2025 NFL Draft Recap: Key Missed Opportunities and Surprising Picks
April 29, 2025
The 2025 NFL Draft concluded on April 26, with teams now evaluating their selections and the potential impacts of their choices.
Among the notable decisions, the Miami Dolphins selected guard Jonah Savaiinaea in Round 2, opting against wide receiver Luther Burden III, who could have significantly enhanced their offense alongside stars Jaylen Waddle and Tyreek Hill.
In another surprising move, the Pittsburgh Steelers chose defensive tackle Derrick Harmon at No. 21 instead of quarterback Jaxson Dart, who was later picked by the New York Giants at No. 25, leaving Pittsburgh without a long-term solution at the quarterback position.
The San Francisco 49ers selected Georgia pass-rusher Mykel Williams at No. 11, passing on tight end Tyler Warren, who went to the Indianapolis Colts at No. 14, which may limit their offensive flexibility under coach Kyle Shanahan.
The Arizona Cardinals opted for defensive tackle Walter Nolen at No. 13, missing the chance to reunite Ohio State receivers Marvin Harrison Jr. and Emeka Egbuka, who was drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at No. 16.
The Cleveland Browns missed the opportunity to draft Penn State pass-rusher Abdul Carter at No. 2, who went to the New York Giants at No. 3, potentially forming a formidable duo with Myles Garrett.
The Buffalo Bills selected pass-rusher Landon Jackson over wide receiver Pat Bryant, who was taken by the Denver Broncos, missing a chance to strengthen their receiving corps for a Super Bowl run.
Finally, the Kansas City Chiefs chose defensive end Ashton Gillotte before tight end Harold Fannin Jr., who went to the Cleveland Browns, which may limit their offensive depth behind star Travis Kelce.
Overall, the article discusses seven draft picks that would have been ideal for various teams, considering their needs, player potential, and scheme fit.
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Bleacher Report • Apr 29, 2025
7 2025 NFL Draft Picks We Wish We Would Have Seen