Grading Every First-Round Pick Through Week 7: Tyler Warren, Emeka Egbuka Lead Strong Rookie Class
The 2025 NFL Draft class has exceeded expectations through the first seven weeks of the season. With the exception of Buffalo Bills cornerback Maxwell Hairston and Arizona Cardinals defensive tackle Walter Nolen, who are yet to make their debuts, nearly every first-round selection has contributed to their respective teams. Indianapolis Colts tight end Tyler Warren, for instance, has emerged as a crucial component of their surprisingly successful offense.
Here’s a comprehensive assessment of each first-round pick’s performance thus far:
1. Tennessee Titans – QB Cam Ward
Grade: B
While Ward’s statistics (1,101 passing yards, three touchdowns, four interceptions) may not be eye-catching, it’s important to consider the context. The Titans’ supporting cast has been underwhelming, and the recent coaching change adds another layer of complexity. Tennessee’s offensive line has allowed the fifth-highest pressure rate (39.3%), and their receivers have dropped the ninth-most passes (nine), according to TruMedia. Ward has made a few questionable decisions, but his touch and processing ability offer long-term optimism. He has also had instances of simply dropping the ball in a clean pocket, which is concerning.
2. Jacksonville Jaguars – CB/WR Travis Hunter
Grade: B+
Hunter made an immediate impact with a splash play against the Kansas City Chiefs. However, the Jaguars are still exploring the best way to utilize his talents on offense. He has excelled on defense but has primarily been a role player or less on offense in four of six games. The coaching staff and Hunter are committed to finding the right balance, but the initial integration has been slower than anticipated.
3. New York Giants – EDGE Abdul Carter
Grade: B+
Carter’s 27 pressures rank 13th in the league, matching Myles Garrett and trailing Will Anderson Jr. by just two. The challenge is that Brian Burns has dominated the sack production, with nine sacks compared to Carter’s 0.5. Despite this, Carter has demonstrated the ability to win in various ways, but there is still room for improvement.
4. New England Patriots – OT Will Campbell
Grade: B
The Patriots have emerged as one of the most pleasant surprises of the 2025 season. While quarterback Drake Maye deserves significant credit, the improved supporting cast has also played a crucial role. After allowing the second-most pressure in 2024, the Patriots now rank 14th in the league in that metric.
5. Cleveland Browns – DT Mason Graham
Grade: B
Graham rarely gets overpowered or loses ground at the line of scrimmage. He showcased a tight spin move and several powerful clubs against Miami. The key for Graham is to maintain consistency. With contributions coming from across the defensive line, he often avoids double teams. Graham’s 12 pressures are tied for 95th in the league, according to TruMedia.
6. Las Vegas Raiders – RB Ashton Jeanty
Grade: B
Jeanty is on pace to surpass 1,000 rushing yards, but he has not quite lived up to the expectations for a top-10 running back. The Boise State rookie is difficult to evaluate due to the position’s reliance on the supporting cast. Jeanty ranks sixth among running backs with at least 50 attempts in tackle avoidance rate (23.4%) and fifth in yards before contact (.55), according to TruMedia. He has also demonstrated competence in pass protection.
7. New York Jets – OT Armand Membou
Grade: B
Membou has displayed flashes of brilliance early in his career. His athleticism enables him to make blocks in space and reach blocks that others cannot. While Week 7 was not his best performance, his overall body of work has been impressive. He has allowed three sacks this season, according to TruMedia.
8. Carolina Panthers – WR Tetairoa McMillan
Grade: A-
McMillan has showcased impressive body control and ball skills in contested situations, making several highlight-reel catches. However, he has also experienced some inconsistency, with three drops on the year. McMillan appears to be a foundational piece for the Panthers’ offense moving forward.
9. New Orleans Saints – OT Kelvin Banks Jr.
Grade: B+
Banks has been remarkably consistent in his technique among rookie offensive tackles. While he may get bull-rushed back onto his heels at times, he demonstrates good ankle flexion to absorb contact. While his ceiling may not be as high as Josh Simmons’ (Chiefs), his floor is higher.
