ESPN's Mel Kiper Jr. has provided his analysis of the 2025 NFL Draft's first round, highlighting the standout selections, surprising decisions, and value picks.​

ESPN


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Round 1 of the 2025 NFL Draft kicked off with a bang. It was an unpredictable, action-packed night that delivered surprises early and often. As expected, the Titans opened the evening by selecting quarterback Cam Ward. But things quickly got wild when the Jaguars stunned everyone by trading up to No. 2 to grab two-way standout Travis Hunter. The Giants followed up with a bold pair of moves: first taking edge rusher Abdul Carter, then later trading up to snag quarterback Jaxson Dart—even with Shedeur Sanders still available.


In a long-awaited move, the Packers finally selected a wide receiver in Round 1, ending a decades-long trend by picking Matthew Golden. Meanwhile, the Falcons doubled down on defense with two edge rushers, and more guards than quarterbacks flew off the board—a rarity in modern drafts.


So, how did each team fare? Let’s put these picks into perspective.

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I evaluated each selection using my Big Board rankings, prospect grades, team needs, and trade dynamics. Some front offices nailed it with high-value steals, while others made questionable calls. Here’s a breakdown of the night’s biggest winners and puzzling moves.


And don’t go far—Rounds 2 and 3 resume Friday at 7 p.m. ET on ESPN, ABC, and the ESPN App. With five of my top 25 prospects still on the board, Day 2 should bring even more drama. Someone is going to get a top-five talent in Shedeur Sanders.


Check out my best available players and early Round 2 predictions at the bottom. But first, let’s dive into the highlights from Round 1—starting with a history-making moment for the host city.


Biggest Winners and Best Picks from Round 1


Green Bay Packers

Pick: WR Matthew Golden (No. 23 overall)


It finally happened—the Packers selected a receiver in Round 1 for the first time since 2002. And they got it right. Matthew Golden, who shined at both Houston and Texas, brings speed (4.29), route-running savvy, and big-play potential to a Green Bay offense in need of a true WR1. Jayden Reed, Romeo Doubs, and Christian Watson are solid, but Golden has the upside to lead the group.

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I had Golden ranked 16th overall and as my No. 2 receiver in the class behind Travis Hunter. Yet he was drafted after Tetairoa McMillan and Emeka Egbuka. That’s great value for Green Bay. This pick checked every box: need, value, and long-term upside. A big win for the Packers—and the host city.


Want me to rewrite another section or expand on the biggest head-scratchers?

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