Top 25 NFL rookies of 2025: Ranking the best first-year standouts

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With the 2025 regular season in the books, it’s time to rank the NFL’s top rookies.

Now, what kind of methodology goes into such a ranking? That’s a trade secret, people! But I will tell you that it includes stats, playing time, injuries, environments and, of course, the all-important eye test. Furthermore, I consider every single rookie thought — conscious and subconscious — that has bounced around my brain over the past four months. It’s a sloppy stew, but in the end, I think it tastes alright. And if you don’t like it, well, make your own damn rookie ragout!

No more dilly-dally — here are my top 25 rookies from the ’25 campaign.

DRAFTED: Round 1, No. 8 overall

 Despite coming out of Arizona with extraordinary size and All-American production, McMillan wasn’t immune to skepticism in the pre-draft process. The Panthers refused to overthink the evaluation, though, and they were rewarded with a true WR1. McMillan captured the receiving triple crown among rookie wideouts, leading first-year players at the position in catches (70), yards (1,014) and touchdowns (seven). That output speaks for itself, but the eye test is equally illuminating: This guy just looks the part. A silky smooth route runner with contested-catch ability, McMillan not only fostered Bryce Young’s growth in Year 3 — he helped Carolina log its first playoff berth in eight seasons and first NFC South title in a decade. A consistent factor from Week 1 through Week 18, McMillan should be named Offensive Rookie of the Year at NFL Honors in February.

DRAFTED: Round 2, No. 33 overall

 My colleague Bucky Brooks recently touted the Browns’ rookie class as the NFL’s best this season, underscoring the expansive returns Cleveland received on both sides of the ball. And no one provided more of an impact than Schwesinger, who stuffed the stat sheet from Day 1. Playing linebacker behind a ferocious front spearheaded by Myles Garrett certainly has its benefits, but this rangy playmaker took full advantage, leading all rookies in tackles (146), stops (78) and tackles for loss (11) while also providing 20 QB pressures, 2.5 sacks, three passes defensed and two interceptions. It’s crazy that Schwesinger initially walked on at UCLA and ultimately started just 10 games for the Bruins. He’s an instant star in the NFL and should run away with Defensive Rookie of the Year honors.

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