Microsoft Copilot didn’t like the Jacksonville Jaguars’ trade for Travis Hunter as much as NFL draft experts did, but AI was generally more optimistic than its human counterparts.
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Sports Pulse
If only NFL draft experts were as forgiving as artificial intelligence.
The grades are in after the first round of the 2025 NFL draft and AI handed out A’s a lot more often than its human counterparts did in the aftermath of Thursday’s opening night. USA TODAY Sports asked Microsoft Copilot to grade each of the 32 first-round picks made in conjunction with the NFL’s biggest offseason event, starting with Tennessee Titans No. 1 selection Cam Ward.
The results weren’t exactly in accordance with others’ snap judgments after what took place on the draft’s first night in Green Bay, Wisconsin. Most notably, AI seemed more wary of the Jacksonville Jaguars making a trade to pick Heisman winner Travis Hunter than some NFL experts. It was similarly concerned about quarterback Jaxson Dart’s selection by the New York Giants after trading up to No. 25. But AI grades for the Cleveland Browns and No. 5 pick Mason Graham, as well as the Carolina Panthers and No. 8 pick Tetairoa McMillan, were higher than most.
In total, AI handed out a grade of ‘A’ or ‘A-‘ to all but six of the 32 first-round picks made Thursday night. Its lowest grade was a B- for Texas A&M edge rusher Shemar Stewart, who was chosen No. 17 overall by the Cincinnati Bengals. Compare that to USA TODAY’s Michael Middlehurst-Schwartz, who gave an ‘A’ or ‘A-‘ to four teams and a ‘C’ or ‘C+’ to six teams.
Here’s a breakdown of how Microsoft Copilot AI graded all 32 first-round picks during the 2025 NFL draft, as well as a comparison to grades done by USA TODAY Sports and others around the country:
NFL draft 2025: AI grades for every first-round pick, trade
1. QB Cam Ward, Tennessee Titans: A-
AI analysis: “Ward’s strong arm, athleticism, and football IQ make him a promising choice for the Titans, who needed a solid quarterback to build their future around. However, the decision to pass on a generational talent like Travis Hunter does introduce some risk. Overall, Ward has the tools to succeed, and if he develops as expected, this pick could prove to be a great investment for the Titans.”
2. CB/WR Travis Hunter, Jacksonville Jaguars: B+
AI analysis: “His versatility and athleticism make him a potential game-changer for the Jaguars. However, there are some concerns about this pick. Hunter has had injury issues in the past, which could impact his performance. Additionally, the Jaguars traded up to get him, which means they gave up significant draft capital … Hunter’s talent and potential are undeniable, but the risks associated with his injury history and the cost of trading up slightly temper the excitement.”
3. DE Abdul Carter, New York Giants: A
AI analysis: “Carter’s addition to the Giants’ defense, alongside Kayvon Thibodeaux and Brian Burns, creates a formidable pass-rushing trio. This pick addresses a key need for the Giants and adds significant talent to their defensive front. … Carter’s potential to be a game-changer on defense, combined with the Giants’ existing talent, makes this a smart and impactful choice.”
4. OT Will Campbell, New England Patriots: A-
AI analysis: “He was a three-year starter and team captain (at LSU), known for his excellent athleticism and technique … however, there are some concerns about his arm length, which might affect his performance at the tackle position. Despite this, his overall skill set and football IQ make him a promising addition to the Patriots’ offensive line … Campbell’s potential to be a day-one starter and his leadership qualities are significant positives, though the arm length issue is something to watch.”
5. DT Mason Graham, Cleveland Browns: A
AI analysis: “Graham, a defensive tackle from Michigan, has demonstrated exceptional skills in run defense and pass rushing. His wrestling background contributes to his low leverage and body control, making him a formidable presence in the middle. Graham’s addition should significantly bolster the Browns‘ defensive line, especially alongside stars like Myles Garrett.”
6. RB Ashton Jeanty, Las Vegas Raiders: A
AI analysis: “Jeanty’s selection addresses a significant need for the Raiders, who ranked last in rushing yards in the previous season. His ability to model his game after Marshawn Lynch and fit into Coach Pete Carroll’s system adds to his potential impact.”
7. OT Armand Membou, New York Jets: A-
AI analysis: Membou, an offensive tackle from Missouri, is known for his athleticism, power, and competitive toughness. He has a dense build with very good arm length, making him effective in both run blocking and pass protection. Membou’s addition addresses a critical need for the Jets, especially after losing key players on their offensive line … However, there are some concerns about his consistency in aiming points and hand placement, which could lead to occasional lapses in protection … Membou’s physical tools and potential to be a year-one starter are significant positives, though there are areas for improvement.”
8. WR Tetairoa McMillan, Carolina Panthers: A
AI analysis: “McMillan, a wide receiver from Arizona, is known for his versatility and ability to create mismatches for defenses. He can line up in various positions, making him a valuable asset in the passing game. McMillan’s potential to become a No. 1 target and his ability to make plays after the catch should significantly enhance the Panthers‘ offense.”
9. OT Kelvin Banks Jr., New Orleans Saints: A-
AI analysis: “He has the size and strength to be a dominant force on the offensive line … Banks’ addition addresses a critical need for the Saints, who have been looking to bolster their offensive line. … However, there are some concerns about his balance and ability to handle power rushers, which could affect his performance at the tackle position. Banks’ potential to be a day-one starter and his impressive college resume are significant positives.”
10. TE Colston Loveland, Chicago Bears: A-
AI analysis: Loveland, a tight end from Michigan, has drawn comparisons to All-Pro tight end Sam LaPorta. His versatility and ability to create mismatches in the passing game make him a valuable asset. … Some experts were surprised by this pick, as Loveland was chosen over other highly regarded tight ends.”
11. DE Mykel Williams, San Francisco 49ers: A
AI analysis: Williams “has the size and strength to be a dominant force on the defensive line. Despite battling an ankle injury in 2024, he showcased his grit and talent, finishing his college career with 14 sacks and 21.5 tackles for loss. Williams’ addition to the 49ers’ defense, alongside Nick Bosa, creates a formidable pass-rushing duo. This pick addresses a key need for the 49ers and adds significant talent to their defensive front.”
12. OG Tyler Booker, Dallas Cowboys: A-
AI analysis: “Booker’s addition addresses a critical need for the Cowboys, especially with the retirement of Zack Martin. His ability to protect the quarterback and contribute to the run game makes him a valuable asset. However, there are some concerns about his foot quickness and lateral agility, which could affect his performance against high-end rushers.”
13. DT Kenneth Grant, Miami Dolphins: B
AI analysis: Grant “excels at stopping the run and has the quickness to disrupt plays behind the line of scrimmage. However, his pass-rushing ability is considered modest, with 6.5 sacks over the last two seasons. Grant’s addition addresses a significant need for the Dolphins’ defensive line, but some experts feel the Dolphins could have prioritized other positions, such as offensive tackle or secondary.”
14. TE Tyler Warren, Indianapolis Colts: A
AI analysis: “Warren’s ability to line up in multiple positions and create mismatches makes him a valuable asset. Warren’s strengths include his size, athleticism, and route-running ability. He set a Penn State single-season record with 104 receptions for 1,233 yards and eight touchdowns. His versatility and ability to contribute in various roles make him a perfect fit for Shane Steichen’s offense.”
15. LB Jalon Walker, Atlanta Falcons: A
AI analysis: “Walker’s addition addresses a significant need for the Falcons, who have been looking to bolster their pass rush. His ability to disrupt plays and contribute in multiple roles makes him a perfect fit for the Falcons’ defense. … Walker’s potential to be a game-changer on defense, combined with his impressive college resume, makes this a smart and impactful choice.”
16. DT Walter Nolen, Arizona Cardinals: A
AI analysis: “Nolen’s addition addresses a significant need for the Cardinals, who have been looking to bolster their defensive front. His ability to stop the run and disrupt plays behind the line of scrimmage makes him a valuable asset. However, he needs to refine his technique to maximize his tools.”
17. DE Shemar Stewart, Cincinnati Bengals: B-
AI analysis: “Stewart’s potential is undeniable, and his athleticism makes him a high-ceiling prospect. The Bengals are hoping he can develop into a key player alongside Trey Hendrickson. However, given his modest college production, there are questions about his immediate impact.”
18. OG Grey Zabel, Seattle Seahawks: A-
AI analysis: Zabel “has experience playing multiple positions on the offensive line, including left guard, right tackle, and left tackle. His ability to adapt and play wherever needed makes him a valuable asset for the Seahawks. Zabel’s strengths include his size (6-foot-6, 312 pounds), mobility, and reaction against defenders. He was a key player for North Dakota State, starting 41 games and winning two national championships. However, there are some concerns about his transition to the NFL, particularly against more athletic defensive linemen.”
19. WR Emeka Egbuka, Tampa Bay Buccaneers: A
AI analysis: “His ability to create separation and make contested catches makes him a valuable asset. Egbuka’s addition to the Buccaneers’ wide receiver room, alongside Mike Evans and Chris Godwin, enhances an already potent offense.”
20. CB Jahdae Barron, Denver Broncos: A
AI analysis: “His ability to play both outside and in the slot adds versatility to the Broncos’ secondary. Barron’s addition to the Broncos’ defense, alongside Patrick Surtain II, creates a formidable cornerback duo. This pick addresses a key need for the Broncos and adds significant talent to their defensive backfield.”
21. DT Derrick Harmon, Pittsburgh Steelers: A-
AI analysis: “His ability to take on double teams and disrupt plays makes him a valuable asset. Harmon’s addition addresses a key need for the Steelers’ defensive line, especially with his ability to contribute on all three downs. However, there are some concerns about his pad level and lateral movement, which could affect his performance against more athletic offensive linemen.”
22. RB Omarion Hampton, Los Angeles Chargers: A-
AI analysis: “Hampton’s addition addresses a significant need for the Chargers, who have been looking to bolster their rushing attack. His ability to make defenders miss and his reliable hands in the passing game make him a valuable asset. However, there are some concerns about his vision and occasional tendency to run up the back of blockers.”
23. WR Matthew Golden, Green Bay Packers: A
AI analysis: “Golden’s addition to the Packers’ offense, alongside Christian Watson and Romeo Doubs, enhances their receiving corps. His ability to create separation and make contested catches makes him a valuable asset. This pick addresses a key need for the Packers and adds significant talent to their offense.”
24. OG Donovan Jackson, Minnesota Vikings: A-
AI analysis: “He was a three-year starter at left guard and also played left tackle when needed (at Ohio State), showcasing his adaptability. His physical attributes, including a 6-foot-4, 320-pound frame, and his strong upper body, make him a formidable presence on the offensive line. Jackson’s strengths include his ability to handle both run blocking and pass protection effectively. He excels in vertical double-teams and has a good feel for zone combinations. However, there are some concerns about his consistency in aiming points and hand placement, which could lead to occasional lapses in protection.”
25. QB Jaxson Dart, New York Giants: B
AI analysis: His ability to quickly get the ball to his designed reads and his strong arm make him a potential asset for the Giants. However, there are concerns about Dart’s ability to handle pressure and his tendency to hold onto the ball too long. Some experts have mixed feelings about this pick, with grades ranging from A to D … Dart’s talent and potential are significant positives, but the concerns about his readiness for NFL action and the cost of trading up temper the excitement.”
26. DE James Pearce Jr., Atlanta Falcons: B+
AI analysis: “Pearce’s addition addresses a significant need for the Falcons, who have been looking to bolster their pass rush. His ability to disrupt plays and get after the quarterback makes him a valuable asset. However, there are concerns about his technique and ability to hold up against the run. The Falcons also traded significant draft capital to move up and select Pearce, which adds some risk to this pick.”
27. DB Malaki Starks, Baltimore Ravens: A
AI analysis: “His ability to play deep, in the nickel, and everywhere in between makes him a valuable asset for the Ravens. Starks’ addition to the Ravens’ secondary, alongside Kyle Hamilton and Ar’Darius Washington, creates a formidable defensive backfield.”
28. DT Tyleik Williams, Detroit Lions: B+
AI analysis: “Williams’ addition addresses a significant need for the Lions, especially with Alim McNeill recovering from a torn ACL. His ability to stop the run and provide interior pressure makes him a valuable asset. However, some experts have mixed feelings about this pick … Concerns include his development as a pass rusher and whether he fits the profile of a typical first-round defensive tackle.”
29. OT Josh Conerly Jr., Washington Commanders: A-
AI analysis: “He was a two-year starter at left tackle and allowed just two sacks over the past two seasons. His ability to play multiple positions on the offensive line makes him a valuable asset for the Commanders. Conerly’s addition addresses a critical need for the Commanders, especially after trading for Laremy Tunsil earlier this offseason.”
30. CB Maxwell Hairston, Buffalo Bills: A-
AI analysis: Hairston “ran the fastest 40-yard dash among all defensive backs at the NFL Combine, clocking in at 4.28 seconds. … His strengths include his fluid movement, awareness in coverage, and ability to make plays at the catch point. However, there are some concerns about his physicality against bigger NFL receivers and his run support.”
31. LB Jihaad Campbell, Philadelphia Eagles: A
AI analysis: “Campbell’s addition addresses a key need for the Eagles, especially with Nakobe Dean expected to miss time with a knee injury. His strengths include his speed, awareness, and ability to make plays at the catch point. However, there are some concerns about his recovery from a torn labrum, which could affect his readiness for the season.”
32. OT Josh Simmons, Kansas City Chiefs: A-
AI analysis: “Simmons, an offensive tackle from Ohio State, was highly regarded before a knee injury in mid-October caused his draft stock to drop. Despite the injury, he has shown impressive skills in pass protection and run blocking … Simmons has the talent to become a key player for the Chiefs, provided he stays healthy and continues to develop.”
