The 2025 NFL Draft order underwent significant changes during Week 17, as several lower-ranked teams unexpectedly secured victories. The New York Giants, who had a shot at clinching the No. 1 overall draft pick, delivered a surprising performance by scoring 45 points and defeating the Indianapolis Colts. Meanwhile, the Jacksonville Jaguars triumphed over the Tennessee Titans, and the Las Vegas Raiders achieved their second consecutive win after a tough start to the season, marking the first time since 2005 that three teams with three or fewer wins each celebrated victory in Week 17 or later.
As a result of these outcomes, the New England Patriots have taken the top slot in the draft order, followed by the Titans, Giants, and Browns, with the Jaguars rounding out the top five. The Cleveland Browns are currently still active, playing against the Miami Dolphins.
With the completion of Week 17 approaching, analysts are evaluating the current draft positioning of teams, along with their incoming needs based on potential free agents who may exit after the season. This analysis sheds light on team strategies as they prepare for the future.
The following is a brief overview of the projected needs and notable pending free agents for some of the teams:
1. New England Patriots: Needs – OT, IOL, WR, EDGE, CB; Key free agents – CB Jonathan Jones, QB Jacoby Brissett.
2. Tennessee Titans: Needs – OT, IOL, EDGE, WR, LB; Key free agents – S Quandre Diggs, WR Tyler Boyd.
3. New York Giants: Needs – QB, OT, WR, RB, DL, EDGE; Key free agents – QB Jameis Winston, OT Jedrick Wills.
4. Cleveland Browns: Needs – QB, IOL, CB, WR, TE; Key free agents – WR Darius Slayton, LB Isaiah Simmons, QB Drew Lock.
5. Jacksonville Jaguars: Needs – CB, OT, S, IOL, TE; Key free agents – QB Mac Jones, S Andre Cisco.
This reshuffling in the draft order presents teams with new opportunities and challenges as they approach the offseason. The upcoming draft promises to bring fresh talent into the league, potentially changing the fortunes of these struggling franchises.
In summary, Week 17 was a pivotal moment for NFL teams drafting in 2025, showcasing the excitement and unpredictability of the league. This changing landscape also presents a hopeful outlook for teams looking to rebuild and improve their rosters, emphasizing the importance of strategic planning for success in future seasons.