In the lead-up to the 2025 NFL Draft, several key storylines are unfolding across the league.
The Atlanta Falcons are grappling with a quarterback dilemma after signing Kirk Cousins to a $100 million guaranteed contract last offseason, only to draft Michael Penix Jr. in the first round shortly after. With Penix poised to be the starter, the Falcons are trying to navigate what to do with Cousins, who is eager to start again. A trade seems unlikely due to Cousins' hefty contract, and releasing him is also improbable, leaving the team in a tricky situation.
The Carolina Panthers are focusing on supporting their young quarterback, Bryce Young, who showed significant improvement in the second half of last season. The Panthers need to bolster their receiving corps, as veteran Adam Thielen is nearing the end of his career, and their young receivers are still developing. They are considering drafting a pass-catcher early, possibly Arizona wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan or Penn State tight end Tyler Warren.
The New Orleans Saints are contemplating drafting a quarterback high in the draft, given their current starter Derek Carr is 34 and not a long-term solution. The Saints have shown interest in prospects like Cam Ward, Shedeur Sanders, and Jaxson Dart, and new head coach Kellen Moore is likely looking to find his own signal-caller to build around.
The Arizona Cardinals have made significant offseason moves to strengthen their defensive line, signing Josh Sweat, Calais Campbell, and Dalvin Tomlinson. They are expected to continue this focus in the draft, particularly targeting edge rushers and interior defensive linemen to improve their ability to pressure quarterbacks.
In terms of draft predictions, Cam Ward is projected to go to the Tennessee Titans with the first overall pick, while Shedeur Sanders is likely to be selected by the Cleveland Browns at number two. Other quarterback prospects, such as Jaxson Dart, Will Howard, Kyle McCord, Tyler Shough, and Quinn Ewers, are expected to be picked in the later rounds by teams like the Jets, Steelers, Saints, Giants, and Rams, respectively.
On the injury front, the Cleveland Browns are dealing with the aftermath of Deshaun Watson's second Achilles tear, which has heightened their need for a reliable quarterback.
There are no recent game results or highlights since the NFL is in its offseason, but upcoming matchups will be set once the draft and any subsequent roster changes are finalized.
Off-field, the Falcons' quarterback situation continues to be a major controversy, while the Saints' search for a new quarterback is a significant storyline.
For fantasy football, the draft will have significant implications as teams reshape their rosters. The addition of new quarterbacks and skill players could alter the fantasy landscape for several teams.
In summary, the NFL is in a period of significant transition with the draft looming, and teams are making strategic moves to address their needs, particularly at the quarterback position. Thank you for listening to the Football News Tracker podcast; be sure to subscribe for more updates.