2025 NFL season: One pivotal rookie for each team

Copied!

With the start of the 2025 NFL regular season fast approaching, Dan Parr identifies the one rookie most pivotal to each team’s success this year.

AFC EAST

Drafted: Round 2, No. 41 overall

I initially had Maxwell Hairston penciled in for this spot, and while he still could prove to be the most pivotal Bills rookie in 2025, I’m not sure anyone knows when he’ll first see significant playing time. Tre’Davious White is clearly ahead of Hairston in the pecking order at corner as the first-round pick works his way back from a knee sprain. On the other hand, Sanders has flashed enough in camp to earn snaps as a rotational interior defensive lineman, where he can spell starter Ed Oliver at 3-technique or line up alongside Oliver in passing situations. With Larry Ogunjobi suspended for the first six games, the path is clear for Sanders to play a major role from Day 1. He has what it takes to create a push from the inside.

Drafted: Round 1, No. 13 overall

If the Dolphins are going to be a more competitive squad in 2025, they will have to play a tougher brand of football. Grant is the linchpin to that effort on defense. I could say the same thing about second-round pick Jonah Savaiinaea on offense, but the depth looks a touch stronger on the O-line, at least on paper. Grant has the potential to wreck shop from the middle of the D-line if he puts it all together. His run-stuffing ability is ahead of his pass rush at the moment, but he has the size and explosiveness to win in any situation. Miami is going to need quick and constant disruption from its front line to ease the burden on a secondary that is looking extremely vulnerable at cornerback due to a combination of injuries and the departure of Jalen Ramsey.

Read More