The Draft Network’s Keith Sanchez recently released his latest 2025 NFL mock draft. Our Draft Network Top 100 prospect rankings have served as a reference point for his analysis and decisions. It’s mock draft season here at The Draft Network, with weekly iterations dropping every Sunday evening.
I’ve been selected to dissect Sanchez’s mock. I've identified my favorite selections, scheme fits, and the best prospect not selected. I also have some question marks. Let’s dive into The Draft Network’s latest 2025 NFL mock draft.
Favorite Pick: Tyler Warren, TE, Los Angeles Chargers (No. 22 overall)
The Los Angeles Chargers were a run-first team throughout 2024, attempting a fifth-lowest 510 passes during the regular season. More should be placed on Justin Herbert's plate next year. That would be a guaranteed outcome if the Chargers draft Penn State tight end Tyler Warren.
Warren would pair with Ladd McConkey to offer Herbert two high-end receiving options. Warren established himself as the best tight end in the class throughout the College Football Playoff. He'd be a difference-maker in Greg Roman's offense.
Biggest Question Mark: Will Howard, QB, Pittsburgh Steelers (No. 21 overall)
There's no doubt Ohio State quarterback Will Howard made himself some money during the National Championship Game. Howard completed 17-of-21 passing attempts for 231 yards, two touchdowns, and zero interceptions. He also added 57 rushing yards to his offensive totals.
Was that performance enough to elevate Howard into the first-round conversation? It's unfortunate he declined an opportunity to compete in this year's Senior Bowl. The Pittsburgh Steelers are starved for a franchise quarterback. They should be careful to avoid another Kenny Pickett-like mistake when making that decision.
Best Scheme Fit: Josh Simmons, OT, Chicago Bears (No. 10 overall)
Former Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson is the new head coach of the Chicago Bears. It's a massive win for the Windy City-based franchise, who convinced the hottest candidate to coach Caleb Williams. Johnson will be tasked with maximizing Williams' talent after Chicago's 2024 staff failed to do just that.
Johnson's offense in Detroit was aided by a pair of bookend tackles in Taylor Decker and Penei Sewell. Upgrading the protection around Williams is an offseason priority. Josh Simmons may be the draft's best tackle, a plug-and-play talent, should his recovery from ACL surgery go well.
Best Value: Walter Nolen, DT, Buffalo Bills (No. 30 overall)
The Buffalo Bills' defense struggled to contain Patrick Mahomes in the pocket throughout Sunday's AFC Championship Game defeat. Mahomes rushed for two touchdowns while scrambling for 43 yards. Upgrading the defensive line is a must for Sean McDermott ahead of next year's inevitable rematch with the Chiefs.
Walter Nolen is a top-20 player on tape, so landing him at No. 30 would represent terrific value for GM Brandon Beane. Nolen possesses the first-step explosiveness required to consistently penetrate the backfield.
Best Player Not Selected: Armand Membou, OT, Missouri
Missouri offensive tackle Armand Membou measured in with arms over 34 inches at the Senior Bowl weigh-in, aiding his mission to stay at tackle as opposed to kicking inside to guard. With so much uncertainty surrounding this offensive tackle class, it's not outside the realm of possibility that Membou is the first one drafted. He'll be a first-round pick in April.
