The 2025 NFL Draft brought more surprises than anticipated, making for an exciting three-day event for fans. As each of the 257 picks were made, teams focused on balancing their needs with acquiring the best talent available. Discovering hidden gems can significantly alter a franchise's trajectory in no time.

While early-round selections receive the most attention and expectations for good reason, we mustn't overlook the impact of quality players emerging from Days 2 and 3. Finding dependable rotational players and average starters to address weaker positions holds great value, even if a player doesn't reach Pro Bowl status.

These four teams came away from the draft notably better than the others. They might not have received the highest grades or maximized their value, but their selections undoubtedly enhanced the overall strength of their rosters.

Best 2025 NFL Draft Hauls

Las Vegas Raiders

Key picks

• Pick 6: Ashton Jeanty, RB, Boise State
• Pick 58: Jack Bech, WR, TCU
• Pick 68: Darien Porter, CB, Iowa State
• Pick 99: Charles Grant, OT, William & Mary
• Pick 108: Dont'e Thornton Jr., WR, Tennessee
• Pick 135: Tonka Hemingway, DT, South Carolina
• Pick 180: JJ Pegues, DT, Mississippi

Having 11 opportunities to add new talent is beneficial for the purpose of this list, and Las Vegas had the unfortunate necessity of addressing more gaps than most teams. Still, the Raiders' offense required a significant infusion of talent, and they implemented two strategies successfully. Pete Carroll's initial draft with the team brought immediate star potential and appealing developmental prospects.

Ashton Jeanty and Jack Bech are the two standout offensive cornerstones. Jeanty is a well-recognized talent expected to serve as an explosive offensive force, enhancing the play of Geno Smith and Chip Kelly. He’s a clear star and is likely to rank among the top five most productive running backs in the NFL.

Bech may not be as widely recognized, but he consistently found ways to get open at LSU before transferring to TCU. His performance surged in 2024, but the foundations of his stardom were visible as early as his freshman year in 2021. 

Following a remarkable senior season and impressive combine showing, he’s now expected to be the team’s No. 2 receiver and a primary beneficiary in a Chip Kelly offense that prioritizes versatile talents.

Darien Porter could emerge as a surprise standout on Day 2, showcasing elite athleticism and ball-handling skills despite limited experience at cornerback. Other promising athletic options include Charles Grant, Dont'e Thornton, and JJ Pegues. Additionally, Tonka Hemingway may also compete for playing time on the field.

Arizona Cardinals

Key picks

• Pick 16: Walter Nolen, DT, Mississippi
• Pick 47: Will Johnson, CB, Michigan
• Pick 78: Jordan Burch, Edge, Oregon
• Pick 115: Cody Simon, LB, Ohio State
• Pick 174: Denzel Burke, CB, Ohio State

One of Arizona's top priorities during the offseason was to bring in valuable veterans who could contribute to winning in 2025 while also mentoring the upcoming starters. Not too long ago, this roster was rough, making it impossible to address every need. With that in mind, and by maintaining realistic expectations, they had to focus more heavily on one side of the ball; it's impressive how they navigated this draft class.

The most optimistic scenario for Arizona's draft is quite remarkable. Walter Nolen and Will Johnson were both top-10 talents on the field who have the potential to become franchise cornerstones at two of the most crucial positions in football. Each comes with risks, though—Nolen has significant character issues, and Johnson’s knee raised medical concerns.

However, if both players can reach at least a portion of their potential, the Cardinals could quickly evolve into a formidable defensive unit. This is without even considering the impact that seasoned role players can have on the team's depth. Jordan Burch stands out as a high-upside choice, being a versatile defensive lineman with pass-rushing capabilities ready for the NFL.

The additions from Ohio State are also intriguing. Jonathan Gannon has a diverse selection of linebackers to work with, and Cody Simon might push to start over Mack Wilson in 2025. Denzel Burke, who fell significantly in the draft, is a perfect fit for this zone-based defense and addresses the need for a fourth cornerback on the roster.

Seattle Seahawks

Key picks

• Pick 18: Grey Zabel, OG, North Dakota State
• Pick 35: Nick Emmanwori, S, South Carolina
• Pick 50: Elijah Arroyo, TE, Miami
• Pick 92: Jalen Milroe, QB, Alabama
• Pick 142: Rylie Mills, DL, Notre Dame
• Pick 166: Tory Horton, WR, Colorado State
• Pick 223: Damien Martinez, RB, Miami

Unlike Arizona and Las Vegas, Seattle entered this draft well-equipped with numerous picks and few immediate needs. Their recent roster investments have resulted in a young and promising squad that still boasts a good amount of talent. Seattle strategically navigated the draft, addressing their needs while also making valuable additions that aligned well with their strategy.

I particularly liked Seattle's first four selections in the draft—they were my favorites across the entire league. As expected, Seattle brought in elite athletes, including Nick Emmanwori, who is a historically exceptional talent. However, it's not solely about athleticism and fit; players like Grey Zabel, Emmanwori, and Elijah Arroyo possess the potential to reach Pro Bowl status.

Each player fits perfectly into Seattle's goals for their respective position groups. While one could argue that Seattle might have benefited from adding another offensive lineman, they opted instead for players who can quickly adapt and take on roles.

Jalen Milroe has the potential to shine in subpackages as he develops his skills under Sam Darnold. Rylie Mills, an older prospect, will contribute to a rotation of experienced players. Meanwhile, Tory Horton and Damien Martinez had impressive college careers filled with productivity and athleticism, making them strong candidates for the final roster.

Baltimore Ravens

Key picks

• Pick 27: Malaki Starks, S, Georgia
• Pick 59: Mike Green, Edge, Marshall
• Pick 91: Emery Jones Jr., OT, LSU
• Pick 210: Aeneas Peebles, DT, Virginia Tech

Free agency left Baltimore weaker than anticipated, but the Ravens secured impressive value with their first three selections. Some franchises maintain their success through a combination of luck and smart decision-making. Baltimore added two first-round caliber players, Malaki Starks and Mike Green, and a potential starting guard, Emery Jones Jr.

Typically, playoff teams picking late in each round aren't expected to achieve such success. However, Starks’ mediocre performance at the combine and Green’s off-field issues during his time at Virginia allowed them to fall in the draft. 

Both players are poised to make an impact after highly productive college careers. Jones will transition from tackle to guard and could fill in for Patrick Mekari.

While the Day 3 selections are less exciting, Aeneas Peebles stands out as a candidate to contribute rotationally. Though short and undersized, he possesses the speed to rush the passer and exploit gaps. With Baltimore's defensive line aging, Peebles will provide a much-needed dynamic option off the bench.