Training camp always brings breakout buzz, but this year’s rookie class is drawing attention for more than just potential.

Several first-year players are already moving up depth charts, earning first-team reps, and pushing veterans for snaps. Here are the top rookies making noise ahead of the 2025 NFL season.

Woody Marks, RB, Houston Texans

Woody Marks is a name to remember. He is already a key storyline in Houston. With Joe Mixon placed on the NFI list and no timetable for return, Marks suddenly finds himself in a position to earn immediate volume.

Houston traded up to get him, a move that seemed aggressive at the time but now makes sense. His college resume includes 216 receptions and over 1,500 receiving yards, which fits the Texans’ pass-heavy approach under their revamped offense.

Veteran Nick Chubb is in the room, but he is still recovering from a foot injury and does not look like the workhorse he once was. If Marks can secure red zone touches and stay efficient, he could become one of the top-performing rookies this year.

Luther Burden III, WR, Chicago Bears

Luther Burden III missed time this spring, but the Bears still believe in his upside. Head coach Ben Johnson has been open about Burden being behind, but that has not stopped the team from giving him real chances to earn a spot in three-receiver sets.

Burden brings toughness at the catch point and playmaking ability after the catch. His fit with Chicago’s system allows him to rotate between the slot and flanker roles, complementing both D.J. Moore and Rome Odunze. His snap share might start small, but the talent is clear.

Colston Loveland, TE, Chicago Bears

Chicago has another rookie on the rise, and his name is Colston Loveland. Despite missing spring activities due to injury, Loveland has taken nearly every starter rep since returning. Early signs suggest he may already be ahead of Cole Kmet in the tight end rotation.

Loveland is a dynamic option in a system expected to feature plenty of 12 personnel. His route-running and red-zone ability add a different layer to the offense, and he is already developing chemistry with the quarterback room.

For those watching NFL betting predictions, Loveland could quietly play a big role in improving Chicago’s efficiency in key spots like third downs and inside the 20.

Emeka Egbuka, WR, Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Baker Mayfield called Emeka Egbuka one of the most impressive rookies in camp, and so far, everything points to him being ready to contribute right away. With Chris Godwin’s Week 1 status uncertain, Egbuka could slide into a starting role early.

He joins a high-functioning offense that returns most of its core from last season. That continuity, paired with Egbuka’s polish as a route-runner and separator, should make his transition smoother than most rookie receivers.

The Buccaneers have already hinted at shifting more targets his way. He is positioned to produce from Day 1.

Dont’e Thornton and Jack Bech, WRs, Las Vegas Raiders

The Raiders might have one of the more underrated rookie receiver rooms. Fourth-rounder Dont’e Thornton fits the X-receiver mold, offering size and speed that stretches the field. He has run with the starters throughout camp.

Jack Bech is not far behind. Since pads came on, Bech has made plays inside and out, carving out a complementary role in a group led by Jakobi Meyers and Brock Bowers. Head coach Pete Carroll has praised both players for their progress.

These two may not post big numbers early, but their ability to open up the offense helps everyone else, and every football fan understands how much spacing influences scoring potential.

Travis Hunter, WR/CB, Jacksonville Jaguars

Few players in the league, let alone rookies, can do what Travis Hunter does. He has logged over 70 offensive snaps and nearly 50 defensive ones in camp, showing two-way potential that is already affecting game planning.

Hunter will primarily play offense but could still log high-leverage snaps at cornerback. Coaches have raved about his stamina and attention to detail in both rooms.

Hunter is an unpredictable X-factor. Expect volatility in weekly production, but his potential is huge, especially as Jacksonville looks to create mismatches.

Omarion Hampton, RB, Los Angeles Chargers

With Najee Harris sidelined and no return in sight, Omarion Hampton has taken full advantage of his opportunities. He has jumped to the front of the line in camp and is flashing the kind of burst and versatility that coaches love in a lead back.

Hampton has the frame to handle goal-line work and the speed to break chunk plays. While his transition to gap-scheme running is still in progress, he looks ready to shoulder a full workload if needed.

At RB18 in most drafts, his ADP may not fully reflect his current outlook. Hampton’s emergence could shift expectations for the Chargers’ offense in both fantasy and betting markets, including popular platforms like FanDuel Sportsbook.

Kyle Williams, WR, New England Patriots

Kyle Williams is in a battle for the X-receiver job with Kayshon Boutte, but early signs suggest he may already be pulling ahead. He wins with quick separation, especially on slant and dig routes that rookie quarterback Drake Maye prefers.

Williams posted an 82nd percentile success rate vs. press coverage in college. His ability to create windows quickly will be critical for a New England team searching for reliable playmakers.

If Williams claims a starting spot, he has the profile to become a steady option in short-to-intermediate areas, especially useful in tough matchups.

Cam Skattebo, RB, New York Giants

The Giants are not expected to score often, but Cam Skattebo may be the best bet to handle short-yardage work. He has taken first-team reps in camp and is getting a serious look in passing drills, suggesting a potential role on third downs.

Tyrone Tracy Jr. is still in the mix, but coaches seem eager to test Skattebo’s consistency. If he wins the trust of the staff, his early-down and red-zone usage could offer volume even in a lower-scoring offense.

Breaking Out in 2025

This rookie class is already shaking up depth charts across the league, and many of these names could have a major say in early-season outcomes. These trends offer a head start on shifting roles and breakout potential.

Rookies bring uncertainty, but also upside. Tracking usage, coaching comments, and camp momentum gives fans a clearer lens heading into Week 1.

Disclaimer: Team situations and player roles may shift before the season begins. Always consult official injury reports, depth charts, and league updates for the latest information.