The third round of the 2025 NFL Draft delivered on drama, with bold trades, surprise selections, and future stars taking center stage. NFL Draft Round 3 has always been a critical phase for teams looking to add depth and potential impact players, and this year was no exception.

Highlights from NFL Draft Round 3

NFL Draft round 3 is often where teams show their true scouting chops. The third round in 2025 featured a string of intriguing moves and value picks, as franchises across the league pounced on prospects who had unexpectedly fallen. According to NFL.com's complete pick-by-pick analysis for Day 2, franchises like the New York Giants and Kansas City Chiefs made selections that could define the tail end of their draft classes.

The Giants kicked things off by snagging Darius Alexander, a versatile defensive tackle out of Toledo. The Chiefs grabbed Ashton Gillotte, whose athleticism and high upside at edge rusher offer a tantalizing projection. These choices highlight just how important NFL Draft round 3 is when it comes to finding underappreciated talent.

Surprising Trades and Team Strategies

NFL Draft round 3 is known for its unpredictability. The Las Vegas Raiders provided a masterclass in Day 2 maneuvering. Instead of standing pat, they executed a series of trades to maximize their draft capital. The Raiders' official recap emphasized turning two picks into four on Friday, allowing them to add players like Darien Porter and Charles Grant to both sides of the ball.

General Manager John Spytek remarked, “The value was in Rounds 2 and 3. For us to have as many bolts to shoot into that one was something that we were after.” This strategic approach illustrates why NFL Draft round 3 consistently generates so many key contributors for NFL teams.

Notable NFL Draft Round 3 Picks

From explosive receivers to hard-hitting safeties, round 3 saw a wide variety of talent come off the board:

• Darius Alexander (DT, Toledo) bolsters the Giants’ defensive front.
• Kyle Williams (WR, Washington State) gives the Patriots much-needed depth at receiver.
• Nick Martin (LB, Oklahoma State) provides the 49ers with an energetic, pro-ready linebacker.
• Jalen Milroe (QB, Alabama) joins the Seahawks as a developmental quarterback with athletic upside.
• Dillon Gabriel (QB, Oregon) becomes a high-upside backup or spot starter for the Browns.

Curiously, one of the pre-draft’s most discussed quarterbacks, Shedeur Sanders, remained unselected by the end of round 3. For a detailed look at how this year’s quarterback drama is unfolding, check out Yahoo Sports' complete Day 2 results and grades.

The Impact of NFL Draft Round 3 on Team Building

Round 3 serves as a foundation for building competitive depth and uncovering high-ceiling prospects. With front offices often rolling the dice on players sliding down the board, NFL Draft round 3 can become a launching pad for hidden gems. History reminds us that many third-round picks go on to make immediate contributions or eventually earn starting roles.

Teams like the Raiders, who capitalized on additional picks, and contenders like the Chiefs and 49ers, who focused on athletic upside and roster need, all benefitted from the opportunities presented in round 3. For a comprehensive breakdown of every selection and what it means for each franchise, review the NFL's pick-by-pick breakdown for Rounds 2 and 3.

Conclusion: Looking Ahead to Day 3 and Future Impact

As NFL Draft round 3 concludes, teams have set the stage for a dynamic Day 3. Many prospects are still available, and the choices made in these later rounds will be just as important to the roster-building process. If history is any indication, expect several of these third-rounders to make headlines once the 2025 NFL season kicks off.

Want to stay informed on all draft moves and in-depth player analysis? Be sure to follow ongoing updates and detailed team breakdowns at NFL.com and other expert sources.