ESPN's Mel Kiper didn't love the Cardinals' draft but didn't hate it. In his 2025 NFL draft grades, he gave them a B-plus. Kiper felt taking defensive lineman Walter Nolen 16th overall was a little high and is concerned about his consistency of play from down to down. However, he loved the pick of cornerback Will Johnson in the second round.

The dominating storyline of the 2025 draft was the status of Sanders, creating dramatic TV moments featuring Kiper.

Tampa Bay made only six picks in the draft, but added to the roster with quality corners and a top receiver in Emeka Egbuka. And that class was enough to earn a "B" grade from ESPN draft expert Mel Kiper Jr.