The Cincinnati Bengals have focused their 2025 NFL Draft class on strengthening their defensive lineup after last season's struggles. First-round pick Shemar Stewart, an edge rusher from Texas A&M, showcases immense potential despite an average pass-rush grade. His solid run-defense rating provides a foundation for future development, potentially positioning him as a successor to Trey Hendrickson.

The Bengals continued to bolster their defense with linebacker Demetrius Knight Jr. in the second round, who brings maturity and versatility to the team. Knight's impressive PFF grades across various defensive aspects will be crucial in addressing the team’s defensive shortcomings.

Offensively, the Bengals added Dylan Fairchild, a guard from Georgia, whose exceptional pass-blocking skills suggest he might immediately compete for a starting role. The team's overall draft grade was marked as a C, indicating a need for further refinement in their selections this draft season.

The Cincinnati Bengals announced the jersey numbers for their 2025 NFL draft class, and fans had mixed reactions. Shemar Stewart, the first-round pick, received the notable No. 97, previously worn by Bengals legend Geno Atkins, sparking some initial excitement. However, the allocation of numbers for other rookies, particularly linebackers Barrett Carter and Demetrius Knight, drew criticism as they were assigned 40s, which some fans found unacceptable. There was a notable hope among Bengals fans for Carter to wear the coveted No. 0, a number he donned at Clemson, but that hope was dashed as he now dons 46.

Cincinnati Bengals' first-round pick, Shemar Stewart, initially believed he would be selected by the Dallas Cowboys during the 2025 NFL Draft. However, when the Cowboys opted for Alabama guard Tyler Booker at No. 12, Stewart was left surprised but quickly found himself with the Bengals at No. 17. Expressing his happiness for Booker's success, Stewart stated, 'Everything happens for a reason, and I feel like God put me here for a reason.' He has since expressed excitement about learning from veteran defensive end Trey Hendrickson as he becomes a key player in the Bengals' youthful defensive rotation.

Stewart's enthusiasm reflects the Bengals' strategic shift towards a younger, more dynamic roster aimed at competing in a competitive AFC North. His presence in the defensive lineup could bolster an already potent unit. The Bengals' draft strategy has drawn criticism from analysts for perceived shortcomings, but Stewart's addition might be a turning point in reestablishing their defensive dominance. As he embraces this new beginning, fantasy managers should keep an eye on his development and its impact on the Bengals' overall defensive performance.

After a commendable 2025 NFL Draft, the Carolina Panthers are poised to enhance their roster with strategic free-agent signings that address significant needs. With no inside linebacker selected, Chazz Surratt emerges as a viable candidate, having displayed promise at previous stops. Moreover, Mike Hilton's experience as a nickelback could bolster the team's secondary, particularly given their lack of cornerback depth. The search for a ball-hawking safety leads to Julian Blackmon and Marcus Williams, both of whom have shown potential in past seasons.

The Los Angeles Rams are positioning themselves for a potential quarterback move in 2026, coinciding with the 10th anniversary of their selection of Jared Goff and the 5th of their trade for Matthew Stafford. They acquired the Atlanta Falcons' first-round pick during the 2025 NFL Draft, enabling them to navigate what is shaping up to be a deep quarterback draft. Possible prospects include Arch Manning, Drew Allar, and Cade Klubnik, all predicted to go in the first round.

Should the Rams decide to part ways with Stafford, who will be 37, their two first-round picks give them leverage for either a rookie or veteran. While Stafford has been a key player, the Rams' win-now mentality may drive them to explore their options in a year filled with speculation about quarterback movement across the league.