The NFL Draft is about hope, strategy, and building the foundation of a franchise. But how well did each team actually do in the 2025 NFL Draft? ESPN analyst Mel Kiper Jr., the most recognizable name in draft coverage, has released his official team grades, breaking down the winners, the losers, and the surprising picks that could define the season.
In this article, we’ll analyze Kiper’s grades team by team, highlight the best picks, and answer the big question: Which 2025 draft class earned an A+?
Why Draft Grades Matter
While draft grades don’t guarantee success, they offer insight into:
- Roster Construction – Did teams address their most urgent needs?
- Value Picks – Did they find stars in the middle or late rounds?
- Long-Term Impact – Which classes could reshape franchises for years?
Mel Kiper’s analysis is considered the gold standard for draft evaluation — and the 2025 grades have sparked plenty of discussion.
Teams That Earned Top Grades (A / A+)
Chicago Bears – Grade: A+
- Key Pick: Caleb Williams, QB (No. 1 Overall)
- Analysis: Chicago finally secured their franchise quarterback in Caleb Williams, who already looks like the real deal after a strong preseason. Kiper praised their ability to pair Williams with new offensive talent, giving the Bears their first true long-term QB hope in decades.
Arizona Cardinals – Grade: A
- Key Pick: Marvin Harrison Jr., WR
- Analysis: Pairing Kyler Murray with one of the most polished WR prospects in NFL history was a no-brainer. Harrison Jr. is expected to start immediately and transform Arizona’s offense.
Minnesota Vikings – Grade: A
- Key Pick: Dallas Turner, EDGE
- Analysis: Kiper loved the Vikings’ aggressive move to secure an elite pass rusher. Turner dominated preseason reps, looking like a potential Defensive Rookie of the Year candidate.
Strong Draft Classes (B+ to A-)
New York Giants – Grade: B+
- Key Pick: Malik Nabers, WR
- Analysis: The Giants desperately needed a No. 1 receiver, and Nabers looks ready to fill that role. Kiper noted questions about their depth picks, but the class overall should elevate Daniel Jones’ performance.
Los Angeles Rams – Grade: B+
- Key Pick: Jared Verse, EDGE
- Analysis: With Aaron Donald retiring, the Rams needed defensive reinforcements. Verse impressed in preseason, and Kiper believes he could anchor the Rams’ pass rush for years.
New England Patriots – Grade: B
- Key Pick: Offensive Line Reinforcements
- Analysis: The Patriots focused on rebuilding their offensive line, which Kiper viewed as essential for long-term growth. However, questions remain at quarterback.
Average Draft Classes (C to B)
Some teams played it safe, addressing needs but without taking big swings.
- Denver Broncos – C+ – Depth additions, but no instant star power.
- Las Vegas Raiders – C – Drafted for needs, but Kiper questioned their value at several picks.
- Dallas Cowboys – C+ – A solid class, but nothing game-changing according to Kiper.
Teams That Struggled (C- or Lower)
Washington Commanders – Grade: C-
Kiper noted that Washington reached for several prospects and failed to land immediate difference-makers. Their class may take years to evaluate, but short-term outlook is poor.
Tennessee Titans – Grade: D+
One of Kiper’s lowest grades, Tennessee’s class was criticized for ignoring glaring roster holes and reaching too high on developmental players.
Kiper’s Biggest Surprises
- Spencer Rattler to New Orleans Saints – A controversial QB pick, but preseason showed flashes of upside. Kiper gave this gamble mixed reviews.
- Isaiah Davis to the Jets – A mid-round RB who looked like a steal, drawing high praise in early evaluations.
Which Pick Earned an A+?
Without question, Caleb Williams to the Chicago Bears received the highest praise. Kiper called it a “franchise-defining selection” that could finally end Chicago’s decades-long quarterback struggles. Combined with smart depth picks, the Bears earned one of the few A+ grades in 2025.
