an explosive rusher with elite get-off and natural pass-rushing instincts. His run defense has improved, but he should contribute immediately as a situational rusher. |
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| 21 | Akheem Mesidor | DL | ||||
|
Mesidor may lack ideal size and length, but he consistently dominates with refined hand usage and the ability to bend the edge and reach the quarterback. |
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| 22 | Isaiah World | OT | ||||
|
World is a massive prospect who has developed rapidly in his year at Oregon and is trending in the right direction. He possesses elite length and power at the point of attack. |
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| 23 | Caleb Lomu | OT | ||||
|
Lomu is a fluid and athletic right tackle who is effective in both the run and pass game. He displays sound technique and footwork and has the versatility to play multiple positions. |
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| 24 | Brandon Cisse | DB | ||||
|
Cisse is a sticky coverage defender with fluid hips and strong change-of-direction ability. He mirrors routes well and contests throws with strong hands. |
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| 25 | Kadyn Proctor | IOL | ||||
|
Proctor is a jumbo but inconsistent player who will likely transition inside to guard. He is a strong run blocker with experience and offers some positional versatility. |
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| 26 | Chris Bell | WR | ||||
|
Bell is an explosive, big-bodied receiver who presents matchup issues wherever he aligns. He's a high-upside player who would be a national name if he were in an offense that funneled him the ball more consistently. |
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| 27 | Peter Woods | DL | ||||
|
Woods is a raw but high-upside interior defender who may rise in a weaker defensive tackle class. His 2025 film is streaky but shows flashes of twitch and functional power and moves well. |
||||||
| 28 | Jermod McCoy | CB | ||||
|
McCoy was one of the better corners in 2024 but missed the 2025 season recovering from an ACL injury. He brings length and man-coverage ability and is expected to return fully healthy. |
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| 29 | Emmanuel McNeil-Warren | S | ||||
|
McNeil-Warren shows strong range and closing ability in space. He is a high-ceiling defender with length and versatility, providing valuable flexibility to a secondary that often deals with injuries. |
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| 30 | Kenyon Sadiq | TE | ||||
|
Sadiq is an explosive and dynamic tight end who can stretch the middle of the field and move the chains. He has reliable hands and generates yards after the catch and is also an adequate run blocker. |
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| 31 | Denzel Boston | WR | ||||
|
Boston is a long and fluid receiver who can stretch the field outside and create separation in the slot. He has strong production and is a red-zone threat due to his contested-catch ability. |
||||||
| 32 | KC Concepcion | WR | ||||
|
Concepcion brings elite speed and versatility to stretch defenses vertically while also working effectively on short and intermediate routes. His return ability on special teams adds additional value. |
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0:54Players To Get A 'D or F' From The 2025 NFL Draft Class
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1:00Players To Get An A+ From The 2025 NFL Draft Class
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0:58Mike Renner's Mock Draft: Cowboys Select 2 Defensive Lineman In 2026
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0:57Mike Renner's Mock Draft: Rams Select QB Josh Hoover 25th Overall
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0:46Mike Renner's Mock Draft: Browns Select Fernando Mendoza 1st Overall
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0:45Mike Renner's Mock Draft: Titans Select Edge Rueben Bain Jr. 2nd Overall
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0:50Mike Renner's Mock Draft: Saints Select Garrett Nussmeier 4th Overall
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1:49Jonathan Jones Explains the Falcons' $250K Fine for Shedeur Sanders Prank Call
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1:42How the Shedur Sanders Prank Call Was Different Than the Other Prank Calls During the Draft
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1:01Just In: Falcons Fined 250k for Shedeur Sanders Prank



