The 2025 NFL Draft class is loaded with unique talent and potential stars. From prospects who play both sides of the ball to one of the most hyped running back prospects in recent history, these are the 10 first-year players who could make an immediate impact this season.
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10. Linebacker Jihaad Campbell: Philadelphia Eagles
NFL: NFL Draft
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After undergoing shoulder surgery in the spring, many teams passed on the elite linebacker out of Alabama as he fell to the 31st pick. If Jihaad Campbell can stay healthy, he could be the steal of the draft for the Philadelphia Eagles. For a linebacker of his frame at around 240 pounds, he moves well from sideline to sideline and is a talented downhill threat.
9. Running back TreVeyon Henderson: New England Patriots
Syndication: The Columbus Dispatch
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Drafted by the New England Patriots in the second round, TreVeyon Henderson has a level of speed that could result in a house call every time he touches the ball. He will pair with Rhamondre Stevenson out of the backfield, but Stevenson struggled last season, and the rookie Henderson is the more versatile runner. He could emerge as a solid RB1 early in the season.
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8. Cornerback Jahdae Barron: Denver Broncos
NFL: Denver Broncos Rookie Minicamp
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Jahdae Barron is an elite cornerback out of Texas. The Denver Broncos’ 2025 first-round pick will be paired with the 2024 NFL Defensive Player of the Year, Patrick Surtain II. This pick could turn into one of the best cornerback duos in the entire league, and their impact on the Broncos’ secondary will be exciting to witness.
7. Wide receiver Emeka Egbuka: Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NCAA Football: CFP National Championship-Ohio State at Notre Dame
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A proven slot receiver at Ohio State, Tampa Bay Buccaneers rookie Emeka Egbuka will fit right in behind veterans Mike Evans and Chris Godwin. Egbuka holds the most receptions in Buckeyes football history with 205 career catches. He is a proven, reliable receiver with great hands and can turn into a consistent, high-volume NFL wideout.
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6. Running back Omarion Hampton: Los Angeles Chargers
NFL: Combine
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Omarion Hampton’s upside is limitless as he’s a physical runner at 221 pounds, but also possesses explosive ability, running a 4.46 40 at the combine. Although he’s currently listed as RB2 for the Los Angeles Chargers, it’s believable he could become the franchise running back, given they selected him in the first round.
5. Wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan: Carolina Panthers
NFL: NFL Draft
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The highest-ranked wide receiver in the draft, Tetairoa McMillan is a huge target for Panthers quarterback Bryce Young, and his 6-foot-4 frame should cause matchup problems for opposing defenses. McMillan is a perfect fit for Carolina’s offense and will dominate 50/50 balls. He will be one of the most exciting rookies to watch.
Read More: Best NFL receiving corps 2025
4. Edge rusher Abdul Carter: New York Giants
NFL: NFL Draft
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The best defensive player in the draft, Abdul Carter is a game-changer for the New York Giants. He’s drawn comparisons to Micah Parsons with his ability to effectively pass rush or drop into coverage.
3. Running back Ashton Jeanty: Las Vegas Raiders
NFL: NFL Draft
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One of the most hyped and accomplished running backs coming out of college in recent memory, Ashton Jeanty’s 2,601 rushing yards in 2024 ranked second in NCAA history behind Barry Sanders for the most in a single season. Expectations for the Las Vegas Raiders rookie are sky high, and with his upside, Jeanty will be a must-watch player for fans throughout the league.
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2. Wide receiver/cornerback Travis Hunter: Jacksonville Jaguars
NFL: NFL Draft
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If there is any takeaway from Travis Hunter’s time at Colorado, it’s that he’s an electric player to watch. The most versatile prospect in years, Hunter has All-Pro upside on both sides of the ball. Whether as a lockdown corner, slot receiver, or deep threat, his explosiveness ensures he will have an instant impact for the Jacksonville Jaguars.
1. Quarterback Cam Ward: Tennessee Titans
Syndication: Journal Sentinel
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Cam Ward’s exceptional arm talent and mobility ensure that he will be a successful modern NFL quarterback. He led an electric offense at Miami and has the opportunity to turn the Tennessee Titans franchise around. His development will be one of the main storylines this upcoming season.
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