NFL Mock Draft 2.0: Bold Picks, Projected Trades, and Surprising Moves
Each year, the second version of the mock draft tends to be bolder than the first, incorporating more trades and unexpected selections. The initial draft aims to match players with reasonable team needs, but this version takes more risks. With a third mock draft still to come, any mistakes made here can be adjusted later.
Three major trades have been projected in this draft, including one involving a quarterback. While the mock isn’t as quarterback-heavy as some others, history has shown that quarterbacks often go higher than expected. If this version isn’t aggressive enough, the next one might take an even bigger swing.
Top 10 Picks and Key Selections
1. Tennessee Titans – Cam Ward (QB, Miami, Senior)
The Titans or Giants seem likely to select Ward at this spot. Tennessee has positioned itself for a rookie quarterback, and Ward’s natural playmaking ability could help reverse the team’s recent struggles. He could put up numbers similar to Bo Nix in his first season.
2. Cleveland Browns – Abdul Carter (LB/Edge, Penn State, Junior)
Pairing Carter with Myles Garrett could create one of the league’s most dangerous pass-rush duos. While passing on a quarterback at No. 2 requires patience, the Browns might not be willing to take a QB with Ward off the board.
3. New York Giants – Travis Hunter (CB/WR, Colorado, Junior)
Hunter brings elite versatility, similar to last year’s top-10 pick Malik Nabers. He could start at either corner or receiver, making him an invaluable addition to the Giants’ roster.
4. New England Patriots – Armand Membou (OT, Missouri, Junior)
The Patriots could have gone for Hunter, but Membou provides a solid addition to their offensive line. Though primarily a right tackle in college, he may have to adapt to another position.
5. Jacksonville Jaguars – Tyler Warren (TE, Penn State, Senior)
With changes in leadership, the Jaguars’ pick is tough to predict. However, Warren’s versatility could add a dynamic element to the offense, potentially becoming a more dangerous version of Tyler Higbee.
6. Las Vegas Raiders – Ashton Jeanty (RB, Boise State, Junior)
Jeanty to the Raiders was initially mocked months ago, and despite initial skepticism, the projection is gaining traction. With Geno Smith and Brock Bowers already in place, Jeanty could help shape the team’s offensive identity.
7. New York Jets – Mason Graham (DT, Michigan, Junior)
The Jets have key offensive needs, but defensive-minded head coach Aaron Glenn might prioritize strengthening the defensive front. Graham lacks elite traits but brings a work ethic and tone-setting presence.
8. Carolina Panthers – Mykel Williams (Edge, Georgia, Junior)
The Panthers need defensive reinforcements after allowing the most points in NFL history. Williams’ upside makes him an intriguing selection despite an injury-riddled college season.
9. New Orleans Saints – Shemar Stewart (Edge, Texas A&M, Junior)
With Cam Jordan nearing the end of his career, Stewart’s physical traits make him an attractive long-term replacement, despite his lack of college production.
10. Chicago Bears – Will Campbell (OT, LSU, Junior)
With several of their top targets off the board, the Bears take Campbell, who could replace Braxton Jones and complete their offensive line overhaul.
Projected Trades and Bold Moves
Cleveland Browns Trade Up for Shedeur Sanders (QB, Colorado, Senior) at No. 15
The Browns make a significant move, trading up to secure a quarterback who fits head coach Kevin Stefanski’s offense. Sanders is a tough, intelligent, and accurate passer—key traits the Browns value.
Philadelphia Eagles Trade Up for Malaki Starks (S, Georgia, Junior) at No. 24
Philadelphia aggressively moves up to address a key need at safety, selecting Starks, a well-respected defender with high football intelligence. The Eagles have a history of targeting Georgia players in the draft.
Kansas City Chiefs Trade Up for Derrick Harmon (DL, Oregon, Junior) at No. 26
With a lack of recent investments in the defensive line, the Chiefs move up to secure Harmon, a potential future replacement for Chris Jones.
Minnesota Vikings Trade Down, Select Maxwell Hairston (CB, Kentucky, Junior) at No. 32
By trading back, the Vikings gain extra draft capital while still landing a potential starting corner. While they have other needs, cornerback remains a priority.
Other Notable Picks
- Dallas Cowboys (No. 12) – Omarion Hampton (RB, North Carolina, Junior)
The Cowboys take a powerful running back to support their run-heavy offensive approach. - Miami Dolphins (No. 13) – Will Johnson (CB, Michigan, Junior)
With Jalen Ramsey needing a strong partner, Johnson’s talent and pedigree make him a solid choice. - Indianapolis Colts (No. 14) – Colston Loveland (TE, Michigan, Junior)
The Colts prioritize a receiving tight end, despite Loveland recovering from shoulder surgery. - Seattle Seahawks (No. 18) – Tyler Booker (OG, Alabama, Junior)
Booker provides a strong interior presence for the Seahawks’ run-heavy offense. - Detroit Lions (No. 28) – Grey Zabel (IOL, North Dakota State, Senior)
The Lions fill a major need at right guard with a player who dominated at the Senior Bowl.
Bonus Pick: Atlanta Falcons at No. 33 – Walter Nolen (DT, Mississippi, Junior)
The Falcons trade down but still secure an energetic disruptor for their defensive line. Though unpolished, Nolen has the potential to make a major impact.
This version of the mock draft takes a few bold swings, with some unexpected trades and high-upside picks. The next iteration will refine these selections even further as draft day approaches.