2025 Mock Draft: A Look at the Potential 33rd Team

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The 2025 NFL Draft is still a few years away, but it’s never too early to start speculating about who the 33rd team might select. With the league expanding to 33 teams in 2025, there will be a new team in the mix, and they will have their pick of some of the best young talent in the country. The 33rd team will have a lot of needs, but there are a few players who stand out as potential targets for the team’s first-ever draft pick.

One player who could be a good fit for the 33rd team is quarterback Cade Klubnik. Klubnik is a 5-star recruit from Austin, Texas, and he is considered to be one of the best quarterbacks in the 2023 recruiting class. He is a pro-style quarterback with a strong arm and good accuracy. He is also a good runner, which could be a valuable asset in the NFL. Klubnik is committed to Texas, but he could be swayed to play for the 33rd team if they offer him a good enough deal. However, if the 33rd team does not select him in the first round, he could be selected earlier by another team. So, the 33rd team will need to make sure to select him if they want him.

Another player who could be a good fit for the 33rd team is running back Evan Stewart. Stewart is a 5-star recruit from Frisco, Texas, and he is considered to be one of the best running backs in the 2023 recruiting class. He is a versatile running back who can run between the tackles and catch passes out of the backfield. He is also a good blocker, which could be a valuable asset in the NFL. Stewart is committed to Texas A&M, but he could be swayed to play for the 33rd team if they offer him a good enough deal. However, if the 33rd team does not select him in the first round, he could be selected earlier by another team. So, the 33rd team will need to make sure to select him if they want him.

Potential Landing Spots for the 33rd Expansion Team’s Top Draft Picks

1. Potential Landing Spots for the 33rd Expansion Team’s First Draft Pick

The 33rd expansion team will likely have the top overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. With so much uncertainty surrounding the league’s future landscape, it’s difficult to pinpoint exactly which team will have the worst record and earn the first pick. However, there are a few teams that have struggled mightily in recent years and could be in contention for the top pick. The Jacksonville Jaguars, Houston Texans, and New York Jets come to mind. All three teams have been among the league’s worst in recent seasons, and they all have significant roster issues that need to be addressed. If any of these teams continue to struggle in 2023 and 2024, they could be in prime position to land the top pick in the 2025 draft.

2. Potential Landing Spots for the 33rd Expansion Team’s Second Draft Pick

The 33rd expansion team will also have the second overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. This pick is likely to go to one of the teams that finishes just behind the team with the worst record. The Carolina Panthers, Atlanta Falcons, and Detroit Lions could all be in consideration for the second pick. All three teams have shown some signs of improvement in recent years, but they still have some significant weaknesses that need to be addressed. If any of these teams can take a step forward in 2023 and 2024, they could be in position to land the second overall pick in the 2025 draft.

3. Potential Landing Spots for the 33rd Expansion Team’s Third Draft Pick

The 33rd expansion team will have three picks in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft. Their third pick is likely to go to one of the teams that finishes in the middle of the pack in 2023 and 2024. The New York Giants, Philadelphia Eagles, and Dallas Cowboys could all be in consideration for the third pick. These teams have all shown some promise in recent years, but they still have some work to do before they can be considered contenders. If any of these teams can make a significant improvement in 2023 and 2024, they could be in position to land the third overall pick in the 2025 draft.

Pick	Team
1	Jacksonville Jaguars
2	Houston Texans
3	New York Jets
4	Carolina Panthers
5	Atlanta Falcons
6	Detroit Lions
7	New York Giants
8	Philadelphia Eagles
9	Dallas Cowboys

Evaluating the Draft Pool in a Post-Expansion Landscape

The upcoming 2025 draft class is shaping up to be one of the most talented in recent memory. With the addition of a 33rd team to the NFL, the draft pool will be significantly expanded, adding even more high-level prospects to the mix. Here’s a closer look at what to expect from this historic draft:

Strength in Depth

One of the standout features of the 2025 draft is its depth across multiple positions. The quarterback class, in particular, is expected to be particularly strong, with several potential franchise cornerstones available. Additionally, there is an abundance of talented skill players, including running backs, wide receivers, and tight ends, who could make an immediate impact in the NFL.

Defensive Talent on Display

The defensive side of the ball is also well-represented in this draft class. There is a wealth of pass-rushers, linebackers, and defensive backs who possess the athleticism and skill to disrupt opposing offenses. The addition of a 33rd team will only add to the competition for these top defensive prospects, driving up their draft stock.

Position	Number of Projected First-Round Picks
Quarterback	6-8
Wide Receiver	5-7
Edge Rusher	4-6
Cornerback	4-6
Running Back	3-5

With the expansion of the NFL, teams will have more opportunities to bolster their rosters with young, talented players. The 2025 draft class is poised to deliver an influx of potential stars who can help shape the league’s landscape for years to come.

Breakout Candidates to Watch in the 2025 Draft

Quarterbacks

The 2025 quarterback class is shaping up to be one of the best in recent memory. There are several quarterbacks who have the potential to be NFL stars, including Arch Manning, Malachi Nelson, and Marcel Reed. Manning is the son of former NFL quarterback Peyton Manning, and he has already shown that he has the arm strength and accuracy to be a successful NFL quarterback. Nelson is a dynamic playmaker who can make plays with his arm and his legs. Reed is a big, strong quarterback with a cannon for an arm.

Arch Manning (Texas Longhorns)

Arch Manning is the grandson of Archie Manning and the nephew of Peyton and Eli Manning. He is a 6’4″, 215-pound quarterback who has been compared to his uncles. Manning has a strong arm and is accurate with his throws. He is also a good athlete who can run and make plays with his feet.

Malachi Nelson (USC Trojans)

Malachi Nelson is a 6’3″, 185-pound quarterback who is considered one of the best recruits in the 2023 class. Nelson is a dynamic playmaker who can make plays with his arm and his legs. He has a strong arm and is accurate with his throws. He is also a good runner and can make plays with his feet.

Marcel Reed (Ohio State Buckeyes)

Marcel Reed is a 6’5″, 230-pound quarterback who is considered one of the best recruits in the 2024 class. Reed is a big, strong quarterback with a cannon for an arm. He is also a good athlete who can run and make plays with his feet.

Quarterback	Height	Weight	School
Arch Manning	6’4″	215 lbs	Texas Longhorns
Malachi Nelson	6’3″	185 lbs	USC Trojans
Marcel Reed	6’5″	230 lbs	Ohio State Buckeyes

The Impact of the Expansion Draft on the Draft Order

The Expansion Draft Process

Prior to the 33rd team being added to the NFL, an expansion draft will be held. This draft allows the new team to select a certain number of players from the rosters of existing teams. The exact rules of the expansion draft are still being finalized, but it is expected that each team will be able to protect a certain number of players from being selected.

Impact on the Draft Order

The expansion draft will have a significant impact on the draft order for the 2025 NFL Draft. The new team will be able to select a number of talented players, which could result in them being more competitive than expected in their first season. This could lead to a shift in the draft order, as teams may be more likely to draft players who can help them compete immediately.

Table of Potential Expansion Draft Selections

Position	Player	Team
QB	Deshaun Watson	Cleveland Browns
WR	Deebo Samuel	San Francisco 49ers
CB	Jalen Ramsey	Los Angeles Rams
DE	Myles Garrett	Cleveland Browns
OT	Trent Williams	San Francisco 49ers

Strategic Considerations for the 33rd Team in the Draft

Draft Capital and Value

With only one first-round pick and no surplus of picks in other rounds, the 33rd team will need to be strategic in its draft selections. Prioritizing players who fit the team’s immediate needs and have the potential to become impact players is crucial. They may also consider trading down to acquire additional picks or trading up for a coveted prospect.

Player Fit and System

The 33rd team should focus on drafting players who align with their playing style and system. Assessing their strengths and weaknesses and identifying players who can complement the existing roster is key. This may involve targeting specific positions or athletic traits that suit the team’s scheme.

Long-Term Potential

While immediate contributors are important, the 33rd team should also prioritize the long-term potential of their draft picks. Drafting players with the ability to develop into elite talents or provide depth to multiple positions is crucial. Balancing the need for immediate results with the potential for future success is essential.

Competition and Parity

The expansion of the NFL to 33 teams will introduce new competition and potentially disrupt the parity of the league. The 33rd team will need to assess the impact of this expansion on draft strategy and adjust accordingly. They may need to adjust their target board and consider drafting players with a higher potential to contribute quickly.

High-Value Prospects in the Later Rounds

The 33rd team should not overlook the potential of finding high-value prospects in the later rounds of the draft. With a limited number of picks in the first three rounds, scouting and identifying players who may have fallen due to injuries or other factors is crucial. Historically, many productive and impactful players have been selected beyond the first few rounds, providing opportunities for the 33rd team to add depth and value.

Round	Projected Picks
1	33rd Overall
2	None
3	None
4	133rd Overall
5	165th Overall
6	201st Overall
7	237th Overall

Analyzing the Draft Needs of the Potential Expansion Teams

6. Ohio Vanguards

Offense

Quarterback: The Vanguards desperately need a franchise passer who can lead their offense and make plays downfield.
Wide Receiver: Ohio lacks a true number one receiver who can consistently produce big plays.
Tight End: The Vanguards’ tight end position is a major weakness, as they lack a reliable target for their quarterback.
Offensive Line: The offensive line needs reinforcements, particularly at tackle, to protect the quarterback and create running lanes.

Defense

Defensive Line: The Vanguards’ defensive line lacks depth and playmakers, especially at the edge rusher position.
Linebacker: Ohio needs linebackers who can make tackles in space and play sideline-to-sideline.
Cornerback: The Vanguards have struggled to find reliable cornerbacks who can cover receivers in man-to-man.
Safety: Ohio lacks a true free safety who can roam the backfield and make big plays.

Position	Need
Quarterback	Franchise passer
Wide Receiver	Number one target
Tight End	Reliable target
Offensive Tackle	Pass protection and run blocking
Defensive End	Edge rusher
Linebacker	Tackling and sideline-to-sideline play
Cornerback	Man-to-man coverage
Free Safety	Roaming playmaker

Predicting the Top Prospects Available at Pick 33

7. Linebacker

The 2025 NFL Draft is still a few years away, but it’s never too early to start looking ahead to who the top prospects might be. Here’s a look at some of the best linebackers who could be available when the 33rd pick rolls around in 2025:

Jaheim Oatis (Alabama)

Oatis is a 6’4″, 340-pound defensive tackle who is considered one of the top prospects in the country. He is a force against the run and has the potential to be a disruptive pass rusher as well.

Shemar Stewart (Texas)

Stewart is a 6’2″, 260-pound linebacker who is known for his speed and athleticism. He is a versatile player who can play inside or outside linebacker, and he has a knack for making big plays.

Domani Jackson (Southern Cal)

Jackson is a 6’1″, 205-pound cornerback who is one of the most talented defensive backs in the country. He is a physical player who is not afraid to tackle, and he also has good ball skills.

Name	Position	College
Jaheim Oatis	Defensive tackle	Alabama
Shemar Stewart	Linebacker	Texas
Domani Jackson	Cornerback	Southern Cal

Mock Draft: Simulating the First Round with the Expansion Team

8. Chicago Bears: Chandler Zavala, EDGE, North Carolina

Scouting Report:

Zavala is a physically imposing pass rusher who possesses an exceptional combination of size, strength, and athleticism. Standing at 6’5″, 265 lbs, he boasts a long frame with a wingspan of 84 inches. Zavala’s exceptional wingspan allows him to generate tremendous leverage, enabling him to bulldoze through opposing linemen with ease. Moreover, his quick first step and explosive burst off the line make him a formidable threat to opposing quarterbacks. Zavala displays an impressive array of pass-rushing moves, including a powerful spin move and an effective double-hand swipe. His ability to create disruption in the backfield and force turnovers is highly coveted by NFL teams.

Zavala’s athleticism also translates into coverage ability. He effortlessly covers tight ends and running backs, exhibiting agility and lateral quickness that is uncommon for players of his size. Zavala’s overall skill set makes him an ideal fit for the Chicago Bears, who are in desperate need of a dominant pass rusher to complement their young and talented defense.


Height:	6’5″
Weight:	265 lbs
Wingspan:	84″

9. Offensive Tackle

The 33rd expansion team has a glaring need for an offensive tackle. With no clear-cut starting options on the roster, they are expected to target a top prospect at this position in the draft. The team lacks both a reliable pass protector and a dominant run blocker, making it crucial to address this issue early on.

Projected Draft Target

The expansion team is likely to select one of the following offensive tackles in the first round:

Player	College
Jarrett Patterson	Notre Dame
Walter Nolen	Texas A&M
Evan Hull	Northwestern

These prospects possess the size, athleticism, and technique to be Day 1 starters in the NFL.

Overall Impact

Adding a talented offensive tackle to the roster would provide a significant boost to the team’s offense. It would improve pass protection for the quarterback, allowing more time to throw and make plays downfield. The tackle would also create running lanes for the running backs, opening up the playbook and keeping the offense balanced.

10. The Impact on the Talent Pool of Specific Positions

The expansion draft could have a significant impact on the talent pool of specific positions. For example, if the expansion team drafts a top-pairing defenseman from a contending team, it could leave a sizable hole in that team’s blue line. Similarly, if the expansion team drafts a starting goalie from a team with multiple netminders, it could create a shortage of capable goaltenders in the league. The loss of key players at key positions could force teams to adjust their strategies and could lead to a shift in the balance of power within the league.

Position	Potential Impact
Defenseman	Reduced depth on contending teams Increased demand for quality blueliners
Goaltender	Shortage of starting-caliber goalies Increased competition for backup goalies
Centerman	Reduced depth of skilled centers Increased demand for two-way pivots
Winger	Reduced availability of top-six forwards Increased competition for bottom-six roles

33rd Team Mock Draft 2025: Expansion Team’s Path to Building a Roster

As major professional sports leagues continue to expand, the NFL is poised to welcome a 33rd team in 2025. With the addition of a new team, the league’s draft will expand, providing an unprecedented opportunity for prospects to join the NFL. As the expansion team takes shape, its mock draft will be closely scrutinized as it looks to build a competitive roster from scratch.

With the 33rd overall pick in the first round, the expansion team is likely to target a player with a high ceiling and the potential to be a foundational piece for the franchise. Some potential candidates include dynamic wide receivers, versatile defensive backs, or athletic pass rushers with a knack for generating pressure on opposing quarterbacks.

In the subsequent rounds, the expansion team will need to fill out its roster with a mix of talented prospects and experienced veterans. Targeting players with diverse skill sets and a strong work ethic will be crucial. By identifying prospects with the potential to develop into impact players, the expansion team can lay the groundwork for a successful future.