As the 2024 NFL season progresses, Week 6 has brought significant shifts in the potential 2025 NFL Draft order, with the Carolina Panthers and New England Patriots vying for the top spot. The Panthers, despite an early season quarterback change, continue to struggle, securing their position at the pinnacle of the draft order. Their recent performance has seen them outscored significantly, making them prime candidates for the first pick next April.
Projected Top 10 Draft Order (as of Oct. 15):
- Carolina Panthers (4-13) – Playoff chances: <1%
- New England Patriots (4-13) – Playoff chances: <1%
- Cleveland Browns (5-12) – Playoff chances: 2%
- Tennessee Titans (5-12) – Playoff chances: 2%
- Las Vegas Raiders (6-11) – Playoff chances: 3%
- Jacksonville Jaguars (6-11) – Playoff chances: 6%
- Arizona Cardinals (7-10) – Playoff chances: 11%
- New York Giants (7-10) – Playoff chances: 8%
- New Orleans Saints (7-10) – Playoff chances: 10%
- Indianapolis Colts (8-9) – Playoff chances: 22%
Key Insights:
Panthers and Patriots Lead the Struggle: Both teams are the frontrunners in a race they’d rather not win — the quest for the No. 1 draft pick. With the Panthers’ recent form, the odds heavily favor them maintaining their position, unless drastic changes occur.
Quarterback Conundrum: The draft’s quarterback class, featuring names like Shedeur Sanders and Carson Beck, presents a pivotal decision point for several teams. The question remains whether the Panthers will invest in another top quarterback pick so soon after Bryce Young.
Saints’ Slippery Slope: Once considered playoff contenders, the Saints have slid into the top 10 draft positions. However, with a favorable upcoming schedule, hope remains for a mid-season turnaround.
Mock Draft Highlights:
1. Cleveland Browns: Projected to pick Shedeur Sanders from Colorado, the Browns are considering a future without Deshaun Watson, seeking a fresh start at the quarterback position.
2. New England Patriots: With the lack of an immediate offensive line standout, the Patriots might opt for Travis Hunter, a versatile WR/CB from Colorado, to bolster their squad.
3. Carolina Panthers: Expected to select Abdul Carter, Edge from Penn State, focusing on enhancing their defensive capabilities amidst offensive woes.
Trade Speculations: The Las Vegas Raiders are predicted to trade up, highlighting their urgent need for a quarterback, possibly targeting Cam Ward from Miami.
These projections offer a preview of strategic shifts teams might adopt as they plan for the future, preparing to address their critical needs and capitalize on the available talent in the 2025 draft.
