📰 Cam Ward Goes No. 1 Overall as 2025 NFL Draft Opens with Surprises and Star Power

 

📰 Cam Ward Goes No. 1 Overall as 2025 NFL Draft Opens with Surprises and Star Power

April 24, 2025 | Green Bay, WI – The 2025 NFL Draft kicked off Thursday night with a bang as teams made bold moves, unexpected picks, and high-stakes trades at Lambeau Field, the historic home of the Green Bay Packers. Thousands of fans filled the stands, bringing an electric atmosphere to one of the NFL’s most anticipated events of the year.

🏈 Top Pick: Cam Ward to the Titans

With the first overall pick, the Tennessee Titans selected Cam Ward, the standout quarterback from Washington State. Known for his dual-threat abilities and composure under pressure, Ward is expected to be a game-changer for a franchise in need of offensive stability.

“We see in Cam the leadership, talent, and poise of a future franchise quarterback,” said Titans GM Jon Robinson.

⚡ Travis Hunter to Jaguars in Stunning Trade-Up

The Jacksonville Jaguars made waves by trading up to the No. 2 spot and drafting Travis Hunter, the elite two-way player from Colorado. Hunter, known for his lockdown cornerback skills and playmaking ability as a wide receiver, adds versatility to Jacksonville’s rebuilding efforts.

“He’s a unicorn. We couldn’t pass up on a generational athlete,” said Jaguars coach Doug Pederson.

🛡️ Defense Dominates Early Picks

Other notable early selections included:

• Mason Graham (DT, Michigan) to the Cleveland Browns at No. 5

• Ashton Jeanty (RB, Boise State) to the Las Vegas Raiders at No. 6

• Colston Loveland (TE, Michigan) to the Chicago Bears at No. 10, despite his injury concerns

🔁 Giants and Rams Make Bold QB Moves

In a surprising shift, the New York Giants moved up to pick Jaxson Dart, quarterback from Ole Miss, signaling a potential end to the Daniel Jones era. Meanwhile, the Rams traded out of the first round, stockpiling picks for the future.

🔁 Notable Trades & Moves

• The Jaguars traded multiple picks, including a future first-rounder, to acquire the No. 2 overall pick from the Browns, selecting Travis Hunter.

• The Giants moved up to pick No. 25 via a trade with the Texans, selecting Ole Miss quarterback Jaxson Dart.

• The Falcons traded a 2026 first-rounder to the Rams for pick No. 26.

• The Eagles and Chiefs swapped final picks in the first round.

💥 First-Round WR for the Packers

For the first time in over two decades, the Green Bay Packers selected a wide receiver in the first round: Matthew Golden from Texas. Fans erupted in cheers as the team finally prioritized a high-profile weapon for their offense.

📺 What’s Next

Rounds 2 and 3 of the draft continue Friday night at 7 PM ET, with Day 3 set for Saturday starting at noon. Broadcasts are available across ESPN, ABC, NFL Network, and major streaming platforms.