Top NFL Sophomores to Watch in 2025: Breakout Stars and Undervalued Gems
Discover the top NFL sophomores poised for breakout seasons in 2025, including undervalued players and potential fantasy football stars.
Undervalued Players
Trey Benson, RB, Arizona Cardinals James Conner had a standout 2024 season, but Trey Benson is ready to step up. With Conner's injury history and Benson's impressive skill set, he’s expected to have a larger role in 2025. Benson, a power runner with 97th percentile speed, is currently being selected 158th overall in ESPN fantasy drafts, making him a high-upside backup.
Drake Maye, QB, New England Patriots Maye showed promise in his rookie season, finishing sixth among QBs in rushing yards per game. With the addition of Stefon Diggs and rookie WR Kyle Williams, Maye has the potential for low-end QB1 upside in 2025, provided he reduces his turnovers.
Ricky Pearsall, WR, San Francisco 49ers Pearsall scored 17 points or more in three of his seven games as a rookie. With Deebo Samuel Sr. gone and Brandon Aiyuk recovering from injury, Pearsall has significant upside in Kyle Shanahan’s offense.
Breakout Candidates
Marvin Harrison Jr., WR, Arizona Cardinals Harrison was the No. 4 pick in 2024 and has top-15 fantasy potential in 2025. Improved QB play from Kyler Murray and a clear WR1 role could make him a breakout star.
Rome Odunze, WR, Chicago Bears Odunze showed development in his route tree over the second half of his rookie season. With an upgraded Bears offense and new playcaller Ben Johnson, Odunze is poised for a breakout year.
Under the Microscope
Brock Bowers, TE, Las Vegas Raiders Bowers had a historic rookie season, but with the addition of high-volume RB Ashton Jeanty, his numbers might see some regression. However, he remains the TE1 heading into the season.
Caleb Williams, QB, Chicago Bears Williams had flashes of brilliance as a rookie but was inconsistent. With a revamped offensive line and new playmakers, he needs to post top-10 positional numbers to be considered a success.
J.J. McCarthy, QB, Minnesota Vikings McCarthy missed his rookie year due to injury but is now the starting QB for the Vikings. With elite playmakers and an upgraded offensive line, he’s a breakout candidate to watch.
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