In the lead-up to the 2025 NFL Draft, ESPN's Mel Kiper Jr. has released his latest mock draft, projecting Miami quarterback Cam Ward as the first overall pick to the Tennessee Titans. However, Kiper maintains that Colorado's Shedeur Sanders is his top-rated quarterback prospect.
Kiper's mock draft positions Ward at the top, with the Titans selecting him first overall. Ward's collegiate journey, which included stints at the University of the Incarnate Word, Washington State, and Miami, has showcased his ability to play at a high level. Despite the experience, Kiper notes that Ward needs to refine his game to avoid risky plays. In 2024, Ward threw for 4,313 yards, 39 touchdowns to seven interceptions. Last year, Sanders put up 4,134 yards through the air, 37 touchdowns and 10 interceptions.
.@MelKiperESPN ranks Shedeur Sanders over Cam Ward as a better NFL quarterback 👀
— First Take (@FirstTake) March 18, 2025
“He dealt with NFL conditions. … You can win big in the NFL going about your business like Shedeur Sanders does.” pic.twitter.com/qqY7cnhpAW
Following Ward, Kiper projects Penn State edge rusher Abdul Carter to be picked second by the Cleveland Browns. The New York Giants are anticipated to select Shedeur Sanders with the third overall pick. Sanders has drawn comparisons to Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud.
Despite projecting Ward as the top pick, Kiper firmly believes Sanders is the superior quarterback prospect. On ESPN's "First Take," Kiper expressed his support for Sanders, highlighting his resilience under pressure and accuracy, even when facing challenging conditions. Kiper also praised Sanders' ability to make crucial plays with his legs, comparing his situational rushing to that of Patrick Mahomes.
Alongside Ward and Sanders in the 2025 QB Draft class, there are other notable prospects including Jalen Milroe from Alabama, Jaxson Dart from Ole Miss, Will Howard from Ohio State, Quinn Ewers from Texas, Riley Leonard from Notre Dame, and Kyle McCord from Syracuse.
The Titans, holding the first overall pick, are in search of a franchise quarterback, making Ward a logical choice. The Cleveland Browns, picking second, may opt for defensive reinforcement with Abdul Carter. The New York Giants, selecting third, are projected to secure their future at quarterback by drafting Sanders.
While Cam Ward is projected as the top pick, Kiper's endorsement of Shedeur Sanders as the top quarterback prospect highlights the subjective nature of talent evaluation. As the draft approaches, the decisions being made by the teams at the top of the draft will become clearer.