The NFL Draft has long been one of the most thrilling events in football, marking the moment when the next generation of talent joins the league. The 2025 NFL Draft was no exception, filled with excitement, high-profile selections, and some surprising trades that have reshaped teams for the upcoming season. Fans and franchises alike are always eager to see how these fresh faces will perform and impact their respective teams. Today, we’ll break down the top picks of the 2025 NFL Draft, where they landed, and how they’ve fared early in their careers.
If you’re looking to keep up with all the action, from player performances to betting odds, you can follow the latest NFL lines and updates on DraftKings Sportsbook. The performance of these rookies has already had a significant impact on NFL predictions and betting lines.
Top 2025 NFL Draft Picks and Where They Landed
1. Jerome Taylor – Quarterback, USC
Drafted by: Houston Texans (1st Overall)
Position: Quarterback
Current Performance:
Jerome Taylor was the consensus number-one pick heading into the 2025 NFL Draft, and the Houston Texans made no surprise when they selected him as their future franchise quarterback. Known for his strong arm and incredible football IQ, Taylor came into the league with high expectations. Despite being a rookie, he’s already showcased his poise under pressure, leading his team in several hard-fought battles.
In his second game, Taylor threw for over 300 yards and four touchdowns, giving Texans fans hope that he might finally be the answer to their long-running quarterback woes. While Houston is still in the rebuilding process, Taylor’s presence has already injected life into the franchise.
2. Chris Jenkins – Offensive Tackle, Alabama
Drafted by: Chicago Bears (2nd Overall)
Position: Offensive Tackle
Current Performance:
The Chicago Bears addressed a key issue in their offensive line by selecting Chris Jenkins with the second overall pick. Jenkins, a towering offensive tackle from Alabama, was known for his ability to protect the quarterback and open up running lanes. His transition to the NFL has been seamless, as he’s already proven himself as a cornerstone of the Bears’ offensive line.
His impact has been immediate, significantly improving the Bears’ pass protection, giving the team’s quarterback ample time to make plays. Jenkins has been instrumental in helping the Bears’ offense regain stability, and his performance has fans hopeful for the team’s future success.
3. DeAndre Thompson – Wide Receiver, Clemson
Drafted by: Detroit Lions (5th Overall)
Position: Wide Receiver
Current Performance:
DeAndre Thompson was widely regarded as the top wide receiver prospect in the 2025 draft, and the Detroit Lions landed him with the fifth overall pick. Known for his blistering speed and ability to make tough catches, Thompson has wasted no time proving why he was such a high selection.
In his first few games, Thompson has already recorded multiple 100-yard games, forming a dynamic duo with the Lions’ quarterback. His deep-threat ability has opened up the Lions’ offense and has quickly made him a fan favorite. Thompson’s early success has brought newfound excitement to a team looking to rebuild after years of mediocrity.
4. Lamar Gray – Linebacker, Georgia
Drafted by: Denver Broncos (8th Overall)
Position: Linebacker
Current Performance:
The Denver Broncos have a long history of strong defensive play, and they continued that tradition by selecting Lamar Gray, a standout linebacker from Georgia. Gray has made an immediate impact on the Broncos’ defense with his quick reactions, tackling ability, and leadership on the field.
Through the first few games, Gray has already racked up impressive stats, including multiple sacks and forced fumbles. He’s quickly become the heart of the Broncos’ defense and has brought a much-needed spark to a team that struggled on that side of the ball last season.
5. Bryan Martin – Defensive End, Ohio State
Drafted by: Seattle Seahawks (12th Overall)
Position: Defensive End
Current Performance:
The Seattle Seahawks, desperate to strengthen their pass rush, selected Bryan Martin with the 12th overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. Known for his relentless motor and knack for getting to the quarterback, Martin has already delivered for the Seahawks.
In his first few games, Martin has notched several key sacks and has quickly become a nightmare for opposing quarterbacks. His presence on the defensive line has rejuvenated Seattle’s defense, helping them regain their fearsome reputation. As Martin continues to develop, the Seahawks’ pass rush should only get stronger.
Surprising Late-Round Gems
While the first round of the draft often garners the most attention, every year sees late-round picks making significant contributions, and 2025 has been no different.
1. Jalen Moore – Running Back, Florida
Drafted by: New York Giants (4th Round)
Position: Running Back
Current Performance:
Jalen Moore didn’t receive much fanfare during the pre-draft process, but the New York Giants saw potential in him when they selected him in the fourth round. Moore has quickly emerged as a key player in the Giants’ offense, showing off his vision and agility.
In just a few games, Moore has had a 150-yard rushing game and is already pushing for a starting role. His ability to break tackles and find open lanes has given the Giants a new weapon in the backfield, and he could be one of the steals of the draft.
2. Evan Grant – Cornerback, Penn State
Drafted by: Miami Dolphins (5th Round)
Position: Cornerback
Current Performance:
Evan Grant was another player who didn’t get much attention leading up to the draft, but the Miami Dolphins took a chance on him in the fifth round. Grant has impressed early in his rookie season, displaying excellent coverage skills and making several key plays in the secondary.
Grant’s ability to read the quarterback and break on the ball has earned him significant playing time, and he’s quickly establishing himself as a long-term fixture in Miami’s defensive backfield.
The Impact of the 2025 NFL Draft on NFL Lines
The influx of rookie talent has already begun to shift the dynamics of the NFL, and that’s reflected in the ever-changing NFL lines. Teams like the Texans, Lions, and Broncos have seen their odds fluctuate as their rookies continue to make an impact. Whether you’re betting on team performances or individual player stats, these new faces are shaking up the league and the betting world alike.
To keep track of how these rookies are influencing the NFL lines, head over to DraftKings Sportsbook for all the latest updates.
Conclusion
The 2025 NFL Draft has already produced a number of breakout stars who are reshaping the league. From top picks like Jerome Taylor and DeAndre Thompson to late-round gems like Jalen Moore, these rookies are proving their worth on the field and setting the stage for exciting futures. As the season progresses, all eyes will be on these young talents to see how they develop and continue to influence their teams’ fortunes.
