Three Big Surprises I Expect at the 2025 NFL Draft Tonight

Tonight’s 2025 NFL Draft kicks off at 8:00 PM Eastern in Green Bay, Wisconsin—and it’s shaping up to be one of the most unpredictable drafts we’ve seen in recent memory. With a lack of consensus at the top of the board and strength in some uncharacteristic areas, this year's event could deliver fireworks early and often. Here are three surprises I expect to unfold tonight.

1. Shedeur Sanders Cracks the Top 5

While Shedeur Sanders has often been projected as the second-best quarterback in the class, recent rumors and media skepticism have cast doubt on where he’ll actually be selected. Some outlets have questioned his pro-readiness based on limited pocket throws at Colorado, while others have criticized his interview process.

I believe this is all a classic pre-draft smokescreen.

NFL teams—particularly those sitting outside the top five—have been known to release misleading intel to try to lower a player’s draft stock. In Sanders’ case, it’s possible some front offices are hoping he’ll fall into their lap. But I don’t think that happens. Sanders has proven he can win under tough circumstances, he’s shown leadership, and he’s operated at a high level with limited offensive line protection and few NFL-level weapons outside of Travis Hunter.

My projection: Sanders will go either No. 2 to the Browns or No. 3 to the Giants, with the Giants being the most likely landing spot. Despite the smokescreens, NFL evaluators won’t pass on his upside, leadership, and ability to make plays under pressure.

2. Packers Shake Up Draft Night in Green Bay

With the draft taking place at Lambeau Field and the Packers coming off a disappointing season, don’t be surprised if Green Bay makes a splash. As a Packers fan, maybe I’m biased—but there’s reason to believe a major move is coming.

Whether it’s trading up for a red zone threat like Tetairoa McMillan, or executing a blockbuster involving cornerback Jaire Alexander, the Packers have both the motive and the assets to make noise. Alexander’s name has been floating in trade rumors for months, and his future with the team is in question. If Green Bay decides to make a win-now move, look for it to happen early and be headline-worthy.

This feels like a turning point moment for the franchise. The pieces are in place, but a bold move—especially on defense or at wide receiver—could push the Packers into legitimate Super Bowl contention.

3. A Running Back Revival: 3–4 Backs Go Round 1

In recent years, running backs have slid down draft boards as teams prioritized premium positions like quarterback, edge rusher, and wide receiver. But that could change tonight.

This draft is uniquely deep at the running back position, and I believe we could see three or even four running backs selected in the first round—a rare occurrence in today’s NFL.

Leading the way is Ashton Jeanty, who I expect to go as high as fourth overall to the Patriots to pair with rookie quarterback Drake Maye. After Jeanty comes off the board, I think we’ll see a domino effect, with teams looking to secure their guy before a potential run.

Other names to watch:

• Omarion Hampton: Could go as high as No. 10 to the Bears, especially under OC Ben Johnson, who used a similar duo-style approach in Detroit.

• TreVeyon Henderson: A dynamic outside runner who could sneak into the late first round.

• Caleb Johnson and Quinshon Judkins: Depending on team needs, either could surprise with a first-round selection.

Teams like the Chargers (under Jim Harbaugh) and the Broncos (with Sean Payton) both have a history of building offenses around the run game. Don’t be surprised if either franchise pulls the trigger early.

Final Thoughts

The 2025 NFL Draft is wide open, and that’s what makes it so exciting. Between Shedeur Sanders’ polarizing projection, the Packers’ potential for a major shakeup, and a possible renaissance for the running back position, this draft has all the makings of a memorable night.

Let me know in the comments—what’s your biggest surprise prediction for tonight? Do you think I nailed it or am I way off? Let’s hear it.