2025 NFL Draft Round 2: Breaking Down the Best Remaining Talent
The second round of the 2025 NFL Draft is where franchises often find franchise-altering talent at a bargain. After the first-round fireworks, Round 2 offers teams a chance to address critical needs or snag undervalued prospects poised to outperform their draft slot. Here’s an in-depth look at the top storylines, players to watch, and potential steals.
Key Prospects Still on the Board
- QB Jaden Carter (Ohio State)
- Why He’s Here: A dual-threat quarterback with elite arm talent, Carter slid out of Round 1 due to concerns about his decision-making under pressure. Teams like the Las Vegas Raiders (Pick 37) and Denver Broncos (Pick 44) could take a gamble on his upside.
- EDGE Marcus Dupree (Alabama)
- Strengths: Explosive first-step speed and polished pass-rush moves. Dupree’s slide shocked analysts, but his fit with the New York Giants (Pick 39) or Carolina Panthers (Pick 42) makes sense.
- WR Isaiah Moreno (USC)
- Scouting Report: A 6’3″ vertical threat with 4.38 speed, Moreno’s inconsistent hands dropped him to Day 2. The Chicago Bears (Pick 36) need a WR2 to pair with DJ Moore.
Teams to Watch in Round 2
- New York Jets (Pick 35): After trading down in Round 1, the Jets target offensive line depth. OT Jordan Reed (Georgia) is a mauler in the run game.
- Tennessee Titans (Pick 41): With Derrick Henry aging, the Titans eye RB Tyrese Cohen (Oregon), a bruising back with breakaway speed.
- Seattle Seahawks (Pick 50): Seattle’s secondary rebuild could lead them to CB Malik Rhodes (Clemson), a lockdown corner with elite ball skills.
2025 Round 2 Draft Steals and Sleepers
- LB Darius Wells (Notre Dame): A tackling machine with sideline-to-sideline range. His lack of ideal size (6’0″, 225 lbs) hides his football IQ.
- TE Cole Matthews (Iowa): The next great Hawkeye tight end. Matthews’ blocking and red-zone savvy make him a Day 1 contributor.
- DT Amir Khan (Michigan): A run-stuffing anchor with surprising pass-rush upside. The Dallas Cowboys (Pick 47) need interior help.
Top Team Needs in Round 2
| Team | Pick | Priority Needs |
|---|---|---|
| Las Vegas Raiders | 37 | QB, CB, WR |
| Atlanta Falcons | 45 | Edge Rusher, Safety |
| Green Bay Packers | 53 | Offensive Line, Linebacker |
Predictions for Day 2 Surprises
- QB Run: With 4 QBs taken in Round 1, teams like the Minnesota Vikings (Pick 49) could trade up for Jaden Carter.
- Trade Frenzy: The New England Patriots (Pick 34) hold early Round 2 capital and may move down for additional picks.
- Small-School Gem: WR Jamal Haskins (South Dakota State) could follow in Cooper Kupp’s footsteps if the Los Angeles Rams (Pick 54) call his name.
Why Round 2 Matters More Than Ever
With NFL contracts ballooning, finding cost-controlled talent in Round 2 is critical. Recent stars like A.J. Brown (2019, Pick 51) and Lamar Jackson (2018, Pick 32) prove that franchise cornerstones are still available on Day 2.
How to Watch the 2025 NFL Draft Round 2
- Date: April 26, 2025
- Time: 7:00 PM ET
- TV/Stream: ESPN, NFL Network, NFL+
Final Takeaway: Round 2 of the 2025 NFL Draft is packed with high-ceiling talent and hidden gems. Whether your team needs a QB, pass rusher, or playmaker, Day 2 will shape the league’s future.