Multiple 2025 NFL rookies are set to debut and impact Week 1, including Cam Ward as Tennessee's confirmed starter while Jaxson Dart and Tyler Shough remain backups. Star running backs Ashton Jeanty, Omarion Hampton and TreVeyon Henderson are expected to contribute as primary rushers and receivers. Defenders Abdul Carter and Jahdae Barron will face veteran opponents after notable preseasons. Early Offensive and Defensive Rookie of the Year contenders are identified with betting odds, five under-the-radar players receive attention, top quarterbacks are evaluated, 10 fantasy-relevant rookies are listed, and projected rookie statistical leaders are provided.
Here's our guide to everything you need to know about the 2025 rookie class. NFL draft analysts Matt Miller and Jordan Reid start by naming early Offensive and Defensive Rookie of the Year contenders (including their ESPN BET odds to win). Then Miller picks five under-the-radar players to watch, and Reid sizes up the top QBs. NFL analyst Matt Bowen lists 10 players who are likely to dominate in fantasy, and fantasy analyst Mike Clay caps it off with his projected rookie stat leaders.
After a historic career at Boise State, Jeanty enters the season as the catalyst for the Raiders' rushing attack. With a lack of pass-catching options for veteran quarterback Geno Smith outside of tight end Brock Bowers and receivers Amari Cooper and Jakobi Meyers (who just requested a trade), Jeanty could quickly become a top-ranked rusher and frequent option as a receiver out of the backfield.
Ward has an exciting playing style that includes a quick release and great accuracy to all three levels of the field. For a Titans team that has been searching for a franchise QB, he brings plenty of promise. In his final collegiate season, Ward helped lead Miami to its first 10-win season since 2017, throwing for 4,313 passing yards, 39 touchdowns and only 7 interceptions.
Collection
[
|
...
]