2025 Mock Draft: Chiefs And Raiders Scenarios

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Post on Dec 24, 2024

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2025 Mock Draft: Chiefs and Raiders Scenarios – AFC West Power Struggle

The AFC West is shaping up to be one of the NFL's most competitive divisions for years to come. The 2025 NFL Draft holds significant implications for the Kansas City Chiefs and the Las Vegas Raiders, two teams with contrasting needs and trajectories. This mock draft explores potential scenarios for both teams, considering their current roster situations, potential free agency moves, and projected draft needs.

Understanding the Context: 2024 Season Projections

Before diving into the 2025 draft, let's briefly examine the projected landscape for the Chiefs and Raiders in the 2024 season. The Chiefs, despite potential roster turnover, are likely to remain competitive, aiming for another playoff run. Patrick Mahomes' presence alone guarantees them a strong offense. However, bolstering their defensive line and potentially adding depth at wide receiver will be key.

The Raiders, on the other hand, face a more uncertain future. Their success hinges on the performance of their young quarterback and the overall development of their offensive and defensive lines. Depending on their 2024 season performance, their draft strategy in 2025 could significantly shift.

Scenario 1: Chiefs – Contending for Super Bowl, Raiders – Rebuilding

This scenario paints a picture of the Chiefs securing another strong playoff run, possibly even a Super Bowl appearance in 2024. The Raiders, however, struggle, leading to a higher draft pick.

Chiefs' 2025 Draft Needs & Strategy:

• Late First/Early Second Round: Edge Rusher: Even with Chris Jones, the Chiefs could benefit from a dynamic pass rusher. A player with elite athleticism and pass-rushing skills would significantly improve their defense.
• Mid-Second Round: Cornerback: Depth at cornerback is always crucial, and the Chiefs could look to add a young, talented corner who can contribute immediately.
• Third Round: Offensive Tackle: Protecting Patrick Mahomes is paramount. Adding a swing tackle who can develop into a starter would provide valuable depth.

Raiders' 2025 Draft Needs & Strategy:

• Top 5 Pick: Quarterback: If the 2024 season doesn't show significant progress, the Raiders might be looking for their franchise quarterback. They would likely target a top prospect with high upside.
• Late First/Early Second Round: Offensive Tackle: Protecting their new (or current) quarterback would be a top priority. A top-tier offensive tackle prospect would be a highly desirable addition.
• Mid-Second Round: Wide Receiver: Adding a playmaking receiver who can stretch the field would greatly benefit their offense.

Mock Draft Picks (Scenario 1):

• Chiefs (Late First Round): Myles Murphy, Edge, Clemson - A powerful edge rusher with the potential to become a disruptive force.
• Raiders (Top 5): Caleb Williams, QB, USC (Hypothetical, assuming he's not already in the NFL) - A highly touted quarterback prospect with immense potential.
• Chiefs (Second Round): Devon Witherspoon, CB, Illinois - A physical cornerback with good coverage skills.
• Raiders (Second Round): Peter Skoronski, OT, Northwestern - A polished offensive tackle with experience protecting the quarterback.

Scenario 2: Chiefs – Minor Setback, Raiders – Showing Improvement

This scenario portrays a slightly less successful season for the Chiefs, maybe missing the Super Bowl but still making the playoffs. The Raiders show noticeable improvement, potentially making the wild card round.

Chiefs' 2025 Draft Needs & Strategy:

• Mid-First Round: Defensive Tackle: Adding depth to the defensive line remains a priority, potentially focusing on a run-stuffing defensive tackle.
• Second Round: Safety: Depending on free agency moves, the Chiefs might look for a hard-hitting safety to bolster their secondary.
• Third Round: Wide Receiver: Adding a young, speedy receiver to complement the existing talent could significantly enhance the offensive depth.

Raiders' 2025 Draft Needs & Strategy:

• Late First Round: Pass Rusher: Improving the pass rush would significantly elevate their defense. A versatile edge rusher or defensive end could be the target.
• Second Round: Offensive Guard: Strengthening the offensive line remains crucial, and an interior lineman could be a key addition.
• Third Round: Linebacker: Adding a young linebacker with potential could improve their run defense and coverage capabilities.

Mock Draft Picks (Scenario 2):

• Chiefs (Mid-First Round): Bryan Bresee, DT, Clemson - A powerful defensive tackle with the potential to dominate the line.
• Raiders (Late First Round): Will McDonald IV, Edge, Iowa State - A quick and agile pass rusher who can get to the quarterback.
• Chiefs (Second Round): Jordan Addison, WR, USC - A talented wide receiver with good route running and hands.
• Raiders (Second Round): O'Cyrus Torrence, OG, Florida - A powerful guard who excels in run blocking.

Conclusion: The AFC West's Future Hinges on the Draft

The 2025 NFL Draft will be pivotal for both the Chiefs and the Raiders. Their draft strategies will be heavily influenced by their 2024 season performance and free agency moves. Both teams need to address specific needs to stay competitive in the fiercely competitive AFC West. This mock draft highlights just two potential scenarios, and the actual draft could unfold in countless different ways, making it an exciting event to watch. The ever-changing landscape of the NFL makes accurate predictions difficult, but analyzing potential scenarios like these helps fans and analysts alike better understand the complex dynamics of team building and the crucial role the NFL draft plays in shaping a team's future. The success or failure of these teams in the coming years will depend heavily on their ability to secure key players in the draft and build a roster capable of competing for a Super Bowl.