2025 NFL Draft round 2 and 3 updates: Day 2 picks
In a pivotal night of the 2025 NFL Draft, teams across the league doubled down on defense, selecting standout talents to bolster their pass rush, coverage units, and linebacker cores. With bold picks and strategic trades, Round 3 showcased franchises preparing for a tougher, faster, and more balanced season ahead.
Day 2 of the 2025 NFL Draft unfolded with Rounds 2 and 3, featuring notable selections and unexpected developments. Quarterback Shedeur Sanders, once projected as a first-round pick, remained undrafted through the second round, drawing attention to his potential landing spots. The New Orleans Saints selected Louisville's Tyler Shough at No. 40, marking the only quarterback taken in Round 2. Running backs Quinshon Judkins (Browns), TreVeyon Henderson (Patriots), and RJ Harvey (Broncos) were also notable picks. The draft's unpredictability kept fans and analysts engaged throughout the evening.
As the third round commenced, teams continued to address key positions. The New England Patriots bolstered their offense by selecting wide receiver Kyle Williams from Washington State at No. 69. The Detroit Lions added Arkansas wideout Isaac TeSlaa at No. 70, while the New Orleans Saints picked Texas defensive tackle Vernon Broughton at No. 71. These selections highlighted teams' strategies to strengthen their rosters with versatile and promising talent.
NFL Draft 2025 round 3: teams focus on defensive reinforcements and secondary depth
Defensive players were also in focus during Round 3. The Buffalo Bills chose Arkansas defensive end Landon Jackson at No. 72, aiming to enhance their pass rush. The New York Jets selected Florida State cornerback Azareye'h Thomas at No. 73, addressing their secondary needs. The Denver Broncos picked Illinois wide receiver Pat Bryant at No. 74, adding depth to their receiving corps. These moves underscored teams' efforts to balance offensive and defensive improvements.
NFL fans share their favorite Round 3 picks as draft excitement continues to build across teams and positions. Photo: NFL Twitter account
The San Francisco 49ers targeted their linebacker unit by drafting Oklahoma State's Nick Martin at No. 75. The Dallas Cowboys addressed their secondary by selecting East Carolina cornerback Shavon Revel Jr. at No. 76. The Carolina Panthers, through a trade, picked Ole Miss defensive end Princely Umanmielen at No. 77. These choices reflected teams' focus on fortifying their defensive fronts and backfields.
Shedeur Sanders' draft slide highlights day 2 surprises and strategy
As the draft progressed, attention remained on Shedeur Sanders, who continued to await selection. Speculation grew regarding potential teams interested in the Colorado quarterback, with the Las Vegas Raiders and Pittsburgh Steelers among the rumored destinations. Sanders' unexpected slide became a central storyline, highlighting the draft's unpredictability and the varying evaluations of quarterback prospects.
Overall, Day 2 of the 2025 NFL Draft showcased teams' strategic approaches to building their rosters, with a mix of offensive and defensive selections. The rounds were marked by surprises, trades, and the anticipation surrounding remaining top prospects. As teams prepared for the final day of the draft, the focus shifted to uncovering hidden gems and addressing remaining positional needs. The ongoing developments promised an exciting conclusion to the draft weekend.
