Top 11 Second-Year NCAAF Stars Poised for Breakout Seasons in 2025
Discover the top 11 second-year NCAAF players set to make a significant impact in the 2025 season, including potential College Football Playoff contenders.

Julian Sayin, QB, Ohio State
Julian Sayin, a highly-touted quarterback recruit from the 2024 ESPN 300, is expected to shine in his second season at Ohio State. With exceptional arm strength, accuracy, and mobility, Sayin is poised to become one of the top passers in the Big Ten. His seasoned and polished skills, combined with the best receiving corps in the country, make him a strong candidate to lead the Buckeyes to success.
Jordan Marshall, RB, Michigan
Jordan Marshall, the No. 7 back in the 2024 ESPN 300, showcased his potential in the ReliaQuest Bowl with a 100-yard performance. Teaming up with Alabama transfer Justice Haynes, Marshall's elusiveness, speed, and power make him a dual threat in the Wolverines' backfield. His impressive shuttle time of 4.1 seconds highlights his agility and readiness for a breakout season.
Ellis Robinson, CB, Georgia
Ellis Robinson, the No. 1-ranked player in the 2024 ESPN 300, is expected to make a greater impact in his second season at Georgia. Despite not starting on the outside, Robinson's length, speed, and ball skills make him a formidable force at nickel and a potential lockdown corner. With improved game awareness, he is set to play a crucial role in Georgia's defense.
Joshisa Trader, WR, Miami
Joshisa Trader, the No. 6 receiver in the 2024 ESPN 300, showed flashes of brilliance in Miami's bowl game. With smooth, fluid movements and quick hands, Trader is a legitimate three-level threat. Teaming up with tight end Elija Lofton, he is expected to become a consistent playmaker for the Hurricanes.
Mike Matthews or Braylon Staley, WRs, Tennessee
Mike Matthews and Braylon Staley are both poised for breakout seasons at Tennessee. Matthews, the No. 5 wide receiver in the 2024 ESPN 300, is sudden and elusive after the catch. Staley, with excellent short-area quickness and explosive movements, is a former state champion in track and field. Both receivers have the potential to lead the Vols' offense.
Kingston Lopa, DB, Oregon
Kingston Lopa, the No. 13 safety in the 2024 ESPN 300, has a rare blend of size and range. With limited reps last season, Lopa is expected to fill production voids at safety for Oregon. His ability to cover ground quickly and tackle soundly makes him a key player in the Ducks' defense.
CJ Carr, QB, Notre Dame
CJ Carr, the grandson of former Michigan coach Lloyd Carr, is highly scrutinized as Notre Dame's starting quarterback. With great accuracy and acumen, Carr is expected to lead the Irish's offense. Supported by a strong running game and an experienced offensive line, Carr is poised for a breakout season.
Dilin Jones, RB, Wisconsin
Dilin Jones, the No. 8 running back in the 2024 ESPN 300, is ready to make an impact in the Big Ten. With an impressive size-to-speed ratio and good change-of-direction skills, Jones is a versatile back who can both bruise and break away for big gains. He is expected to play a key role in Wisconsin's offense.
Brandon Baker, OT, Texas
Brandon Baker, the No. 2 offensive tackle in the 2024 ESPN 300, is set to protect Arch Manning in Texas' high-powered offense. With improved strength and technical skills, Baker is expected to anchor the Longhorns' offensive line and contribute to their success.
Elijah Brown, QB, Stanford
Elijah Brown, the 11th-rated pocket passer in the 2024 ESPN 300, is a winner with great physical traits. With over 8,000 yards and 100 touchdowns in high school, Brown is ready to lead Stanford back to its storied levels. Under the guidance of Frank Reich and Andrew Luck, Brown is poised for a breakout season.
Sire Gaines, RB, Boise State
Sire Gaines, an under-the-radar recruit, is ready to emerge as Boise State's next star running back. With great downhill power, physicality, and polished receiving skills, Gaines is expected to make a significant impact in the Broncos' offense. His 10.9 100-meter speed highlights his explosiveness and readiness for a breakout season.