The NFL draft is quickly approaching, with a focus on the top teams who have the potential to add elite prospects that can change the league. However, some teams lower in the draft order are in tough positions entering the 2025 season. Three teams stand out as needing a successful draft to stay competitive and avoid falling even further behind in future seasons. These teams include the New Orleans Saints, San Francisco 49ers, and Miami Dolphins.
The New Orleans Saints, with the ninth overall pick in the draft, lack standout young talent on their roster. This leaves them with numerous holes to fill on both offense and defense, particularly at key positions like quarterback and running back. The team’s aging roster, with players like Cameron Jordan and Demario Davis, needs to be replenished with younger options. A successful draft is crucial for the Saints to have a chance of returning to contention and avoiding a downward spiral in future seasons.
The San Francisco 49ers went from contenders to a team in trouble after losing key free agents in the offseason. With the No. 11 pick in the draft, the team must focus on replacing those lost players and addressing potential financial constraints related to Brock Purdy’s upcoming extension. The 49ers’ aging roster and the potential loss of more key players in the future make a successful draft imperative for their chances of competing again.
The Miami Dolphins, despite having the 13th pick in the draft, possess one of the oldest rosters in the NFL. The team also faced significant injuries last season, particularly to quarterback Tua Tagovailoa. With competition from rising teams like the Buffalo Bills and potentially the New England Patriots, the Dolphins need a strong draft to remain competitive in the AFC East. Falling behind in the division could make it difficult for Miami to catch up in the future.
These three teams are facing significant challenges entering the 2025 season, with the pressure to have a successful draft to stay competitive and avoid further setbacks. Each team has specific needs and roster gaps that need to be addressed through the draft to ensure they can remain in contention for the upcoming season and beyond. As the NFL draft approaches, all eyes will be on these teams as they look to make crucial decisions to shape their futures in the league.
