Every NFL team keeps its first-round pick for the 2025 draft

In the United States, the NFL draft is set to take place today, April 24, 2025, marking a significant event in professional football. This year, in a rare turn of events, it is anticipated that every team will enter the draft with their original first-round pick, a first since the common draft era began in 1967. This contrasts sharply with previous years where teams traded away first-round picks in pursuit of immediate talent or to reshape their rosters. For instance, in the last five drafts, an average of over seven teams went into the draft without their original first-round picks, peaking in 2022 when eleven teams lacked their first-round selection due to prior trades involving key players like Deshaun Watson, Russell Wilson, and Tyreek Hill. The trend of trading first-round picks has illustrated a broader shift in NFL strategies as teams have increasingly sought immediate rewards rather than long-term stability. However, 2025's draft could signal a change, potentially paving the way for several teams to prioritize new talent through the draft. This year, speculation surrounds teams: while many face uncertainties regarding their current rosters, they now have greater flexibility in selecting from this year's pool of talent without the distraction of prior trades. Notably, the New Orleans Saints might have a chance to draft a quarterback for the first time in the first round since Archie Manning in 1971, driven by their current quarterback situation with Derek Carr. Another highlight of this draft is the Tennessee Titans, who will have the opportunity to select first overall for the first time since 1978 when they were known as the Houston Oilers. Their pick signifies the seventh time an AFC South team has chosen first since the NFL realigned into eight divisions in 2002, showcasing the division's competitive nature. Each division in this context has had its own share of top picks, but the NFC East notably hasn't made the top pick since 2002, indicating a trend of performance and investment among different franchises. General observations about the draft emphasize that while first-round picks are essential for adding star talent, success isn't solely defined by these high selections. Instead, mid-to-late-round picks can produce valuable contributors who might help teams achieve long-term objectives. Analyzing drafts historically, teams that succeed often do so by scouting effectively, valuing contributions from various rounds rather than banking all hopes on solely first-round selections. This draft could serve as a reminder of that principle as teams look to establish a new foundation for success in the coming seasons.