Immediate draft grades provide a foundation for future evaluations. Waiting three years to assess draft classes without accounting for how the decision was viewed at the time usually leads to revisionist history
These 2025 NFL Draft snap grades reflect the value I think each pick (or set of picks) has, given the slot and the prospect's college film/athleticism scores. Trades, and the capital exchanged (both picks and players), are factored into these grades, too, as they also play a significant part in determining the future of a franchise.Analysis:
The Cardinals continue to rebuild their defensive line, taking Nolen after signing Calais Campbell and Dalvin Tomlinson in free agency. Campbell is 38 years old, though, so pairing Nolen with last year's first-round pick, Darius Robinson, portends a strong future up front. Nolen, who can play as a 1-, 3- or 5-technique, has the get-off, powerful hands and quickness to become a star.
Arizona's offensive line needed help, but the top players at the position were gone by the 16th pick. Receiver Matthew Golden, who went 23rd to the Packers, could have been a strong partner for Marvin Harrison Jr. outside. Round 1 (No. 15): Edge Jalon Walker, Georgia
Round 1 (No. 26): Edge James Pearce Jr., Tennessee
Analysis:
- Taking the versatile Walker was a home run. His lack of ideal size (6-foot-1, 243 pounds) might have knocked him down boards a bit, but he wins with strong hands/quickness as a pass rusher and tracks the ball very well in the open field.
- Pearce showed excellent pass-rush skills in 2023 and showed sub-4.5 speed at the NFL Scouting Combine. He was not as productive last season, though, and lacks the size to handle powerful NFL tackles. If he matures and gets stronger, there's a chance he can grow from a designated pass rusher to a starter.
- Giving up a future first-round pick to move up for Pearce seemed a high price at first blush, but receiving a third-round selection this year somewhat mitigated the risk.
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