The Biggest Surprises in the NFL Draft 2025

The NFL draft is always filled with surprises, but this year’s class was especially intriguing.

In 2025, it was all about identifying big-play makers that can make an instant impact in the league.

While some teams took a chance on potential stars like Anthony Belton, the Packers did a fine job filling in holes with rotational players, including adding a behemoth at center with Jeremiah Sirles. They also drafted a versatile safety in Collin Oliver, who will give defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley a chess piece to play with on the back end.

A few notable late-round fliers to keep an eye on include Jack Bech, a sure-handed receiver who plays bigger than his frame and could be a target in the slot. And don’t forget about Jimmy Horn Jr, who showed he can get open at the top of the route tree and has a knack for gaining big yards after the catch.

The Chargers made a big splash with the first round selection of Omarion Hampton, and they kept going in the second round to add another big-play threat in Tre Harris. They also made a smart move in the fourth round by trading back to pick 73 and snagging Iowa State wide receiver Jayden Higgins, who can help replace Tank Dell as a receiving specialist.

The Buccaneers got some heat for taking Emeka Egbuka in the first round, but he fits perfectly into this offense and will be a solid insurance policy against injuries to Mike Evans and Chris Godwin. They also bolstered their secondary with Shavon Revel Jr, who was once considered a first-round talent.