Every year, the NFL Draft allows 32 teams chasing Super Bowl glory and players to change their future. For various college players, it’s a shot at making their lifelong dream come true. The 2025 NFL Draft was filled with surprises and dramatic moments. Some players walked out as top picks, and some shockingly weren’t picked overall.
The Arizona Cardinals wasted no time making noise with the 16th pick overall. The Cardinals selected Walter Nolen defensive tackle from Ole Miss. Fans, scouts, even rival teams had agreed that this was a powerful move. With this addition to their defensive line, the Cardinals are signaling that they’re ready to be a dominant force in the upcoming season. Freshman Serenity Dale, a student at Sunnyslope High School and a dedicated college football fan, shared her thoughts on the pick, “I think that it was a mighty move. He has excellent work, and he knows how to include his teammates and has strong techniques.” This was a bold and potentially game-changing move for Arizona. Walter Nolen, known for his route-running precision, athleticism, and leadership, Arizona made several more picks that had fans talking, for better or worse. While some applauded the boldness, others wondered why more help didn’t go to the offensive line. Dale also stated that she believes “scouts” tend to go for the filling positions they need to get stronger as a team. While many college players saw their names on the screen, some were humbled again that nothing is always guaranteed. Even with all the top picks and flashy moves, some of the biggest stories came from what didn’t happen. Like Shedeur Sanders, the son of Deion “Coach Prime” Sanders. Heading into the draft, Sanders had the numbers over 4,000 passing yards, 37 touchdowns, and more. Everyone expected him to go early. Wouldn’t you? Instead, he slid down to the fifth round before the Cleveland Browns finally selected him. Fans were stunned. Social media lit up. This move was one of the biggest shocks to the NFL fans and even some scouts themselves. Analysts couldn’t agree if it was about team fit or just classic draft unpredictability. However, this went to show that huge stats and big names aren’t the only factors to get an earlier pick. This drafting process was for the Arizona Cardinals. Walter Nolen could be the key to turning things around for this upcoming Football season. On the other hand, players like Shedeur Sanders have the motivation to prove every doubter wrong.
With the new season around the corner, all eyes will be on these rookies to see if they can live up to the hype — or better yet, exceed it. Remember that nothing in the draft is guaranteed, no matter how big your name is.
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2025 NFL Draft Surprises Fans
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