Every season brings a wave of NFL rookies who exceed expectations. They’re not the top picks with flashy headlines, but they show up, grind through camp, and earn their way into meaningful roles. These players often come from smaller programs or switch positions, yet they find ways to stand out when it counts.
They’re the kind of National Football League players who change the feel of a locker room — hungry, adaptable, and impossible to overlook once the pads come on. Coaches value them because they buy into the grind, adjust to pro-level speed, and make the most of every snap.
If it’s lining up in a new position, carving out a role on special teams, or making the most of limited reps, these rookies have a knack for turning small opportunities into big plays. In a league where depth can make or break a season, they might just be the spark that tilts a game — or even a playoff run — in their team’s favor.
Here are the five NFL rookies who could surprise fans and shake up the league in 2025.
NFL Rookies To Watch For in 2025
1. Brashard Smith, Kansas City Chiefs, RB
Brashard Smith played wide receiver at SMU before switching positions, and now he’s turning heads in Kansas City. He’s already catching attention in camp for his quickness and toughness that are said to be comparable to Alvin Kamara. Now, coaches are experimenting with him as a hybrid weapon: someone who can catch passes out of the backfield, run between the tackles, and create mismatches.
While Smith’s transition hasn’t been seamless, his growth is steady. At his press conference, he talked about being patient and adjusting the speed of the NFL. He’s learning how to absorb contact, stay low through gaps, and time his bursts. With 1,332 yards and 14 touchdowns in his final college season, he’s got the production to back up the hype. Smith also has some of the best NFL rookie betting odds in the market.
2. Jimmy Horn Jr., Carolina Panthers, WR
Jimmy Horn Jr. brings speed, confidence, and a clear vision for his rookie year. He has already set ambition goals: 250 receiving yards, zero drops, and a touchdown. He’s also aiming to lock down a role in the wide receiver rotation and contribute on special teams. Not only is his mindset sharp, but his route running has also impressed coaches during OTAs and mini-camp.
Horn’s college career included stops at South Florida and Colorado, where he showed flashes of explosiveness. He averaged over 21 yards per kickoff return and 10 yards per punt return. His quick acceleration and ability to separate make him a natural fit in the slot. If Bryce Young builds chemistry with him early, Horn could become a reliable target and a dangerous return man.
3. Isaac TeSlaa, Detroit Lions, WR
Although Isaac TeSlaa didn’t get much attention before the draft, the Lions saw something special in him. They’ve been tracking him since his days at Hillsdale College, and finally picked him in the third round for a reason. In his preseason debut, TeSlaa caught two passes for 46 yards on just 32 snaps. He can also crisp routes and make plays in tight coverage, which earned praise from coaches and analysts.
Tesla‘s fit in Detroit is intriguing. He’s competing for targets behind Amon-Ra St. Brown, Jameson Williams, and Sam LaPorta. On a positive note, his versatility could earn him a role. The Lions have always valued toughness and competitiveness, and TeSlaa checks both boxes. His blocking, run-after-catch ability, and natural catching technique stand out on film.
4. Harold Fannin Jr., Denver Broncos, TE
Harold Fannin Jr. enters the NFL with big expectations and a record-setting college career. At Bowling Green, he led the nation with 117 catches and 1,555 receiving yards as a tight end. Now with the Broncos, he’s working to become a multi-dimensional threat. He’s not just a pass-catcher, but he’s also learning how to block, run with vision, and adapt to Denver’s offensive scheme.
Fannin’s mindset is focused on growth. He’s competing in a crowded tight end room, but he’s already made an impression during the first days of camp. Head Coach Kevin Stefanski and tight ends coach Christian Jones both see potential in his skill set. In particular, they praised his one-cut running style and ability to get open.
5. Quincy Riley, New Orleans Saints, CB
Quincy Riley might be the most overlooked rookie on this list. He was drafted in the fourth round, not a high-profile spot. He also played at smaller programs (Middle Tennessee, then Louisville), so he didn’t get a national spotlight. Lastly, he’s joining a rebuilding defense with limited media attention. Yet the Saints didn’t hesitate to spend a draft pick on Riley, confident he could outplay his draft slot.
The Saints saw enough upside to invest in Riley. His ball skills, fluid hips, and knack for reading quarterbacks make him a natural fit in Dennis Allen’s zone-heavy scheme. While he’ll need time to adjust to NFL speed, Riley’s instincts and versatility could earn him early snaps, especially in a secondary looking for fresh playmakers.
These NFL rookies are doing more than just filling roster spots. They’re pushing for real impact, with each one bringing a unique skill set, a strong work ethic, and a chip on their shoulder.
Training camp buzz is only the beginning. Once the regular season kicks off, NFL fans might be surprised by how quickly these underdogs become household names.
