The transition from college football to the NFL can be challenging for many rookies, as they face varying degrees of developmental timelines. Each player's journey differs, and while some may require time to adjust, a select few make immediate impacts. One such outlier is Jayden Daniels, quarterback for the Washington Commanders, who defied expectations by starting from Day 1, throwing for over 3,500 yards, leading his team in rushing yards, and guiding them to the NFC Championship Game. This remarkable performance showcases the variance in rookie experiences, where most players endure a mix of challenges as they adapt to professional play.

As these players enter their second season, expectations naturally escalate. Having completed a year within the system and utilizing the offseason for improvement, young athletes are anticipated to make significant strides. The spotlight is particularly bright on recent first-round selections, as these players are seen as key difference-makers for their teams. A recent analysis by Moneyline identified eight top picks from the 2024 NFL Draft, including three quarterbacks, who must show substantial progress throughout the 2025 season to avoid falling under scrutiny. In particular, Caleb Williams, who was initially hesitant about joining the Chicago Bears, is now in a pivotal year as he works with new head coach and offensive play-caller Ben Johnson following a tumultuous rookie campaign marred by coaching changes midseason.

General manager Ryan Poles has taken steps to bolster the team surrounding Williams, enhancing the offensive line and adding weapons such as tight end Colston Loveland and wide receiver Luther Burden III. The focus for Williams now lies in refining his pre- and post-snap processes, improving his footwork, and delivering timely and rhythmic passes while allowing his natural playmaking abilities to shine through. The expectations for Williams will also be closely compared to those of Jayden Daniels, who was drafted shortly after him and made his mark in the league. Meanwhile, the Atlanta Falcons selected quarterback Michael Penix Jr. with the eighth overall pick, indicating their intent to avoid the pitfalls of finding quality starters that they experienced after trading Matt Ryan.