NFL Rookie Class: Top Building Blocks After an Action-Packed First Season

Introduction

As the NFL regular season comes to a close, it’s time to reflect on the rookie class from the 2025 draft. While many teams have foundational pieces that were clearly identified on draft day, evolving performances throughout the season have shifted the spotlight from initial first-round picks to standout talents emerged from later rounds. Here’s a look at the most promising building blocks for each team as they wrap up their first NFL season.

Buffalo Bills: CB Maxwell Hairston

Maxwell Hairston, despite battling injuries, has proven to be a reliable cover corner when healthy. Opposing quarterbacks have registered a passer rating of just 75.8 when targeting him. Other notable rookies include Deone Walker and Jackson Hawes as valuable Day 3 picks.

Miami Dolphins: DL Kenneth Grant

First-round pick Kenneth Grant has had a modest rookie year but shows consistent improvement. With limited contributions from second-round offensive linemen Jonah Savaiinaea and their late-round picks, Grant stands as the key figure from this class.

New England Patriots: RB TreVeyon Henderson

TreVeyon Henderson has emerged as a significant offensive asset, tallying over 1,000 scrimmage yards and eight touchdowns, particularly excelling in December. While Will Campbell remains a crucial part of the team's future, Henderson's performance has outshone him this season.

New York Jets: OT Armand Membou

Despite a challenging debut season with eight sacks allowed, Armand Membou ranks high among rookie offensive tackles. Meanwhile, second-round tight end Mason Taylor may play a pivotal role in the Jets' offensive strategy moving forward.

Baltimore Ravens: S Malaki Starks

Malaki Starks has shown glimpses of brilliance with two interceptions and a solid PFF grade, helping to shine light on a generally tumultuous season for the Ravens.

Cincinnati Bengals: LB Demetrius Knight Jr.

Demetrius Knight Jr. has experienced some ups and downs, but his end-of-season form shows promise as he solidifies his place alongside first-rounder Shemar Stewart.

Cleveland Browns: LB Carson Schwesinger

With standout statistics, Schwesinger is in contention for Defensive Rookie of the Year, boasting over 150 tackles and multiple interceptions, proving an invaluable asset to the Browns' lineup.

Pittsburgh Steelers: DL Derrick Harmon

After a rocky start, Derrick Harmon’s resurgence has bolstered the Steelers' run defense, indicating that he could evolve into a star in the coming seasons.

Houston Texans: WR Jayden Higgins

Jayden Higgins has made a name for himself, catching a crucial touchdown and maintaining reliable hands throughout the season—positioning himself as a focal point for the Texans’ offensive future.

Indianapolis Colts: TE Tyler Warren

Tyler Warren ranks among the elite tight ends with over 750 receiving yards, looking to become a cornerstone of the Colts' offense going forward.

Jacksonville Jaguars: WR/CB Travis Hunter

Despite a knee injury hampering his season, Hunter's final game showcased his receiving prowess, solidifying faith in his dual-threat capabilities.

Tennessee Titans: QB Cam Ward

As the top overall pick, Cam Ward is delivering impressive performances with a high passer rating and multiple touchdowns, making him an essential building block as the Titans reshape their offense.

Denver Broncos: RB RJ Harvey

RJ Harvey has emerged as a critical offensive player, contributing with touchdowns in consecutive games down the stretch, showcasing the potential to become a leading running back.

Kansas City Chiefs: OT Josh Simmons

Josh Simmons, despite challenges, has held his own in protecting Patrick Mahomes and remains a vital component of the Chiefs’ offensive line.

Las Vegas Raiders: RB Ashton Jeanty

Following a standout game against the Texans, Ashton Jeanty has solidified his role as a key piece in the Raiders’ offensive scheme.

Los Angeles Chargers: RB Omarion Hampton

Omarion Hampton has found success while minimizing mistakes, positioning himself as a reliable component within the Chargers’ offense.

Dallas Cowboys: G Tyler Booker

Tyler Booker has excelled as the highest-graded rookie interior lineman, laying a strong foundation for the future of the Cowboys’ offensive line.

New York Giants: QB Jaxson Dart

Jaxson Dart has the potential to be a franchise quarterback, indicating that the Giants made a solid choice in the first round of the draft.

Philadelphia Eagles: LB Jihaad Campbell

Jihaad Campbell has established himself as a valuable defensive player despite reduced playing time as the Eagles' linebacker group returns to health.

Washington Commanders: RB Jacory Croskey-Merritt

Jacory Croskey-Merritt has exhibited star quality on the field, promising a bright future for the Commanders and serving as a highlight amidst a mixed rookie class.

Chicago Bears: TE Colston Loveland

Colston Loveland has quickly become a reliable target for the Bears, catching numerous passes without a single drop throughout his rookie season.

Detroit Lions: G Tate Ratledge

Tate Ratledge's steady play as an interior lineman shows promise as a fundamental part of Detroit's future despite early season struggles.

Green Bay Packers: WR Matthew Golden

Though Matthew Golden has had a disappointing rookie season, he remains pivotal as the only first-round receiving option within the group.

Minnesota Vikings: G Donovan Jackson

Donovan Jackson has provided reliability on the offensive line, ensuring a vital role in the Vikings’ development moving forward.

Atlanta Falcons: Co-building blocks James Pearce Jr. and Jalon Walker

James Pearce Jr. leads all rookies in sacks, while fellow first-rounder Jalon Walker has displayed substantial talent, making this duo a promising sign for the Falcons.

Carolina Panthers: WR Tetairoa McMillan

Tetairoa McMillan’s impressive stats place him as a frontrunner for Offensive Rookie of the Year, reinforcing the Panthers’ decision to draft him eighth overall.

New Orleans Saints: QB Tyler Shough

Tyler Shough’s performance has instilled confidence as the Saints look to improve in upcoming drafts, solidifying his status as a potential long-term quarterback solution.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers: WR Emeka Egbuka

Emeka Egbuka has made his mark, though recent weeks have seen a dip in production. He remains an integral piece of the Buccaneers’ plan.

Arizona Cardinals: CB Denzel Burke

Surprisingly, fifth-round pick Denzel Burke has performed admirably with three interceptions, highlighting the potential of the Cardinals’ later draft picks.