Five 2025 NFL Draft picks and their strengths ahead of the new season
By Muhammad Arslan Saleem August 12, 2025 09:46
Alongside similar offerings from other well-followed competitions like the NBA, the NFL Draft is watched by millions. The 2025 draft, the 90th annual meeting, took place in late April, with many franchises obtaining the services of players with massive potential in the professional game.
Of course, these players have a big step up to contend with, but some highly rated picks are more than capable of adjusting to their new surroundings. Whether or not they’ll be first picks in fantasy teams and backed by bettors who look at NFL game lines and player props remains to be seen, but some exciting bright professionals were selected over the seven rounds. There were 257 selections, to be precise.
While we can’t focus on every single pick, we briefly highlight five rookies worth watching this season and their various strengths below.
Cam Ward
The Titans selected a first-round pick, Cam Ward. The 23-year-old is highly regarded, with the former Miami Hurricanes star now tasked with becoming the team’s starting quarterback. A big jump to make, Ward appears to have all the credentials needed to rise to the challenge. Ward’s rookie season will undoubtedly throw up some challenging moments, but his new teammates are excited for his future in the sport, as Tyler Lockett recently stated. Ward rips passes into tight windows; he has the speed and strength needed to excel, and his decision-making has improved each season.
Abdul Carter
It’s fair to say that Abdul Carter has all the makings of a top player. While he does have a lot to learn, the elite pass rusher with blistering speed has the capabilities to entertain Giants fans regularly. An intimidating presence at the age of 21, Carter has already earned unanimous All-American and Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year honors in 2024. While his new team arguably didn’t need a defensive end, Carter’s acquisition makes them even stronger. He’s a player who, many feel, will adapt to the professional game far more smoothly than most of his fellow rookies.
Will Campbell
Will Campbell’s pick has gone down well with New England Patriots fans, and it’s easy to see why. Campbell has the toughness and physical prowess needed to bring a lot to the table, while the powerful drive blocker appears to have an old head on young shoulders. The 21-year-old was a key cog in the LSU Tigers’ wheel, with his mobility and strength being his standout abilities. A player, new offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels, will be keen to work with. Will Campbell could be a shrewd pick by the Patriots.
Colston Loveland
While some of the rookies above have tended to garner more attention, Colston Loveland is a player with huge potential who could eventually outdo many of them. The latest Chicago Bears pick will be a big part of the team’s offense this season. The Bears have invested a tremendous amount of draft capital in him and believe in his undeniable potential. The national championship winner from 2023 is one to watch this season.
Shemar Stewart
Like the aforementioned Colston Loveland, Shemar Stewart has gone under the radar a bit. The Cincinnati Bengals' defensive end was selected in the first round after three solid seasons at Texas A&M, although he’ll have to improve on his 1.5 sacks in each of the past three seasons. An explosive player fans will enjoy seeing in full flow, Stewart could easily fill the void left by Sam Hubbard.




















































































































































