The 2025 NFL rookie class is brimming with storylines, breakout potential, and some serious “can’t-look-away” energy. From explosive playmakers to positionless unicorns, this crop of first-year pros has us glued to our screens before the preseason even kicks off.
Whether they were Day 1 locks or sneaky mid-round sleepers, these rookies all bring something exciting. Here are the 15 newcomers we can’t wait to watch take the field this fall.
15. Woody Marks, RB, Houston Texans
Houston didn’t just draft Marks—they went after him. That kind of commitment usually means immediate touches, and Marks has the all-purpose game to take full advantage.
14. Larry Burden III, WR, Chicago Bears
Burden’s got that post-catch juice that makes defensive backs panic. If he earns Caleb’s trust early, we might see fireworks in Chicago.
13. Kyle Williams, WR, New England Patriots
Williams brings legit track speed and knows how to make guys miss. If the Patriots use him right, he could be a screen pass-turned-trophy guy.
12. Harold Fannin Jr., TE, Cleveland Browns
Fannin was a matchup problem in college, and that won’t change in the pros. With some opportunity on the horizon in Cleveland, he might sneak into a bigger role fast.
11. Jalon Walker, EDGE, Atlanta Falcons
Atlanta’s a thing for young pass rushers, and Walker fits the bill. He can line up just about anywhere and make life miserable for quarterbacks.
10. Tyler Shough, QB, New Orleans Saints
Shough’s got the big arm, the legs, and a real shot to start Week 1. The Saints are ready to move on from the old guard; he might be the spark they need.
9. Cam Ward, QB, Tennessee Titans
Ward plays with a backyard football flair that’s hard not to love. If Tennessee lets him cut it loose, he could be one of the most entertaining rookies in the league.
8. Matthew Golden, WR, Green Bay Packers
Golden’s speed is a cheat code, and Green Bay’s offense begs for a deep threat. He could be Jordan Love’s new favorite toy on Sundays.
7. RJ Harvey, RB, Denver Broncos
Harvey’s got the wiggle and the vision to make defenders look silly. If he takes over the backfield in Denver, don’t be surprised if he racks up some highlight plays.
6. Colston Loveland, TE, Chicago Bears
Loveland might be the missing piece in Chicago’s revamped offense. He’s athletic, smooth, and has a real chance to shine in a tight end-friendly system.
5. James Pearce Jr., EDGE, Atlanta Falcons
Pearce comes into the league with a reputation for wrecking pockets. If that translates, Atlanta might finally have the pass rush it’s been looking for.
4. Abdul Carter, EDGE, New England Patriots
Carter is a heat-seeking missile off the edge. The Patriots will unleash him early and often, and he’s got the juice to be a game-changer.
3. Tetairoa McMillan, WR, Carolina Panthers
McMillan’s got the size, the routes, and the opportunity to become a WR1 right out of the gate. If Bryce Young clicks with him, defenses are in trouble.
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2. Travis Hunter, CB/WR, Denver Broncos
Hunter might be the most fascinating player in the entire draft. Whether picking off passes or catching them, he will be must-watch TV.
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1. Ashton Jeanty, RB, Las Vegas Raiders
Jeanty is stepping into a dream scenario as the clear lead back in Vegas. He runs angry, catches passes, and could run away with Rookie of the Year.
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