With anticipation building for the upcoming college football season and the 2024 NFL campaign just a few weeks away, ESPN analyst Field Yates has released his early first-round predictions through his 2025 NFL Mock Draft. While the quarterback talent might not match the star power of the previous year, Yates has identified several standout names who could vie for the coveted first overall pick in 2025. From Carson Beck and Shedeur Sanders to non-quarterbacks like James Pearce Jr. and Mykel Williams, the possibilities are intriguing as teams gear up for an exhilarating season.

In Yates' mock draft, the New York Giants, in a projected trade with the New England Patriots, secure the first overall pick and set their sights on Carson Beck from Georgia. Beck's impressive pocket presence and size make him an enticing choice for the legendary franchise.

Meanwhile, the Carolina Panthers, picking at number two, opt for Tennessee's James Pearce Jr., an edge defender with the potential to become a defensive superstar. Despite the possibility of needing a new quarterback, Yates remains confident in former Alabama quarterback Bryce Young and chooses to focus on bolstering the defense.

At number three, the Denver Broncos select Kelvin Banks Jr., an offensive tackle from Texas. Yates believes Banks Jr.'s exceptional pass protection skills will provide excellent support for quarterback Bo Nix within head coach Sean Payton's precision-based offense.

The Tennessee Titans, picking at number four, grab Shedeur Sanders from Colorado as their quarterback of the future. Sanders' meticulous pocket passing skills and impressive accuracy make him a strong candidate for the first overall pick.

The Washington Commanders, following their acquisition of Jayden Daniels in 2024, opt for Georgia's Mykel Williams, an edge defender with rare physical attributes. Yates highlights that after trading Montez Sweat and Chase Young, Washington is in need of defensive line talent, and Williams fits the bill perfectly.

In a trade with the New York Giants, the New England Patriots secure the sixth spot in the draft and select Will Johnson, a cornerback from Michigan. Johnson's exceptional skills at a position of need make him a coveted pick for the defensive-minded Patriots.

The Minnesota Vikings, after selecting former Michigan quarterback JJ McCarthy in 2024, turn to Ann Arbor once again to add depth to their defense. Yates predicts the Vikings will choose defensive tackle Mason Graham, who exhibits qualities similar to 2024 second-round pick Braden Fiske.

Number eight brings Quinn Ewers, a quarterback from Texas, to the table as the Las Vegas Raiders' top-ten pick. Ewers, an highly-touted recruit, impresses Yates with his smooth delivery and creative throws.

The Arizona Cardinals, already on the upswing, add to their defense with Nic Scourton, an edge defender from Texas A&M. Yates believes Scourton has the potential to dominate the SEC in 2024 and contribute significantly to the Cardinals' already-impressive roster.

Lastly, the New Orleans Saints choose LSU offensive tackle Will Campbell to bolster their offensive line. While quarterback is a possibility, Yates expects the Saints to stick with Derek Carr and focus on protecting him for the 2025 season.

With these early predictions set in motion, the football world is eagerly awaiting the next couple of months to see how the draft landscape evolves. While the quarterback position typically dominates the first overall pick, Yates' mock draft highlights the wealth of talent available across multiple positions. As the college football season unfolds, scouts and fans alike will keenly follow these potential future NFL stars.