2025 NFL Rookie Class: A Comprehensive Guide

The 2025 NFL season is just around the corner, and with it comes an exciting new class of rookies ready to make their mark. From potential Rookie of the Year candidates to fantasy football sleepers, here's everything you need to know about this year's first-year players.

Offensive Rookie of the Year (OROY) Contenders

1. Ashton Jeanty, RB, Las Vegas Raiders (+260)

   • Jeanty, a standout from Boise State, is expected to be a key player in the Raiders' rushing attack. With limited pass-catching options for veteran QB Geno Smith, Jeanty could quickly become a dual-threat option.

2. Cam Ward, QB, Tennessee Titans (+300)

   • Ward brings a quick release and great accuracy to the Titans. With Will Levis out for the season, Ward has the opportunity to shine and put up OROY-level numbers.

3. Travis Hunter, WR, Jacksonville Jaguars (+1200)

   • Hunter's two-way potential was on display in the preseason. While his offensive impact is expected to be significant, his defensive snaps could also contribute to his overall value.

4. Omarion Hampton, RB, Los Angeles Chargers (+800)

   • Hampton's bruising running style fits perfectly in Greg Roman's scheme. He could quickly become the top option in the Chargers' rushing attack.

5. Tetairoa McMillan, WR, Carolina Panthers (+1400)

   • McMillan, a big-bodied wideout, brings strong hands and a wide catch radius to the Panthers. He is expected to be a reliable target for QB Bryce Young.

Defensive Rookie of the Year (DROY) Contenders

1. Abdul Carter, Edge, New York Giants (+200)

   • Carter has the talent and opportunity to impress, especially with a strong defensive line around him.

2. Jahdae Barron, CB, Denver Broncos (+2200)

   • Barron, last season's Jim Thorpe Award winner, joins a top-tier defense in Denver. His instinctive coverage skills make him a strong candidate.

3. Malaki Starks, S, Baltimore Ravens (+2000)

   • Starks' versatility and ability to make plays in a strong Ravens defense make him a contender for DROY.

4. Will Johnson, CB, Arizona Cardinals (+2500)

   • Johnson's height, speed, and instincts make him a playmaker in Arizona's defense.

5. Andrew Mukuba, S, Philadelphia Eagles (+15000)

   • Mukuba's playmaking ability, evidenced by his preseason performances, makes him a dark horse for DROY.

Fantasy Football Sleepers

1. Tre' Harris, WR, Los Angeles Chargers

   • Harris' route-running ability and big-play potential make him a valuable addition to the Chargers' offense.

2. Tory Horton, WR, Seattle Seahawks

   • Despite a minor injury, Horton has shown promise and could emerge as a key target in Seattle.

3. Upton Stout, CB, San Francisco 49ers

   • Stout's speed and short-area quickness make him a potential starter in the 49ers' defense.

4. Kaleb Johnson, RB, Pittsburgh Steelers

   • Johnson's downhill running style fits perfectly with the Steelers' scheme, making him a potential breakout player.

5. Gunnar Helm, TE, Tennessee Titans

   • Helm's toughness and hands make him a reliable option in the Titans' offense, especially in the red zone.

Quarterback Updates

• Cam Ward, Tennessee Titans: Ward's electrifying playing style and high confidence make him a key player to watch.
• Jaxson Dart, New York Giants: Dart's arm strength and quick decision-making could see him playing sooner than expected.
• Tyler Shough, New Orleans Saints: Shough's passing ability gives him a chance to earn starts this season.

Projected Rookie Stat Leaders

• Passing Yards: Cam Ward (3,821)
• Rushing Yards: Ashton Jeanty (1,248)
• Receiving Yards: Tetairoa McMillan (1,027)
• Tackles: Malaki Starks (85)
• Sacks: Abdul Carter & Jalon Walker (6)

Stay tuned as these rookies take the field and make their mark in the 2025 NFL season.