2025 NFL Draft: Teams Target Key Positions to Address Needs Ahead of April Event

In the lead-up to the 2025 NFL Draft, set to take place from April 24 to 26 at Lambeau Field in Green Bay, Wisconsin, teams across the league are assessing their rosters and identifying areas that need strengthening. As franchises prepare for the three-day event, several key positions have emerged as focal points for upgrades. This article will delve into the specific needs of various teams, highlighting the importance of strategic acquisitions to bolster their chances of success in the upcoming season.

Which teams are looking to position themselves before the NFL's April event?

Broncos: A Need for a Running Back

The Denver Broncos find themselves in a precarious situation in the running back department, with the departure of former top draft pick JaVonte Williams to the Cowboys in free agency. Currently, the roster consists of Jaleel McLaughlin, Audric Estime, Tyler Badie, and Blake Watson, raising concerns about the team's ability to field a competitive backfield. With the franchise having allocated resources to address other needs in free agency, it is reasonable to speculate that a first-round selection of a running back may be on the horizon. North Carolina's Omarion Hampton has emerged as a prominent prospect often linked to the Broncos in Round 1, indicating the team's intent to secure a dynamic playmaker to revitalize their ground game.

Commanders: Strengthening the Edge Rusher Position

When it comes to accumulating talent at the edge rusher position, few organizations match the emphasis placed by the San Francisco 49ers. The washinton Commanders, recognizing the need to bolster their depth chart, are now focused on identifying pieces for the future after addressing immediate concerns with one-year contracts last year. Currently, the two-deep depth chart features Dorance Armstrong, Deatrich Wise Jr., Clelin Ferrell, and Jacob Martin, highlighting the imperative for an infusion of talent. Positioned at No. 29 overall, the Commanders should have the opportunity to select from a pool of prospects, including Tennessee's James Pearce Jr. and Boston College's Donovan Ezeiruaku, to fortify their edge rusher unit and enhance their defensive capabilities.

Dolphins: Fortifying the Defensive Line

The Miami Dolphins face a pressing need to strengthen their defensive line, particularly in light of the retirement of left tackle Terron Armstead. While the team utilized a second-round pick on Patrick Paul in 2024, the larger issue stems from the departures of key players, including Christian Wilkins, during the previous offseason. Zach Sieler has proven to be a valuable asset, but the depth chart beyond him consists of Matt Dickerson, Benito Jones, and Neil Farrell Jr., raising concerns about the unit's overall effectiveness. Given the abundance of talent available in the draft at the defensive tackle position, it would be prudent for the Dolphins to consider a dual approach to address this critical need.

Patriots: The Quest for a Left Tackle

Despite signing veteran right tackle Morgan Moses in free agency, the New England Patriots find themselves in search of a left tackle to solidify their offensive line. With the opportunity to potentially select the best player available at No. 4 overall, the Patriots must carefully evaluate their options, including LSU's Will Campbell and Missouri's Armand Membou. It is anticipated that the team will prioritize securing a left tackle of the future with one of its first two choices, underscoring the importance of a strategic investment in the protection of their franchise quarterback.

Rams: Addressing the Cornerback Position

In the wake of the trade of Jalen Ramsey, the Los Angeles Rams have made minimal investments in their secondary, raising questions about the unit's overall effectiveness. While the team signed veterans Tre'Davious White and Darious Williams last year, the results have been mixed, leaving the secondary in need of further reinforcement. With the return of 32-year-old Williams as the leader of the unit, the Rams must consider the long-term implications of their current roster composition. Aside from safety Kamren Kinchens, the team's lack of investment in the secondary since the selection of safety Taylor Rapp in 2019 raises concerns about their commitment to addressing this critical area. As the draft approaches, it may be time for the Rams to reassess their approach and allocate resources to adequately fill the gaps in their secondary.

Texans: Strengthening the Offensive Line

The Houston Texans have experienced a decline in their offensive line performance in 2024, compounded by the trade of left tackle Laremy Tunsil. While the team has made efforts to bolster their line by signing veterans Laken Tomlinson and Ed Ingram, these acquisitions serve primarily as placeholders. To ensure the protection of franchise quarterback C.J. Stroud, it is imperative for the Texans to prioritize strengthening their interior offensive line. With the potential to assemble a competent unit at the offensive tackle positions with the competition among Cam Robinson, Tytus Howard, Blake Fisher, and Trent Brown, it is crucial for the Texans to focus on fortifying the interior to provide a solid foundation for their offense moving forward.

Vikings: A Need for Safety Depth

The Minnesota Vikings face a pressing need to address the vacancy left by Camryn Bynum's departure to the Colts in free agency. With 2012 first-round pick Harrison Smith as the only remaining option, there is a sense of urgency to secure players for both the present and the future. The Vikings have been linked to prospects such as South Carolina's Nick Emmanwori and Georgia's Malaki Starks, indicating their intent to bolster the safety position. However, there is also the possibility of waiting until Day 2 to address this need if the team has confidence in the capabilities of Josh Metellus, Theo Jackson, or Jay Ward moving forward. Regardless of the approach taken, it is crucial for the Vikings to prioritize strengthening their safety depth to ensure the long-term stability of their defense.