ESPN's Mel Kiper didn't love the Cardinals' draft but didn't hate it. In his 2025 NFL draft grades, he gave them a B-plus. Kiper felt taking defensive lineman Walter Nolen 16th overall was a little high and is concerned about his consistency of play from down to down. However, he loved the pick of cornerback Will Johnson in the second round.

Kiper gave the Giants an A- for a draft class that included Abdul Carter, Jaxson Dart, and Cam Skattebo. The Eagles also scored an A- with picks like Jihaad Campbell and Andrew Mukuba leading the way. And the Commanders earned a B+ for a modest five-player take that included Josh Conerly, Jr. and Trey Amos.

The dominating storyline of the 2025 draft was the status of Sanders, creating dramatic TV moments featuring Kiper.