As we prepare for the next crop of talent to enter the NFL through the 2025 NFL Draft, it’s important to analyze how each team has fared in recent years. Let’s break down two players selected in the past two draft classes from each team who could be impact players during the 2025 season.
Arizona Cardinals
2024: WR Marvin Harrison Jr. (Round 1, Pick 4)
Marvin Harrison Jr. had a good rookie season, but it feels like he left meat on the bone. The Ohio State product finished with 62 receptions, 885 receiving yards, and eight touchdowns. Harrison experienced some highs and lows as a rookie.
He caught just one pass for four yards in his NFL debut, and he failed to reach 50 receiving yards in nine games. Harrison’s 21.4% target share ranked 90th in the NFL last season. Arizona drafted him to become the No. 1 option, but tight end Trey McBride was that guy in 2024.
The Cardinals finished with the fifth-ranked offense in the league, according to PFSN’s Offense+ metric. With more involvement in a productive offense, there’s no reason why Harrison can’t enjoy a monster sophomore season.
2023: CB Garrett Williams (Round 3, Pick 72)
Garrett Williams enjoyed a breakout in his second NFL season. His playing time increased from 63% of snaps as a rookie to 76% in 2024. He started 11 games last season, recording 58 tackles, two interceptions, and nine pass breakups. He was targeted 59 times, allowing 33 receptions and a 75.2 passer rating. He also allowed a catch rate over expected of -8.6%.
Williams established himself as one of the best young slot cornerbacks in the league by the end of Year 2. The Syracuse product offers positional versatility, though, as he can line up in multiple spots within the secondary. Arizona had the worst pass success rate of any defense last year, but Williams’ development could help them improve in 2025.
Atlanta Falcons
2024: QB Michael Penix Jr. (Round 1, Pick 8)
The Falcons’ selection of Michael Penix Jr. at No. 8 overall was a controversial one. Atlanta had just given Kirk Cousins a big payday, yet decided to use the draft capital to draft a quarterback. Cousins’ play declined in the second half of the season, leading to Penix getting his first start in Week 16.
Penix started the final three games of the season, throwing for 737 yards, three touchdowns, and three interceptions with a 58% completion percentage and a 78.6 passer rating. His +0.10 EPA per dropback improved to +0.37 when throwing from a clean pocket. Penix showed poise in a small sample size, but he has everything set up for him to have a viable breakout campaign in 2025.
2023: RB Bijan Robinson (Round 1, Pick 8)
Bijan Robinson garnered plenty of hype coming out of Texas. His rookie season left much to be desired, particularly because of how Arthur Smith used him. Robinson saw an uptick in usage in his first season under Zac Robinson as offensive coordinator, and he flashed why so many people were excited about him.
Robinson racked up 1,456 rushing yards (third in the NFL) and 14 touchdowns in 2024 (5th). He was highly active in the passing game, catching 61 passes for 431 yards and another score. Since entering the NFL, Robinson has forced a league-high 190 missed tackles, 15 more than the next closest player, Derrick Henry. His emergence as one of the best backs in the NFL helps take some pressure off a young quarterback like Penix.
Baltimore Ravens
2024: OT Roger Rosengarten (Round 2, Pick 62)
Like many rookies, Baltimore Ravens offensive tackle Roger Rosengarten had his share of ups and downs during the 2024 season. However, by season’s end, the University of Washington product showed why Eric DeCosta and the front office grabbed him in the second round of the draft.
The Ravens finished with the second-best offensive line in the NFL last season, according to PFSN’s OL+ metric. Rosengarten started 16 games at right tackle for Baltimore, including the playoffs. He was credited with four sacks and 36 pressures allowed in 518 pass-blocking snaps. Rosengarten more than held his own as a rookie and stands to continue to develop on a talented roster.
2023: WR Zay Flowers (Round 1, Pick 22)
There are some concerns around whether Zay Flowers can be a No. 1 receiver in the NFL given his size, but he’s produced solid numbers since arriving in Baltimore. As a rookie, Flowers caught 77 passes for 858 yards and five touchdowns. He followed it up by having 74 receptions, 1059 receiving yards, and four scores in Year 2. Flower operated as Lamar Jackson’s top target in 2024, commanding 27% of the team’s targets, after having a 23.4% target share in 2023.
Flowers hasn’t been a major downfield threat during his career. More than 48% of his 116 targets last season had less than 10 air yards. However, he’s very dangerous in space and makes the most of those opportunities. The Ravens missed his presence down the stretch, as he missed both playoff games. Flowers doesn’t profile like a typical No. 1 receiver, but his production in a run-heavy scheme can’t be underestimated.
Buffalo Bills
2024: WR Keon Coleman (Round 2, Pick 33)
Expectations were high for Keon Coleman after the Bills parted ways with Pro Bowl wide receiver Stefon Diggs. Coleman was a big-time playmaker in his lone season at Florida State (led ACC with 11 receiving TDs). He had an up-and-down rookie season, finishing with 29 receptions for 556 yards and four touchdowns.
While Coleman had a low on-field target share (17.6%), his 19.2 yards per reception speak to his ability as a downfield playmaker. He suffered a wrist injury during the season, and Bills GM Brandon Beane noted that he was disappointed with Coleman’s performance after returning to action. That should light a fire under a competitive young player in Coleman. If he can build chemistry with Josh Allen, he has the physical tools to make a leap in his sophomore campaign.
2023: TE Dalton Kincaid (Round 1, Pick 25)
Dalton Kincaid looked every bit the part during his rookie season. He caught 73 passes for 673 yards and two touchdowns. His 91 targets were second on the Bills (behind only Diggs), and he was third in routes run (460). However, Kincaid’s production declined in 2024. He ran just 276 routes in 13 games, leading to a dip in receptions (44) and yards (448). Kincaid and Josh Allen also seemed out of sync for much of the season. His 58.7% catch rate was the worst among qualified tight ends, per Next Gen Stats.
To make matters worse, Kincaid’s 2024 season ended on a sour note with a dropped pass (albeit a difficult one) in a crucial moment of the AFC Championship Game loss to the Chiefs. It’s not farfetched to predict a Kincaid bounce-back in 2025. Injuries played a factor last season, which is part of why the Bills emphasized the need for their young tight end to get stronger in the offseason. Kincaid knows where he needs to improve, and rebuilding chemistry with the reigning NFL MVP is a top priority.
Carolina Panthers
2023: QB Bryce Young (Round 1, Pick 1)
Bryce Young is only entering his third season, but his NFL career has already been a roller coaster. He threw for 2,877 yards, 11 touchdowns, and 10 interceptions with just a 59.8% completion percentage as a rookie. Year 2 started rough as well, as the Panthers benched Young after an 0-2 start to the 2024 season. In those games, he had zero touchdowns, three interceptions, and a 44.1 passer rating.
Young displayed great maturity and resiliency, eventually reclaiming his starting job later in the season. He showed signs of potentially turning a corner, finishing with 2,403 passing yards, 15 touchdowns, nine interceptions, and an 82.2 passer rating. Young posted a B in Week 18, according to our QB+ metric. It was the best performance of his career and his seventh grade of a C or above in his last nine starts. Dave Canales is heading into his second season as head coach, and the staff’s confidence in the 23-year-old quarterback is growing.
2024: LB Trevin Wallace (Round 3, Pick 72)
The Carolina Panthers’ defense struggled mightily in 2024, ranking near the bottom of the NFL in almost every major category. They finished as the 32nd-ranked unit in PFSN’s Defense+ metric. One bright spot, however, was the promise Trevin Wallace displayed as a rookie.
The Kentucky product recorded 63 sacks, two for loss, two forced fumbles, and one sack last season. Wallace started eight games and rose to the occasion with Shaq Thompson and Josey Jewell out due to injuries. He shined in Week 5, recording a career-high 15 tackles against the Bears.
Wallace flashed the athleticism that he showed off at the Scouting Combine during the draft process. There were some issues in pass coverage, as he allowed a passer rating of 133.7 on 235 coverage snaps. Still, he gained valuable experience early on, which could translate into another step in his development in 2025.
Chicago Bears
2023: DT Gervon Dexter Sr. (Round 2, Pick 53)
Gervon Dexter Sr. isn’t a household name, but his early production suggests that he could turn more heads during the 2025 season. The former Florida Gators standout appeared in all 17 games as a rookie, making one start. He finished with 20 tackles, 2.5 sacks, and 29 pressures. Dexter earned a starting role in 2024 and naturally saw a jump in production. He recorded 51 tackles, four tackles for loss, five sacks, and 39 pressures.
Dexter thrived in pass-rush situations for the Bears in 2024. His 11.5% pressure rate tied Giants star Dexter Lawrence for 12th-best among NFL defensive tackles. The 23-year-old is a better player than he was in his rookie season, and he appears to have another gear he can tap into. The Bears added veteran Grady Jarrett in free agency, which bodes well for Dexter’s development, as he now has a 2-time Pro Bowler to learn from.
2024: QB Caleb Williams (Round 1, Pick 1)
Caleb Williams was one of the most hyped-up quarterback prospects in recent memory. With name recognition comes expectations, but things weren’t all that sunny in the Windy City during his rookie season. Williams finished the regular season as the 33rd-ranked quarterback in PFSN’s QB+ metric (63.2, D).
Williams finished with a -0.05 EPA per dropback (31st), a 30.5% third-down conversion rate (36th), and 5.5 net yards per attempt (37th). He was better from a clean pocket, ranking 24th (0.18 EPA/DB) than when pressured (32nd, -0.48 EPA/DB). On a positive note, he had a 3.3 TD/INT ratio. He finished the season relatively strong, which leaves room for optimism as former Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson takes over head coaching duties.
Cincinnati Bengals
2023: RB Chase Brown (Round 5, Pick 163)
Chase Brown was a pleasant surprise for the Bengals’ offense in 2024. After a low-volume rookie season, Cincinnati added sizeable work to Brown’s plate in Year 2. He entered the year competing with Zack Moss for touches, but Brown was a far more productive player. He finished with 990 rushing yards and seven touchdowns on 229 carries.
Brown was also a vital part of the Bengals’ passing attack. He was targeted 65 times (6th among NFL RBs), catching 54 passes for 360 yards and another four scores. He finished with a +0.16 EPA per target. At 5-foot-10, 211 pounds, Brown isn’t a big back, but he’s a playmaker, and his strengths complement what the Bengals want to do on offense.
2024: OT Amarius Mims (Round 1, Pick 18)
Amarius Mims got thrown into the fire much sooner than anticipated after Trent Brown went down with a season-ending injury in Week 3. The Georgia product stepped in and performed admirably given the circumstances.
Mims started 13 games and allowed four sacks, five quarterback hits, and 33 pressures. His 6.4% pressure rate allowed was fourth-best among rookie offensive tackles last season. Standing 6’8″, 350 pounds, Mims is a mountain of a man. With dominant pass rushers like Myles Garrett and T.J. Watt in the AFC North, the Bengals are counting on him to turn into a star in the near future.
Cleveland Browns
2023: WR Cedric Tillman (Round 3, Pick 74)
Cedric Tillman had a slow start to his NFL career. He caught 21 passes for 224 yards on 44 targets as a rookie. While he only saw five more targets in 2024, his reps were much more impactful. Tillman saw just five targets through the first six weeks, but his role increased in Week 7.
Between Weeks 7 and 9, Tillman recorded 21 receptions for 255 yards and three touchdowns. He had a +0.33 EPA per target and averaged 12.59 air yards per target during that span. Most of his 2024 production came during this three-game stretch, but his talent and upside were on full display. As it stands, Tillman projects as a starter in a thin WR room that also features Jerry Jeudy.
2024: DT Mike Hall Jr. (Round 2, Pick 54)
Mike Hall Jr.’s rookie season was filled with highs and lows. The former Ohio State star appeared in just eight games in 2024. He was suspended for five games for violating the league’s personal conduct policy and missed additional time with a knee injury. Hall made an impact when he was on the field, though. He finished the season with 13 tackles, three tackles for loss, 16 pressures, and one sack.
Hall was strong as a run defender and flashed upside as a pass rusher. The sample size was smaller than the Browns would’ve liked, but the potential is evident. Hall will be 22 when the new season begins, and he’ll play alongside veterans in Shelby Harris and Maliek Collins, who can help bring him along.
Dallas Cowboys
2024: LB Marist Liufau (Round 3, Pick 87)
Marist Liufau exceeded expectations for the Cowboys in 2024. The Notre Dame product started nine games during his rookie campaign, finishing with 46 tackles, four tackles for loss, 1.5 sacks, and two forced fumbles. Liufau logged just nine snaps in Week 1, but his opportunities increased as the season went on, and he made the most of them. DeMarvion Overshown suffered a season-ending injury, and Liufau outplayed Damone Clark. Over the last four games of the season, he recorded 24 tackles.
Liufau’s late-season surge may have solidified his place as a starter in 2025. His high motor and aggressive style of play can be a gift and a curse, but he undoubtedly opened some eyes as a rookie. The linebacker group in Dallas has been unstable of late, but Liufau showed flashes of promise, and he could make another leap in Year 2.
2024: OL Cooper Beebe (Round 3, Pick 73)
The Cowboys’ offensive line was just a league-average unit in 2024. The retirements of Zack Martin and Tyron Smith leave more questions heading into 2025. However, one potential bright spot could be Cooper Beebe’s continued development. Beebe started 16 games as a rookie, allowing three sacks, 5 quarterback hits, and 18 pressures. His 2.9% pressure rate allowed was second-best among all rookie offensive linemen.
Beebe offers the Cowboys positional versatility, as he can play center and either guard spot. He started at center in 2024 and played well, but guard is his natural position. It remains to be seen how Dallas will deploy him in 2025, but he proved that he was ready to be a Day 1 starter and that he can be an important piece up front moving forward.
Denver Broncos
2023: WR Marvin Mims Jr. (Round 2, Pick 63)
Marvin Mims Jr. emerged as an exciting playmaker for the Broncos’ offense last season. His rookie season was relatively quiet offensively, though he made the Pro Bowl as a return specialist. However, Mims’ role within the offense grew in Year 2.
Mims caught 39 passes for 503 yards and six touchdowns in 2024. He was fifth on the team in targets (26.1% ). Still, he made some electric plays with his opportunities, with 92.6% of his total yards coming after the catch — the highest by any wide receiver last season. Mims has already earned Sean Payton’s trust, so it’s safe to expect his role on offense to continue to expand.
2024: QB Bo Nix (Round 1, Pick 12)
The development of young weapons only stands to benefit Bo Nix, who’s coming off a strong rookie campaign. Nix threw for 3,775 yards and posted a TD/INT ratio of 2.4, which ranked 16th in the NFL. His 29 passing touchdowns finished sixth among all quarterbacks. He also ranked 18th in passer rating (93.3) and 20th in EPA per dropback (+0.03).
Nix was also a threat as a runner, finishing with 430 yards and four touchdowns on the ground. Additionally, 21.9% of his passes were on the run, and he threw for a league-high 904 yards and eight TDs while on the run, according to Next Gen Stats.
Nix finished the regular season as the 18th-ranked quarterback in QB+, but his playoff performance boosted him to 12th overall. Many doubted his potential as an NFL starter, but he seemed to silence them pretty quickly.
Detroit Lions
2023: RB Jahmyr Gibbs (Round 1, Pick 12)
Jahmyr Gibbs has quickly blossomed into one of the NFL’s premier running backs, all while sharing carries with David Montgomery. Despite splitting carries, Gibbs saw his workload increase in 2024, partially due to Montgomery missing a few games due to injury. Gibbs rushed for 1,412 yards (5th in NFL) and 16 touchdowns (1st) on 250 carries (11th).
Gibbs was also a big-time weapon for Jared Goff and the passing attack, catching 52 passes for 517 yards and another four scores. He commanded 21.7% of Detroit’s targets and posted a +0.26 EPA per target. Gibbs also had the most explosive plays in the NFL in 2024 (41), further establishing himself as an elite playmaker.
2024: G Christian Mahogany (Round 6, Pick 210)
The Lions had the fifth-ranked offensive line in PFSN’s rankings. However, left guard Graham Glasgow’s play declined down the stretch. Right guard Kevin Zeitler was a free agent and signed with the Tennessee Titans. Rookie Christian Mahogany made two starts late in the season and showed signs of being capable of taking over one of the starting spots.
Mahogany stepped in for the injured Glasgow in Week 16, and he started at right guard for Zeitler in the playoff loss to the Commanders. He played a total of 143 snaps and allowed one sack and four pressures. The Lions already lost Zeitler, so expect Mahogany to have every opportunity to crack the starting lineup next season.
Green Bay Packers
2023: CB Carrington Valentine (Round 7, Pick 232)
Jaire Alexander has been a cornerstone of the Green Bay Packers’ defense since arriving in 2018, but he may have played his last down with the team. The Packers are reportedly open to trading the two-time Pro Bowler, so someone else will need to step up. Carrington Valentine is a player who fits that bill.
Valentine, a seventh-round pick out of Kentucky in 2023, has made 19 starts over the past two seasons. He was projected as an excellent athlete with some technique issues, but he has exceeded expectations. Through two seasons, he has 76 tackles, two interceptions, and 14 pass breakups. As the nearest defender, Valentine allowed a passer rating of 69.0 and -13.1 target EPA (30 targets) in 2024.
At 23 years old, he’s a young player still learning as part of the NFL’s youngest team. Given his performance early in his career, the upside for 2025 and beyond is undeniable.
2024: LB Edgerrin Cooper (Round 2, Pick 45)
It didn’t take long for Edgerrin Cooper to establish himself as an impact player for the Packers’ defense. The Texas A&M product appeared in 14 games, recording 77 tackles, 13 tackles for loss, 3.5 sacks, a forced fumble, and two recoveries. A hamstring injury caused Cooper to miss some time during the season, but his presence was felt whenever he was on the field.
Cooper was also strong in pass coverage. He was targeted 25 times, allowing just 14 receptions, a 57.1 passer rating, and a -20.5% catch rate over expected. Cooper played just 469 snaps, which was just 55.3% of Green Bay’s defensive snaps. That makes his Year 1 production even more impressive.
Houston Texans
2023: EDGE Will Anderson Jr. (Round 1, Pick 3)
Will Anderson Jr. was a high-level contributor for the Texans’ defense from Day 1. The former Crimson Tide star racked up 45 tackles, 10 tackles for loss, seven sacks, and 59 pressures in 2023, on his way to winning Defensive Rookie of the Year honors.
Anderson’s sack total jumped to 11 in 2024 (10th in the NFL), and he posted a pressure rate of 14.7%, which was a slight dip from 15.8% in 2023. Still, the young edge rusher was a force in Houston. He and Danielle Hunter combined for 24.5 sacks (including playoffs), which tied for the most of any teammate duo in the league. At 23 years old, Anderson is just getting started.
2024: S Calen Bullock (Round 3, Pick 78)
Houston drafted Kamari Lassiter and Calen Bullock in the 2024 NFL Draft, and both showed signs of promise in Year 1. The latter was a 3rd-round selection out of USC, and he left his mark on the Texans’ 2024 season.
Bullock finished with 51 tackles, five interceptions, and 11 pass breakups in 2024. The first-year safety tied All-Pro cornerback Derek Stingley Jr. for the most interceptions on the team. Bullock’s coverage skills were a big part of why Houston drafted him, and he did not disappoint. He was targeted 28 times, allowing just 11 receptions, the lowest completion percentage allowed (39.3%) last season with at least 25 targets.
He projects as the starting free safety, and with 15 starts already under his belt, he could reach new heights in Year 2.
Indianapolis Colts
2023: CB Jaylon Jones (Round 7, Pick 221)
The Colts drafted a few defensive backs in 2023, but the one they selected last might be the best of the bunch. JuJu Brents suffered a season-ending injury early in the season, and Jaylon Jones stepped up as the team’s top cornerback the rest of the way.
Jones played 610 coverage snaps in 2024, recording two interceptions and 12 pass breakups. He was targeted 92 times as the nearest defender and allowed a 65.2% catch rate and 80.7 passer rating. He gave up five touchdowns in 2023 but just one in 2024. The overall numbers may not jump off the page, but Jones’ role significantly increased in Year 2, and that experience should build confidence heading into 2025.
2024: OL Tanor Bortolini (Round 4, Pick 117)
The Colts lost two starting offensive linemen to free agency in center Ryan Kelly and guard Will Fries (both signed with the Vikings). The 16th-ranked offensive line in our rankings will need a new starting center and right guard next season. 2024 fourth-round pick Tanor Bortolini is one of the players who’ll be asked to step up.
Bortolini made five starts last season, allowing zero sacks, three quarterback hits, and a pressure rate of 3.6% on 198 pass block snaps. His pressure rate allowed tied with Chargers tackle Joe Alt for the 3rd-best mark among rookie offensive linemen in 2024. With Kelly gone, the Wisconsin product is in line to be the Colts’ starting center in 2025.
Gaining experience as a rookie could serve him well, and it’s likely why Indianapolis felt comfortable letting two starters walk in free agency. There will be plenty of pressure on Bartolini’s shoulders, though, as he’s anchoring an offensive line protecting Anthony Richardson, who has yet to live up to the hype.
Jacksonville Jaguars
2023: TE Brenton Strange (Round 2, Pick 61)
The Jaguars moved on from Evan Engram this offseason. He posted a career-high 114 receptions and 963 yards in 2023. He was one of Trevor Lawrence’s preferred targets again in 2024 before his season was cut short after nine games. Now, the Jaguars will turn to Brenton Strange, the former Penn State standout.
Strange has made 14 starts over two seasons. His role as a rookie was minimal, but he made strides in 2024, particularly after Engram went down to injury. He caught 40 passes for 411 yards and two scores on 53 targets. He posted a catch rate over expected of +5.1. There is a youth movement brewing at the skill positions in Jacksonville, and Strange’s play suggests he’ll have a big role in 2025.
2024: WR Brian Thomas Jr. (Round 1, Pick 23)
Brian Thomas Jr. turned out to be a bona fide steal for the Jaguars. The LSU product racked up 1,282 receiving yards (third in the NFL). He also led all rookies in receiving touchdowns (10). Thomas became just the fourth rookie in the Super Bowl era to have at least 1,100 receiving yards and 10 TDs.
Thomas posted 11 games with at least 75 receiving yards, the most such games by a rookie in the Super Bowl era. He quickly established himself as the go-to target for Lawrence. With Christian Kirk and Engram no longer on the roster, Thomas should be the No. 1 option for Jacksonville for the foreseeable future.
Kansas City Chiefs
2023: CB Chamarri Conner (Round 4, Pick 119)
Chamarri Conner has shown tremendous improvement since he first arrived in Kansas City. He appeared in all 17 regular-season games as a rookie, recording 36 tackles, an interception, and a pass breakup. Conner turned things up a notch in 2024, finishing with 77 tackles, four tackles for loss, two interceptions, and four pass breakups.
Since entering the NFL, Conner has been strong against the run. He recorded a defensive stop on 12% of his run defense snaps last season (including playoffs), the highest rate among all defensive backs with at least 100 run defense snaps. He does have strides to make in pass coverage, as he allowed a 78.9% completion rate. Still, Conner has gotten better every season, and his development has been key to the success of the Chiefs’ defense.
2024: S Jaden Hicks (Round 4, Pick 133)
Safety Justin Reid had been a staple of the Chiefs’ defense since he joined the team in 2022, but he’s gone after signing with the Saints in free agency. Jaden Hicks may be up to the task of taking over the strong safety spot. The former Washington State standout exceeded expectations in Year 1.
Hicks appeared in 20 games last season, including the playoffs. He recorded 42 tackles, three interceptions, and five pass breakups. He was targeted 14 times in the regular season, allowing a passer rating of 79.5. Hicks consistently got better as the season progressed, and playing behind and learning from Reid certainly helped. Now it’ll be Hicks’ show, and he’s already earned the trust of defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo.
Las Vegas Raiders
2023: CB Jakorian Bennett (Round 4, Pick 104)
Despite the Raiders’ defensive struggles in 2024, one bright spot was the improvement of cornerback Jakorian Bennett. He appeared in 10 games in 2024, seven of which were starts. He recorded 26 tackles and 8 pass breakups. Bennett was targeted 45 times as the nearest defender, allowing a -10.2% catch rate over expected and an 86.9 passer rating, according to Next Gen Stats.
Bennett was on pace to have a significantly better statistical year than his rookie season, but a shoulder injury cut his sophomore season short. He played just over 70% of snaps, but he could be in for a larger role in 2025 if he stays healthy. His physical profile, coupled with his production, could bode well for a full-on breakout season next year.
2024: TE Brock Bowers (Round 1, Pick 13)
Brock Bowers garnered a great deal of attention coming out of Georgia. He was as advertised and then some during his rookie season. He finished sixth among all pass catchers in targets (153), third in receptions (112), eighth in receiving yards (1,194), and fourth in yards after catch (596). His receptions and receiving yards were the most by a rookie in NFL history.
Bowers wasn’t just great for a rookie, or a tight end — he was one of the most productive pass catchers in football last season. Also, he did this with lackluster play from the quarterback position. Geno Smith isn’t great, but he’s certainly an upgrade over what the Raiders trotted out a season ago. Considering Bowers’ unique traits, the sky is the limit.
Los Angeles Chargers
2023: LB Daiyan Henley (Round 3, Pick 85)
Daiyan Henley enjoyed a massive breakout campaign in 2024. He appeared in 15 games as a rookie but played just 12.8% of the defensive snaps. His playing time significantly increased in Year 2, as he earned one of the starting linebacker spots. He played 91% of the Chargers’ snaps, finishing with 147 tackles, seven tackles for loss, a sack, and an interception.
Henley was solid in coverage, allowing a 78.8 passer rating, 69.6% completion rate, and -4.5% catch rate over expected on 69 targets. He has room to grow as a pass rusher, but he posted a 16.4% pressure rate on 73 pass rush snaps. Henley quickly ascended and displayed star potential in his second season.
2024: WR Ladd McConkey (Round 2, Pick 34)
Similar to his former Georgia Bulldogs teammate Brock Bowers, Ladd McConkey turned out to be a stud and quickly became a reliable target for Justin Herbert. McConkey caught 82 passes for 1,149 yards and seven touchdowns. He led the Chargers with 112 targets (23.4% on-field target share). He was dominant in his playoff debut, recording nine receptions for 197 yards and a touchdown.
McConkey had 50+ receiving yards in each of his final 10 games last season, tying Malik Nabers for the longest streak by a rookie since 1970. He also recorded the second-most receiving yards out of the slot in 2024. While he may not have prototypical size, McConkey established himself as a legitimate No. 1 option for Herbert moving forward.
Los Angeles Rams
2023: WR Puka Nacua (Round 5, Pick 177)
For many, Puka Nacua seemingly came out of nowhere. He flew under the radar playing at BYU, and he wasn’t highly touted coming out. However, he soon made a name for himself, catching 105 passes for 1,486 yards and six touchdowns as a rookie. He ranked sixth in targets (160) and yards after catch (639) during that record-breaking campaign.
Nacua finished just under the 1,000-yard mark (990) in 2024 despite missing six games. From his return in Week 8 to the end of the season, he led all wide receivers with a 39.8% target rate (min. 150 routes). He also forced a missed tackle on 25.6% of his touches, the fifth-highest among WRs with at least 50 touches. The Rams replaced Cooper Kupp with Davante Adams, which may be an upgrade, but Nacua has already established a rapport with Matthew Stafford.
2024: EDGE Jared Verse (Round 1, Pick 19)
You could tell that Jared Verse was highly motivated by falling down some draft boards by how he played during his rookie season. He had a chip on his shoulder and delivered in a big way, recording 66 tackles, 11 tackles for loss, 4.5 sacks, two forced fumbles, and two fumble recoveries. While his sack total wasn’t high, he had 77 pressures, 20 quarterback hits, and a pressure rate of 17.1% (6th-highest with at least 200 pass rush snaps).
Verse’s pressures were the second-most by a rookie since 2018 (Nick Bosa had 81 in 2019). The Defensive Rookie of the Year also showed out in the Divisional Round loss to the Eagles, recording four pressures and two sacks. The Rams have drafted well on the defensive line recently, and Verse is no exception.
Miami Dolphins
2023: RB De’Von Achane (Round 3, Pick 84)
De’Von Achane was comparable to a sixth man in the NBA who can come off the bench and score in bunches in 2023. He made so many explosive plays on limited touches, finishing with 997 scrimmage yards and 11 touchdowns on 130 touches. Achane saw his workload more than double in Year 2. He tallied 1,499 scrimmage yards and 12 touchdowns on 281 touches.
The Dolphins’ offense took a step back in 2024, but Achane still shone. In Week 16 against the 49ers, he became the first player to have a game with 120+ rushing yards and 70+ receiving yards since Christian McCaffrey in 2022. He also set season-highs in rushing yards (121) and rushing yards over expected (+63) in the season finale. His four explosive runs and six forced missed tackles on just 11 carries show what kind of playmaker he is.
2024: WR Malik Washington (Round 6, Pick 184)
While things didn’t go as planned for the Dolphins’ offense in 2024, they still have one of the best wide receiver duos in the NFL when healthy in Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle. One player who could see an increased role next season alongside that tandem is Malik Washington. He arrived in Miami as part of a crowded WR room that also featured Odell Beckham Jr. and Braxton Berrios. Both of those guys are gone, meaning Washington has room to build on the flashes he showed in 2024.
Washington impressed as a returner before making his way onto the field more on offense. Injuries happened, and he took advantage of his opportunities. He was targeted 36 times, catching 26 passes for 223 yards. There’s a clearer path for Washington to be featured more in 2025, and with Hill’s status uncertain, there could be room for additional opportunities.
Minnesota Vikings
2023: WR Jordan Addison (Round 1, Pick 23)
Justin Jefferson is arguably the best wide receiver in the NFL, and all his praise is warranted. But let’s not forget about Jordan Addison. His presence keeps defenses honest, as they have multiple playmakers to account for at all times when playing the Vikings. Through his first two seasons, Addison has recorded 133 receptions, 1,786 receiving yards, and 19 touchdowns. He also has a 19% explosive play rate and +0.29 EPA per target during that span.
Addison’s nine receiving touchdowns and 12.97 air yards per target in 2024 ranked ninth and 14th in the NFL, respectively. He and Jefferson have formed one of the most explosive wide receiver duos in the league. With Addison’s playmaking ability, it wouldn’t be shocking to see him eclipse the 1,000-yard mark for the first time in 2025.
2024: QB J.J. McCarthy (Round 1, Pick 10)
There are plenty of questions surrounding J.J. McCarthy heading into the 2025 season. The former Michigan Wolverines signal-caller missed his entire rookie season due to a torn meniscus he suffered in the preseason. Now, McCarthy appears to be on track to start the 2025 season.
The Vikings were briefly linked to Aaron Rodgers this offseason, but the team is reportedly out on the future Hall of Famer. Sam Darnold is now with the Seahawks, leaving McCarthy as QB1, so long as he’s healthy and ready. Minnesota made a conscious effort to set their young quarterback up for success, revamping the offensive line in free agency. He’ll also have weapons all over the field, which could help McCarthy gain his footing early on.
New England Patriots
2023: CB Christian Gonzalez (Round 1, Pick 17)
There’s a lot of discourse around the best young cornerbacks in the NFL, but you can’t have those conversations without Christian Gonzalez. The Patriots were excited about Gonzalez when they drafted him, but a season-ending injury limited his rookie year to just four games.
Gonzalez broke out in 2024, though. He finished with 59 tackles, two interceptions, and 11 pass breakups en route to a Second Team All-Pro selection. The 22-year-old excels in coverage. He was targeted 86 times last season, allowing a catch rate of 53.5% and a 69.3 passer rating. He also had a target EPA of -11.5. Gonzalez is already playing at a high level despite missing so much time in Year 1. If the Patriots’ defense improves in 2025, he’ll have his hands all over it.
2024: QB Drake Maye (Round 1, Pick 3)
Despite a 3-9 record as a starter last season, Drake Maye displayed why he is the Patriots’ quarterback of the future. With Jacoby Brissett penciled in as the Week 1 starter, it wasn’t clear when we’d see Drake Maye, but he answered when his number was called. Maye threw for 2,276 yards and 15 touchdowns with 10 interceptions and a passer rating of 88.1 as a rookie. He finished 22nd in EPA per dropback (0.01), ranking 21st from a clean pocket (0.2 EPA/DB) and 18th when pressured (-0.30 EPA/DB). There are some areas where Maye can improve in Year 2. He ranked 27th on 3rd downs (34.3%) and 31st in net yards per pass attempt (6.1).
The front office has been active in free agency, including addressing needs on the offensive line and adding wide receiver Stefon Diggs. The 22-year-old had his fair share of critics entering the NFL. He’s likely silenced some, but as the franchise quarterback, he’ll be expected to take another step in 2025.
New Orleans Saints
2023: DT Bryan Bresee (Round 1, Pick 29)
Bryan Bresee had a good season for the Saints in 2024. The 2023 first-rounder made 11 starts and recorded 25 tackles, seven tackles for loss, and 7.5 sacks. He also had 38 pressures and 15 quarterback hits. While Bresee impressed as a pass rusher, he left much to be desired as a run defender.
Bresee has largely been a productive rotational piece in his first two seasons. He’s had some flash plays but has yet to put it all together for a full season. The 2025 season could be that moment for the 23-year-old. New Orleans traded for veteran Davon Godchaux this offseason. Bresee will have a solid veteran he can learn from next to him. If he can improve against the run, Year 3 could be a full-on breakout season for the Clemson product.
2024: OT Taliese Fuaga (Round 1, Pick 14)
Taliese Fuaga had a solid first NFL season with the Saints. The Oregon State product allowed six sacks, nine quarterback hits, and 39 pressures. His 6.4% pressure rate tied for 10th-best among rookie offensive linemen and fourth among rookie offensive tackles.
Fuaga’s rookie season came with ups and downs, but he was a reliable option at left tackle, starting all 17 games on the year. Right tackle was his natural position in college, but the Saints had enough confidence to move him over to the blindside. He showed great poise, and while he has room for improvement, he gained valuable experience that should build his confidence for next season.
New York Giants
2024: WR Malik Nabers (Round 1, Pick 6)
Malik Nabers didn’t get dealt the best hand getting drafted by the Giants, but he made the most of his situation and showed why he was a surefire top-10 pick. The former All-American caught 109 passes (fifth in the NFL) for 1,204 yards (seventh) and seven touchdowns (21st).
Nabers set the Giants’ single-season rookie record for receptions and became the youngest wide receiver in NFL history to score multiple touchdowns in a single game (21 years, 56 days). He also tied Odell Beckham Jr. for the fastest to reach 100 career receptions (14 games). Nabers joins the crop of recent LSU wideouts who have become stars in the NFL. With a presumed upgrade at quarterback, he could go nuclear in 2025.
2024: S Tyler Nubin (Round 2, Pick 47)
The Giants’ rookies stepped up on the defensive side of the ball, as cornerback Dru Phillips and safety Tyler Nubin showed plenty of promise in the secondary. Nubin started 13 games for the Giants in 2024 before an ankle injury ended his season. He finished the season with 98 tackles, including four tackles for loss. It was a pretty impressive start to his career for a defense that was top-half in Defense+ before fading down the stretch.
The Giants moved on from Xavier McKinney last offseason, and he earned his first All-Pro selection in his first season in Green Bay. Time will tell if Nubin can turn into that caliber of player, but he displayed flashes in Year 1. In his sophomore campaign, he’ll look to build on that success and become more of a leader on defense.
New York Jets
2023: EDGE Will McDonald IV (Round 1, Pick 15)
The Jets’ defense regressed significantly in 2024. However, Will McDonald IV’s emergence was one of the few bright spots of New York’s entire season. McDonald was on the field for only 18.8% of defensive snaps as a rookie, but that number increased to 65.8% last season.
McDonald finished with 10.5 sacks (12th in the NFL), 23 quarterback hits (13th), and 61 pressures (15th). His 14.6% pressure rate ranked 15th among pass rushers with at least 200 pass rush snaps. His 11 tackles for loss were second on the Jets and led all defensive linemen. In McDonald and Jermaine Johnson, New York has one of the best young edge-rushing duos in the league.
2024: OT Olu Fashanu (Round 1, Pick 11)
The Jets’ offensive line was one of the worst units in 2024 by PFSN’s OL+ metric. If the offensive line is going to improve in 2025, they will need Olu Fashanu to take the next step. He made nine starts and played 555 offensive snaps in his rookie year, allowing one sack, 25 pressures, and four quarterback hits. His 6.6% pressure rate ranked 14th out of 17 rookie offensive linemen with at least 300 pass block snaps. The run game is also an ongoing area with room for improvement for him as well.
Fashanu suffered a plantar fascia injury that ended his season, but he did not require surgery, which is good news for 2025. He’ll need to improve across the board, but gaining valuable experience as a rookie should serve him right heading into Year 2.
Philadelphia Eagles
2023: DT Jalen Carter (Round 1, Pick 9)
Jalen Carter put together a solid rookie season, recording 33 tackles, eight tackles for loss, six sacks, and two forced fumbles. He put those numbers up while playing just over 51% of the Eagles’ defensive snaps. Carter saw increased playing time in Year 2 (83.9%) and began to put it all together. He finished with 42 tackles, 12 tackles for loss, 4.5 sacks, and two forced fumbles.
Carter has been dominant as an interior pass-rushing presence since entering the league. He has racked up 102 pressures and 27 quarterback hits through two seasons with an 11.4% pressure rate. As a run defender, Carter recorded six stops for negative EPA, tied for the most among defensive tackles. He’s a disruptive force in multiple facets, and he will continue to be a massive piece to the puzzle for Vic Fangio’s defense.
2024: EDGE Jalyx Hunt (Round 3, Pick 94)
The Eagles have seen a good deal of turnover this offseason, losing several key contributors, including edge rusher Josh Sweat, the No. 1 free agent in PFSN’s rankings. With Sweat gone and Brandon Graham retired, Jalyx Hunt is a player who could be primed for a breakout next season. He appeared in all 22 games last season (including playoffs), totaling 370 defensive snaps.
The Houston Christian product finished with 32 tackles, three sacks, 21 pressures, and six quarterback hits. He posted a 10.2% pressure rate (205 pass rush snaps), which ranked 8th on the team. The Eagles had plenty of depth, but injuries to Graham and Bryce Huff led to increased opportunities for Hunt. Similar to last season, we can expect Hunt to rise to the occasion when faced with more expectations. The 24-year-old’s production in a crowded room could be a sign of great things to come in the future.
Pittsburgh Steelers
2023: CB Joey Porter Jr. (Round 2, Pick 32)
The name Joey Porter rings bells in the city of Pittsburgh, leading to heightened expectations for Joey Porter Jr. The Penn State product didn’t have a bad 2024, but he also didn’t make the leap that many expected. He recorded 43 tackles, 10 pass breakups, and an interception as a rookie. He followed it up with 70 tackles, seven pass breakups, and an interception in 2024.
Porter was targeted 81 times last season, allowing a 60.5% catch rate and a 79.0 passer rating. He also had a target EPA of +16.6. Those numbers were a decline from his rookie season, where he allowed a 44.8% catch rate, 64.5 passer rating, and -16.0 target EPA. The raw numbers aren’t indicative of Porter’s talent, as he’s shown flashes. However, he’s been inconsistent and commits more penalties than one would like. Perhaps, Year 3 could be when he unlocks that untapped potential as he gets to play alongside Darius Slay.
2024: LB Payton Wilson (Round 3, Pick 98)
Payton Wilson exceeded expectations in his first season in Pittsburgh. He appeared in 17 games with four starts and recorded 72 tackles, three tackles for loss, an interception, and a forced fumble. The former NC State star is a great athlete, which has led to him being able to make plays all over the field.
Wilson was targeted 37 times in coverage, allowing 212 yards and a 79.3 passer rating. He has some work to do in that department, but his athletic traits suggest he could improve with more reps. Wilson played just 44.9% of the team’s defensive snaps in 2024. After the flashes he showed as a rookie, he should be ready for more work in 2025.
San Francisco 49ers
2024: WR Ricky Pearsall (Round 1, Pick 31)
The 49ers moved on from All-Pro wide receiver Deebo Samuel in free agency. Brandon Aiyuk is still on the roster for now, and he’s capable of being a No. 1 receiver. But with Samuel gone, San Francisco will rely more on Jauan Jennings and Ricky Pearsall. The latter dealt with injuries before the season and was shot during a robbery attempt. However, he came on strong towards the end of the season.
Pearsall caught 31 passes for 400 yards and three touchdowns on 46 targets. His breakout performance of the season came in Week 17 against the Lions. He set career highs in receptions (8) and receiving yards (141). He caught five of seven targets of 10+ air yards for 122 yards, the third-most downfield yards in a game by a 49ers receiver last season. Pearsall offers a different skill set than Deebo, but his production with limited opportunities and work ethic could set him up for a breakout campaign.
2024: S Malik Mustapha (Round 4, Pick 124)
Malik Mustapha showed that he has star potential during his rookie season. He started 12 games and registered 71 tackles, two tackles for loss, one interception, and five pass breakups. He played 728 snaps in 2024, but he stands to have even more opportunities next season.
The 49ers lost Talanoa Hufanga to free agency (Broncos). Mustapha projects as the starting free safety next to Ji’Ayir Brown. San Francisco added depth to the safety room this offseason with Jason Pinnock and Richie Grant. Still, neither offers much competition to the rising star. The 49ers’ defense took a massive step back in 2024, but Mustapha proved to be a huge steal, and his role is set to increase as a result.
Seattle Seahawks
2023: WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba (Round 1, Pick 20)
The Seahawks pulled off one of the more surprising moves of the offseason so far, trading Pro Bowl wide receiver DK Metcalf to the Steelers. Seattle added Cooper Kupp in free agency, but it remains to be seen if he can return to elite form. No worries if not, because Jaxon Smith-Njigba is on the rise.
Smith-Njigba made a big jump from Year 1 to Year 2. He recorded 100 receptions for 1,130 receiving yards and six touchdowns in 2024. His on-field target share went from 19.5% in 2023 to 21.9% in 2024. From Weeks 8-16, JSN reeled off eight straight games with at least 65 yards, including two games of 100-plus yards. There’s a new quarterback in town in Sam Darnold, but Smith-Njigba is a big-time playmaker who Darnold should get acquainted with quickly.
2024: LB Tyrice Knight (Round 4, Pick 118)
The Seahawks’ defense showed tremendous improvement in the first year under Mike Macdonald, finishing with the sixth-best unit in the NFL, according to PFSN’s Defense+ metric. They made changes to their linebacker room in the middle of last season, and Tyrice Knight became a more significant part of the plan. He made nine starts as a rookie and recorded 88 tackles, three tackles for loss, and 1.5 sacks. Knight finished third among all rookies in tackles last season. He was also solid against the pass, finishing with 10 pressures and two pass breakups.
Seattle heads into the 2025 season lacking depth at linebacker. Knight is poised to lock down a starting spot in the middle of Macdonald’s defense. Even though he’s still developing, the Seahawks will rely on Knight to take his game to another level next season, and he showed a ton of promise in Year 1.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
2023: DL Calijah Kancey (Round 1, Pick 19)
The 2024 season was a bit disappointing for the Buccaneers’ defense. The unit ranked 16th in PFSN’s Defense+ metric. Calijah Kancey’s continued development could help them improve, and he has high expectations for 2025. Kancey made a leap as a pass rusher in 2024, registering 7.5 sacks, 39 pressures, and 18 quarterback hits in just 12 games. He also posted a pressure rate of 11%, a jump from 9.4% in 2023.
Though Kancey led the Bucs in sacks last season, he has an even bigger goal for 2025: record double-digit sacks. The Pitt product has dealt with injuries in his first two seasons. If he can stay on the field for an entire season and build on his 2024 performance, we could see him achieve his goal and then some.
2024: RB Bucky Irving (Round 4, Pick 125)
Bucky Irving turned plenty of heads with his performance in 2024. He entered the season splitting carries with Rachaad White, but by season’s end, Irving was the far more effective back. He finished his rookie season with 1,122 rushing yards (10th in the NFL) and eight touchdowns on 207 rush attempts. He also made plays in the passing game, catching 47 passes for 392 yards.
Irving forced a missed tackle on 35.8% of his touches last season, the highest rate in the NFL. He gained an additional 609 yards after forcing those missed tackles, which was the second-most behind only Derrick Henry (753). Irving proved to be dangerous with the ball in his hands, and it’s safe to say his role will continue to expand heading into next season.
Tennessee Titans
2024: DT T’Vondre Sweat (Round 2, Pick 38)
T’Vondre Sweat is one of the players whose development will be key to Tennessee improving next season. He wasn’t dominant, but he showed flashes of what he could do once it all comes together. Sweat finished his rookie year with 51 tackles, four tackles for loss, a sack, and a forced fumble. Sweat’s strong suit was stopping the run, which is not surprising given his 6-foot-4, 366-pound frame. Through Week 17, the Titans allowed 4.2 yards per carry with Sweat on the field. That was the 7th-fewest in the NFL during that span.
As a pass rusher, he added 23 pressures and three quarterback hits. Sweat seems to be just scratching the surface, and he could turn things up a notch in Year 2. Playing alongside veterans like Jeffery Simmons and Sebastian Joseph-Day allows him to learn more about playing at a high level on the defensive line. If Sweat makes a jump, the Titans could have one of the better defensive lines in football.
2024: CB Jarvis Brownlee Jr. (Round 5, Pick 146)
Jarvis Brownlee Jr. was a pleasant surprise for the Titans in 2024. The Louisville product appeared in all 17 games last season, making 14 starts. He finished with 75 tackles, seven tackles for loss, nine pass breakups, and an interception. Brownlee’s physical style of play made him strong as a run defender. It also got him into some trouble in coverage, as he was flagged for nine penalties. He was targeted 70 times, allowing a 61.4% catch rate and 91.2 passer rating. He also gave up three touchdowns.
The Titans showed their faith in Brownlee moving forward by releasing veteran cornerback Chidobe Awuzie this offseason. He had some struggles in coverage, but his aggressiveness and competitive spirit were on full display last season. If he can show improvements, he could lock down a starting spot for years to come.
Washington Commanders
2024: QB Jayden Daniels (Round 1, Pick 2)
Jayden Daniels was undoubtedly the best rookie quarterback last season. The former Heisman Trophy winner added more hardware to his collection by winning Offensive Rookie of the Year honors. He threw for 3,568 yards, 25 touchdowns, and nine interceptions while completing 69% of his passes (6th best in the NFL). He also had the 8th-best EPA per dropback in the league (+0.15). Daniels was dangerous as a dual-threat, adding 891 yards and six scores on the ground.
Daniels showed great poise throughout the season. He had a 108.2 passer rating in road games, which was the best by a rookie in NFL history. He also became the first rookie quarterback to have multiple playoff games with multiple passing touchdowns. His 116.2 playoff passer rating is the best by a rookie QB in a postseason in league history. Daniels is oozing with confidence heading into Year 2, and his play has completely changed the trajectory of the Commanders’ franchise.
2024: CB Mike Sainristil (Round 2, Pick 50)
Mike Sainristil ended up being a big contributor for the defense during the playoff run. Sainristil brought with him a championship pedigree after winning the National Championship at Michigan. He started 19 games for Washington, including the playoffs. He finished with 90 tackles in the regular season, which was 4th-most on the team.
Sainristil played his best football down the stretch. He recorded 14 pass breakups and two interceptions in the regular season. Then, he followed it up with four pass breakups and two more interceptions in the postseason. He began as the slot cornerback but was later moved outside because of struggles at the position. Coming out of college, there were concerns about Sainristil’s frame, but he was up to the task. He still has plenty of learning to do, and he’s not the biggest of cornerbacks. However, what he lacks in size, he makes up for in heart and playmaking ability.