After a few months of football-less doldrums, the NFL draft brings a much-needed appetizer to tide fans over until well-rested players, coaches and managers report to training camp in July. The 2025 NFL draft kicks off Thursday, April 24 at 8 p.m. and continues Friday, April 25 and Saturday, April 26.
The first round of the NFL draft is largely predictable, but the second and third rounds can get messy. Last year, Shedeur Sanders was widely considered a top quarterback prospect until he fell to No. 102 overall. He would later be selected by the Saints in Round 2. Shedeur’s story is a reminder that it’s sometimes better to go for upside than take a safe, steady player with a higher floor.
With that in mind, it’s important to keep an eye on Real-Time ADP throughout your draft. This stat quickly detects changes in a player’s average draft position and allows you to make informed decisions about who to target and when.
Daniel Dopp shares the players he’s been happy to snag in more than 100 drafts this summer and offers some advice on making tough picks when your league is tight. Field Yates names some late-rounders you should consider in 12-team leagues and deeper formats, while Tristan Hockcroft unveils a handful of off-the-radar types to target. We also break down the rules and procedures for the NFL draft and take a look at some of the notable picks from the 2024 event.