Kansas City Uses First-Round Pick to Boost Patrick Mahomes Protection

On the first day of the 2025 NFL Draft, the Kansas City Chiefs made a daring move by selecting Josh Simmons, an offensive tackle from Ohio State, with the 32nd overall choice.

In Kansas City, where protecting the quarterback is of utmost importance, Simmons’ arrival might change everything.

Josh Simmons holding Chiefs jersey at 2025 NFL Draft

Let’s examine why this selection might be a good value as well as what Chiefs Kingdom can anticipate from its newest trench warrior.

Did a Talent from the First Round Drop to 32?

Here’s Why Josh Simmons was predicted to be selected in the top 15 before his 2024 campaign was cut short by a knee injury.

Simmons had given up just one hurry and zero sacks in 158 pass-blocking snaps prior to his collapse in Week 6. At the collegiate level, that is exceptional performance.

When Simmons was still available at No. 32, Chiefs general manager Brett Veach made a snap decision.

Veach stated, “He’s a long-term starter at left tackle if he stays healthy.”
“If not for the injury, he wouldn’t have been there.”

Simmons’ recovery has gone well, according to head coach Andy Reid, who anticipates that he will be prepared for training camp. Chiefs supporters have cause for optimism.

Being versatile is a plus.

Simmons started at right tackle for San Diego State prior to transferring to Ohio State.

Coach Reid sees him as a natural left tackle, but the Chiefs have the ability to switch him if necessary because of that experience.

Versatility like that is invaluable in the NFL nowadays, where rotations and injuries are common.

🌟 What the Professionals Say
Top draft experts gushed about Simmons’ potential:

“Excellent poise and body control—starter-level traits,” said Dane Brugler of The Athletic.

“Ten-year starter potential at left tackle,” says Daniel Jeremiah of NFL Network.

“One of my favorite tackle prospects—reminds me of Terron Armstead,” said Matt Miller (ESPN).

Simmons was ranked among the top 20 overall players by both Pro Football Focus and Brugler, despite his draft decline, making this selection a tremendous bargain for KC.

Expert analysis of Josh Simmons as a first-round pick by the Chiefs

The Path Ahead: Recovery, Competition, and Defense

The Chiefs addressed a critical need right away rather than just selecting players for the future. Simmons will take the following actions:

completing treatment and getting well again

vying for an O-line starting position

become the pass protector of choice for Mahomes for many years to come

Josh Simmons might be the Chiefs’ offensive line’s mainstay for the ensuing ten years if everything goes according to plan.

Questions and Answers (FAQ)
Josh Simmons is who?
A: Josh Simmons is an Ohio State offensive tackle who stands 6’5″ and weighs 317 pounds. In the 2025 NFL Draft, the Kansas City Chiefs selected him with the 32nd pick.

What caused Simmons to lose the first round?
A: He missed the remainder of the season due to a knee injury sustained in October 2024, which sparked medical worries. He is anticipated to be prepared for training camp, nevertheless, as his rehabilitation has gone smoothly.

Is Simmons anticipated to make his Chiefs debut in 2025?
A: If the Chiefs consider him as a long-term fit, he will fight for a starting position, most likely at left tackle.

What aspects of Simmons’ suitability for the Chiefs are there?
A: Andy Reid’s fast-paced system and Patrick Mahomes’ protection benefit greatly from his quick feet, power, and adaptability.

What were his statistics in college?
A: In almost 600 pass-blocking snaps throughout the 2023 and 2024 seasons, Simmons gave up just two sacks.

A dismal season and a noticeable quarterback void weighed heavily on the New York Giants going into the 2025 NFL Draft.

However, that gloom may finally be dispelling when Jaxson Dart was chosen late in the first round.

A Franchise Devoid of Hope Discovers a Glimmer

At MetLife Stadium, Dart has yet to throw a pass. His Giants helmet hasn’t even been fitted yet. However, something changed when his name was called.

It now appears as though the team that stumbled to the No. 3 overall pick—not through trade, but through sheer futility—may have a plan.

Hope? In Rutherford, East? Have faith.

New York Giants Draft 2025

First Defense: Abdul Carter Becomes a Member

The Giants selected Penn State’s speedy edge rusher Abdul Carter with their first choice.

Even against the Super Bowl champion Eagles, the defensive front suddenly stacks favorably in the NFC East thanks to that change, which gives it some serious fangs.

Carter doesn’t throw touchdown passes, though, and New Yorkers are aware that defense by itself won’t stop the Giants’ quarterback woes.

Joe Schoen’s Audacious Bet on a Quarterback

GM Joe Schoen, however, wasn’t finished.

He moved strategically and quietly. In order to acquire Jaxson Dart at No. 25 overall, the Giants made a trade with the Texans to return to the first round.

The cost? A compensating third, a 2026 third, and a 2025 second-round selection.

A bargain in comparison to what the Falcons paid for a pass rusher with only one more pick, which included a future first-round pick.

The Poker Face of Daboll and Schoen’s Vision

In the closing weeks before the selection, Brian Daboll had apparently stopped talking about Dart. Dart acknowledged that he was taken aback by the quiet.

He said, “Coach used to text a lot.” “After that, he kind of vanished.”

That was intentional.

After selecting Carter, Schoen remained secretive, even sidestepping questions during a press appearance. He replied cryptically, “We’ll see,” when asked if the Giants were finished for the evening.

Now we know what he meant.

The Rams Left Reeling

It’s reasonable to assume that Dart was a target for the Los Angeles Rams. The following pick was in their possession.

The Rams promptly traded down when the Giants jumped and caught him. Is it a coincidence? Very unlikely.

The Rams were probably considering Dart as a potential replacement for Matthew Stafford, who was nearing the end of his career. Big Blue got ahead of them instead.

At Last, the Giants Have a Strategy

Schoen described it as “gratifying” but “exhausting.” Finally, Giants supporters may say the same.

In one night, a team that has struggled with a number of backup quarterbacks has both its future quarterback and a franchise edge rusher.

Even though the rebuild is still ongoing, the New York Giants have made significant progress.

Commonly Asked Questions
When will the Giants start Jaxson Dart?

A: The Giants view Dart as their future starter, even though he will initially be expected to learn from veterans.

His readiness to assume leadership will be determined by his development during preseason and training. The Big Blue View

What effect will Abdul Carter have on the defense of the Giants?

A: It is anticipated that Carter’s versatility and pass-rushing ability will improve the Giants’ defensive powers, giving their front seven a major boost. ​

In order to choose Dart, how did the Giants obtain the 25th pick?

A: In order to move up to draft Dar, the Giants gave the Houston Texans their second-round pick (No. 34), a third-round compensatory pick (No. 99), and a 2026 third-round pick.

New York Giants Draft 2025

What are the Giants expected to accomplish this season?

A: The Giants want to improve on their 3-14 season with the arrival of Carter and Dart. These choices are steps toward long-term competitiveness, even when instant success may be lofty.

Introduction: Big Blue’s Franchise-Defining Night

The New York Giants made waves during the 2025 NFL Draft with a daring move that could change the franchise’s destiny. Instead of selecting a quarterback early, they used the third overall pick to acquire Abdul Carter of Penn State, who is perhaps the most dynamic defense in the class.

New York Giants Draft 2025

They acquired Ole Miss quarterback Jaxson Dart at No. 25 later that evening in a well-thought-out deal with the Houston Texans, providing the franchise with a possible future star at the most crucial position in football.

This year, general manager Joe Schoen may have given Giants fans what they’ve long hoped for: a draft haul that offers both short-term impact and long-term promise.

Overview of the Giants’ 2025 First-Round Draft Selections

Pick 3 in Round 1: Abdul Carter, Penn State, EDGE
Round 1, Pick 25 (via Houston): Ole Miss quarterback Jaxson Dart

The remaining selections:

Round 3: No. 65

Round 4: Position 105

Round 5: Seattle’s No. 154

Round 7: Buffalo’s Nos. 219 and 246

The Giants’ pass rush is anchored by explosive edge talent, which is why Abdul Carter was the right choice at number three.

This selection may be defined by the decision to pass up quarterback prospects in favor of the top defensive player available.

The former linebacker-turned-edge rusher Carter adds exceptional quickness, explosive power, and unwavering drive to a defensive line that already boasts players like Kayvon Thibodeaux, Dexter Lawrence, and Brian Burns.

Key Stats for the 2024 season:

Twelve bags

Twenty-four tackles for loss

QB pressures totaled 66 (second in FBS)

Carter’s domination remained unwavering despite sustaining a shoulder injury during the College Football Playoff, displaying the kind of grit and fortitude that Giants supporters look for.

Abdul Carter’s expert draft grades are A+.

“Carter is a twitchy, explosive pass rusher,” said The Ringer. The Giants’ front seven is frightening.

“Best pass rusher in the draft, fits New York’s Super Bowl-winning identity,” says CBS Sports.

Elite-Pro Football Focus: “Among edge rushers, this player has the second-highest pressure count.” absolute power.

A: “A threat off the edge, with All-Pro potential,” according to Sports Illustrated.

Jaxson Dart: The Astute Quarterback Investment at No. 25: The Future Franchise QB?
The Giants managed to get back into Round 1 after acquiring their edge rusher and chose Ole Miss quarterback Jaxson Dart, a dynamic, dual-threat thrower with exceptional deep-ball accuracy and pocket toughness. The Giants provided Dart with the perfect atmosphere to develop without pressure by starting him behind seasoned players Russell Wilson and Jameis Winston.

The Reason Dart Works in New York

Excellent accuracy with the deep ball and a powerful arm

With more over 1,500 running yards in college, Agile

Coaches adore a tough competitor with leadership qualities.

Expert Opinion on the Jaxson Dart Pick: A:

“The Giants did their research,” according to The Athletic. At the proper price, Dart was their man.

“A raw but promising quarterback who won’t be rushed” (B+) according to Fox Sports.

A-ESPN: “Dart has the mentality and physical aptitude to succeed under Brian Daboll.”

In conclusion, a QB plan and a defensive powerhouse

The Giants dominated the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft thanks to Abdul Carter’s potent defensive presence and Jaxson Dart’s potential for growth.

They changed both sides of the ball, adding both instant effect and possibility for the future.

This draft class might serve as the cornerstone of the Giants’ upcoming postseason run — and perhaps much more — for a squad looking for identity and stability.

Commonly Asked Questions
Is Abdul Carter prepared for the NFL?

Indeed. Carter, who is regarded as one of the draft’s most pro-ready athletes, is anticipated to start right away with Burns and Lawrence.

New York Giants Draft 2025

In 2025, will Jaxson Dart begin?

Not likely. Dart will probably sit his first season and grow under Brian Daboll with Russell Wilson and Jameis Winston on the roster.

What is the impact of this draft on Kayvon Thibodeaux?

The addition of Carter increases depth and competition. Depending on formations, Thibodeaux may rotate more frequently or take on specialized positions.

In recent memory, is this the greatest Giants draft?

Although it’s too soon to tell, a number of observers believe that this could be the Giants’ most significant first-round selection since 2004 (Eli Manning).

Which draft needs are the Giants most pressing?

On Days 2 and 3, you should keep an eye on the offensive line, cornerback, and wide receiver positions.

New York Giants Draft 2025