Who will be Number One ?

By: Tariq Richardson

As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, the excitement among fans and analysts is growing. The race for the coveted first overall pick has become an exhilarating showcase of outstanding collegiate talent. Four standout players have emerged as frontrunners for the top selection: Cam Ward, Shedeur Sanders, Travis Hunter, and Adul Carter. Each of these athletes possesses unique skills and potential that could significantly influence the future of an NFL franchise. The debate over who should be the first pick has intensified, with many scouts and fans believing that it could go either way, essentially a coin flip. As these players prepare to demonstrate their abilities at the upcoming combine, anticipation and speculation are building, making this draft one of the most eagerly awaited in recent history.  

Cam Ward: From JUCO Underdog to Top Pick Favorite (-10000) 

Position: Quarterback

School: Miami Hurricanes

Cam Ward, initially under-recruited out of high school, chose to take the junior college route at Incarnate Word, where he threw for over 7,268 yards and won the Jerry Rice Award. After transferring to Washington State, he had two successful seasons before finishing his college career at the University of Miami. During his time at Miami, he led the nation with 4,313 passing yards in a single season and earned multiple accolades, including ACC Player of the Year and the Davey O'Brien Award. Ward set a Division I record with 158 passing touchdowns and finished fourth in the Heisman race. With odds of -10,000, he is nearly guaranteed to be the No. 1 overall pick, drawing comparisons to Deshaun Watson and Andrew Luck. Ward’s journey from being a junior college long shot to a frontrunner is truly remarkable.

Shedeur Sanders: Elite Pedigree, Elite Game (+6600)

Position: Quarterback

School: Colorado Buffaloes

Shedeur Sanders, son of NFL legend Deion Sanders, is making his mark in college football while honoring his family's legacy. At Jackson State University, he excelled as a quarterback, passing for 6,963 yards and 70 touchdowns, leading the team to records of 11-2 and 12-1. Transitioning to Colorado, he silenced skeptics with a dazzling debut against TCU, throwing for over 510 yards and 4 touchdowns in a 45-42 win. Over the season, he amassed 4,134 passing yards and 37 touchdowns, leading Colorado to a 9-4 record. His accolades, including the Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award and Big 12 Player of the Year, showcase his skill and leadership, positioning him as a promising prospect for the NFL. Travis Hunter, Draft’s Most Unique Talent - (-130 for 2nd pick).

Position: ATH 

School: Colorado Buffaloes

Travis Hunter, Draft’s Most Unique Talent (- -130 for 2nd pick)

Position: ATH 

School: Colorado Buffaloes

Travis Hunter, a standout recruit from Collins Hill High School in Georgia, made headlines as the first five-star recruit to sign with an HBCU, choosing Jackson State under Deion Sanders. After an impressive freshman year, he transferred to the University of Colorado, where he recorded 57 receptions for 721 yards and five touchdowns, earning the Paul Hornung Award. In 2024, he excelled with 92 receptions for 1,152 yards, winning the Fred Biletnikoff Award, Chuck Bednarik Award, and the Heisman Trophy. Notably, he played over 120 snaps on both offense and defense, leaving fans questioning how he manages it. With -130 odds to be selected 1st overall, Hunter's versatility makes him a standout prospect.

Abdul Carter: Defensive Force Projected at No. 3 (-200)

Position: Defensive End 

School: Penn State

Abdul Carter may not have the same level of recognition as Cam Ward, Shedeur Sanders, or Travis Hunter, but he stands out as the top defensive player in the draft, with -200 odds of being selected third overall. Coming from Linebacker U, where he wore the number 11—previously worn by legends like LaVar Arrington and Micah Parsons—Carter lived up to high expectations. Last season marked the best of his career, as he recorded 68 tackles, 24 tackles for loss, and 12 sacks. His impressive performance earned him the title of Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year and a spot as a first-team All-American, despite Penn State finishing the season with a 13-3 record and falling short against Notre Dame in the College Football Playoffs.  With his explosive burst, strength, and football IQ, Carter is ready to anchor an NFL defense from day one. Carter thrived in the challenging atmosphere of Beaver Stadium, also known as Happy Valley. With his explosive burst, remarkable strength, and high football IQ, he has the potential to anchor an NFL defense from day one.

Who’s Going First?

It's really a coin flip, but if I were a betting man, I’d say Cam Ward could be going number one to the Titans. He may be the runaway favorite, but this year’s draft class is anything but ordinary. Shedeur Sanders brings elite efficiency and a legendary football heritage. Travis Hunter is redefining versatility. Abdul Carter is ready to wreak havoc on Sundays. And Ward’s own rise—from JUCO to superstardom—might just be the ultimate NFL success story in the making.