The 2025 NFL Draft has wrapped up, and with it comes the annual analysis of picks that left fans perplexed. Among this year's first-round selections, five players stand out as potential mistakes.

At pick 6, the Las Vegas Raiders chose Ashton Jeanty, a highly talented running back, despite needing help on the offensive line and a stable quarterback. This decision raises eyebrows given that Josh Jacobs just departed in free agency, suggesting a missed opportunity to bolster other areas of a struggling team.

Meanwhile, Jaxson Dart was selected 25th by the New York Giants. Dart showed promise in college but lacks the elite traits of a franchise quarterback. His ceiling seems limited to moderate success, similar to that of Daniel Jones. Other teams might have opted for a safer option or a more proven commodity.

Matthew Golden, drafted 23rd by the Green Bay Packers, broke out late in college, yet his overall production raises questions about his ability to step into a WR1 role. He joins a crowded receiving corps without distinctly elevating the unit's talent level.

Josh Simmons, taken 32nd by the Kansas City Chiefs, brings physical tools but is viewed as a raw prospect. With an immediate need at tackle, many believe the Chiefs could have made a better choice with a more polished player. Lastly, Shemar Stewart, picked 17th by the Cincinnati Bengals, is noted for athleticism but showed limited production in college, leading to skepticism about whether he can make an impact at the professional level.

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 Washington Commanders made strategic moves during the 2024 NFL Draft, building on a successful previous season that saw them reach the NFC Championship Game. General Manager Adam Peters opted for quality over quantity, selecting just five players, including offensive tackle Josh Conerly Jr. in the first round. While some analysts question the need for another tackle after acquiring Laremy Tunsil, the Commanders bolstered their defense with cornerback Trey Amos and added depth to their receiving corps with Jaylin Lane, aiming to maximize quarterback Jayden Daniels's potential.

In the following rounds, the team's focus shifted to filling immediate needs, especially after the departure of key players like Dante Fowler Jr. Adding a versatile cornerback like Amos allows for better coverage against elite receivers and strengthens their secondary. Meanwhile, Lane's inclusion as a kick returner adds a dynamic element to the team's special teams unit.

Ashton Jeanty and Omarion Hampton dominate the early 2025 NFL Draft, underscoring a running back-heavy class. Jeanty, selected by the Las Vegas Raiders with the 6th pick, boasts a remarkable 99.9 career rushing grade from Boise State and showcases dual-threat capabilities, excelling in both rushing and receiving. His potential is tempered only by his team's average offensive line, yet he remains a top contender for dynasty rookie drafts. Meanwhile, Colston Loveland's pairing with a savvy Bears coach enhances his outlook in the league.

Shedeur Sanders, drafted by the Cleveland Browns with the 144th pick, shocked many as he slipped down the board despite being viewed as a second-round talent based on his performance. His fall was attributed to poor interviews at the combine, where he reportedly struggled to showcase his understanding of football concepts, raising concerns about his work ethic. Despite the Browns selecting Dillon Gabriel prior to Sanders, he now faces competition for the starting quarterback role against veterans Kenney Pickett and Joe Flacco. The pressure is on Sanders to prove himself and adapt to an NFL system after playing behind one of the weakest offensive lines in college football.

In college, Sanders demonstrated impressive ability under pressure, but transitioning to the NFL presents significant challenges, particularly given the complexity of Kevin Stefanski's offensive scheme. The Browns have high hopes for Sanders, hoping he can outperform his draft position and contribute to the team, but they are cautious, considering their history with high-profile quarterback selections. As minicamps approach, Sanders must quickly learn the intricacies of the NFL game and demonstrate growth.