Excitement around 7 rookies in 2025 is contagious and immediate for Week 1 fans. The NFL preseason and early games pushed several first-year players into clear roles, from day-one starting QBs to two-way stars. One sleeper on this list already looks like a fantasy differential and one defender could flip game plans – read the pick that surprises you. Which rookie will matter most to your fantasy or local team this week?
Why these 7 rookie picks matter for early NFL fans in 2025
- Cam Ward named starter by Titans; impact: Week 1 leadership and passing snaps.
- Travis Hunter practicing both offense and defense; impact: versatile snap packages.
- Ashton Jeanty earned starting reps in preseason; impact: expected rushing workshare.
The 7 picks that could redefine Week 1 lineups in 2025
1 – Cam Ward (Titans) turns a No. 1 draft pick into instant starter intrigue
Cam Ward emerged as Tennessee’s Week 1 starter after camp and preseason reps, showing the deep ball and poise coaches wanted. If you root for steady quarterback play, Ward’s timing with veteran targets is reason to watch him closely. Will he keep drives alive in crunch moments?
2 – Travis Hunter (Jaguars) could break the “position” rule by playing both ways
The Jaguars built a plan for Hunter on offense and defense; he’s already logged snaps in both units in practice and preseason. That rare versatility means coaches can game-plan him as a matchup weapon – fantasy managers, take note if he gets red-zone looks.
3 – Ashton Jeanty (Raiders) looks like a ready-made starter in a fast offense
Jeanty got first-team carries throughout camp and showed a burst that translated to preseason scoring chances. Expect him to be involved as a between-the-tackles runner and a checkdown receiver; if you love early-season bell-cow upside, he’s the kind to stash.
4 – Tetairoa McMillan (Panthers) already feels like a No. 1 receiver for a top pick QB
McMillan’s sharp route running and contested-catch ability earned immediate trust from Bryce Young during preseason; that chemistry matters in Week 1 targets. If your team values explosive slot work, this rookie could be a must-watch in short-yardage and third-down scripts.
5 – Emeka Egbuka (Buccaneers) could replace injuries with opportunity this fast
With veteran depth banged up, Egbuka slides into high-value snaps and looked pro-ready in camp and preseason reps. He’s a pick to monitor for return-yardage and gadget snaps – a quick roster add if your league rewards returners.
6 – Matthew Golden (Packers) flashes speed and immediate target share potential
Golden’s 4.29 speed and knack for getting open gave Green Bay front office confidence; preseason reps suggest early passing-game snaps. If you need a dart throw with big-play upside, Golden is the kind of rookie who can pop.
7 – Mykel Williams (49ers) may bend the edge and shift pass-rush rotations by midseason
Williams slotting into the Niners’ pass-rush mix creates matchup headaches for opponents even if he’s not a Week 1 star. Defensive schemes could tilt to get him on the field quickly, which matters to fans who follow turnover and pressure-driven games.
The key figures behind these 7 rookies in 2025 to scan before week 1
| KPI | Value + Unit | Change/Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Draft class | 257 picks | Full 2025 rookie pool evaluated (ESPN) |
| Top 5 draft classes | Browns, Falcons, Buccaneers | Ranked best after Week 1 (CBS) |
| Immediate starters | Multiple first-round starters | Several rookies projected to start Week 1 |
What will these 7 rookies mean for fans and fantasy in 2025?
Expect early-season narratives to focus on who starts and who snaps; a handful of these rookies will swing fantasy matchups and local headlines. Track snap share, red-zone targets, and rotation snaps this week – will your sleeper become a must-start?
Sources
- https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/46018340/nfl-rookie-2025-nfl-draft-training-camp-preseason-257-picks-report-cards
- https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/ranking-the-five-best-2025-nfl-draft-classes-after-week-1-browns-unheralded-picks-show-out-most/
- https://www.nfl.com/news/2025-nfl-week-1-bold-predictions-malik-nabers-ties-single-game-receptions-record
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Jessica Morrison is a seasoned entertainment writer with over a decade of experience covering television, film, and pop culture. After earning a degree in journalism from New York University, she worked as a freelance writer for various entertainment magazines before joining red94.net. Her expertise lies in analyzing television series, from groundbreaking dramas to light-hearted comedies, and she often provides in-depth reviews and industry insights. Outside of writing, Jessica is an avid film buff and enjoys discovering new indie movies at local festivals.