Introduction: NFL Draft 2025 Kicks Off with Fireworks in Green Bay
The 2025 NFL Draft officially began Thursday night in Green Bay, and it didn’t take long for the surprises to roll in. This year’s draft class features top-tier quarterback prospects, elite wide receivers, and high-impact defenders—all under the spotlight of a prime-time national audience.
From Cam Ward’s No. 1 selection by Washington to Travis Hunter’s shocking rise to Jacksonville, here’s a full breakdown of Round 1, including grades, trades, and fantasy football implications.
Cam Ward Drafted No. 1 Overall by Commanders
Position: Quarterback
College: Miami (Ohio)
Draft Grade: A
The Washington Commanders wasted no time making a statement by selecting Cam Ward with the first overall pick. Ward’s electric arm, mobility, and deep ball accuracy make him a perfect fit for a rebuilding Washington offense.

He’s projected to start Day 1, bringing immense value under the rookie contract scale.
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Jaguars Make Bold Move for Two-Way Star Travis Hunter
Pick: No. 4 overall (via trade with Cardinals)
Position: Cornerback/Wide Receiver
College: Colorado
Draft Grade: A-
In one of the draft’s biggest trades, the Jacksonville Jaguars moved up to grab Travis Hunter, a generational two-way talent. With Hunter, the Jaguars land a lockdown corner who can also contribute on offense.
Trade Details:
- Jaguars receive Pick No. 4
- Cardinals receive Picks No. 10, 41, and a 2026 third-rounder
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Top First-Round Picks and Analysis
No. 2: Drake Maye – QB, North Carolina (Patriots)
A pure passer with high football IQ. The Patriots get their future leader.
Grade: A-
No. 3: Marvin Harrison Jr. – WR, Ohio State (Bears)
Caleb Williams gets an elite weapon. Fantasy football managers, take note.
Grade: A
No. 5: Joe Alt – OT, Notre Dame (Giants)
Big win for Daniel Jones’ protection. Alt is plug-and-play.
Grade: B+
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NFL Draft Trade Tracker: First-Round Deals
- Jaguars Trade Up to No. 4 for Travis Hunter
- Falcons Move Up to No. 7, sending a 2026 1st to Chargers
- Steelers Climb to 15, targeting a shutdown corner
These trades weren’t just aggressive—they were strategic moves shaped by salary cap flexibility, positional value, and rookie contract advantages.
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How to Watch the NFL Draft Live
Want to stream the draft? Here’s how:
- Yahoo Sports NFL Draft Live Show
- Thursday: 8 p.m. ET
- Friday: 7 p.m. ET
- Saturday: 12 p.m. ET
- Other Streaming Options:
- ESPN
- NFL Network
- Hulu + Live TV
- YouTube TV
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What to Expect on Day 2: Fantasy Football Watchlist
As the second and third rounds approach, several fantasy-relevant players remain on the board. Expect early selections of:
- WR Malik Nabers
- RB Trey Benson
- TE Brock Bowers
Their draft destinations could make or break fantasy football sleeper picks and dynasty rookie drafts.
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- fantasy football breakout rookies
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Final Takeaway: A Draft Full of Surprises and Strategy
From Cam Ward’s rise to Jacksonville’s high-stakes move for Travis Hunter, the 2025 NFL Draft is already packed with drama, front-office chess, and franchise-defining decisions. With more rounds to come, expect more shakeups, sleeper picks, and fantasy stunners.
Stay with us for live coverage, trade alerts, and full player breakdowns throughout the weekend.
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