2025 NFL Mock Draft: Raiders and Chiefs Make Waves
The 2024 NFL season is shaping up to be a wild ride, but the whispers and speculation are already swirling about the 2025 NFL Draft. With both the Las Vegas Raiders and the Kansas City Chiefs facing crucial decisions in the coming years, their draft strategies will be pivotal to their continued success. This mock draft attempts to project how these two AFC West rivals might approach the 2025 NFL Draft, considering potential roster needs and projected player availability.
Assumptions and Context
This mock draft assumes a few key things: The 2024 season will see significant player movement and injuries, impacting team needs. Furthermore, the college football landscape is dynamic, and player performances can fluctuate wildly. This is a speculative exercise, aiming for a realistic, yet exciting look at a potential 2025 draft.
The Raiders' Rebuild: A 2025 Perspective
The Raiders are at a crossroads. Their 2024 season will determine whether they're competing for a playoff spot or entering a rebuild. Let's assume a scenario where they miss the playoffs and need to address several key positions.
Raiders' Projected Needs (2025):
- Offensive Line: Solidifying the offensive line remains a priority. Consistent protection for the quarterback is vital.
- Cornerback: Adding depth and talent at cornerback is a must, considering the demands of the AFC West.
- Pass Rusher: Generating consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks is crucial for defensive success.
The Chiefs' Dynasty: Maintaining Dominance in 2025
The Chiefs are perennial contenders, but even dynasties need to replenish talent. Assuming Patrick Mahomes is still leading the charge, their draft strategy will focus on supporting his dominance and addressing potential weaknesses.
Chiefs' Projected Needs (2025):
- Wide Receiver: While they have Travis Kelce, adding another reliable target to keep defenses honest is a smart move.
- Offensive Line Depth: Maintaining a strong offensive line is vital to protect Mahomes’ longevity.
- Defensive Line: Bolstering the defensive line, specifically interior pressure, could elevate their defense to another level.
A 2025 NFL Mock Draft Scenario
This mock draft assumes a scenario where the Raiders and Chiefs finish with the following draft positions:
- Raiders: Pick #7
- Chiefs: Pick #25 (compensatory pick – speculative)
Round 1:
- Pick #7 (Raiders): Caleb Williams, QB, USC (A surprise fall, but a potential franchise quarterback in the making. They go all-in).
- Pick #25 (Chiefs): Quentin Johnston, WR, TCU (Adds a deep threat to stretch the field, complementing their existing receiving corps).
Round 2:
- Raiders: Devon Witherspoon, CB, Illinois (Addresses their need for a lockdown corner).
- Chiefs: Jaylen Reed, OT, Alabama (Adds depth and potential competition to their offensive line).
Round 3:
- Raiders: Tyree Wilson, EDGE, Texas A&M (Provides a powerful pass rusher, improving their defensive front).
- Chiefs: Bryan Bresee, DT, Clemson (Adds talent to the interior defensive line, improving run stuffing and pressure).
Conclusion: A Look Ahead
This 2025 NFL Mock Draft is purely speculative, highlighting potential scenarios for the Raiders and Chiefs. The actual draft will depend on numerous factors, including player performance, unforeseen injuries, and free agency moves. However, it offers a glimpse into the strategic challenges and opportunities both teams may face as they navigate the ever-evolving landscape of the NFL. The AFC West remains a fiercely competitive division, and the 2025 draft could play a significant role in determining which team emerges as the ultimate champion.