AFC South 2025 NFL Draft Grades: Analysis of Every Team's Picks

The Houston Texans clearly have a soft spot for Iowa State wideouts — and in this draft, it's hard to fault them. Snagging Jaylin Noel and Jayden Higgins on Day 2 was a smart move to bolster a receiver corps that struggled last season. Jayden Higgins brings size, clean route-running, and the ability to win contested catches, while Jaylin Noel is the shifty, dynamic weapon who can separate with ease. Up front, Aireontae Ersery adds more beef and agility to the revamped offensive line group.

However, the decision to trade up for Woody Marks in the fourth round was a bit of a head-scratcher. Nothing against the USC back — he's a solid player — but coughing up a 2026 third-rounder felt like an unnecessary reach in a running back class this deep. That misstep takes a little shine off an otherwise strong haul.

The Indianapolis Colts had every reason to be grinning ear to ear when Tyler Warren slid to them at No. 14. The Penn State standout, fresh off a 104-catch, 1,233-yard campaign, instantly boosts an offense that needed another threat alongside Michael Pittman Jr. and Alec Pierce. On Day 2, J.T. Tuimoloau was another savvy addition. Once projected as a first-rounder, the Ohio State pass rusher now gives Indy another weapon to pair with last year's top pick, Laiatu Latu, off the edge. Safe to say, the Colts crushed it early.

This draft will forever be tied to the Jaguars' daring move up the board to snag Travis Hunter. A once-in-a-generation two-way dynamo, Hunter was so highly prized by new GM James Gladstone that Jacksonville forked over two first-round picks and a second-rounder to bring him aboard. After landing their unicorn, the Jaguars wisely turned to reinforcing the secondary with CalebRansaw, then bolstered the trenches by nabbing Wyatt Milum, a Senior Bowl standout who could be starting by 2025 — or at the very least, anchoring the offensive line for years to come.

There was no hesitation at the top — Cameron Ward was the obvious call. With a glaring need under center, the Titans swung big on the Miami gunslinger, whose arm strength, mobility, and playmaking instincts could turn him into a franchise cornerstone. Oluwafemi Oladejo and Chimere Dike drag the overall draft grade down a bit, but the Titans made a smart play by trading back in Round 2 to recoup the third-rounder they lost in the L'Jarius Sneed deal. Defensive back Kevin Winston Jr. should immediately solidify the secondary, and wideout Elic Ayomanor gives Ward a young, physical target to grow with. All signs are pointing up for Tennessee.