Quarterback Cam Ward was the first overall pick in the 2025 NFL draft Thursday night, selected by an undisclosed team. Cornerback/wide receiver Travis Hunter went second to the Jacksonville Jaguars, who traded down with the Cleveland Browns. Defensive lineman Abdul Carter was the third overall selection by the New York Giants.

Cam Ward, composed upon hearing his name called, expressed gratitude, saying “that special god did everything for me, him, myself, and my family.”

Travis Hunter celebrated with his family and enthusiastically stated, “I’m just super excited I get to go back home.”

After hugging his family, Abdul Carter arrived at the stage saying, “we here” and expressed his thankfulness for the opportunity.

Rounding out the top five picks were offensive lineman Will Campbell, selected fourth by the New England Patriots, and defensive lineman Mason Graham, picked fifth by the Browns, who passed on running back Ashton Jeanty. Campbell, emotional after his selection, said the moment reflected “all the hard work.” Graham shared an excited hug with his parents.

Jeanty was later picked sixth by the Las Vegas Raiders. Other first-round selections included Armand Membou (seventh, New York Jets), Tetairoa McMillan (eighth, Carolina Panthers), Kelvin Banks Jr. (ninth, New Orleans Saints), and Colston Loveland (tenth, Chicago Bears).

In a notable development, quarterback Shedeur Sanders was not selected until the fifth round, going to the Browns.