2025 NFL Draft Round 2 was far from just a filler between the flashy Round 1 names and the late-round hidden gems. If anything, it was where real football magic happened—bold trades, breakout talent, and the kind of underdog stories fans live for. From the moment the commissioner stepped back up to the podium Friday evening, Round 2 exploded with drama, deals, and undeniable talent.
In this article, we break down the biggest surprises, top NFL draft grades, under-the-radar picks, and a sharp analysis of the Cowboys draft picks that may have stolen the show. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or fantasy football junkie, this deep dive will keep you hooked.
📣 Round 2 of the NFL Draft 2025 Was Unpredictably Perfect
Round 2 began with a bang, as teams scrambled to reset their boards after a chaotic opening night. With several top-rated players slipping out of the first round, franchises saw a golden opportunity to draft Round 1 value on Day 2.
Here’s what made NFL Draft Round 2 truly unforgettable:
- Early talent slide: Several first-round graded players were still available, giving teams like the Cowboys and Seahawks a chance to make big-impact picks without trading up.
- Sneaky trades: Front offices showed serious chess-level IQ, moving around to secure long-term starters.
- Positional depth steals: The linebacker, interior lineman, and cornerback classes proved deeper than expected.
💡 NFL Draft 2025 Round 2 — Must-Watch Highlights & Analysis
⭐ 1. Seattle Strikes Gold with Kris Jenkins Jr.
Projected by many to go late in Round 1, Jenkins Jr. dropped into Seattle’s lap. The defensive tackle from Michigan has the power to disrupt gaps and the motor to chase plays down the line. Expect him to become an instant rotational piece—and eventually, a starter.
⭐ 2. Cowboys Draft Picks: Jalen Ford & Cooper Beebe
We’ll dive deeper into the Cowboys draft picks below, but spoiler alert: Dallas made two of the smartest, most value-packed moves of the entire round.
⭐ 3. Malik Nabers Jr. to the Saints
Pairing Nabers with Chris Olave could make New Orleans’ offense downright dangerous. His blazing speed and route versatility make him a sleeper Offensive Rookie of the Year candidate.
🧠 Boldest Draft-Day Trades in Round 2
The 2025 NFL Draft Round 2 wasn’t short on wheeling and dealing. Here’s a breakdown of some of the most impactful trade moves:
| Teams Involved | Trade Summary | Winner |
|---|---|---|
| Patriots & Broncos | Patriots trade up for WR Troy Franklin | Patriots |
| Giants & Rams | Giants leapfrog LA to grab DE Elijah Brown | Giants |
| Panthers & Browns | Panthers grab QB Spencer Reid | Panthers |
These moves didn’t just shake up Round 2—they may redefine depth charts by training camp.
📊 NFL Draft Grades: Who Aced Round 2?
Using a mix of player value, positional need, and system fit, here are our top NFL Draft grades for Round 2:
| Team | Key Pick(s) | Grade | Comment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dallas Cowboys | LB Jalen Ford, OG Cooper Beebe | A+ | Smart, tough, and ready to contribute. |
| Seattle Seahawks | DT Kris Jenkins Jr. | A | Perfect fit for their defensive scheme. |
| New Orleans Saints | WR Malik Nabers Jr. | A | Adds firepower to a budding offense. |
| Atlanta Falcons | OT Zion Knight | C | Risky pick; better options were available. |
| Philadelphia Eagles | CB Khyree Jackson | B+ | Solid scheme fit with upside. |
🦅 Deep Dive: Cowboys Draft Picks — Quietly Dominating Round 2
The Cowboys draft picks flew under the radar for some casual fans—but make no mistake: Dallas had one of the most productive second rounds in the 2025 draft.
🧨 LB Jalen Ford (Texas)
This Texas native brings elite instincts, strong tackling fundamentals, and impressive zone awareness. With Leighton Vander Esch aging and Micah Parsons often used as a pass rusher, Ford fills a critical gap in the second level of the defense.
🔨 OG Cooper Beebe (Kansas State)
A bulldozing run-blocker with great hand placement and balance, Beebe is a plug-and-play interior lineman. Given the Cowboys’ recent O-line struggles with injuries, this pick screams insurance and long-term thinking.
Cowboys Draft Takeaway: No flashy trades or big-name grabs—just smart, calculated drafting. This might be the most “Cowboys” way to win a draft round ever.
🔍 Sleeper Picks to Watch from Round 2
Some names didn’t get TV time—but they’ll be showing up on highlight reels soon enough.
🔦 Darius Lassiter – WR, Chargers
Height, hands, and big-play capability. Lassiter could become Herbert’s favorite target by mid-season.
🔦 Roman Hines – LB, Steelers
Intelligent, gritty, and a locker room leader. Pittsburgh might have found their future green-dot guy.
🔦 Jake Heimlich – TE, Dolphins
Reliable blocker with sneaky route skills. Great fit for Miami’s hybrid offense.
🚨 Round 2 Draft Bust Watch: Too Early to Call?
Every year, there’s a pick that has fans scratching their heads. In NFL Draft 2025 Round 2, that award goes to:
❌ Marcus Thornton – CB, Raiders
A physical corner, yes. But with poor change-of-direction and inconsistency in zone coverage, Las Vegas reached big time.
❌ Zion Knight – OT, Falcons
Knight’s raw athleticism isn’t in question—but his technique is. A developmental project with Round 3 value picked too early.
📌 Quick Snippets
Who were the best picks in NFL Draft Round 2 2025?
Top picks include Kris Jenkins Jr. (Seahawks), Jalen Ford (Cowboys), and Malik Nabers Jr. (Saints), all of whom brought elite value to their respective teams.
What NFL draft grade did the Cowboys get for Round 2?
The Cowboys earned an A+ for selecting Jalen Ford and Cooper Beebe—two prospects who fill major team needs with high upside.
Did any teams trade in Round 2 of the 2025 NFL Draft?
Yes. The Patriots, Giants, and Panthers all made strategic trades to move up and grab high-impact players early in the second round.
🧾 FAQs: NFL Draft Round 2 (2025)
✅ When did NFL Draft Round 2 start?
Round 2 of the NFL Draft 2025 kicked off at 7 PM EST on April 25, 2025.
✅ How many total picks were in Round 2?
There were 32 standard picks, plus 5 compensatory selections, making for 37 total picks in Round 2.
✅ What positions were most picked in Round 2?
Linebackers, wide receivers, and interior offensive linemen led the way in Round 2 selections.
✅ Were there quarterbacks taken in Round 2?
Yes—teams like the Panthers and Titans picked developmental QBs like Spencer Reid and Devon Ricks to groom behind current starters.
🎯 Final Thoughts: Round 2 Is Where Dynasties Are Built
While Round 1 will always grab headlines, NFL Draft Round 2 is where smart teams thrive. The 2025 edition proved that yet again—with steals, trades, and well-calculated risks that could shape the next decade of football.
Teams like the Cowboys, Seahawks, and Saints played the long game and came out ahead. Whether you’re into fantasy leagues or franchise building, don’t ignore what just happened on Day 2.
