It is mock draft season and we know it because ESPN's Mel Kiper has dropped his first mock draft of the year. While the whole first round's order has not yet been completely determined, as four teams remain in the playoffs,

ESPN’s Mel Kiper Jr. unveiled his first mock draft of the 2025 cycle Wednesday, taking a different approach than most with the Cowboys’ 12th overall pick. Over the last few weeks, various draft pundits have tabbed Ashton Jeanty as Dallas’ pick in the first round.

The Bengals have bigger needs, regardless. The next pick in Kiper’s mock is a guard prospect in Armand Membou. The one after that is a safety, Nick Emmanwori. A few picks later, top tight end Colston Loveland. Later in the round? Pass-rusher Nic Scourton.