The 2025 NFL draft class has gotten off to a promising start, with several rookies shining in the first six weeks of the season. Players like Emeka Egbuka, wide receiver for the Buccaneers, and Tyler Warren, tight end for the Colts, have positioned themselves as key figures on their respective teams. But, how do the top first-year players compare to each other?
A panel of NFL analysts and reporters, including Matt Bowen, Kalyn Kahler, Jeff Legwold, Matt Miller, and Jordan Reid, compiled a ranking of the top 10 rookies so far. Below, we present the analysis and conclusions of this group of experts.
Top 10 Rising Rookies
Here’s the ranking of the top 10 rookies after six weeks of play:
Emeka Egbuka, WR, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Statistics: 27 receptions, 469 yards, 5 touchdowns. Selected in the first round, number 19. Egbuka has proven to be a reliable receiver with great potential. His 78.2 yards per game place him in seventh place in the NFL. In addition to his route-running ability, he has proven to be a threat on deep plays, averaging 17.4 yards per reception.
Abdul Carter, Edge, New York Giants
Statistics: 13 tackles, 0.5 sacks. Selected in the first round, number 3 pick. Carter leads rookie defenders in pressures (13), quarterback hits (8), and total pass wins (16). His versatility as a linebacker and defensive end makes him valuable to the Giants’ defense.
Tyler Warren, TE, Indianapolis Colts
Statistics: 29 receptions, 370 yards, 3 touchdowns. Selected in the first round, number 14. Warren has improved the Colts’ passing game, using his playing style and versatility to attack all levels of the field. He averages almost 62 yards per reception per game.
Tetairoa McMillan, WR, Carolina Panthers
Statistics: 27 receptions, 380 yards, 2 touchdowns. Selected in the first round, number 8. McMillan has met expectations as a pure receiver, becoming the main target of quarterback Bryce Young. He is expected to reach 1,000 yards this season.
Cam Skattebo, RB, New York Giants
Statistics: 82 carries, 338 rushing yards, 20 receptions, 155 receiving yards, 5 total touchdowns. Selected in the fourth round, number 105. Despite falling in the draft, Skattebo has earned a place in the Giants’ offense with his aggressive style. He leads rookies in first down runs (21).Brian Burns on the Jaxson Dart-Cam Skattebo combination.
Carson Schwesinger, LB, Cleveland Browns
Statistics: 52 tackles, 1 interception. Selected in the second round, number 33. Schwesinger has been one of the most impressive rookie defenders, showing great instinct and tackling ability. He is a key piece for the Browns’ defense.
Jihaad Campbell, LB, Philadelphia Eagles
Statistics: 40 tackles, 1 forced fumble, 1 interception. Selected in the first round, number 31 pick. Campbell has proven to be a complete linebacker, showcasing his versatility in pass coverage and his potential as a pass rusher.
Grey Zabel, G, Seattle Seahawks
Statistics: 6 starts, 90.8% pass block win rate, 83.3% run block win rate. Selected in the first round, number 18 pick. Zabel has had an exceptional start to the season, not allowing any sacks and leading all guards in the league in run block win rate.
Quinshon Judkins, RB, Cleveland Browns
Statistics: 84 carries, 383 rushing yards, 9 receptions, 62 receiving yards, 2 total touchdowns. Selected in the second round, number 36. Judkins has proven to be a running back with great potential, showing speed and agility. He has adapted easily to the Browns’ offense.
Jaxson Dart, QB, New York Giants
Statistics: 508 passing yards, 4 touchdown passes, 2 INT, 167 rushing yards, 2 rushing TDs. Selected in the first round, number 25 pick. Dart has shown valor and has impressed since his debut. He has exceeded expectations and generated excitement among Giants fans.Should fantasy managers start Quinshon Judkins in Week 7?
Additional Mentions
Some players who were close to entering the top 10:
Also receiving votes: Kelvin Banks Jr., Jahdae Barron, Mason Graham, Travis Hunter, Jacob Parrish, Jonas Sanker, and Xavier Watts.
Expert Analysis
Cam Ward: The panel of experts analyzed how Cam Ward can improve after a difficult start. The importance of timing and precision in his throws was highlighted.Featured Position Group: The runners in this draft class have proven their worth, with standout performances from Skattebo, Judkins, and Croskey-Merritt.First-Round Player with Low Performance: Ashton Jeanty, RB, Las Vegas Raiders. Despite his potential, Jeanty has struggled to find space and improve his yards-per-carry average.Late Round High-Performer: Jacory Croskey-Merritt, RB, Washington Commanders. Croskey-Merritt has proven to be a key piece in the Commanders’ offense, showing good balance and the ability to gain yards.
