Fans feel awe about 7 rookies this week as early preseason and week-1 looks flipped expectations. ESPN’s Aug. 22 preseason report singled out Matthew Golden’s 4.29 speed and other quick risers, while fantasy rankings already peg Ashton Jeanty as a top rookie target. These picks mix immediate starters and scheme fits that could force coaching changes and waiver-wire frenzy. If you drafted late, which rookie should you trade for – or stash – before Week 3?
Why These 7 Picks Matter In 2025
• Ashton Jeanty named top fantasy rookie on ESPN’s June rankings; impact: immediate touches.
• Matthew Golden impressed in preseason (Aug. 22); impact: elite 4.29 sprint speed.
• Abdul Carter graded 94 by Scouts Inc.; impact: high draft capital, early pass-rush snaps.
The 7 Picks That Could Redefine NFL Depth Charts In 2025
1 – Ashton Jeanty, RB, Raiders – Why Fantasy Managers Are Watching
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Ashton Jeanty is listed as the No. 1 rookie target in ESPN fantasy rankings, making him a must-watch if you need rushing upside. If you drafted late, Jeanty could flip your RB depth overnight; will you trade a veteran for him?
2 – Matthew Golden, WR, (Round 1 No. 23) – Speed That Forces Coverage Shifts
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ESPN’s preseason report called out Matthew Golden’s 4.29 speed and early chemistry, meaning defensive scheming could change around him. If you love deep targets, Golden scratches that itch and could pull DB resources from established veterans.
3 – Tetairoa McMillan, WR – Rookie Size Meets Target Share Potential
Multiple ESPN rookie lists slot Tetairoa McMillan among top receiving rookies; his physical profile suggests target share upside sooner than later. If your team needs a high-upside bench stash, McMillan is a clear candidate.
4 – Omarion Hampton, RB, Chargers – Committee Piece With Breakout Odds
Omarion Hampton appears in early fantasy tiers and preseason chatter as a likely early-down contributor for LAC, giving managers a workhorse upside if injuries or inefficiency open opportunity. Will coaches trust a rookie in key fourth-quarter downs?
5 – Abdul Carter, EDGE, Penn State – College Ace, NFL Snap Upside
Scouts Inc. placed Abdul Carter high on its board (grade 94), signaling genuine pass-rush upside as a rookie. Expect early rotation snaps and potential game-impact plays that can swing close contests.
6 – Grey Zabel, G, Seahawks – Why An Offensive Lineman Changes Games
ESPN noted Grey Zabel as a smart fit in Seattle’s line, and rookie guard upgrades often amplify both run and pass protection. If your team’s rushing attack improves, fantasy RBs on that team could follow – would you bank on that ripple?
7 – Jalon Walker, EDGE – A Rookie Who Could Eat Third Downs
Jalon Walker showed up on Scouts/board mentions as a developmental edge with third-down traits; early defensive packages could give him high-leverage snaps. If pass rush is thin in your division, Walker’s snaps could matter immediately.
The Key Figures That Predict Rookie Impact In 2025
| Metric | Value + Unit | Change/Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Ashton Jeanty rank | No. 1 (ESPN fantasy) | Immediate fantasy demand |
| Abdul Carter grade | 94 (Scouts Inc.) | High draft-grade pass rush |
| Matthew Golden 40-yard | 4.29 sec | Elite speed forces coverage shifts |
These figures show why teams and fantasy managers are reacting now.
How Will These 7 Rookies Shift Wins And Waiver Decisions In 2025?
Each pick above can change depth charts within weeks, not months – managers must decide fast. Will you gamble on upside or stick with veteran certainty? Which rookie trade or waiver move will start the biggest reaction on social this month?
Sources
- https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/46018340/nfl-rookie-2025-nfl-draft-training-camp-preseason-257-picks-report-cards
- https://www.espn.com/fantasy/football/story/_/id/45443119/2025-fantasy-football-rankings-rookies-draft
- https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/44534955/2025-nfl-draft-rankings-top-prospects-scouts-inc-grades
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.