The dust has settled on the 2025 NFL Draft, and most of the major free agency moves are complete. Now, all eyes turn toward OTAs as rookies and newcomers are getting their first real opportunities to impress and prove they belong.
For the coaching staff, these pre-training camp practices offer a glimpse into how quickly rookies are adjusting to the playbook, the speed of the pro game, and the daily grind of life in the NFL. For veteran players, it’s an opportunity to get to know the new guys.
Here’s one rookie from each of the 32 NFL teams to keep an eye on at OTAs.
Arizona Cardinals: CB Will Johnson
After finishing 27th in PFSN’s Defense+ metric and fielding the NFL’s worst pass success rate last season (50.2%), the Arizona Cardinals entered the offseason with major question marks at the cornerback position.
Third-year cornerback Garrett Williams enjoyed a breakout season in 2024, establishing himself as one of the league’s best young slot corners. The rest of the room is largely unproven. Max Melton is gearing up for a larger role after starting three games as a rookie. The unit’s depth recently took a hit when Sean Murphy-Bunting went down with a season-ending non-contact injury.
Though he’s coming off a season-ending knee injury, the Cardinals are hoping second-round pick Will Johnson is ready to go. The Michigan product was a top-12 prospect and the best cornerback on our pre-draft Big Board, but he fell out of the first round, likely due to health concerns over a previously undisclosed “knee issue.”
Will Johnson working at Arizona Cardinals OTAs pic.twitter.com/DYUz1ccZES
— PHNX Cardinals (@PHNX_Cardinals) June 3, 2025
Arizona needed to acquire a starting boundary corner, and Johnson fits to a tee what Jonathan Gannon needs. Johnson’s physical tools are evident, but it’s his playmaking ability and sharp route recognition that truly set him apart as a top prospect.
With a tall, rangy build and impressive speed and fluidity in coverage, he moves with confidence and control. His high football IQ makes him a reliable presence on the back end, and he has a natural feel for creating turnovers.
Atlanta Falcons: S Xavier Watts
The Falcons’ defense struggled mightily in 2024, finishing 29th in the NFL in our Defense+ metric and routinely getting picked apart through the air. Atlanta allowed a 51.9% success rate on opposing pass attempts (25th in the NFL). That stat highlighted their problems in the secondary, especially at safety, where veteran Justin Simmons remains unsigned.
Enter Xavier Watts, one of the most instinctive and productive defensive backs in the 2025 draft class. A former wide receiver at Notre Dame, Watts brings rare ball skills and an advanced understanding of route concepts and quarterback tendencies. He racked up 13 interceptions over his final two college seasons and earned a reputation for his ability to bait throws and make explosive breaks on the ball.
Though he’ll need to improve as a tackler and in run support, Watts’ range and versatility give Atlanta something they desperately lacked last year: turnover potential on the back end. He’s a strong candidate to earn early snaps, and his development will be worth watching closely as the Falcons aim to rebound defensively in 2025.
Baltimore Ravens: EDGE Mike Green
Given his off-field concerns and questions about the level of competition at Marshall, it’s not a shock that Mike Green fell a little in the draft. However, the Baltimore Ravens landing him at the end of the second round is a huge win.
Green was the most productive pass rusher in this year’s draft class, racking up 17 sacks and 23 tackles for loss for the Thundering Herd in 2024. His fluidity should allow him to play stand-up edge rusher snaps for the Ravens’ odd fronts, and he adds important depth to a position where Odafe Oweh is in the final year of his rookie contract.
Baltimore’s defense finished in the top 10 in our Defense+ metric last season. The unit had a solid pass rush, ranking second in the NFL in sacks (54.0) and seventh in pressures (235), according to TruMedia.
However, the Ravens’ 33% pressure rate ranked 21st. If Green’s pass-rush arsenal can translate to the next level, he’ll strengthen a group that already got double-digit sacks out of both Oweh and Kyle Van Noy in 2024.
Buffalo Bills: DT T.J. Sanders
After finishing as a top-seven defense in each of the last three seasons, the Buffalo Bills finished 18th in our Defense+ metric during the regular season. That’s not the biggest surprise, given that this was largely billed as a rebuilding season for this unit.
The Bills weren’t bad in the trenches, but the interior of the defensive line was inconsistent. The defense ranked third in run defense success rate (58.4%) but allowed 4.5 yards per carry (19th in the NFL).
General manager Brandon Beane and the front office entered the offseason needing to bolster depth on the defensive front. They signed veteran Larry Ogunjobi in free agency but knew they needed to continue attacking the position through the draft. T.J. Sanders and Deone Walker add valuable depth to a group that was lacking. Sanders, in particular, comes with high upside and could make an immediate impact as a rookie.
At around 6’4”, 297 pounds, with over 33” arms, Sanders has a sturdy profile for interior work. He’s explosive off the ball and uses violent hands to overwhelm his opponents. Sanders has the explosiveness, lateral range, and strength to win 1-on-1 as a pass-rusher, which will help improve on the team’s 32.5% pressure rate (23rd) in 2024.
Carolina Panthers: WR Tetairoa McMillan
Bryce Young showed great resiliency last season, rebounding after getting benched early in the year. He finished the season strong and earned the full vote of confidence from head coach Dave Canales. Now, the Carolina Panthers are hoping that momentum will carry over into the 2025 season. They knew they needed to continue to add talent around their young quarterback to give him the best chance to succeed, and that’s what they did.
Carolina bolstered its rushing attack by replacing Miles Sanders with former Cowboy Rico Dowdle. They’ll pair him up with Chuba Hubbard in the backfield. Then, the Panthers added a dynamic weapon to the passing game in Tetairoa McMillan — arguably the best wideout in this year’s class and a player unlike anyone on the roster.
McMillan can be an elite chain-moving and vertical threat with his explosiveness, body control, and hand strength. He may not have the speed to create home-run threats down the field, but his athletic traits could make him a high-volume target at the next level as well as a tremendous red-zone threat. McMillan’s ability after the catch would also provide a boost to a Carolina offense that ranked last in average YAC per reception (4.2).
Chicago Bears: OT Ozzy Trapilo
The Chicago Bears’ offensive line was a middle-of-the-pack unit last season. While the group was inconsistent, it wasn’t as big a reason for the team’s offensive woes as things were made out to be. Chicago’s 10.7% sack rate was the worst in the NFL in 2024, but the offensive line was asked to block for the fourth-longest time of any unit (3.09 seconds). The Bears also ranked 15th in pass block win rate, which is respectable.
Still, Ryan Poles and the front office made it a point to upgrade the talent up front. They started by completely revamping the interior of the unit, adding three starter-level players in center Drew Dalman, left guard Joe Thuney, and right guard Jonah Jackson.
Chicago selected Boston College’s Ozzy Trapilo in the second round of the 2025 NFL Draft. He has been turning heads early at OTAs, according to NFL player-turned-analyst Clay Harbor. With the futures of left tackle Braxton Jones and right tackle Darnell Wright uncertain, the rookie could play his way into either starting job in 2025.
Trapilo is more of a natural right tackle, as his size profile (6’8″, 330 pounds) is more fitting there, and he has significantly more experience playing on the right side. He is massive, athletic for his size, flexible in recovery, and he can overwhelm and drive defenders off the ball. Trapilo quietly profiles as a long-term starter.
Cincinnati Bengals: G Dylan Fairchild
With stars like Joe Burrow, Ja’Marr Chase, Tee Higgins, and an emerging Chase Brown, the Cincinnati Bengals have the firepower to score with anyone in the league. But inconsistent offensive line play has often held the unit back. In 2024, Cincinnati ranked dead last in pass-block win-rate and 30th in run-block win-rate.
That’s where rookie guard Dylan Fairchild comes in. The former Georgia standout brings a blend of size, athleticism, and toughness that matches the Bengals’ blueprint for developing interior linemen. While his technique is still a work in progress, Fairchild’s raw traits are hard to miss. He’s quick on his feet, plays with an aggressive edge, and has the recovery skills needed to compete in pass protection, something Cincinnati is laser-focused on improving to protect Burrow.
Fairchild isn’t a pure power player in the run game, but he moves well in space and understands how to leverage angles. Early in his career, he projects as quality depth, but don’t be surprised if he pushes for playing time sooner than expected. His development could be key to shoring up one of the team’s most pressing weaknesses.
Cleveland Browns: QB Shedeur Sanders
The Cleveland Browns’ most glaring need was at the quarterback position. The offense was arguably the worst in football, spearheaded by lackluster quarterback play. Deshaun Watson played in just seven games, but he was bad when he was out there and finished last out of 39 qualified QBs in our QB+ metric. Jameis Winston wasn’t much better at 29th.
General manager Andrew Berry knew the Browns couldn’t compete with a similar performance from the most important position in 2025. Still, their approach to the position in the draft was a bit puzzling. The Browns drafted Dillon Gabriel in the third round, only to come back and take Shedeur Sanders in the fifth round. They now have five quarterbacks on the roster, including veterans Joe Flacco and Kenny Pickett.
It’s anyone’s guess which signal-callers will make the final roster, let alone start in Week 1. However, there’s no denying that Sanders offers the most upside. The No. 2 overall prospect on PFSN’s Big Board went on an unprecedented slide that appeared to be about more than just football. The Browns got absurd value by landing him in the fifth.
Sanders enters the NFL with something to prove and the tools to back it up. While his draft position may not reflect his true potential, his college production and pedigree speak volumes. Sanders is calm under pressure, showing consistent poise in the pocket and the ability to deliver accurate, confident throws. He may not be a dual-threat athlete, but his football IQ, leadership qualities, and command of the offense give him a strong foundation to grow into a starting role.
Dallas Cowboys: RB Jaydon Blue
The Dallas Cowboys’ run game fell flat in 2024, finishing 30th in yards per carry (4.0) and dead last in rushing touchdowns (six). To address the issue, Dallas brought in Javonte Williams and Miles Sanders in free agency. While both are capable veterans, neither has recently shown the consistency of a true No. 1 back, which leaves the door open for a newcomer to make an impact.
Jaydon Blue is a rookie running back with home-run potential. Though he was never the featured back at Texas, Blue routinely showed off elite burst, sharp change-of-direction skills, and receiving ability that fits perfectly in today’s NFL. He comes in with low mileage and looked more polished as the 2024 college season progressed.
At 5’9″, 196 pounds, Blue is a quick-cutting runner with excellent acceleration. His 4.38 speed shows up on tape. What truly sets him apart is his value in the passing game. He’s a matchup problem for linebackers and adds a versatile dimension to the offense.
Denver Broncos: RB R.J. Harvey
The Denver Broncos didn’t have many holes on their roster heading into the 2025 NFL Draft, but they did need to upgrade at running back. Denver moved on from 2021 second-round pick Javonte Williams this offseason after he failed to deliver on the hype, averaging under 4.0 yards per carry in each of the past two seasons.
For perspective: Bo Nix closed out the 2024 season with just 83 fewer rushing yards than Williams despite having 47 fewer carries.
Last year, Denver’s ground game averaged 1.62 yards before contact per carry, ranking 8th in the NFL. However, they managed only 2.51 yards after contact per carry, which ranked 29th. The disparity suggests the offensive line (1st in PFSN’s OL rankings) wasn’t the issue. Instead, it was an overall lackluster rushing attack.
For the Broncos’ offense to take another leap in the upcoming season, they’ll need more production from their running backs. Head coach Sean Payton is hoping that R.J. Harvey can be a big part of the solution. The UCF product may not have been the highest-ranked back available when he came off the board, but this class was deep and talented.
At 5’8”, 205 pounds, Harvey is one of the most elusive, instinctive, and dynamic runners in the rookie class. He has a strong chance to start right away and give the Broncos a clear lead back after using a three-way committee in 2024.
Detroit Lions: G Tate Ratledge
The Detroit Lions’ offensive line has been among the NFL’s best over the past couple of seasons, and they finished in the top five in our OL+ metric in 2024. The group is led by two-time All-Pro offensive tackle Penei Sewell, but it could be a challenge for Detroit to field an elite unit again in 2025, as the line will look a bit different, particularly on the interior.
Guard Kevin Zeitler left in free agency (Titans), and Pro Bowl center Frank Ragnow recently retired at just 29 years old. The departures of Zeitler and Ragnow leave two starting jobs on the interior up for grabs. Not only that, both layers were among the best at their respective positions. Now, the Lions must turn to younger, less experienced talents to block for one of the league’s most explosive offenses.
Second-round pick Tate Ratledge went from competing with Christian Mahogany for a starting spot in Year 1 to virtually being penciled in as a starter due to the exodus of veteran talent. The former Georgia Bulldog should be up to the task, though.
Ratledge is as rock solid as it gets. He comes with plenty of experience after starting 37 games at Georgia. He’s powerful in the ground game and can also be an anchor in pass protection. Ratledge possesses an unorthodox build (6’6” and 320 pounds) for an interior offensive lineman but his power and explosiveness allow him to thrive.
Green Bay Packers: WR Matthew Golden
The Green Bay Packers had not drafted a wide receiver in the first round of the NFL Draft since they selected Javon Walker back in 2002. However, Matthew Golden, who was PFSN’s top-rated wide receiver and the 14th overall prospect, was still on the board.
The Packers’ wide receiver room didn’t have a bona-fide No. 1 receiver, not to say that the group lacks talent. Jayden Reed, Romeo Doubs, Christian Watson, and Dontayvion Wicks have all flashed. But a significant hurdle heading into the offseason was the health of Watson, who tore his ACL at the end of the 2024 season and is anticipated to miss a considerable portion of the 2025 season.
Golden’s arrival could ensure that Green Bay’s offense doesn’t miss a beat while offering the potential for more. He has the tools to develop into a No. 1 option for Jordan Love. At 5’11”, 191 pounds, Golden’s 4.29 40-yard dash has caused many to bill him as a speed WR primarily, but that’s a misconception.
He certainly has high-end speed, but he wins with his fluid and twitched-up mobility as a separator, and his liquid-smooth skills at the catchpoint.
There will be plenty of mouths to feed in Green Bay, but that’s not exactly a bad problem to have. Golden is as explosive as they come, and he could establish himself as a legitimate impact playmaker early on.
Houston Texans: OT Aireontae Ersery
Offensive line play was the Houston Texans’ biggest weakness. Houston allowed a 10.7% sack rate in the face of the blitz (27th) and a 35.2% pressure rate (25th) against four or fewer pass rushers last season. While C.J. Stroud had a tendency to hold the ball longer than he should, the offensive line was clearly out of sorts all season long.
The Texans’ front office had an interesting way of addressing the weakness in free agency. They traded away their top asset in five-time Pro Bowl left tackle Laremy Tunsil, as well as guard Kenyon Green. They signed veteran Laken Tomlinson and acquired guard Ed Ingram in a trade, but those additions are a net negative.
The addition of Minnesota’s Aireontae Ersery in the second round of the draft provides a bit of optimism for the future of the group, though. Aireontae Ersery is a mountain of a man who can impact the game as a run blocker and a pass protector.
Ersery is hard to miss on the field, standing 6-foot-6 and weighing 330 pounds. He brings overwhelming power as a run blocker, consistently driving defenders off the ball. He also has the ideal frame and arm length to handle NFL-caliber edge rushers in pass protection. Given Ersery’s high-upside traits and the uncertainty in Houston, it wouldn’t be surprising to see him start at some point in Year 1.
Indianapolis Colts: TE Tyler Warren
The Indianapolis Colts’ offense struggled with inconsistency in 2024, ranking 21st in EPA per play (-0.04) and 19th in points per drive (1.91). While quarterback instability was a significant factor, the team needed to provide Anthony Richardson with more offensive support to accurately assess his potential as a long-term solution.
Indianapolis already had a promising trio of wide receivers in Michael Pittman Jr., Josh Downs, and Alec Pierce, but the tight end room remained underwhelming. Tyler Warren fell right into the Colts’ lap at 14th overall, and he could pan out to be a massive steal. The Penn State product checks every box for a modern NFL tight end. He possesses ideal size, athleticism, blocking ability, and pass-catching skills. He has the potential to make an immediate impact in both the passing game and run game.
Whether it’s generating yards after the catch, stretching the field, or serving as a reliable red-zone target, he offers versatility that fits any offensive scheme. His route running is sharper than expected for his size, and he takes pride in his work as a blocker. No matter who lines up under center for the Colts, Warren has the tools to become an immediate and dependable option like he was in college.
Jacksonville Jaguars: CB/WR Travis Hunter
Travis Hunter is a true unicorn — a generational athlete with legitimate two-way ability. So, it’s no surprise that the Jacksonville Jaguars traded up to get him. New general manager James Gladstone and company paid a pretty penny to land Hunter, but he definitely has the goods to deliver a return on investment.
Hunter stands out as a rare playmaker, one who doesn’t come around often. He was considered by many as one of only a few blue-chip prospects in the 2025 draft class. He simply was that good as both Jackson State and Colorado.
As a wide receiver, he’s exceptional. His explosion, bend, agility, and IQ allow him to slice through defensive coverage, generate significant yards after the catch, and make incredible, high-flying grabs. Hunter’s elite athleticism shows up right away on defense, too, as he’s a cornerback with the athletic tools to match up against the opponent’s best receiver and the ball skills to be a true turnover threat.
Bro is a unicorn 🦄@TravisHunterJr | @Dream_Finders
— Jacksonville Jaguars (@Jaguars) June 3, 2025
Hunter’s arrival actually fills a need for the Jaguars on both sides of the ball. Jacksonville saw some turnover this offseason at the offensive skill positions. Christian Kirk and Evan Engram are gone, which left Brian Thomas Jr. as the only proven pass-catching threat. Though Thomas solidified himself as a rising WR1, the threat of Hunter being on the field will help open up the field.
On the other side of the ball, the Jaguars’ pass defense came on strong towards the end of the season, but they ranked 31st in pass defense success rate for much of the year. They added Jourdan Lewis as the slot corner, but Hunter is the type of player who can elevate this unit. It will be interesting to see how Liam Coen and his staff deploy Hunter in camp.
Kansas City Chiefs: WR Jalen Royals
The Kansas City Chiefs finished outside of the top 10 in our 2024 regular-season rankings, but they flipped the switch in the postseason once again. Even though Patrick Mahomes never really had his full complement of weapons, Kansas City’s depth allowed them to get production from different places. Now, the Chiefs have added another intriguing weapon to their receiving corps, which already includes Rashee Rice, Hollywood Brown, and first-round pick Xavier Worthy.
Jalen Royals, a two-year starter at Utah State, could end up being one of the biggest steals of the 2025 draft. He burst onto the national radar with a breakout junior season, leading all FBS players in receiving touchdowns. Royals brings more than just production, as his game is built on speed, body control, and versatility.
A natural vertical threat, Royals has the acceleration and downfield burst to take the top off defenses. But what makes him even more valuable to Kansas City’s offense is his ability to create after the catch. With the Chiefs known for maximizing explosive skill players, Royals’ dynamic skill set could help him emerge as a surprise contributor early on.
Las Vegas Raiders: CB Darien Porter
Despite being fairly decent against the run last season, the Las Vegas Raiders were inconsistent at defending the pass. They ranked 17th in the NFL in pass defense success rate (53.9%), but they allowed a 96.5 opponent passer rating (24th). After losing Nate Hobbs to free agency (Packers) and parting ways with the fiery Jack Jones, the Raiders’ need for cornerback help heightened tremendously.
Jakorian Bennett is a promising young player who was on pace to take a step forward in his second NFL season. Unfortunately, a season-ending injury halted his progress. Still, he’s in a position for an increased role in Year 3, but he needs help if Las Vegas is to improve on last season’s lackluster results.
Former Iowa State standout Darien Porter comes with a strong athletic profile and plenty of upside. At 6-foot-4, he’s a physical specimen who possesses elite height and length for the cornerback position. Porter dominated in coverage for the Cyclones last season, allowing a completion percentage of just 29.4% and a passer rating of 4.7 when targeted. He was a shutdown corner, allowing just five receptions on 17 targets in 12 games.
Porter is on the older side as a rookie (24), but his experience could help him in his battle with Eric Stokes for the starting cornerback spot opposite Bennett.
Los Angeles Chargers: WR Tre Harris
The Los Angeles Chargers found a gem in wide receiver Ladd McConkey in last year’s draft. However, the team’s early playoff exit proved that Justin Herbert needs more reliable offensive weapons at his disposal. The front office actively prioritized bolstering the run game, adding Najee Harris in free agency and Omarion Hampton in Round 1 of the draft.
The additions of Harris and Hampton likely signal that the Chargers’ offense will feature a more ground-and-pound rushing attack that we come to expect from a Jim Harbaugh and Greg Roman-coached team. However, they made sure to upgrade their passing attack, drafting wide receivers Tre Harris and KeAndre Lambert-Smith and tight end Oronde Gadsden II.
At 6’2”, 205 pounds, Harris projects as a true X-receiver who can complement McConkey’s skill set. He’s an imposing physical presence with elite hands at the catch point. He’s also a dangerous threat in the red zone (15 touchdowns across two seasons at Ole Miss). Harris is impressively explosive and fluid for his size. His combination of athletic profile and tools is something that Los Angeles has been missing, especially with Quentin Johnston underperforming so far in his career.
Los Angeles Rams: LB Chris Paul Jr.
General manager Les Snead and the Los Angeles Rams’ front office have nailed several picks on the defensive side of the ball over the past couple of seasons — including Jared Verse, Kobie Turner, and Byron Young. There’s reason to believe they may have found another gem.
Chris Paul Jr. brings an instinctive, high-effort style of play that aligns perfectly with the Rams’ defensive identity. He thrives in high-tempo situations and plays with the kind of motor and football awareness that makes him a natural fit for a unit that leans heavily on speed and pursuit. His versatility also gives him a chance to carve out a role early, particularly on passing downs.
Though Paul doesn’t boast elite size or measurables, he makes up for it with sharp instincts and solid technique. He’s a tough, smart player with leadership traits and a feel for where the ball is going. If he continues to develop, he could push for real snaps as a rookie and potentially grow into a starting role down the line.
Miami Dolphins: DT Kenneth Grant
The Miami Dolphins were strong against the run in 2024, finishing 12th in yards per carry allowed (4.4) and seventh in rushing touchdowns allowed (12). With veteran Calais Campbell departing this offseason, bolstering the defensive line became a clear priority for Miami. Zach Sieler will lead this group, and with Campbell out of the picture, the Dolphins will count on their first-round pick to deliver early on.
Kenneth Grant is a unique player. Standing at 6’3″, 330 pounds, the Michigan product is a freakish athlete for his size, and he possesses the power and quickness to become a true game-wrecker as a run stuffer and pass rusher. He still has room to grow as a complete NFL player, with his inconsistency and conditioning occasionally surfacing as issues. Still, his performance against elite competition suggests he’s ready to come in and be a Day 1 contributor and offer three-down value.
Chris Grier and the front office attacked the interior of their defensive line pretty aggressively in this year’s draft, also taking Maryland’s Jordan Phillips and Georgia Tech’s Zeek Biggers. Expect Miami to foster some competition among the young defensive tackles, but Grant’s sheer upside is unmatched.
Minnesota Vikings: WR Tai Felton
The Minnesota Vikings featured a high-powered offense in 2024, averaging over 24 points per game, but their production faded late in the season. With Sam Darnold now in Seattle, the focus shifts to rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy taking over. The Vikings already have a dynamic duo at receiver in Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison, but the WR3 competition could be wide open with third-round pick Tai Felton in the mix.
Felton adds a burst of speed and playmaking ability to the Vikings’ receiving corps. The former Maryland standout delivered a breakout season in 2024, showcasing his deep speed and route-running polish. He became the first player in school history to start a season with four consecutive 100-yard games, displaying both consistency and explosiveness. Though he has a slender build and isn’t known for winning physical battles, Felton consistently finds separation and creates after the catch.
Felton is more than just a vertical threat. He can move the chains and produce chunk plays in the short-to-intermediate game. His 4.3 speed makes him dangerous after the catch as well. The Vikings don’t need him to be a star, but he has the tools to get reps early on.
New England Patriots: RB TreVeyon Henderson
The New England Patriots had more pressing needs than running back when they took TreVeyon Henderson off the board in the second round of the 2025 NFL Draft, but he immediately raises the floor of the Patriots’ backfield.
New England didn’t get nearly as much production from the running back position as it hoped last season. While the Patriots finished 13th in yards per carry (4.4), they ranked 25th in rushing touchdowns (11) and 3rd-down rush conversion rate (47.7%). The group also lost nine fumbles, which was the most by any team in 2024.
With Antonio Gibson on a short-term deal and Rhamondre Stevenson struggling with inconsistency at times, Henderson’s arrival could stabilize this unit. The Ohio State product is a compact, low-to-the-ground runner with stellar slashing explosiveness, one-cut agility, finishing physicality, and receiving versatility. He’s an NFL-ready pass-catcher out of the backfield, and he also holds his own as a pass blocker. Those traits should earn Henderson early snaps, as the Patriots look to support Drake Maye in his second season.
New Orleans Saints: QB Tyler Shough
Expect a lot of growing pains for the New Orleans Saints in 2025, especially at the quarterback position. Derek Carr’s injury and subsequent retirement put a significant damper on this team’s chances to be competitive this upcoming season. With that veteran presence leaving with him, the Saints’ quarterback room is unstable.
Second-round pick Tyler Shough is now in pole position to start for the Saints in Week 1. Spencer Rattler and Jake Haener are also in the mix, but the draft capital that New Orleans used to select Shough suggests that the team his high on his potential as an NFL starting quarterback.
Shough was one of the most polarizing QB prospects in this year’s draft class. He’ll be a 26-year-old rookie, and he has a pretty lengthy injury history. But he was certainly among the most talented options in a rather weak class. Shough is big and athletic, and his experience should work in his favor in camp. Despite his age, he does offer long-term upside.
The Saints’ offense features some explosive weapons in Chris Olave, Rashid Shaheed, and Alvin Kamara. It will be interesting to see how Shough performs and if he can develop chemistry with his weapons to help ease his transition.
New York Giants: DT Darius Alexander
Darius Alexander arrives in New York with the kind of physical profile that immediately grabs attention. At 6’4″, 310 pounds, his combination of size, burst, and raw power is rare for a prospect coming out of the Group of Five. A Second-Team All-MAC selection and a name featured on Bruce Feldman’s annual “Freaks List,” Alexander backed up the hype with elite testing numbers that point to serious upside.
On tape, Alexander consistently imposes his will at the line of scrimmage. His explosive get-off and natural strength allow him to shoot gaps and collapse the pocket from the interior. He’s also shown positional flexibility, with the ability to line up across the defensive front and impact both the run and pass game.
The Giants’ lack of depth on the interior of their defensive line got exposed when Dexter Lawrence went down last season. In Alexander, the Pro Bowl defensive tackle will have a talented running mate to take under his wing.
New York Jets: CB Azareye’h Thomas
The New York Jets’ defense took a sizeable step back in 2024, ending up with a league-average Defense+ ranking after finishing as a top-five unit in each of the prior two seasons. Even though they only recorded seven interceptions last season, the Jets’ pass defense was actually solid, ranking fourth in the league in pass defense success rate (58.0%).
Cornerback wasn’t the most pressing need for the Jets this offseason, but it climbed up the list after D.J. Reed signed with the Lions in free agency. Over the past three seasons with the Jets, Reed allowed a 60.1% completion rate and an 83.3 passer rating with 32 pass breakups and two interceptions, per Pro Football Reference. All-Pro Sauce Gardner is a polarizing player, but he’s undeniably one of the best young corners in the game. Reed won’t be an easy running mate to replace, though.
New York added Brandon Stephens in free agency, but he had his struggles in coverage during his time in Baltimore. Third-round pick Azareye’h Thomas, on the other hand, comes with plenty of upside. When you turn on the tape, you’ll see one of the most complete, physically imposing players in this year’s class. The Florida State product is a press-man savant with suffocating length, quick feet, and soft skills. Thomas plays the game with an edge, and his confidence and dog mentality should mesh well alongside Gardner.
Philadelphia Eagles: DT Ty Robinson
The Philadelphia Eagles were dominant in the trenches on both sides of the football, carrying them on their Super Bowl run last season. Ranked the No. 2 defense in our 2024 rankings, this unit was elite, and it started up front. Led by Jalen Carter and Jordan Davis, Vic Fangio’s defense is stout in the middle. However, Howie Roseman knew he needed to account for the loss of Milton Williams in free agency.
Ty Robinson is a rugged, hard-nosed defensive lineman whose physical style fits the Eagles’ identity. He brings a no-nonsense approach to the trenches, using his strength to hold the point of attack and his effort to wear down opposing linemen. He’s built to contribute right away in the run game, and his play style aligns perfectly with Vic Fangio’s front.
Though he doesn’t have elite length, Robinson compensates with an explosive motor and quick, active hands. He also offers scheme versatility, capable of playing multiple techniques in both odd and even fronts. With a clear opportunity to carve out a role behind Carter and Davis, Robinson is a name to watch closely this summer.
Pittsburgh Steelers: RB Kaleb Johnson
Kaleb Johnson brings the kind of physical, downhill running style that aligns perfectly with the Pittsburgh Steelers’ hard-nosed identity. At 6’0”, 225 pounds, he has the size of a classic power back, but his game is defined more by vision, patience, and timing than brute force. Johnson consistently finds daylight between the tackles and has a knack for turning modest gains into chunk plays.
Here’s 60 seconds of Kaleb Johnson showing us why he’ll be the Steelers’ RB1 pic.twitter.com/g1WiBwOUR7
— Austin Abbott (@AustinAbbottFF) May 27, 2025
He projects as an ideal fit in a complementary backfield role, especially alongside someone like Jaylen Warren, whose quickness provides a contrasting skill set. Johnson’s ability to stay efficient in tight spaces and wear down defenders gives him real value as a potential closer in late-game situations. While he’s still developing in pass protection, he’s shown flashes as a capable receiver out of the backfield.
Johnson’s tape reveals a back who not only holds up to a heavy workload but gets stronger as the game goes on. That could allow him to take over the starting running back job before the season is over.
San Francisco 49ers: EDGE Mykel Williams
The 2025 draft class featured a deep and talented crop of edge rushers, but Mykel Williams’ physical profile stands out as one of the most intriguing. He possesses elite physical attributes, with the ideal size and length for the position. His explosiveness off the line of scrimmage is impressive, and while his pass-rush arsenal is relatively raw, he’s capable of winning as a pass rusher on stunts and with speed-to-power.
Though Williams certainly looks the part, as an imposing physical presence, he was a difficult prospect to project because of his lack of high-level production at the collegiate level. In three seasons at Georgia, he recorded just 14 sacks, according to College Football Reference. Even still, at 6’5” and 260 pounds, with almost 35” arms, he’s a moldable ball of clay.
The San Francisco 49ers hope that Williams can deliver on the promise that commanded such a high draft pick. Their defense was bad last season, finishing 26th in Defense+, the unit’s worst performance since the metric began. The Niners were a below-average pass-rushing team, recording just 37 sacks (23rd in the NFL), 187 pressures (25th), and a 32.9% pressure rate (22nd).
Run defense was an even bigger weakness, as they were 28th in EPA per rush and 25th in rushing success rate. Williams offers a high floor as a run defender, so that’s where he could make an immediate impact while he develops as a pass rusher.
Seattle Seahawks: S Nick Emmanwori
Mike Macdonald proved he was the right man for the job in his first season as head coach of the Seattle Seahawks. Although they fell short of the playoffs, the Seahawks made significant strides on the defensive side of the ball, leaning into Macdonald’s specialty as a defensive-minded coach.
Seattle ranked 29th in Defense+ during Pete Carroll’s final season in charge, but under Macdonald, the defense made a huge leap to sixth. This was an elite unit that excelled at generating pressure on opposing quarterbacks. The Seahawks’ 37.9% pressure rate ranked third in the NFL. However, there’s room for improvement against the pass, as they finished 14th in pass defense success rate (54.6%).
The Seahawks’ secondary has a solid foundation, featuring Riq Woolen, Devon Witherspoon, Julian Love, and Coby Bryant. Adding South Carolina’s Nick Emmanwori makes this group even more dangerous. He’s one of the most talented pure athletes in this year’s class, and it’s difficult to imagine many better situations to learn in than under Macdonald. Emmanwori is a natural in coverage, flashing elite closing speed and physicality coming downhill. While he didn’t fill an immediate need, he could push the starting safeties for snaps.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers: EDGE David Walker
David Walker put together a dominant career at Central Arkansas, leaving as one of the most decorated defenders in school history. Over his final three seasons, he earned three straight First-Team All-American honors while racking up 31 sacks, 63 tackles for loss, and 55 pressures. That’s rare production at any level of college football.
Central Arkansas ED David Walker was outstanding to wrap up Senior Bowl week with a slew of pressures during live reps.
His ability to create push from different alignments is what makes his profile so intriguing. pic.twitter.com/UNoOpZwZDL
— Ryan Fowler (@_RyanFowler_) February 4, 2025
Walker combines a powerful build with a quick burst off the line, allowing him to excel off the snap. Although he may not possess the typical height of an edge rusher, his athleticism provides valuable flexibility across different defensive schemes.
Tampa Bay already boasts a strong pass rush, finishing sixth in the NFL in sacks and fifth in pressure rate last season. But GM Jason Licht saw an opportunity to add even more firepower off the edge, and Walker brings exactly that. If he adjusts quickly to the NFL level, he could force his way into the rotation sooner than expected.
Tennessee Titans: S Kevin Winston Jr.
The Tennessee Titans’ lackluster depth at the safety position was a significant concern heading into the draft. However, they landed one of the more promising prospects in this year’s class. The Titans’ defense ranked 26th in rushing yards allowed and 23rd in rush EPA allowed. Adding a physical presence who thrives in the box was a priority.
Winston’s 2024 season was cut short by an ACL injury, but his 2023 tape showcased a high-impact defender with a fearless mentality. At 6’2”, 205 pounds with long arms and an aggressive style, Winston thrives around the line of scrimmage. He plays downhill with authority, delivers punishing hits, and adds a tone-setting element to the defense that the Titans have lacked on the back end.
Winston is still developing in coverage, but the upside is evident. He offers immediate value as a matchup piece and run-stopping specialist while he develops the rest of his game. Winston has all the tools to evolve into a long-term starter for Tennessee.
Washington Commanders: CB Trey Amos
The Washington Commanders’ defense took a step forward in 2024 under the leadership of Dan Quinn and Joe Whitt Jr. They weren’t elite by any means, but it was refreshing to see how the unit improved during the latter part of the season.
Despite fielding a porous run defense (30th in rush yards allowed) for much of the year, the Commanders’ pass defense came on strong, finishing with the league’s 10th-best pass defense success rate (55.5%).
The emergence of Mike Sainristil, a second-round pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, was a driving factor for Washington’s improved play on defense. The former Michigan Wolverine will be a core piece of the defense in 2025, and the Commanders’ second-rounder this year could have a similar impact early on.
Trey Amos was one of the biggest steals on Day 2 of the draft. The Ole Miss product was the 3rd-best cornerback on PFSN’s Big Board and 16th overall, so the Commanders landing him with the 61st pick was unreal value.
Amos excelled against SEC competition, showing he can hang physically and mentally with the best in college football. His combination of size, length, and athleticism makes him a prototypical boundary cornerback from a physical perspective. Amos’ arrival should allow Sainristil to move back to his natural slot position.
