2025 Fantasy Rookie Rankings: Buckle up, fantasy football fanatics! Get ready for a wild ride through the exhilarating world of next year’s potential superstars. We’re diving headfirst into the crystal ball, peering into the future to uncover the hidden gems and potential busts among the 2025 rookie class. From electrifying quarterbacks with cannons for arms to bruising running backs who leave defenders in the dust, we’ll dissect each position, revealing the players poised to dominate your fantasy leagues and those who might leave you scratching your head.
Prepare for insightful scouting reports, surprising comparisons, and enough fantasy football analysis to keep you up all night. Let’s unearth the next generation of fantasy football royalty, shall we?
This comprehensive guide meticulously ranks the top 2025 fantasy football rookie prospects, providing detailed scouting reports, positional breakdowns, and an exploration of the factors influencing their future success. We’ll examine quarterback arm talent, running back elusiveness, wide receiver route-running skills, and tight end blocking prowess – all crucial aspects in predicting fantasy football dominance. We’ll also explore the less tangible elements, like coaching schemes and off-field character, to paint a complete picture of each player’s potential.
Think of this as your ultimate cheat sheet for conquering your fantasy football league in 2025.
Top 2025 Fantasy Rookie Prospects Overview

The 2025 NFL Draft is still some time away, but the whispers of potential fantasy football superstars are already circulating. This early look at the top rookie prospects offers a glimpse into the future, a chance to identify those players poised to dominate your fantasy leagues in the years to come. Remember, these rankings are fluid and subject to change based on performance and unforeseen circumstances, mirroring the unpredictable nature of the sport itself.
Let’s dive in!
Top Ten 2025 Fantasy Football Rookie Prospects
The following list represents our current assessment of the top ten players likely to make a significant fantasy impact in their rookie season. It’s a blend of raw talent, projected NFL role, and a healthy dose of educated speculation.
- Caleb Williams, QB, USC: Williams possesses exceptional arm talent and mobility, a rare combination that translates to high fantasy scoring potential. He’s a dynamic playmaker with the ability to extend plays and make big throws downfield. Think a young Patrick Mahomes with even more running ability.
- Quinn Ewers, QB, Texas: Ewers is a gunslinger with a cannon for an arm. While he needs to improve his consistency, his upside is immense. If he refines his accuracy and decision-making, he could be a top-tier fantasy quarterback.
- Bijan Robinson, RB, Texas: Robinson is a powerful, versatile back with excellent receiving skills. He’s a three-down back in the making, and that’s gold for fantasy purposes. He reminds many of a young Saquon Barkley.
- Zach Evans, RB, Ole Miss: Evans is a home-run hitter with blazing speed and impressive agility. He’s a potential game-breaker who can single-handedly change the course of a game, and your fantasy matchups.
- Jordan Addison, WR, USC: Addison is a polished route runner with exceptional hands and a knack for getting open. He’s a reliable target with the potential to be a high-volume receiver in the NFL. He’s got the potential to be a top WR1.
- Marvin Harrison Jr., WR, Ohio State: The son of a legend, Harrison Jr. possesses exceptional size, speed, and hands. He’s a true X-receiver with the potential to dominate at the next level.
- Jaden Rashada, QB, Florida: Rashada has a rocket for an arm and the potential to become a high-volume passer in the NFL. His accuracy needs some improvement, but his arm talent is undeniable.
- Xavier Worthy, WR, Texas: Worthy possesses elite speed and the ability to stretch the field. He’s a deep threat who can rack up big plays, a key element in fantasy scoring.
- Rueben Owens, RB, Texas A&M: Owens is a powerful runner with impressive vision and patience. He’s a workhorse back with the potential to be a three-down back at the NFL level.
- Austin Novosad, QB, Baylor: Novosad is a smart, accurate quarterback with good decision-making skills. He might not have the same ceiling as some of the other quarterbacks on this list, but he has the potential to be a consistent fantasy starter.
Top Twenty 2025 Fantasy Football Rookie Prospects
Rank | Player Name | Position | College |
---|---|---|---|
1 | Caleb Williams | QB | USC |
2 | Quinn Ewers | QB | Texas |
3 | Bijan Robinson | RB | Texas |
4 | Zach Evans | RB | Ole Miss |
5 | Jordan Addison | WR | USC |
6 | Marvin Harrison Jr. | WR | Ohio State |
7 | Jaden Rashada | QB | Florida |
8 | Xavier Worthy | WR | Texas |
9 | Rueben Owens | RB | Texas A&M |
10 | Austin Novosad | QB | Baylor |
11 | Dante Moore | QB | UCLA |
12 | Shedeur Sanders | QB | Colorado |
13 | Emmanuel Henderson | RB | Florida State |
14 | Richard Young | RB | Alabama |
15 | Branson Robinson | RB | Georgia |
16 | Julian Fleming | WR | Ohio State |
17 | DeAndre Moore Jr. | WR | UCLA |
18 | Omari Evans | WR | Texas A&M |
19 | Anthony Williams | WR | Oklahoma |
20 | Jayden Wayne | WR | Notre Dame |
Fantasy Rookie Archetypes and Potential
Understanding player archetypes helps predict fantasy success. Three common types emerge among top rookie prospects:The “Dual-Threat Quarterback”: Players like Caleb Williams exemplify this. Their ability to both pass and run significantly boosts their fantasy value, creating a higher ceiling for weekly points. Think Lamar Jackson’s impact on fantasy football.The “Workhorse Running Back”: Bijan Robinson embodies this.
These backs receive a high volume of carries and targets, ensuring consistent fantasy production. Their value relies on touches, making them reliable week-to-week performers. Think Derrick Henry’s consistent fantasy performance.The “Alpha Wide Receiver”: Players such as Marvin Harrison Jr. fit this mold. These receivers command targets and possess the talent to consistently make big plays, resulting in high fantasy point totals.
Think Justin Jefferson’s explosive fantasy seasons. These players are high-risk, high-reward prospects.
Positional Breakdowns: 2025 Fantasy Rookie Rankings
The 2025 quarterback class is shaping up to be a fascinating mix of styles and potential. While predicting NFL success is always a gamble, several prospects are already generating significant buzz among scouts and fantasy analysts alike. Let’s delve into the strengths and weaknesses of the top three, considering their projected landing spots and their fantasy implications. It’s a thrilling prospect for fantasy managers, potentially ushering in a new era of high-flying offenses and record-breaking performances.This section will provide a detailed look at the top three quarterback prospects for the 2025 NFL Draft, analyzing their individual strengths and weaknesses, speculating on potential team fits, and ultimately, assessing their fantasy football value.
Think of it as a sneak peek into the future of your fantasy rosters.
Top Three 2025 Quarterback Prospects: Strengths, Weaknesses, and Projected NFL Landing Spots
Let’s get down to brass tacks. The top three quarterbacks in the 2025 draft class present a diverse range of skills and potential NFL landing spots. Each player offers a unique blend of attributes that could translate to significant fantasy production, but each also presents potential challenges.Imagine a scenario where the first pick goes to a team known for its run-heavy offense.
This could severely limit the passing opportunities for a high-potential quarterback, thus diminishing his immediate fantasy value. Conversely, a quarterback landing with a team boasting elite receivers and a strong offensive line could be a recipe for fantasy gold.
Prospect A: This quarterback boasts a cannon for an arm, consistently delivering pinpoint passes downfield. His deep ball accuracy is exceptional, making him a potential game-changer. However, he might need to refine his pocket presence and decision-making under pressure. A team with a strong offensive line and a proven receiving corps would be ideal for him. Think of a team like the Kansas City Chiefs, offering a supportive system and a chance to learn from a master like Patrick Mahomes.
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His potential fantasy impact is sky-high if he lands in the right situation.
Prospect B: This prospect is known for his exceptional mobility and ability to extend plays with his legs. He’s a dual-threat quarterback who can make defenses pay for collapsing the pocket. His passing accuracy might need some polishing, but his scrambling ability alone makes him a valuable asset. A team like the Baltimore Ravens, with their history of utilizing mobile quarterbacks, could be a perfect fit.
His fantasy value hinges on his ability to improve his passing consistency, but his rushing upside is already undeniable.
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Prospect C: This quarterback is the epitome of a pocket passer, showcasing exceptional accuracy and anticipation. His decision-making is generally sound, and he possesses the intelligence to read defenses effectively. However, his mobility is limited, making him vulnerable to pressure. A team with a strong offensive line and a well-defined passing scheme would be his best bet. A team like the Dallas Cowboys, known for their potent offenses, could be a great environment for his skills to shine.
His fantasy value is closely tied to the success of his supporting cast.
Overall Outlook for 2025 Rookie Quarterbacks in Fantasy Football
The 2025 quarterback class presents a blend of high-ceiling prospects and players with potential pitfalls. The ultimate fantasy impact of these players will heavily depend on their respective NFL landing spots and the development of their skills. While some could become immediate fantasy stars, others might require patience and time to reach their full potential. This class, however, holds the promise of some exciting fantasy football prospects for years to come.
Keep a close eye on these players as the season unfolds, and remember that even the most promising rookies can be affected by injuries and team dynamics. This is a marathon, not a sprint.
Positional Breakdowns: 2025 Fantasy Rookie Rankings
The 2025 fantasy football rookie class is shaping up to be a thrilling spectacle, and nowhere is the excitement more palpable than in the running back position. This year’s crop boasts a diverse range of talent, from bruising power backs to elusive scat backs, each with the potential to dominate fantasy leagues. Understanding what separates the elite from the also-rans is key to making savvy draft-day decisions.Elite rookie running backs aren’t just about raw talent; it’s a blend of physical gifts and intangible qualities.
Think of it like a perfect recipe – you need the right ingredients (speed, power, agility, vision), but also the right cooking method (pass-catching ability, ball security, receiving skills, blocking skills, decision-making). The truly special ones possess a unique combination of explosiveness and durability, allowing them to consistently deliver high-level fantasy production week after week, even under pressure.
A lack in any one of these key areas can significantly impact their overall fantasy value. For instance, a powerful runner who struggles in pass protection might see fewer snaps in crucial situations.
Top Five Running Back Prospects and Tier Placement
The following categorization reflects an assessment of each prospect’s expected fantasy production based on current projections, acknowledging the inherent uncertainties of the NFL. These projections are based on a combination of scouting reports, college performance, and anticipated NFL roles. Remember, these are estimates, and unforeseen circumstances can significantly alter a player’s trajectory. Think of Saquon Barkley’s explosive rookie season compared to the injury-plagued careers of many highly touted prospects.
This highlights the importance of considering risk alongside potential.
- Tier 1: The Potential Stars – This tier includes running backs projected to immediately become workhorse backs with high-volume touches and significant fantasy upside. These players possess a complete skill set and are expected to be featured prominently in their team’s offenses from day one. They are the safest bets for high-end fantasy production.
- Tier 2: High-Upside, High-Risk – This tier comprises running backs with exceptional talent but facing potential obstacles to immediate success. This could be due to a crowded backfield, an uncertain offensive scheme, or injury concerns. While they have the potential to be fantasy stars, their production is less certain. Think of a talented player in a committee backfield, where consistent high-volume touches aren’t guaranteed.
- Tier 3: The Sleepers – This tier consists of running backs who might not be drafted highly but possess a realistic chance to exceed expectations. These players could benefit from injuries to other backs or a surprising increase in offensive opportunities. They are high-risk, high-reward options.
Injury Concerns and Fantasy Value
Injuries are an ever-present threat in the NFL, especially for running backs who take a significant amount of punishment each game. The impact of injury concerns on a running back’s fantasy value can be substantial, potentially diminishing their worth significantly. For example, a player with a history of ankle injuries might be seen as a risky pick, even if his talent is undeniable.
Conversely, a player who has demonstrated remarkable durability throughout their college career may be viewed as a safer investment, even if their projected statistics are slightly lower than a more injury-prone counterpart. Thorough research into a prospect’s injury history, including the severity and frequency of past injuries, is crucial for making informed fantasy decisions. Evaluating the type of injuries sustained is also vital.
A hamstring injury might be less concerning than a recurring knee problem. The medical evaluations of these prospects and team medical staff’s approach will play a crucial role in determining a player’s ultimate value.
Positional Breakdowns: 2025 Fantasy Rookie Rankings

The wide receiver position in the 2025 NFL Draft is shaping up to be a thrilling spectacle, a veritable buffet of talent brimming with diverse skill sets and electrifying potential. These young athletes represent the future of the game, each possessing a unique blend of athleticism and technical prowess that promises to reshape offensive strategies for years to come.
Let’s dive into the profiles of some of the most exciting prospects.The top three wide receiver prospects offer a fascinating study in contrasting styles. Think of it as a delicious three-course meal: a blend of power, finesse, and explosive speed. Each player’s strengths and weaknesses will determine their ultimate NFL success, and their individual journeys will be compelling to watch unfold.
Top Three Wide Receiver Prospects: Skill Sets and Playing Styles
Imagine a painter with three distinct palettes. First, we have the powerhouse, a player built like a Greek statue, dominating at the line of scrimmage and consistently winning contested catches. His style is reminiscent of a young, more refined Julio Jones – strength, size, and a knack for finding the end zone. Next, we have the technician, a precise route runner with exceptional hands and an uncanny ability to create separation.
This player embodies the modern-day slot receiver, a master of nuance and precision, drawing comparisons to a younger version of Cooper Kupp. Finally, there’s the burner, a speed demon who leaves defenders in the dust, a vertical threat who stretches the field and keeps safeties honest. This prospect’s style is reminiscent of Tyreek Hill’s explosiveness, making him a constant deep-ball threat.
These three styles offer a glimpse into the exciting diversity of talent in this year’s draft.
Top Five Wide Receiver Prospects: College Production Comparison
Understanding college production is crucial for evaluating rookie potential. While it’s not the sole indicator of future NFL success, consistent high-level performance provides a strong foundation. The following bullet points compare the top five wide receivers based on key statistical categories:
- Prospect A: Exceptional yards-per-reception average, high touchdown total, consistent production across multiple seasons, suggesting a well-rounded game and ability to perform under pressure. Think of a player who consistently delivers in high-stakes college games, translating to a likely consistent performance at the professional level.
- Prospect B: High receiving yards total, slightly lower touchdown count, but impressive yards-after-catch numbers highlighting his elusiveness and ability to make plays after the catch. His style suggests a player who excels at making the most of every opportunity, potentially becoming a reliable chain-mover in the NFL.
- Prospect C: Impressive speed and big-play potential demonstrated by a high number of long receptions and a significant number of touchdowns, but potentially less consistent overall production. This profile suggests a player who might have boom-or-bust potential in the NFL, depending on his ability to refine his consistency.
- Prospect D: Solid overall production, demonstrating consistency and reliability. A reliable player who consistently produced solid numbers in college, suggesting a player who is likely to have a stable and consistent professional career.
- Prospect E: High reception total, but lower yards-per-reception average, indicating a potential role as a possession receiver in the NFL. This type of player may not have the flashy highlights, but they are often vital for moving the chains and keeping drives alive.
Rookie Season Projection: Receiving Yards and Touchdowns
Predicting rookie performance is always a challenge, but considering their college production, athletic profiles, and projected landing spots, here’s a reasonable projection for the top three wide receivers:
- Prospect A: 800 receiving yards, 6 touchdowns. This projection is based on similar players who have transitioned successfully from college to the NFL, demonstrating a gradual but steady increase in production during their rookie season. Think of a player like DK Metcalf, who wasn’t an immediate superstar but steadily improved throughout his rookie year.
- Prospect B: 700 receiving yards, 4 touchdowns. This player’s projection reflects his potential to excel as a possession receiver, providing reliable yardage and contributing significantly to the team’s overall offensive success. A player like Keenan Allen serves as a good example of a consistently productive receiver who may not have the flashy numbers but is essential to a team’s success.
- Prospect C: 600 receiving yards, 7 touchdowns. This projection accounts for the potential for explosive plays, while acknowledging the risk associated with less consistent production. Think of a player like Brandin Cooks, who is known for his speed and big-play ability but whose overall numbers can fluctuate from year to year.
Remember, these are just projections. The actual numbers will depend on many factors, including scheme fit, quarterback play, and health. But these predictions provide a reasonable starting point for evaluating the potential impact of these exceptional athletes. Their stories are only just beginning.
Positional Breakdowns: 2025 Fantasy Rookie Rankings
Tight ends, those often-overlooked behemoths of the gridiron, are quietly transforming the fantasy football landscape. Gone are the days of the lumbering blocker; today’s elite tight end is a multifaceted weapon, a receiver with the size and strength to dominate in the red zone and a blocker capable of paving the way for running backs. Their value stems from a potent combination of receiving skills, athleticism, and the crucial role they play in a team’s offensive strategy.
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Understanding these factors is key to identifying future fantasy stars at the position.The key ingredients for fantasy tight end success are multifaceted. Firstly, target share is paramount. A tight end needs to be a significant part of the team’s passing game, consistently drawing targets from the quarterback. Secondly, red zone prowess is crucial. Their size and strength often make them a favorite target near the goal line, translating to crucial touchdowns.
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Thirdly, efficiency matters. A tight end who consistently gains yards after the catch and avoids drops is far more valuable than one who simply racks up receptions. Finally, a healthy dose of athleticism – speed, agility, and strong hands – ensures they can exploit mismatches against linebackers and safeties. Think Travis Kelce: consistent targets, a knack for the end zone, and a surprising burst of speed after the catch.
He’s the archetype of a fantasy superstar at the position.
Top Two Tight End Prospects: A Comparative Analysis
Let’s delve into the potential fantasy impact of the top two tight end prospects in the 2025 draft class. While specific names are, at this point, speculative, we can use hypothetical examples to illustrate the factors that will separate the wheat from the chaff. Imagine Prospect A, a physically imposing player with exceptional blocking skills, but a less polished receiving game.
Compare that to Prospect B, a more agile and refined receiver, but perhaps lacking the same size and strength. Prospect B, with superior receiving skills and a higher projected target share, would likely have a higher ceiling in fantasy terms, despite Prospect A’s potential red-zone dominance. The key here is to evaluate the entire skillset, not just one aspect.
The tight end who combines elite receiving skills with red-zone ability is the one who’ll likely dominate fantasy rosters.
Breakout Tight End Candidates Outside the Top Five
Identifying potential breakout candidates requires a keen eye for undervalued talent. Here are three profiles of players who could surprise everyone and emerge as fantasy relevant players:Player 1: This prospect might have been overshadowed by higher-profile recruits but possesses excellent athleticism and route-running skills. His college production might not be eye-popping, but his potential to improve in a professional setting, combined with a favorable offensive system, could lead to a significant increase in fantasy points.
Think of a player who reminds us of a young George Kittle – raw talent refined with time.Player 2: This tight end excels in the red zone, showcasing impressive strength and body control. While his overall receiving stats might be modest, his touchdown potential alone makes him a valuable late-round flier. He embodies the “red zone specialist” archetype, and a few crucial touchdowns can significantly boost his fantasy value.Player 3: This player is a complete package.
While not necessarily the top-ranked recruit, this tight end possesses a strong combination of receiving skills, blocking ability, and consistent hands. He’s the kind of player who might not immediately dominate, but will steadily improve, offering consistent production and becoming a reliable asset in your fantasy team. He represents the steady, reliable performer – the kind of player you can always count on.
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These are the players to watch for, the diamonds in the rough who could easily surpass expectations.
Factors Influencing Rookie Performance
The transition from college football to the NFL is a monumental leap, a true trial by fire for even the most highly touted prospects. A player’s rookie season performance, and subsequently their fantasy football value, is a complex equation with numerous variables at play. It’s not just about raw talent; the confluence of coaching, training, and personal attributes significantly shapes their early NFL success.The impact of a player’s environment cannot be overstated.
The right situation can elevate a good player to greatness, while the wrong one can stifle even the most prodigious talent.
Coaching Staff and Offensive Scheme
A rookie’s success is heavily influenced by the quality of their coaching staff and the offensive system they operate within. A well-structured, player-friendly scheme that maximizes a player’s strengths can lead to immediate success. Think of Justin Herbert’s immediate impact with the Chargers; the offensive scheme allowed him to showcase his arm talent right away. Conversely, a complex or poorly designed system can hinder a rookie’s development and limit their opportunities.
A quarterback entering a system that emphasizes quick reads and short passes might struggle if their strengths lie in deep throws and improvisational play. The coaching staff’s ability to adapt and tailor their approach to individual players is also crucial. Effective coaching fosters growth, builds confidence, and ultimately maximizes performance.
Pre-Draft Training and Development Programs
The period between the draft and the start of the NFL season is a crucial time for development. Intensive training programs, tailored to the specific needs of each player, can make a significant difference. These programs focus on strength and conditioning, technical refinement, and playbook mastery. Players who dedicate themselves to these programs during this period often demonstrate better preparedness and smoother transitions into their professional careers.
For example, a receiver participating in a rigorous route-running program will likely experience a quicker improvement in his ability to separate from defenders, leading to more targets and catches on the field. The more dedicated and focused the player is during this period, the better prepared they will be for the rigors of the NFL season.
Off-Field Factors Impacting Rookie Performance, 2025 fantasy rookie rankings
Beyond on-field preparation, several off-field factors can significantly influence a rookie’s success. These often-overlooked aspects can either propel a player towards stardom or derail their career before it even begins.First, a player’s character and maturity are critical. Maintaining a positive attitude, managing stress, and demonstrating accountability are crucial for navigating the pressures of professional football. Players known for their professionalism and strong work ethic often have smoother transitions to the NFL.Second, work ethic is paramount.
The NFL demands unwavering dedication and commitment. Players who consistently put in extra effort, seeking self-improvement and honing their skills, are far more likely to succeed. Consider the story of a player who consistently stays late for extra practice sessions; this dedication will often translate to a higher level of performance.Third, mental fortitude is essential. The NFL is a high-pressure environment.
The ability to bounce back from setbacks, maintain focus under pressure, and manage expectations are vital for a successful rookie season. A player with a strong mental game will be better equipped to handle adversity, perform consistently, and make the most of their opportunities.
Illustrative Examples of High-Impact Rookies

Predicting rookie success is a notoriously tricky business in the NFL. One year, a late-round pick explodes onto the scene, while a highly touted first-rounder struggles to find their footing. Examining the trajectories of past rookies – both those who soared and those who faltered – provides valuable context for understanding the complexities of the transition from college to professional football.
This allows us to better appreciate the factors at play and to refine our expectations for the upcoming class.
High-Impact Rookie Success Stories
Let’s look at three players who dramatically exceeded expectations in their rookie seasons. Their stories highlight the potential for even seemingly unlikely candidates to make a significant impact. These examples serve as beacons of hope, reminding us that talent can emerge from unexpected places and that potential is not always reflected in draft position.
Player | College | Draft Position | Rookie Season Stats (Illustrative) | NFL Career Summary |
---|---|---|---|---|
Dan Marino | Pittsburgh | Undrafted Free Agent | Passing Yards: 5,084, Touchdowns: 20, Interceptions: 14 | Hall of Fame quarterback, revolutionized the passing game. A testament to exceptional talent transcending draft status. |
Tom Brady | Michigan | 6th Round | Passing Yards: 1,850, Touchdowns: 12, Interceptions: 4 | Seven-time Super Bowl champion, widely considered the greatest quarterback of all time. An incredible example of a late-round pick who exceeded all expectations. |
Saquon Barkley | Penn State | 2nd Overall | Rushing Yards: 2,028, Touchdowns: 15, Receptions: 91 | One of the league’s premier running backs, demonstrating the value of a top draft pick when potential is realized. While injury has hampered his career, his rookie year cemented his star power. |
Rookies Who Fell Short of Expectations
Conversely, let’s examine three players whose rookie seasons significantly underperformed their draft position and pre-draft hype. These examples underscore the unpredictable nature of the NFL and the multitude of factors that can contribute to a less-than-stellar rookie year. Understanding these setbacks helps us temper our enthusiasm and appreciate the inherent risks involved in projecting rookie performance.
Player | College | Draft Position | Rookie Season Stats (Illustrative) | NFL Career Summary |
---|---|---|---|---|
JaMarcus Russell | LSU | 1st Overall | Passing Yards: 1,368, Touchdowns: 2, Interceptions: 11 | Widely considered one of the biggest draft busts in NFL history. High expectations coupled with off-field issues led to a disappointing career. |
Ryan Leaf | Washington State | 2nd Overall | Passing Yards: 1,289, Touchdowns: 4, Interceptions: 15 | Another infamous bust, Leaf’s struggles highlight the challenges of transitioning from college to the NFL. His career was marked by inconsistency and numerous injuries. |
Johnny Manziel | Texas A&M | 1st Round | Passing Yards: 1,041, Touchdowns: 2, Interceptions: 5, Rushing Yards: 256 | His struggles both on and off the field are a cautionary tale. His inability to adapt to the NFL level, combined with personal challenges, resulted in a short and ultimately disappointing career. |