Jets’ Fourth-Round Draft Pick Could Surprise in 2025 originally appeared on Athlon Sports.

The New York Jets and general manager Darren Mougey recognized the wide receiver room needed to add a bit of speed in 2025.

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And they did just that.

Georgia Bulldogs’ speedy wideout Arian Smith went to the Jets in the fourth round with the No. 110 overall pick.

After apparently being disappointed in 2024 third-round pick, Malachi Corley, New York might’ve found his replacement already.

Bucs Wire predicted Smith to impress and surprise in 2025.

“The Jets’ top two rookie draft picks in Armand Membou and Tyler Mason are already penciled in as starters,” Jets Wire’s Nick Wojton wrote. “But with those two being selected by New York early, that meant the Jets did not take a wide receiver early in the draft. Garrett Wilson is the clear No. 1 wideout, but it’s a lengthy depth chart that’s battling for playing time behind Wilson.

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“Others in that training camp battle include Allen Lazard, Josh Reynolds and Tyler Johnson.”

It’s a bit of a risk for the Jets, however, as Smith has a long injury history.

He’s had a fractured wrist, a torn meniscus in his knee, a broken fibula and a high-ankle sprain, all of which resulted in surgeries.

He’s also had some notable drops at Georgia.

The Jets are hoping he can stay healthy – and fast – and add to a needy wideout room in 2025.

Lance Zierlein noted Smith’s speed in his NFL Draft profile.

“Smith is the fastest player on the field. If a cornerback presses him and misses, he better have safety help because Smith averaged 36.5 yards on his 10 career touchdown receptions,” Zierlein wrote. “He lacks play strength to finish catches when contested and his hands are unreliable, which could lead to NFL quarterbacks losing confidence in him.

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“He could be a tantalizing option for teams looking to take a chance on his speed late in the draft, but his ball skills are unlikely to improve enough for him to become a long-term option.”

Related: Jets’ Running Back ‘Plan’ Not Ideal For Breece Hall

Related: When It ‘All Comes Together’ For Jets’ Justin Fields Must Happen Now

This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jul 13, 2025, where it first appeared.

NFL training camps are just around the corner where rookies across the league will be looking to prove themselves as they transition to the pro game. Roster spots and starting jobs are on the line, so these rookies will need to make a strong impression.

While there are some big-name rookies who have been garnering attention and praise this offseason, including two-way player Travis Hunter and running back Ashton Jeanty, there are some under-the-radar rookies who could surprise during the 2025 season. And they might not be names many NFL fans are familiar with.

Our NFL Wire editors each examined one rookie from their respective teams who could turn heads in 2025 and develop into impact players for their teams down the line.

Arizona Cardinals: LB Cody Simon

The collective expectation is that defensive lineman Walter Nolen, the Cardinals’ first-round pick, and cornerback Will Johnson, their second-round pick, will contribute and have solid rookie campaigns. But the rookie who could have the most surprising role is Simon, the linebacker out of Ohio State the Cardinals picked up in the fourth round. Right now, the two starting inside linebackers are projected to be Mack Wilson and Akeem Davis-Gaither. Davis-Gaither has 11 career starts in his five NFL seasons. Wilson had a full-time role for the first time in years last season. Simon has the smarts, the athleticism and was the Buckeyes’ defensive leader in their championship run last year. If he is given an opportunity to play, he could end up making the largest individual impact of the Cardinals’ rookie class. – Jess Root, Cards Wire

Atlanta Falcons: DB Billy Bowman

The Falcons were praised for drafting Jalon Walker, James Pearce Jr. and Xavier Watts, but their fourth-round selection of Oklahoma safety Billy Bowman has flown somewhat under the radar. Bowman is a natural playmaker, recording eight interceptions for the Sooners over the last two years. Atlanta plans to play Bowman at nickel this season, and the rookie has already made a good impression on the coaching staff. While we anticipate Dee Alford to start at nickel this season, Bowman should at least give the veteran a run for his money. Whether or not he starts, the rookie is too talented to keep off the field. – Matt Urben, Falcons Wire

Baltimore Ravens: WR LaJohntay Wester

While he could struggle to earn snaps on offense, the Ravens addressed their most under-the-radar need in return specialist LaJohntay Wester. Baltimore was middle of the pack in punt return last season, ranking 16th with a 9.7-yard average and using four different players. Wester is a speedy returner who averaged 12.2 yards on punts in his final season at Colorado, including a 76-yard touchdown. At the Shrine Bowl, his acceleration was clocked at 6.2 yards per second squared, making him the second-fastest on offense since the Shrine Bowl partnered with Zebra Sports. Wester has a connection to Baltimore, having played under Ravens running backs coach Willie Taggart at Florida Atlantic. – Glenn Erby, Ravens Wire

Buffalo Bills: DE Landon Jackson

Jackson was Buffalo’s third-round selection at this year’s draft and while those taken by the Bills before him will get their reps, Jackson might have one of the best routes to the field. Joey Bosa signed in Buffalo this offseason, but can he stay healthy? Michael Hoecht joined the Bills via free agency too, but he’s suspended for the first six games… not to mention AJ Epenesa could be overtaken on the depth chart. Head coach Sean McDermott and Buffalo’s front office clearly liked Jackson during the pre-draft process as well. The path is there for Jackson. – Nick Wojton, Bills Wire

Carolina Panthers: S Lathan Ransom

The Panthers moved on from the majority of their safety room this offseason and signed former Las Vegas Raiders standout Tre’von Moehrig to a meaty three-year, $51 million deal. That’s all good and well (especially for Moehrig), but they have yet to firmly address the uncertainty at the other starting safety spot. Ransom, the second of Carolina’s two fourth-round picks, could provide an answer. The six-foot, 206-pounder was a three-year starter at Ohio State—where he exhibited great instincts, physicality and toughness. His exceptional run defense should also be a plus for the Panthers, who allowed a league-high 179.8 rushing yards per game in 2024. – Anthony Rizzuti, Panthers Wire

Chicago Bears: OT Ozzy Trapilo

There’s been a lot of buzz about Chicago’s top two rookies in tight end Colston Loveland and receiver Luther Burden III, but offensive tackle Ozzy Trapilo also has the potential to make an impact as a rookie. Trapilo is currently entrenched in a battle for the starting left tackle job with incumbent Braxton Jones and second-year pro Kiran Amegadjie. But with Jones sidelined as he recovers from a broken fibula, it’s given Trapilo an opportunity to make a greater impact. Amegadjie and Trapilo rotated with the first-team offense during the offseason program, and that will continue into training camp with Jones expected to be limited to start the summer. Trapilo has already been impressive in his time with the starters, but the real test comes when the pads come on later this month. Still, it certainly looks like Trapilo has a good opportunity to win the starting left tackle job and serve one of the most important roles on this team in 2025. – Alyssa Barbieri, Bears Wire

Cincinnati Bengals: LB Demetrius Knight

We could say third-round guard Dylan Fairchild here (we certainly can’t say first-rounder Shemar Stewart, though his situation is surprising), but he’s not guaranteed to win a job. Second-round linebacker Demetrius Knight is, though. The Bengals took some heat at the time for taking Knight because he’s an older rookie. But that’s what the team wanted, hoping he’s an immediate plug-and-play prospect to replace Germaine Pratt next to Logan Wilson. So far, he’s certainly looked the spot and should exceed expectations with a big snap count and stat sheet. – Chris Roling, Bengals Wire

Cleveland Browns: TE Harold Fannin Jr.

The Cleveland Browns are returning to their roots as a team that often employs heavy 12- and 13-personnel formations. That means despite rostering a Pro Bowl tight end in David Njoku, rookie third rounder Harold Fannin Jr. will see the field a great deal as a rookie as the TE2 in those personnel groupings. Fannin Jr. is a sure-handed and explosive pass catcher who fits the mold as a similar H-back and move piece that Njoku played for the Browns before taking back the reigns as the top dawg in the room in 2022. Njoku occupied that TE2 role in 2020 and 2021 for the Browns with Austin Hooper still under contract. In 2021, Njoku managed 475 yards and four touchdowns on 36 catches. If Fannin Jr. hits that number as a rookie, the Browns will feel quite good about their third round pick. – Cory Kinnan, Browns Wire

Dallas Cowboys: CB Shavon Revel

The team was ecstatic to see Revel fall to the second round in April’s draft, but didn’t pull the trigger. Somehow he made it to the third round. With Dallas clearly looking to end their investment in Trevon Diggs, Revel will be given every possible chance to prove he’s a capable boundary corner once he’s given the green light following his ACL recovery that might delay his debut until October. Once he makes it to the field though, fans shouldn’t be surprised if he’s one of the better rookie DBs in the game. – K.D. Drummond, Cowboys Wire

Denver Broncos: WR Pat Bryant

When the Broncos used a third-round pick to select Illinois wide receiver Pat Bryant in this year’s NFL draft, some pundits viewed it as a reach. Denver coach Sean Payton clearly didn’t. Payton has already compared Bryant to Saints great Michael Thomas. Bryant (6-2, 204 pounds) has ideal size and reliable hands, and he’s a willing blocker. Those are traits that Payton loves, and the receiver could end up making a much bigger impact than national pundits projected this spring. – Jon Heath, Broncos Wire

Detroit Lions: S Dan Jackson

One of the very few available roster spots in Detroit entering the offseason was at safety depth, where the Lions needed a replacement for Ifeatu Melifonwu. Jackson is the type of heady, hard-hitting strong safety who can fill the No. 4 safety spot. But his true contribution as a rookie figures to come on special teams. Every year, the Lions draft someone specifically for special teams coordinator Dave Fipp. Jackson appears to be this year’s edition, following Sione Vaki and Antoine Green in 2023. – Jeff Risdon, Lions Wire

Green Bay Packers: DE/LB Collin Oliver

The Packers’ fifth-round pick could have a hybrid role as both a sub-package edge rusher and off-ball linebacker, and he’s perfect for playing multiple roles on special teams. Oliver is undersized for a 4-3 defensive end but has big-time athleticism, and his disruptive instincts and playmaking ability were all over the tape at Oklahoma State. Could he give the Packers some much-needed speed and explosiveness at edge rusher in certain pass-rushing situations while also playing 150 or more snaps on special teams? Don’t be surprised if he slides into that role as a rookie in 2025. – Zach Kruse, Packers Wire

Houston Texans: RB Woody Marks

There will be a role for Marks in Nick Caley’s offense. How big? That depends on the status of Nick Chubb, who when healthy should be the primary No. 2 back behind Joe Mixon. Still, the Texans didn’t give up a future third-round pick in 2026 for the former USC star to sit. Marks’ best asset are his hands, especially on third down in the receiving game. Over five college seasons with Mississippi State & USC, he caught 261 passes for 1,546 yards and five touchdowns. Caley’s offense has always featured at least one stable pass-catching runner, so if Marks can provide that spark out of the backfield for C.J. Stroud during training camp, he’ll be a gadget type that keeps the sticks moving on manageable situations through the air. – Cole Thompson, Texans Wire

Indianapolis Colts: CB Justin Walley

The Colts picked Walley in the third round, which compared to the consensus big board, was much earlier than many anticipated him going. Walley is a bit undersized, but he makes up for it with really good speed, and skill set-wise, he is a great fit for Lou Anarumo’s defense. With that speed, he can hold his own in man coverage, he had good ball production at Minnesota, and the Colts view him as a versatile defender, an important element to have in this new disguise-heavy defense. The starting cornerback spot opposite of Charvarius Ward is up for grabs, and Walley has received rave reviews so far from coaches and teammates. Whether he starts Week 1 still has to be determined, but in a defense where there will be a greater reliance on the defensive back position, it sure looks like he will have some sort of role as a rookie. – Paul Bretl, Colts Wire

Jacksonville Jaguars: RB LeQuint Allen

As a seventh-round pick and at a position that is fairly crowded in Jacksonville, finding playing time won’t be easy for Allen. However, his ability to provide a pass-catching presence out of the backfield could give him a path to earn some opportunities this season. If we look at Liam Coen’s Tampa Bay offense, the running backs were featured heavily in the passing game, with Rachaad White and Bucky Irving both ranking top 10 in targets among running backs. Allen has ample pass-catching experience from his time at Syracuse, with 78 targets in 2024 alone. He also has experience lining up in the slot, and it’s not as if all those targets were dump-offs when no one else was open, there were drawn-up plays for Allen as well in that offense. – Paul Bretl, Jaguars Wire

Kansas City Chiefs: WR Jalen Royals

The Chiefs have dealt with significant setbacks relative to injuries at the wide receiver position in recent seasons, and if that trend should continue in 2025, Royals would be the likely breakout candidate for Kansas City as a rookie. He was a scoring machine during his three-year tenure with the Utah State Aggies as a collegian, tallying 21 touchdown receptions between his 2023 and 2024 campaigns. Though Royals is likely to be buried behind Rashee Rice, Xavier Worthy, and Marquise ‘Hollywood’ Brown on the Chiefs’ depth chart, fans should expect to see the fourth-round pick to be the ‘next man up’ if any of Kansas City’s veterans are sidelined. – John Dillon, Chiefs Wire

Las Vegas Raiders: WR Dont’e Thornton Jr

Despite not getting selected until round four, and not even the first receiver the Raiders took in this year’s draft, Thornton has been lining up with the first team throughout the offseason. And barring some shocker free agent addition before training camp, that will continue. The former Tennessee Volunteer was not asked to do a whole lot in terms of the route tree during his college days. Leading many to wonder if he was capable of being multifaceted as a receiver. The jury may still be out on that, but as it stands, he is a 6-5 and runs a 4.3 40. Even if all he does is run go routes and fades, he would fulfill the Raiders need at X receiver and thus could put up some decent numbers. And if he can prove that it was the Tennessee offense that was holding him back, rather than the other way around, watch out. – Levi Damien, Raiders Wire

Los Angeles Chargers: TE Oronde Gadsden II

The Chargers traded up for and selected Gadsden in the fifth round of the 2025 NFL draft. Gadsden joins a tight end room that features veterans Will Dissly and Tyler Conklin. Gadsden was taken to provide a spark in the passing game, especially down the seam and in the red zone. The former Syracuse product impressed in spring practices. Offensive coordinator Greg Roman expressed confidence in his ability, stating that he expects him to “ascend quickly.” – Gavino Borquez, Chargers Wire

Los Angeles Rams: LB Chris Paul Jr.

Paul was a fifth-round pick but he has a lot of things working in his favor. For starters, inside linebacker is the weakest position group on the Rams’ roster. He could easily outplay Troy Reeder, Nate Landman and/or Omar Speights to earn a starting job, putting him on the inside track to playing time. He’s also the most athletic linebacker on the Rams’ roster, and likely the best coverage linebacker, too. He’d pair perfectly with a run stopper like Landman or Speights, playing on the weak side where he can flow sideline to sideline and make plays on the ball. He first needs to stand out in camp and the preseason but he has the skill set to earn playing time early this season. – Cameron DaSilva, Rams Wire

Miami Dolphins: S Dante Trader Jr.

When looking at the Miami Dolphins’ 2025 rookie class, several players have opportunities to make an immediate impact, including safety Dante Trader Jr. A two-sport athlete at Maryland, where he played both football and lacrosse, Trader’s athleticism extends beyond the metrics that may have pushed him into a Day 3 selection. His versatility as a safety, able to play deep or step into the box as a nickel, fits well with defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver’s scheme. At times, Weaver could deploy three safeties on the field, and Trader’s work ethic, leadership, and football IQ make him a strong contender for instant snaps. Although Miami’s safety room recently welcomed back Minkah Fitzpatrick, the Dolphins still need to evaluate a group where multiple players could claim the second and third spots on the depth chart.

Trader also brings value as a special teams contributor, having started in multiple roles during his college career. He comes with a glowing endorsement from Maryland head coach Mike Locksley, who said in June on the Dolphins’ Drive Time podcast with Travis Wingfield, “There’s no doubt about Dante and his aptitude and football intelligence. He was a guy that, if you can teach it, then you can execute it. And he’s one of those players I see all the time grabbing the young safeties and corners, imparting the wisdom he gained, not just from his successes, but also from his failures as a young player.” – Jason Sarney, Dolphins Wire

Minnesota Vikings: LB Kobe King

The Vikings had few draft picks in April’s NFL Draft, so they had to make the most with each selection. While everyone will be talking about their top draft pick, Donovan Jackson, I will highlight another Big Ten player they selected in linebacker Kobe King. While they have Blake Cashman and Ivan Pace Jr. leading the unit, King should see some rotational work and maybe even a bigger role as the season goes on. The Vikings’ run defense needed to be improved upon from their 2024 efforts. Kwesi Adofo-Mensah is hoping that King can play some sort of role in that in 2025. – Andrew Harbaugh, Vikings Wire

New England Patriots: WR Kyle Williams

Where are the offensive weapons in New England? That has been the lingering question since Tom Brady was still under center for the Patriots. The wait for wide receiver help might finally come to an end with the arrival of third-round draft pick Kyle Williams. No, he wasn’t the center of attention during the draft, but maybe he should have been considering he was the best pure separator in the 2025 class. Williams can get open consistently and blow past defenders with the ball in his hands. He has all of the makings of an elite offensive playmaker, and he’ll get his NFL start playing across from a four-time Pro Bowler in Stefon Diggs. Grab your popcorn—for real this time. – Jordy McElroy, Patriots Wire

New Orleans Saints: CB Quincy Riley

It wasn’t too long ago that the Saints drafted a starting defensive back in Round 4, and from that perspective Riley just might be following in C.J. Gardner-Johnson’s footsteps. He put a lot of quality play on tape in college and may have been drafted a couple rounds earlier if not for an injury this spring. Expect him to compete with experienced backups like Isaac Yiadom,

Rico Payton, and Rejzohn Wright for that opportunity while Kool-Aid McKinstry and Alontae Taylor continue to draw the majority of snaps. In today’s game NFL defenses need three corners (at least) and Riley has a real shot at locking down that third spot. – John Sigler, Saints Wire

New York Giants: DT Darius Alexander

While all eyes will be on quarterback Jaxson Dart and edge rusher Abdul Carter, the biggest rookie surprise may come from third-round defensive tackle Darius Alexander. Assuming he returns to full health, Alexander will likely play a significant role for the Giants, providing depth on the inside and pairing with All-Pro Dexter Lawrence. It was an area of concern for the Giants last season, and Alexander is viewed as having huge upside and a high floor. He will see an increased number of snaps as he develops and the season goes on. – Dan Benton, Giants Wire

New York Jets: WR Arian Smith

The Jets’ top two rookie draft picks in Armand Membou and Tyler Mason are already penciled in as starters. But with those two being selected by New York early, that meant the Jets did not take a wide receiver early in the draft. Garrett Wilson is the clear No. 1 wideout, but it’s a lengthy depth chart that’s battling for playing time behind Wilson. Others in that training camp battle include Allen Lazard, Josh Reynolds and Tyler Johnson. – Nick Wojton, Jets Wire

Philadelphia Eagles: DB Andrew Mukuba

Jihaad Campbell may be the first-round pick, but it’s the Swiss army knife from the University of Texas that will have an opportunity to make the most significant impact from Day 1. At 6-0, 186 pounds, Mukuba is undersized but makes up for it with excellent ball skills and instincts. He possesses good length and exhibits ball-hawking tendencies, tying the SEC lead with five interceptions in 2024. Over his final 26 games in college, Mukuba recorded 18 pass breakups and committed zero penalties. That’s impressive for a player who’s aggressive at the catch point. Mukuba allowed just 74 yards and a 12.1 passer rating on 401 coverage snaps last season, per PFF. – Glenn Erby, Eagles Wire

Pittsburgh Steelers: S Sebastian Castro

The Pittsburgh Steelers drafted several players who we expect to have a big impact, including defensive tackle Derrick Harmon and running back Kaleb Johnson. But the name to keep an eye on is an undrafted free agent. Former Iowa safety Sebastian Castro signed with the Steelers as an undrafted free agent after a stellar college career. The trade that send Minkah Fitzpatrick to the Miami Dolphins gives Pittsburgh a spot on the depth chart open and we won’t be at all shocked if Castro uses a strong training camp and preseason to make the 53-man roster and more. – Curt Popejoy, Steelers Wire

San Francisco 49ers: S Marques Sigle

Marques Sigle’s path to snaps was opened significantly with news that second-year safety Malik Mustapha is dealing with a knee injury he sustained in the 2024 season finale. It’s unclear what Mustapha’s timeline for return is, but it opens a starting safety spot alongside Ji’Ayir Brown whose job is also not safe. Sigle brings a ton of athleticism to a safety room that doesn’t have enough of it. If he winds up starting in Robert Saleh’s defense, he has the tools to become a Swiss Army knife defender who causes havoc in the secondary. – Kyle Madson, Niners Wire

Seattle Seahawks: S Nick Emmanwori

During the predraft season, mocks were split fairly evenly between Seattle selecting guard Greg Zabel or safety Nick Emmanwori in the first round, and with good reason. Ultimately, the Seahawks managed to get their cake and eat it too as Emmanwori fell to them in the second round. Given his physical traits, the natural comp is Kam Chancellor. However, a more apropos comp would be Kyle Hamilton of the Ravens, as defensive guru Mike Macdonald is likely to use him in a similar capacity given the fact Seattle already has two solid starting caliber safeties. Emmanwori represents a unique piece on Macdonal’s chessboard. – Kole Musgrove, Seahawks Wire

Tampa Bay Buccaneers: CB Jacob Parrish

While everyone will know the name Benjamin Morrison, who they drafted in the second round, it is the cornerback they selected after him who could make the more immediate impact. While Morrison continues to be brought along from a hip injury he suffered last year, Parrish has been able to practice and is now in the conversation to have the starting nickel role in 2025. He plays in a physical way, he provides run support, and is everything Todd Bowles looks for in his cornerbacks so look for him to play early and often. – Andrew Harbaugh, Bucs Wire

Tennessee Titans: WR Elic Ayomanor

Many believe that the Titans got a steal when they selected Ayomanor in the fourth round of the NFL draft. A prototypical boundary receiver, he has the size and ball skills to be a perfect complement to Calvin Ridley on the outside, and he has a path to early playing time as a rookie. Ayomanor stood out during OTAs and minicamp and should be able to build upon that momentum and seize the opportunity to make an impact early in his career. – Dan Benton/Bryan Manning Titans Wire

Washington Commanders: RB Jacory Croskey-Merritt

Croskey-Merritt isn’t a typical seventh-round pick. A bogus NCAA eligibility issue cost him all but one game after he transferred to Arizona last season. Croskey-Merritt has thrived each time he moved up a level and was slated to be a much higher pick in April’s NFL draft. He has a good combination of size and speed and runs with excellent power. One knock is his lack of impact in the passing game during his college career. The Commanders have Austin Ekeler for that. Croskey-Merritt could quickly move up the depth chart if Brian Robinson Jr. misses any time. – Bryan Manning, Commanders Wire

The AFC East should be more competitive in the 2025 NFL season. The Buffalo Bills are still the team to beat, but don’t be surprised if the Miami Dolphins, New England Patriots and New York Jets make them earn their division crown, especially if talent emerges from the mid-round of the 2025 NFL Draft.

All eyes will be on rookies selected in the first two round for each team, but there are some interesting players taken on Day 2 and Day 3 of the draft who could shine bright at key positions and help right away. It is this ability to identify talent later in the draft that sets rosters apart. It could be the difference between a contender and a pretender.

Which mid-round rookies will stand out for Bills, Dolphins, Patriots and Jets?

Not so hidden talents from the 2025 Draft in the AFC East:

Buffalo Bills – Landon Jackson, Edge: The Bills brought in Joey Bosa to help the pass rush in 2025, but the Bills need a young player to step up and step into the rotation to add some fire power off the edge. Could that player be third round pick Landon Jackson?

Buffalo Bills edge rusher Landon Jackson. Mandatory Credit: Gregory Fisher-Imagn Images | Gregory Fisher-Imagn Images

Everything football related just feels like an NFL success story brewing in Buffalo. As an athletic edge with high football instincts, Jackson was one of the top defensive linemen in the SEC in 2024. The 6-foot-6, 259-pound edge racked up 6.5 sacks to go with 49 total tackles (27 solo) in his final season at Arkansas. Showcasing a high motor and versatility along the defensive line, this third-round pick could shine bright for the AFC East division favorites.

Miami Dolphins – Jason Marshall Jr., CB: The Jalen Ramsay blockbuster trade will open a big opportunity for fifth-round pick Jason Marshall Jr. The Florida product enters the league with experience as a four-year starter with the Gators. If not for a Shoulder injury suffered during his senior year, Marshall Jr. had the accolades in college to be a higher pick. Will he play up to his talents in the NFL?

In need of any talent they can get at the cornerback position, the Dolphins were impressed by Marshall Jr. early in OTA’s

“He’s a big corner. He moves really well, and he’s a super-efficeient and productive mover,” Dolphins cornerback coach Mathiew Araujo said back in May. “So as a big corner being able to get your hands on and still keep your feet under you that allows you to cover a big variety of receivers.’

“What he’s doing a great job of in this offseason is the things that we pinpointed throughout his college career that we want to improve on, and we can make adjustments to get them to be super productive. That’s what we’re working on right now.”

Florida Gators cornerback Jason Marshall Jr. [Matt Pendleton/Gainesville Sun] | Matt Pendleton/Gainesville Sun / USA TODAY NETWORK

That continued work and growth is even more important now without a top corner like Ramsay. Marshall Jr. As the roster currently sits, Marshall Jr. is slotted as a starter opposite Storm Duck. If he lives up to his talent and capability, this fifth-round pick will be a great and timely find for the Dolphins in the AFC East.

New England Patriots – Kyle Williams, WR: The Patriots may end up with more than one mid-round gem by the time the 2025 NFL season is over, but the one who shines the brightest heading into training camp with third-round pick Kyle Williams.

At 5-foot-11, 190 pounds, Williams enters the NFL as an explosive receiver who should be a quick favorite of Drake Maye in the Patriots’ offense. With Josh McDaniels back as offensive coordinator, a receiver like Williams will have an opportunity to shine given his speed and ability to separate down the field vertically.

Washington State wideout Kyle Williams during the 2025 NFL Combine. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images | Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

Although the Patriots don’t have a big-time playmaker outside of Stefon Diggs, there is a logjam at the wide receiver position. With Kendrick Bourne, Kayshon Boutte, Mack Hollins, DeMario Douglas, Ja’Lynn Polk, Javon Baker, undrafted rookie Efton Chism III and Diggs all in that receiver’s room, Williams will need to separate himself through training camp. As a big play receiver with confidence, the Patriots may have finally hit at receiver via the draft.

New York Jets – Malachi Moore, S: Don’t be surprised if New York Jets fourth round pick Malachi Moore is the team’s starting safety. As another rookie in the AFC East who has impressed early in camp, the Alabama product brings versatility to the Jets’ secondary as well as experience playing under Nick Saban in a complex defense. His ability to play free safety, strong safety and in the slot gives Moore an opportunity to get on the field in multiple coverages.

New York Jets rookie safety Malachi Moore. Mandatory Credit: Thomas Salus-Imagn Images | Thomas Salus-Imagn Images

With Sauce Gardner anchoring the secondary at cornerback, Moore will have an opportunity to solidify the safety group playing behind Tony Adams and Andre Cisco. If he continues to impress and show that versatility he was known for in Alabama, he should take one of those jobs as a starter sooner rather than later.

More AFC East:

Open Extended Reactions

It’s been an offseason of surprises in the NFL, from Shedeur Sanders’ draft-day fall to Aaron Rodgers finally landing in Pittsburgh, but there also have been more subtle developments that could have big impacts on this season.

Under-the-radar players have been turning heads in OTAs and minicamps, fighting for starting spots or key depth roles. Next up will be training camp starting July 12, followed by full-team activities.

Which players might have surprised their coaches and teammates the most? Our NFL Nation reporters picked one player who unexpectedly rose to the occasion and could make a serious impact in the fall.

Jump to:

ARI | ATL | BAL | BUF | CAR | CHI | CIN

CLE | DAL | DEN | DET | GB | HOU | IND

JAX | KC | LAC | LAR | LV | MIA | MIN

NE | NO | NYG | NYJ | PHI | PIT | SF

SEA | TB | TEN | WSH

AFC EAST

LB Joe Andreessen

Largely a special teams player as a rookie last year, Andreessen was signed after trying out at rookie minicamp, and he then earned a roster spot. He made a significant statement going into his second season with his performance during the mandatory minicamp.

Availability is something the Bills emphasize, and Andreessen saw increased time during team drills, in part due to Baylon Spector’s injury. He made multiple notable plays, including picking off Josh Allen. And he put himself in a good position to compete for the backup middle linebacker job. — Alaina Getzenberg

LB Grayson Murphy

On a team that features Bradley Chubb, Jaelan Phillips and Chop Robinson, Murphy made splash plays in the backfield during spring practices. The aforementioned three pass rushers should dominate snaps when healthy, but staying healthy has been difficult over the past two seasons — even for Murphy, who landed on injured reserve in August after signing as an undrafted free agent last season.

He could provide situational or rotational pass-rush depth if he continues his production into training camp. — Marcel Louis-Jacques

WR Efton Chism III

The undrafted free agent from Eastern Washington quickly earned the trust of his quarterbacks, with Drake Maye remarking, “Chis had like 50 catches in OTAs.”

Among the things that stood out most while watching the 5-foot-10, 198-pound Chism work in the slot were his spatial awareness, quickness and sure hands. Specifically, in one practice when veteran Kendrick Bourne wasn’t present, Chism stepped into his role and led the team in catches that day. The Patriots have 12 receivers on the roster and are likely to keep six, with Chism making an early statement that he could be in the mix for one of the final spots. — Mike Reiss

WR Josh Reynolds

After a strong offseason, Reynolds is the clear-cut leader for the WR2 job. He arrived with little fanfare as a free agent (one year, $2.8 million), mainly because of a down 2024 with the Broncos and Jaguars. It also was a turbulent year; he suffered arm and head wounds in a shooting.

New Jets coach Aaron Glenn knows Reynolds from their time in Detroit, where the 30-year-old receiver was a solid complementary option. Beyond Garrett Wilson, the Jets lack big-play ability after cutting Davante Adams. Reynolds has separated from Allen Lazard and others. — Rich Cimini

AFC NORTH

Devontez Walker was Baltimore’s most conistent wide receiver during spring practices. AP Photo/Stephanie Scarbrough

WR Devontez Walker

The 2024 fourth-round pick was Baltimore’s most consistent wide receiver during spring practices and recorded two of the biggest catches of minicamp. On the first day, Walker made an over-the-shoulder grab 20 yards downfield. On the second day, he delivered an acrobatic grab over cornerback T.J. Tampa along the sideline.

Walker is looking to become a bigger part of the passing game after a forgettable rookie season, when his only catch was a 21-yard touchdown. He appears to be the front-runner to be Baltimore’s No. 4 wide receiver behind Zay Flowers, Rashod Bateman and DeAndre Hopkins. “Every day, all he does is show up and go 100 miles an hour,” Ravens coach John Harbaugh said. — Jamison Hensley

WR Jermaine Burton

Burton had one of the worst rookie years imaginable, which only amplified the character concerns he had in college. Heading into this season, Bengals exec Duke Tobin made it clear Burton had to show Cincinnati something.

This offseason, Burton has made all the right moves. He was attentive and engaged throughout the spring workouts. He earned praise from every person who was asked about him, including offensive coordinator Dan Pitcher. “He’s got a good look in his eye,” Pitcher said. “He’s here putting the time in.” Burton has the tools to become a big-play option in special situations. — Ben Baby

WR Jamari Thrash

A 2024 fifth-round pick who caught three passes as a rookie, Thrash took advantage of opportunities in an unproven receiver room and established himself as a reliable option for all the Browns’ quarterbacks.

“He’s had a really strong spring,” coach Kevin Stefanski said. “He is here all the time working on his body. Very intelligent player, can line up in multiple positions which I think is valuable. And then he showed up, he’s caught the ball well and you know the quarterbacks like how he gets open. He finds a way to get open versus zone, versus man.” — Daniel Oyefusi

WR Calvin Austin III

Since trading George Pickens to the Dallas Cowboys, the Steelers are squarely in need of a No. 2 wide receiver to complement DK Metcalf. WR coach Zach Azzanni, though, believes they already have someone in the building to fill that role. “I think that ‘2’ spot is all Calvin’s right now,” Azzanni said during the Steelers’ minicamp.

Selected 86 picks after Pickens in 2022, Austin missed his entire rookie year with an injury but has turned into a steady contributor in each of his last two seasons. Austin was just behind Pickens last season, averaging 15.2 yards per reception, and he hauled in four touchdowns to Pickens’ three. Austin still has to build chemistry with quarterback Aaron Rodgers, but he made plays throughout the Steelers’ OTAs and minicamp with Mason Rudolph, Skylar Thompson and Will Howard throwing him the football. — Brooke Pryor

AFC SOUTH

WR Jayden Higgins

The Texans’ on-the-field work for OTAs were pretty quiet as quarterback C.J. Stroud didn’t throw for most of spring football practices outside of minicamp. But one player who did make noise was second-round rookie wideout Higgins. The big-body receiver (6-4, 215) flashed his down-field ability by beating multiple cornerbacks throughout the spring, including starting cornerback Kamari Lassiter.

When the Texans return to the field on July 23 for training camp, Higgins is squarely positioned to compete for a starting role. — DJ Bien-Aime

CB Justin Walley

When the Colts selected Walley in the third round this year, the move felt like a bit of a surprise given the pre-draft projections for the former Minnesota standout. But Walley has been turning heads throughout the offseason with his aggressive coverage and impressive instincts, and it’s now clear he has a chance to have a significant role in the defense as a rookie.

The Colts are expected to play a greater variety of coverages this season, and Walley is showing potential in dime packages. Walley is “really sticky in coverage,” coach Shane Steichen said. “Has been making a ton of plays through OTAs. So, very pleased with where he is at.” — Stephen Holder

CB Montaric Brown

Heading into OTAs, the thought was the starter opposite Tyson Campbell would either be rookie Travis Hunter or second-year player Jarrian Jones, who played well at nickel at the end of his rookie season. Defensive coordinator Anthony Campanile favors playing a lot of zone coverages, which Jones said he never played in high school or college so he’s still learning, and the Jaguars are still working through just how many defensive snaps they will be able to get out of Hunter.

Brown has worked with the starters, and he consistently made plays throughout the offseason, including a pair of end-zone pass breakups in red zone drills in minicamp. He has the advantage heading into camp. — Michael DiRocco

LB Cody Barton

Barton showed he could be the much-needed savvy veteran for the Titans’ inside linebacker group, which struggled a bit in coverage and found themselves out of position, leading to some long runs by opposing backs.

The veteran free agent addition has a vocal presence on the field and can be heard barking commands before almost every snap. Barton intercepted No.1 pick Cameron Ward twice. Despite being new to the team, Barton has already become a mentor to the young inside backers, especially second-year linebacker James Williams, who he offered pointers to when the two weren’t on the field together. — Turron Davenport

AFC WEST

Broncos coach Sean Payton compared Pat Bryant to Saints receiver Michael Thomas. AP Photo/David Zalubowski

WR Pat Bryant

Perhaps it’s difficult to be “under-the-radar” when your head coach compares you to Michael Thomas before you’ve set foot in the team’s facility, but the rookie showed he will do his part to carve out some playing time. The third-round pick (74th overall) ran a 4.61 40-yard dash at the combine, which deterred some in the league. But the Broncos saw a precise route runner who consistently created space with explosive release at the line of scrimmage.

He consistently showed physicality to win contested catches during the Broncos’ offseason program, and quarterback Bo Nix showed the confidence to put the ball to Bryant in tight situations. Bryant’s catch over first-round pick Jahdae Barron in minicamp was one of the best receptions in the three-day affair. Playing time will be hard to come by with Courtland Sutton, Marvin Mims Jr. and Troy Franklin getting most of the work with the starters, but Bryant is in the mix if he builds on his offseason work. — Jeff Legwold

RB Brashard Smith

Judging from how he was utilized in offseason practices, the Chiefs have plans for Smith, a seventh-round draft pick out of SMU. Smith was a wide receiver in college before moving to running back for his final season, and the Chiefs showcased his versatility by getting him the ball out of the backfield, from the slot and split out wide. Smith ran a 4.39 40 at the combine, so he will fit in with a group of other fast skill players, including Xavier Worthy, Hollywood Brown and Elijah Mitchell. — Adam Teicher

WR Dont’e Thornton Jr.

The fourth-round pick made a strong case to be a Day 1 contributor for Las Vegas. Thornton received a good amount of reps with the first-team offense, as his combination of size (6-5, 205) and speed (4.3 40 at the combine) makes him a threat in the intermediate and deep passing game. At Tennessee, Thornton was known for his big-play ability, leading the nation in yards per catch (25.4) and catches for 50-plus yards (six).

The Raiders didn’t make major moves at wide receiver this offseason, meaning Thornton and second-round pick Jack Bech will be asked to step up in a big way in Year 1. Thornton showed he could be ready to answer the call. — Ryan McFadden

TE Oronde Gadsden II

The fifth-round rookie was the most active pass catcher this offseason, becoming a favorite target of quarterback Justin Herbert. At 6-foot-5, 250 pounds, Gadsden’s speed at his size (4.65 in the 40 at the combine) has made him a difficult cover.

The Chargers passing offense struggled mightily last season, which led to their first-round exit. If Gadsden can continue to be a receiving threat, the Chargers appear poised to take another step towards the Super Bowl coach Jim Harbaugh promised when he took the job last January. — Kris Rhim

NFC EAST

CB Kaiir Elam

The Cowboys acquired Elam in a trade from Buffalo after he was not able to solidify himself with the Bills. The Cowboys had him highly rated when he came into the NFL. He started just 12 games in three seasons with two picks, but he flashed on numerous occasions in the OTAs and minicamp. He had multiple interceptions and dropped two more. He also showed the ability to run with receivers.

Maybe things change when the pads come on in training camp, but given the uncertainty the Cowboys have at cornerback with Trevon Diggs and third-round pick Shavon Revel Jr. working back from knee surgeries, they need Elam to be a factor. — Todd Archer

S Dane Belton

Earlier this offseason, it appeared as if he was about to become an afterthought following the signing of Jevon Holland. But think again. “He has been really good for us here early. Like he’s had a really good spring,” defensive coordinator Shane Bowen said. “[We’re] finding ways to get him on the field, what he can do for us to help us.”

Belton was making plays seemingly every practice this spring. He had three interceptions in the five workouts open to the media. Even if he’s not a starter it appears that the fourth-round pick in 2022 will have a role as the third safety. And why not? When he’s on the field he has consistently created turnovers and made plays. — Jordan Raanan

Philadelphia has one of the top receiving duos in the league in A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith, but there are some roster spots up for grabs lower on the depth chart, and Danny Gray will be competing for one. Terence Lewis/Icon Sportswire

WR Danny Gray

The 26-year-old wideout made an impression during the OTA and minicamp practices open to reporters, using his 4.33 speed to stretch the field and accelerate past defenders on catches over the middle. Gray was a third-round pick of the San Francisco 49ers in 2022. He dealt with some injuries and tallied just one reception during his time in San Francisco.

He was waived by the Niners in August and signed with the Eagles’ practice squad days later. Philadelphia has one of the top receiving duos in the league in A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith, but there are some roster spots up for grabs lower on the depth chart. Gray will be competing with players like Ainias Smith, Avery Williams and Terrace Marshall during training camp. — Tim McManus

DT Daron Payne

It’s not so much about his performance on the field — it’s impossible to tell much about linemen because they’re not in pads. But, rather, what stood out with Payne was what others saw from him. Coach Dan Quinn said he had a “laser focus” this spring. And defensive coordinator Joe Whitt said, “He just looks really good, really intent-ful. You can really see him taking that leadership role to the next step. He’s been the guy that’s really just stood out to me the most from that standpoint.” They pointed to him becoming more of a leader and being more outgoing around the building.

Washington needs more from Payne this season. After recording 11.5 sacks in a contract year in 2022 he has posted a combined eight the past two seasons. But more than sack totals, Payne needs to be felt more in the pass rush. In 2020-22, he had 96 pass rush wins and a win rate of 11.6 percent. In the past two years he has had 39 wins and a 7.6 percent win rate. Payne isn’t in a contract year but could be cut next offseason for a $16 million savings. — John Keim

NFC NORTH

Ruben Hyppolite II, LB

Ben Johnson singled out Hyppolite as the player that Bears coaches saw the most improvement from this spring. With veteran T.J. Edwards sidelined with a soft tissue injury, Hyppolite got a lot of run with the starting defense at a position he doesn’t have much experience at (weakside linebacker) after playing middle linebacker throughout his career at Maryland.

While the search for Chicago’s No. 3 linebacker isn’t the sexiest of position battles, Hyppolite — a fourth-rounder with a 4.39 second 40 time — made early impressions on the coaching staff. “He’s done a great job adjusting to that speed as we’ve gone through, and that’s going to have to show up once we do get the pads on,” Johnson said. “But I think he’s been improving every single day, and really, we’re hoping that course continues.” — Courtney Cronin

Avonte Maddox has looked good so far with the Lions, impressing coach Dan Campbell while bringing a ton of experience as a Super Bowl champion who has spent the past seven seasons in Philadelphia. Bill Streicher-Imagn Images

Lions DB Avonte Maddox

Detroit added Maddox, an unrestricted free agent, to help with the secondary, and head coach Dan Campbell sees him as a guy who will “fit right in with us” after evaluating him during the offseason program. The Detroit native has looked good so far, impressing Campbell, and he brings a ton of experience as a Super Bowl champion and veteran player, who has spent the past seven seasons in Philadelphia.

The former fourth-round pick also contributed a role in the Eagles’ championship victory with a pass breakup in Super Bowl LIX on Kansas City Chiefs QB Patrick Mahomes during a fourth-down play while appearing in every postseason game. — Eric Woodyard

C Jacob Monk

Almost all the Packers’ offseason practices were at jog-through speed, so it would be unwise to make any major assessments based on those sessions. Seeing who lined up where and with what units was about the only thing worth noting. In that regard, it was a good offseason for the second-year center.

With Elgton Jenkins skipping the entire offseason program, Monk got the bulk of the work with the starters. “He’s done a nice job,” coach Matt LaFleur said of the 2024 fifth-round pick. “He’s a lot more comfortable and confident in terms of going out there and knowing what to do. And for him it’s just going to come down to those live reps.” Jenkins will be the starting center, but Monk has had the chance to show he’s valuable backup. — Rob Demovsky

CB Isaiah Rodgers

Rodgers demonstrated why the Vikings pegged him as a likely starter despite a relatively obscure career since the Colts selected him in the sixth round of the 2020 draft. Rodgers displayed playmaking ability, jumping an out route and intercepting quarterback J.J. McCarthy, while also showing speed as a kickoff returner.

It’s not clear whether the Vikings will use him as a returner, given the heavy workload he’s expected to face as a cornerback. But he has a big fan in defensive coordinator Brian Flores, who said he has been tracking Rodgers since he played at the University of Massachusetts. “He’s been a great addition,” Flores said. “He’s got great football IQ and acumen.” — Kevin Seifert

NFC SOUTH

LB Divine Deablo

The Falcons didn’t have the salary-cap room to make any huge splashes in free agency this offseason. But the team thinks they really found something in Deablo, whose base salary is only $1.66 million this season.

Head coach Raheem Morris has been impressed with Deablo’s size (6-foot-3), length and speed. Even more than that, Morris believes Deablo is capable of wearing the green dot as kind of the quarterback of the defense. It sounds like the former Raider has a solid chance at a starting job at inside linebacker alongside Kaden Elliss. — Marc Raimondi

DT Chau Smith-Wade

It wasn’t just obvious to sideline observers, it was obvious to teammates that the 2024 fifth-round pick out of Washington State had a stellar offseason and will be a factor in 2025. “Man, I think he’s been the most impressive player,” Pro Bowl cornerback Jaycee Horn said.

Smith-Wade’s ability to play corner, nickel and safety makes him valuable to a young defense trying to rebuild after finishing last in the NFL a year ago. “Chau took advantage of an opportunity,” coach Dave Canales said. “He made tackles. He had an opportunity on an interception, and he made it.” — David Newton

OL Trevor Penning

The 2022 first-round pick may have been given new life after his third position change. Penning came into the league with the expectation he would be a starting LT, was benched in 2023 and switched to right tackle in 2024. The Saints did not pick up his fifth-year option but clearly still believe in him after moving him to left guard.

Penning was the starting LG all throughout OTAs and minicamp, and that’s a sign he might quietly find his role again after a difficult first three years in the league. — Katherine Terrell

In minicamp, SirVocea Dennis made “one of the best plays I’ve ever seen a linebacker make,” linebacker Anthony Walker Jr. said. Cliff Welch/Icon Sportswire

LB SirVocea Dennis

The Bucs only caught a glimpse of Dennis due to a season-ending shoulder injury in Week 4, and the middle of the field was quite vulnerable last season as a result. But he had one of the most impressive offseasons of any Bucs defender.

“First day of OTAs, made one of the best plays I’ve ever seen a linebacker make,” linebacker Anthony Walker Jr. said. Dennis moved across the field to jump a route on a Baker Mayfield pass for an interception. “He’s special, man. Very cerebral and knows the game very well. Can really do everything on the field as a pass dropper, a blitzer and a run defender,” Walker said. — Jenna Laine

NFC WEST

ILB Cody Simon

The 2025 fourth-round pick has made a quick impression on coach Jonathan Gannon in a short amount of time. He’s taken on the responsibility of wearing the green dot, which has added to the steep learning curve that comes with a player’s first year in the NFL, but Gannon has praised Simon’s ability to learn quickly from his mistakes.

“He’s definitely flashed here,” Gannon said. “We got him playing a couple different spots, so that’s good. He is playing on fourth down right now, so he is learning all that. He’s eager to learn. He doesn’t make mistakes twice and he’s got juice. He’s physical, just like all those guys. Long way to go. But I like where he is at.” — Josh Weinfuss

OLB Byron Young

The 2023 third-round pick has had two strong seasons, amassing 15.5 sacks in his NFL career. But despite that success, outside linebackers coach Joe Coniglio said he has noticed how “intentional” Young has been going into his third season. Coniglio said he challenged Young to continue to work on his “consistency,” because “when he’s at his best, it’s a lot of fun to watch.”

“I think he’s going to take another step forward in regards to his game, his ability to affect games, his ability to disrupt offenses and be the player that he’s capable of being,” Coniglio said. — Sarah Barshop

Jordan Watkins looked smooth running the intermediate routes that are a staple of Kyle Shanahan’s scheme. Matthew Huang/Icon Sportswire

WR Jordan Watkins

The fourth-round pick out of Mississippi had no shortage of opportunities to work with starting quarterback Brock Purdy because fellow wideouts Brandon Aiyuk, Jauan Jennings and Ricky Pearsall missed time with injuries. It’s difficult to get on the field and produce in Kyle Shanahan’s offense as a rookie receiver, but Watkins looked smooth running the intermediate routes that are a staple of Shanahan’s scheme. He consistently made plays in practice.

“Jordan Watkins has been balling from day one really,” Purdy said. “He’s come in and he’s done everything pretty right and he’s been on point. He’s had a lot of explosive plays down the field … definitely a rookie that has popped out in front of everybody.” — Nick Wagoner

G Anthony Bradford

When the Seahawks hired offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak, a popular reaction was that Bradford may have a hard time winning back the starting job at right guard. After all, he’s a big, powerful blocker who doesn’t seem like an ideal fit for an outside zone scheme that suits more athletic linemen.

It’s time to press pause on that notion after a trimmer-looking Bradford shared first-team reps with Christian Haynes during OTAs and minicamp. “A.B.’s done a great job this spring,” coach Mike Macdonald said. “His body comp has really improved, which speaks to his work ethic. I think he’s made strides … It’s time to go prove it consistently. He knows that, but he’s right in the thick of it with the battle at right guard.” — Brady Henderson

Last year, Ladd McConkey, Ray Davis and Tarheeb Still were a few of the AFC rookies picked after Day 1 who were key players on their respective teams right away.

In 2023, it was Tank Dell of the Texans, Keeanu Benton of the Steelers, and Colts receiver Josh Downs.

In 2022, Breece Hall and Dameon Pierce were AFC Day 2 picks who played like first-rounders in Year 1 in the NFL. The season before that, Creed Humphrey and Trey Smith went from somewhat obscure non-Day 1 picks to integral pieces of the Chiefs offensive line as rookies.

In 2020, Chiefs cornerback L’Jarius Sneed, Colts running back Jonathan Taylor, Steelers receiver Chase Claypool and Patriots guard Michael Onwenu were AFC rookies who weren’t selected on Day 1 of the draft but sure as heck played like Day 1 selections during their debut season.

And you, NFL fan starved for football, know all about your favorite team’s first-round pick in the 2025 draft. Now it’s time to really get acclimated with the non-Round 1 selection who has the talent — and situation — to flourish as a rookie.

Earlier this week I ran through who these players can be this season for each NFC team. Below is the AFC edition.

AFC East

DT T.J. Sanders

T.J. Sanders Drafted: No. 41, second round

Sanders is exactly the interior rusher that’s been missing next to Ed Oliver during the majority of the Sean McDermott era. In this day and age, teams need two disruptive forces on the interior. The Bills had utilized journeymen next to Oliver for years. Now they have an athletic, advanced defensive tackle the opposition will have to involve in the game plan right away.

At South Carolina, Sanders was routinely in the backfield — for years — thanks to first-step quicks, leverage, and aggressive hand work. He wins on first, second, and third down. I expect Sanders to be an integral part of Buffalo’s defensive line rotation in 2025 and beyond.

OL Jonah Savaiinaea

Drafted: No. 37, second round

Savaiinaea embodies the Dolphins’ change of team-building philosophy that was woefully needed after the speed-finesse route yielded an abundance of stats but zero playoff victories to date in the Mike McDaniel era.

At 6-4 and 324 pounds, this is a monstrous human who can play tackle (his collegiate position) or guard at the next level. He’s a masher in the run game but is a deceptively balanced and under-control pass protector too. As an early second-round pick, it’ll come as no surprise when Savaiinaea emerges as a key cog to the Dolphins’ offensive line reconstruction in 2025 and into the future.

EDGE Tyler Baron

Tyler Baron Drafted: No. 176, fifth round

Baron was one of my favorite edge-rusher watches of the 2025 draft cycle. Decently long with a pass-rush move arsenal of an NFL veteran. The bull-rush flashes were tremendous too.

And at Miami, Baron had back-to-back seasons with at least 40 pressures on precisely 250 opportunities to rush the quarterback in 2023 and 2024. Yes, the Jets have a youthful — and quite effective — defensive end duo in former first-round picks Will McDonald and Jermaine Johnson. But Johnson will be returning from a series leg injury he suffered early in 2024. Even if he’s back to 100%, teams need more than two quality outside rushers in this day and age of the NFL. And Baron has the advanced skill to be the ideal depth pass-rushing specialist in New York as a rookie (and beyond).

New England Patriots

RB TreVeyon Henderson

TreVeyon Henderson Drafted: No. 38, second round

After his true freshman season, Henderson was never the true, undisputed feature back at Ohio State, and it was somewhat of a mystery why that was never the case. While he’s not uber-elusive laterally, he’s a big play ready to erupt through the second level, both on interior runs and when he can turn the corner.

The Patriots have Rhamondre Stevenson, a holdover from the previous regime, and not much else in the running back room. Henderson will bring a spark-plug vibe to Year 2 of the Drake Maye era, which is desperately needed in New England.

Five wild NFL what-ifs: Matthew Stafford to Raiders, Aaron Rodgers to Rams and other moves that never were Cody Benjamin

AFC North

RB Tahj Brooks

Tahj Brooks Drafted: No. 193, sixth round

The Bengals are going to have one of the more fun, youthful backfield tandems in the NFL, and it’ll be the most cost-effective, with Chase Brown and Brooks, both former sixth-round selections. Brooks’ build lends itself to yards after contact. He has short, thick legs, and surprisingly juice in them when changing directions.

Cincinnati clearly doesn’t care about draft position with its running backs (and it shouldn’t matter for any team). Brown and Brooks political campaign T-shirts will be trendy in Cincinnati in 2025.

Pittsburgh Steelers

RB Kaleb Johnson

Kaleb Johnson Drafted: No. 83, third round

Johnson is about as NFL-ready as a feature-back can get. And he feels very Steelers-y. Big, bruising runner to complement Jaylen Warren. Essentially Najee Harris-like without the wear and tear on his legs. After a freshman season that saw him average over 5.0 yards per tote — then a sophomore year prematurely ending with injury — Johnson proved he can handle a full, classic Big Ten-back workload in 2024. He toted the rock 240 times for old-school aficionado Kirk Ferentz, and averaged 6.4 yards per carry with a seismic 21 touchdowns. This is the sweet spot to draft running backs in today’s NFL. Johnson should be the bell cow in Pittsburgh right away.

TE Harold Fannin Jr.

Harold Fannin Jr. Drafted: No. 67, third round

Fannin Jr. runs weird. Like he’s trying to get open while injured. Except he wasn’t injured in 2024. And all he did at Bowling Green was catch 117 passes, for — ready? — 1,555 yards with 10 touchdowns. Now, do I think Fannin Jr. will torch linebackers and safeties with explosiveness and movement subtleties? No, probably not.

His athleticism meets NFL prerequisites for the tight end position. That’s good. His specialty? YAC. Fannin Jr. is an enraged bull with the ball in his hands. And I don’t know who’s going to be throwing him the ball in Cleveland in his rookie season. Whoever it is, I’m assuming they’ll be looking for a security-blanket tight end reasonably often. Fannin Jr. will learn from David Njoku and start to materialize into a consistent big-play threat a few months into his professional career.

LB Teddye Buchanan

Teddye Buchanan Drafted: No. 129, fourth round

In two years, we will all be flabbergasted when we’re reminded Buchanan was selected in the fourth round. And he couldn’t have landed in a finer situation, in Baltimore, on a Ravens team in need for athleticism at off-ball linebacker. By the way, the Ravens have a long history of defensive stoutness, stemming particularly from that spot on the field.

Buchanan was a magnet to the football at California in 2024, with 114 tackles, 12 tackles for loss, five sacks, with four pass breakups after a spectacularly productive career at UC-Davis. Trust me, Buchanan is going to rock in Baltimore.

AFC South

RB Bhayshul Tuten

Bhayshul Tuten Drafted: No. 104, fourth round

Yes, Tuten had a fumbling problem at Virginia Tech. Nine of them in his two years with the Hokies. I don’t really care. Fumbles are kinda-sorta like drops for a receiver. They happen. They’re rarely predictive of future fumbles. Everything else about Tuten’s game screams future franchise runner.

He’s clearly ridiculously fast. And Tuten was a side-to-side wonder eluding defenders at the ACC the past two campaigns. He forced 60-plus tackles in consecutive seasons, quite the feat for any ball-carrier. He made the jump from North Carolina A&T look effortless. And Tuten has the game to not only register as a blip on the radar in Jacksonville … but push Travis Etienne and Tank Bigsby for the lion’s share of the carries in Liam Coen’s offense.

Indianapolis Colts

S Hunter Wohler

Hunter Wohler Drafted: No. 232, seventh round

While Wohler’s final season wasn’t as productive in 2023 at Wisconsin, but it’s not as if the 2023 campaign should be completely discounted just because it wasn’t his final year before entering the NFL.

This is a hefty but athletic safety at 6-2 and 213 pounds with a 37-inch vertical. I loved his tackling reliability in the Big Ten too. For the Colts, safety is a weakness — although I’m excited about Nick Cross in a contract year. Wohler has the linebacker build, plus instincts, and coverage chops to make noise in that room for Shane Steichen’s team.

OT Aireontae Ersery

Aireontae Ersery Drafted: No. 48, second round

I’m not sure what to make of the Texans’ offensive line right now. I don’t think they know the starting five right now. But I applaud the club’s move away from the sunk-cost fallacy. The Texans completely revamped the unit after its downright abysmal effort for the majority of C.J. Stroud’s second season.

Ersery has the girth, power, and movement skills to play right tackle in Houston in 2025. Oh, and maybe most importantly, he’s super calm as a blocker. Not flailing all over the place when he’s out of position. Ersery simply carries out his assignments with what feels like minimal stress.

S Kevin Winston Jr.

Kevin Winston Jr. Drafted: No. 82, third round

Winston was tracking toward the first round after two spectacular seasons in the Nittany Lions program before an early-season torn ACL in 2024 sunk his stock to the third round.

This is a long, high-caliber athlete, who plays with maximum effort on every play and has impeccable range as a tackler and in coverage. In that safety room in Tennessee, it’s super-steady veteran Amani Hooker and …? Yeah, Winston Jr. should be a starter in Year 1, and because he should be fully recovered from that ACL tear, he’ll make noise right away.

AFC West

Kansas City Chiefs

DT Omarr Norman-Lott

Omarr Norman-Lott Drafted: No. 63, second round

Norman-Lott is a splash-play specialist against the run. At times he can get washed out of the play. As a pass rusher, he’s an uber-talented, upfield rusher with an array of hand work to dazzle offensive linemen at the point of attack.

In short, he’s precisely the type of interior defender the Chiefs now clearly need next to Chris Jones at this stage of his career. And Kansas City has been quite the accomplished franchise without a true running mate for Jones inside. If Norman-Lott hits, he can be that player for the Chiefs’ defensive front.

WR Jack Bech

Jack Bech Drafted: No. 58, second round

I had a first-round grade on Bech. Did everything in college I want out of a modern-day wide receiver. Ok, so he’s not a Malik Nabers-esque separator. Besides that, Bech checked all the boxes. He’s hyper-reliable catching the football anywhere in his zip code. He’s a moose after the catch.

I love that he won’t asked to be “the guy” immediately in Las Vegas given the presence of Brock Bowers and Jakobi Meyers. And those two will draw plenty attention away from Bech, who will eat over the middle sooner rather than later. We’ll wonder why he wasn’t picked sooner in due time.

RB RJ Harvey

RJ Harvey Drafted: No. 60, second round

I do not care the Broncos just signed J.K. Dobbins. Good player. Coming off a career year. Harvey is the future at the running back position and is precisely the type of back Sean Payton has always gravitated toward and accentuated in his offenses during his lengthy tenure as an NFL play caller.

Despite being 5-8, Harvey carried the ball plenty — and thrived — between the tackles. But make no mistake about it, he’s an in-space specialist who can hit home runs, particularly in the outside run game and on screens. Music to the ears of Payton.

WR KeAndre Lambert-Smith

KeAndre Lambert-Smith Drafted: No. 158, fifth round

Ladd McConkey is on the verge of superstardom in Los Angeles. I genuinely believe that. Even with their 1,000-yard receiver returning for Year 2, the Chargers have 167 available targets from their 2024 club. Sure, second-round pick Tre Harris will garner some of those looks.

I don’t know if Harris is that much better of a prospect than Lambert-Smith, particularly in terms of route-running polish. Lambert-Smith can really go too — as evidenced by his 4.37 time in the 40-yard dash. Justin Herbert has an elite-level arm. Use it! Throw long balls to Lambert-Smith. Often.