4 NFL teams who could trade back for more picks in the 2025 NFL Draft may define how the first round unfolds. Every year, the NFL Draft delivers surprises, but 2025 is shaping up to be even more unpredictable.
Although many analysts agree that this year’s draft class doesn’t have the same star power as previous years, the potential for chaos is still incredibly high.
Due to the lack of elite top-end talent, many teams are reportedly exploring the idea of moving back in the draft to secure additional Day 2 and Day 3 assets.
Instead of overreaching for prospects, teams might trade down to increase volume, aiming to find gems in the middle rounds.
Let’s take a deep dive into the four teams most likely to trade back for more picks in the 2025 NFL Draft.
Whether it’s roster-building strategy or simply maximizing value, these teams could create a ripple effect throughout the first round.
Why Trading Back Could Be the Smartest Play in 2025
Before diving into the team breakdowns, it’s important to understand why trading back has become such a hot strategy in the 2025 draft.
First, this draft class lacks a consensus group of top-10 players. With no guaranteed game-changers at the top, trading down makes sense for teams seeking value.
Furthermore, teams are increasingly analytical, recognizing that the more picks they have, the better their odds of success.
Additionally, because the middle rounds are stocked with potential role players and developmental prospects, collecting multiple Day 2 picks could end up being more impactful than picking early.
With all of this in mind, let’s look at the 4 NFL teams who could trade back for more picks in the 2025 NFL Draft and analyze why they’re poised to shake things up.
Minnesota Vikings Could Rebuild Through Volume
The Minnesota Vikings are in an unusual spot. They currently hold the 24th overall pick in the first round but don’t pick again until No. 97 in the third.
This massive gap is the result of aggressive moves last year, including the trade-up to select linebacker Dallas Turner.
As a result, Minnesota has only four total picks in this draft: 24, 97, 139, and 187. That’s a concerningly low number for a team still looking to plug several holes, especially on the defensive side of the ball.
The Vikings’ general manager, Kwesi Adofo-Mensah, is known for his willingness to negotiate trades in both directions.
Therefore, it would not be surprising if Minnesota drops back from 24 to grab an extra second-rounder or even multiple third-round picks.
While their current roster does have talent, depth is an issue. If a team like Detroit or Cincinnati gets aggressive late in the first, the Vikings could be ideal trade partners.
Los Angeles Rams Might Look to Multiply Mid-Round Value
The Los Angeles Rams, under GM Les Snead and head coach Sean McVay, have consistently shown that they’re not afraid to get creative with their draft capital.
This year, they hold the 26th overall pick in Round 1, along with several picks later in the draft, including No. 90, No. 101, No. 127, and several more between 190 and 202.
While having quantity is great, the Rams are rumored to be interested in climbing into the second round which is currently a blind spot in their draft.
Trading back a few spots from No. 26 could enable them to acquire that second-rounder they covet.
Offensively, the Rams have shored up their line and added veteran wide receiver Davante Adams.
As such, their biggest needs lie on defense, particularly in the secondary and front seven. Fortunately, the 2025 draft class offers solid value in those areas between picks 40–80.
So, if another team wants to sneak into the late first for a quarterback or premium edge rusher, the Rams may happily slide back and accumulate even more value, a strategy that’s worked well for them in the past.
New York Giants Hold the Draft’s Biggest Trump Card
If there’s one team that truly holds the key to how the 2025 NFL Draft will unfold, it’s the New York Giants. Holding the third overall pick, the Giants are in a prime position to dictate early trade movement.
There’s been plenty of speculation that New York may pass on quarterback Shedeur Sanders if he falls to them.
Likewise, while EDGE rusher Abdul Carter from Penn State is intriguing, he may not be the best fit given positional overlap and schematic concerns.
With these uncertainties in mind, it wouldn’t be shocking at all if the Giants field offers for the No. 3 pick.
In fact, if a quarterback-needy team like the Raiders or Commanders becomes desperate, New York could receive a king’s ransom for moving down just a few spots.
Joe Schoen, the team’s GM, has been transparent about building the team “the right way.” Trading down could give them multiple premium picks without sacrificing overall talent acquisition.
If executed properly, a trade-down from No. 3 could yield a top-10 pick, an extra second-rounder, and potentially a future first. That would be a massive win in both the short and long term.
Kansas City Chiefs Could Pull Another Strategic Move
Last but not least, the Kansas City Chiefs are once again lurking at the back of the first round. Holding the No. 31 pick, they’re in a familiar position one that they’ve historically used to their advantage.
What makes the Chiefs especially interesting this year is the looming run on both offensive linemen and defensive tackles two positions KC could be targeting.
However, if those players fly off the board early, Kansas City may decide to pivot and move back.
In many cases, teams looking to snag a quarterback with a fifth-year option are willing to trade up into the late first round.
Kansas City could use that to their benefit, moving from 31 to the top of the second round while picking up an extra Day 2 selection.
With the Chiefs’ roster showing signs of aging, particularly in the trenches and at linebacker, extra picks could help rejuvenate the team without sacrificing elite performance.
As a two-time defending Super Bowl champion, Kansas City can afford to play the long game and trading back might be the perfect strategy to maintain dominance.
The Value of Day 2 Picks in a Shallow Draft
In a draft class that lacks elite top-heavy talent, Day 2 picks have become more valuable than ever. Teams recognize that the second and third rounds are often where long-term starters and even Pro Bowlers are found.
Moreover, trading back gives teams flexibility. Instead of being locked into one pick and one player, franchises can diversify and take multiple shots at success.
That’s precisely why the 4 NFL teams who could trade back for more picks in the 2025 NFL Draft are looking to maximize their returns.
The more swings you take, the better your odds especially in a year like this one.
Teams That Could Move Up to Make it Happen
For these trades to materialize, there must be suitors willing to move up. So, who could be calling?
- Atlanta Falcons: With an aggressive front office, they could leap up for a premier defender.
- Las Vegas Raiders: Still in need of a franchise QB, they could target the Giants’ No. 3 spot.
- Cleveland Browns: If they fall in love with a player, don’t rule out a move into the late first.
- Carolina Panthers: Despite recent trades, they may want to secure a top-10 edge rusher or tackle.
If any of these teams make a move, it’s almost certain that one of the teams on our list will be involved.
Expert Editorial Comment
4 NFL teams who could trade back for more picks in the 2025 NFL Draft are already shaping up to be one of the most unpredictable in recent memory. Because of the lack of surefire top-tier prospects, smart teams are choosing to pivot. Rather than reach for talent, they’re preparing to trade down and turn one pick into two or even three.
So, when April 24 rolls around, don’t be shocked if the 4 NFL teams who could trade back for more picks in the 2025 NFL Draft are the ones dominating the headlines.
By maximizing draft capital and targeting value, these franchises aren’t just reacting to the draft board they’re controlling it.