NFL Rookies to Watch: The 2025/2026 Class Arrives

The NFL’s annual influx of rookie talent is always a source of hope and excitement for fans, and the 2025/2026 season is no exception. This year’s draft class, dominated by prospects from powerhouse programs and shaped by the ever-evolving transfer portal, is poised to make an immediate impact across the league. Let’s dive into the rookies and draft classes generating the most buzz as teams prepare for training camp.

Power Programs Dominate the Draft
The 2025 NFL Draft saw the SEC and Big Ten continue their reign, accounting for 26 of the first 32 picks and over half of all selections. Schools like Ohio State, Georgia, and Texas once again served as pipelines to the pros, with 150 of the 257 players drafted finishing their collegiate careers in these two conferences. The transfer portal and NIL opportunities have only accelerated this trend, making it rare for elite talent to emerge from smaller schools.

Quarterbacks in the Spotlight
Perhaps the most intriguing quarterback storyline is in Cleveland, where Shedeur Sanders (Round 5, Pick 144) joins a crowded room featuring Joe Flacco, Kenny Pickett, and Dillon Gabriel. Despite being a Day 3 pick, Sanders is viewed by many as the most likely rookie QB to push for a starting job, thanks to his superior college production and poise under pressure. The Browns’ quarterback competition is wide open, and Sanders’ progress will be closely watched throughout the preseason.

Offensive Playmakers Ready to Shine
Several rookie running backs and receivers are positioned for early opportunities:

- RJ Harvey (RB, Denver Broncos): Drafted in the second round, Harvey lands in a backfield with little established competition. Known for his explosive runs and elusiveness, he’s expected to be a strong RB2 with RB1 upside, especially under Sean Payton’s running back-friendly system.
- Bhayshul Tuten (RB, Jacksonville Jaguars): Tuten brings breakaway speed and tackle-breaking ability to a Jaguars backfield that struggled for consistency last season. He could quickly carve out a significant role, potentially forming a dynamic committee with Tank Bigsby.
- Jalen Royals (WR, Kansas City Chiefs): Royals, a fourth-round pick, is a polished route runner with impressive production at Utah State. With the Chiefs always in need of playmakers, Royals could become a favorite target for Patrick Mahomes as a rookie.

Defensive Gems and Versatile Contributors
The 2025 draft also unearthed several defensive prospects and “football guys” who may outplay their draft slot:

- Bowman (DB, Atlanta Falcons, Round 4): A versatile, instinctive defender with elite speed, Bowman’s football IQ allows him to overcome size limitations and make plays all over the field.
- Jahchi Moore (DB, New York Giants, Round 4): A four-year starter and key contributor on Nick Saban’s 2020 title team, Moore’s coverage instincts and reliability could earn him early snaps in New York’s secondary.

Draft Classes Poised for Immediate Impact
Some teams stand out for their overall rookie hauls:

- New England Patriots: With offensive tackle Will Campbell and running back TreVeyon Henderson, the Patriots have fortified their offense around second-year QB Drake Maye. Both rookies are expected to play significant roles from day one, with Henderson’s pass-catching and blocking skills making him a three-down threat.
- Buffalo Bills: The Bills’ class features versatile defenders like Hancock, who brings athleticism and football smarts to a secondary in transition. Expect several rookies to contribute in sub-packages and special teams.
- Las Vegas Raiders: Running back Ashton Jeanty and receiver Jack Bech headline a group that could inject much-needed explosiveness into the offense. Jeanty, in particular, is viewed as “lightning in a bottle” and could become a fan favorite if he breaks a few long runs early in the season.

Wide Receiver Depth and Star Power
The 2025 class is deep at wide receiver, with names like Emeka Egbuka (Ohio State), Travis Hunter (Colorado), and Elic Ayomanor (Stanford) all projected to make early contributions. These polished prospects bring a mix of route-running, speed, and toughness that should translate well to the pro game.

The 2025/2026 NFL rookie class is loaded with potential stars and instant contributors, especially from the SEC and Big Ten. Whether it’s Shedeur Sanders battling for a starting job, RJ Harvey poised for a breakout in Denver, or defensive standouts like Bowman and Moore, this year’s rookies promise to shape the league’s storylines from Week 1. As training camps open and preseason battles heat up, keep an eye on these names -- they could be the next wave of NFL household stars.