Teams navigated the early rounds of the 2025 NFL Draft, with several clubs addressing needs and adding key prospects. While much pre-draft discussion centered on notable players like Ashton Gillotte, Donovan Jackson, and Grey Zabel, teams on Friday focused on solidifying positions heading into the new season. The direction of the KC Chiefs Draft Picks, like many others, also remained a topic of league interest as the selections continued.
The Cleveland Browns kicked off the second night of the draft with back-to-back picks. Cleveland selected UCLA linebacker Carson Schwesinger with the 33rd pick before adding Ohio State running back Quinshon Judkins at No. 36 overall. This move addressed a significant need for the Browns after navigating a challenging running back situation following Nick Chubb's injury troubles.
Quinshon Judkins arrives in Cleveland after a productive college career, including a successful transfer to Ohio State. His addition is seen as an attempt to establish a definitive lead back, a role that has seen players like Jerome Ford carry the load in Chubb's absence. The situation of veteran running backs across the league, including someone like Najee Harris whose future is often speculated upon, highlights the constant churn at the position as teams prioritize youth and cost-effectiveness.
Cleveland continued building its roster later in the third round, first selecting Bowling Green tight end Harold Fannin. The Browns finally landed a quarterback prospect by drafting Oregon's Dillon Gabriel with the No. 94 overall pick.
Elsewhere, the New Orleans Saints made their selections, adding talent on both sides of the ball. New Orleans used the ninth overall pick in the first round to select offensive tackle Kelvin Banks Jr. from Texas.
The Saints also looked to their future at quarterback, selecting Tyler Shough in the second round. Shough's journey to becoming a pro prospect has been watched by many talent evaluators. The team later added Virginia safety Jonas Sanker with the 93rd pick, rounding out some of their early draft needs. Get to know Jonas Sanker.
Another team making an impact early was the Detroit Lions. Detroit used their first-round pick to bolster the defensive line, selecting Tyleik Williams. Williams arrived in Detroit to meet with team personnel and tour the facilities shortly after being drafted. View photos of Tyleik Williams' arrival.
The selections by these teams, and others picking throughout the event, provide clearer direction for their rosters heading into training camp. While different teams had varying strategies and targeted different positions, the second night brought significant additions across the league.
"He brings the brand of football that we want, AFC North 'back,'" Browns assistant general manager and vice president of player personnel Glenn Cook said of their running back selection. "Exceptionally strong, physical, tough, productive three-down guy."
