Your complete guide to the 2025 NFL draft: dates, times, streaming, and what to expect

Pranjal Chandra | Apr 24, 2025, 18:42 IST

( Image credit : TIL Creatives )

The 2025 NFL Draft kicks off at Lambeau Field, Green Bay, from April 25-27. The Tennessee Titans, with the first pick, are expected to select Miami QB Cam Ward. Key prospects like Shedeur Sanders and Travis Hunter are also in the mix, promising a draft full of potential franchise-altering decisions.

Football fans, the wait is over—the 2025 NFL Draft is officially underway, and this year promises to be one for the books. Whether you're tuning in for the big picks, following your favorite team, or just soaking up the electrifying atmosphere, here's everything you need to know to make the most of draft weekend.

Where is the draft taking place?

For the first time ever, the NFL Draft is being hosted at the iconic Lambeau Field in Green Bay, Wisconsin. Known as the hallowed home of the Green Bay Packers, Lambeau brings history, energy, and a true football-town vibe to this already monumental event. Expect chilly air, roaring fans, and a festival-like setup that honors the roots of the game.

Key dates and times: mark your calendar

The draft spans three action-packed days from April 25 to April 27, 2025 (local time), broken down as follows:

Round 1:
Thursday, April 24 at 8:00 p.m. ET
Kick things off with the biggest names and highest stakes. This is when the No. 1 overall pick will be revealed.
Rounds 2–3:
Friday, April 25 at 7:00 p.m. ET
These rounds are often filled with value picks and surprise standouts.
Rounds 4–7:
Saturday, April 26 starting at 12:00 p.m. ET
The final day is long but crucial—rosters are built here with depth and future stars.

How to watch the NFL draft

There are plenty of ways to tune in:

Television Broadcast: Catch all the action live on ABC, ESPN, and the NFL Network.
Streaming Options: Prefer streaming? You're covered. Watch the draft online via:
- ESPN+
- NFL+
- Hulu + Live TV
- YouTube TV
Bonus Coverage: NBC News NOW is offering live coverage starting at 5:00 p.m. ET on Thursday, giving fans early insights, interviews, and atmosphere straight from Lambeau.

Who’s picking first?

With the first overall pick, the Tennessee Titans are officially on the clock. According to Titans GM Mike Borgonzi, the team has already reached a consensus on their selection. All signs point to Cam Ward, the record-breaking quarterback from Miami and a 2024 Heisman Trophy finalist, being their man.

Ward’s college numbers are jaw-dropping: 158 career touchdowns, the most in NCAA history, and 39 passing TDs last season alone. If selected, he’ll usher in a new era for the Titans and could be the franchise QB they’ve been waiting for.

Names to watch in round 1

While Cam Ward is nearly a lock at No. 1, the rest of the first round is anyone’s guess. Here are some of the top prospects everyone’s keeping an eye on:

Shedeur Sanders (QB) – Could the Browns make a bold move and take the Colorado star?
Travis Hunter (WR/CB) – A dynamic two-way player, he’s one of the most versatile athletes in the draft.
Abdul Carter (LB) – A defensive force that could anchor any NFL defense.
Jalen Milroe (QB, Alabama) – Attending the draft in person, he could sneak into the first round depending on team needs.

Round 1 draft order: top 10 picks

Tennessee Titans
Cleveland Browns
New York Giants
New England Patriots
Jacksonville Jaguars
Las Vegas Raiders
New York Jets
Carolina Panthers
New Orleans Saints
Chicago Bears

(…followed by the rest of the league in order.)

Why this draft matters

This draft isn’t just about rookies finding new homes it’s about legacies being written, fanbases being re-energized, and franchises staking their future on the talent of tomorrow. With a historic venue, a deep class of prospects, and so many open questions, the 2025 NFL Draft is must-see TV.

So whether you're a die-hard fan or a casual viewer, grab your snacks, pick your team’s jersey, and get ready to witness football history in the making.