In the ever-evolving landscape of the NFL, player improvement is a central theme that fans and analysts alike look forward to yearly. As we anticipate the 2025 NFL season, predictions are already surfacing regarding which players might emerge as the most improved at every position. From quarterbacks to defensive backs, several young talents are poised to take significant strides in their performance.
Quarterback: Caleb Williams, Chicago Bears
Caleb Williams, the former Heisman Trophy winner, enters his second NFL season with a fresh wave of optimism. Despite a rocky rookie season with the Chicago Bears—where he posted a less-than-stellar 67.6 grade—his potential was evident. Williams was sacked a whopping 68 times, a statistic that hints at the challenges he faced on the field. The Bears are betting on a brighter future; they have brought in offensive coordinator Ben Johnson, who looks to bolster their offensive strategy. With added protection from acquired players like guards Joe Thuney and Jonah Jackson, and talented draft picks like tight end Colston Loveland, Williams has all the tools to significantly improve in 2025.
Running Back: Jaylen Wright, Miami Dolphins
A fourth-round pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, Jaylen Wright’s debut season with the Miami Dolphins was marred by limited opportunities—he totalled just 68 carries for 249 yards. However, with Raheem Mostert leaving for the Raiders, Wright stands to benefit from an increased workload. Although De’Von Achane will remain the lead back, Wright’s speed makes him a strong candidate for breakout performances in 2025. The Dolphins have invested in their offensive line, bringing in free agent James Daniels and drafting Jonah Savaiinaea, both of whom are expected to create better running lanes for Wright.
Wide Receiver: Marvin Harrison Jr., Arizona Cardinals
Marvin Harrison Jr. was heralded as one of the best wide receiver prospects in years. Although he had a solid rookie season, catching 62 passes for 885 yards and eight touchdowns, many observers felt he showed signs of untapped potential. With only a 54.4% reception rate, improvements in his chemistry with quarterback Kyler Murray are essential. The Cardinals are working to better utilize Harrison’s vast potential, and with an offseason to refine his skills and strengthen his physique, he could very well be on the verge of a 1,000-yard season in 2025.
Tight End: Theo Johnson, New York Giants
In his inaugural season, Theo Johnson showcased glimpses of his talent, finishing with 29 receptions for 331 yards and a touchdown. However, injuries stunted his growth, cutting his season short. Heading into 2025, fans are hopeful he can build on the momentum he started to gain towards the end of the previous season. With potential upgrades at quarterback and offensive stability in the Giants’ system, Johnson could emerge as a reliable secondary pass-catcher, enhancing his value to the team.
Tackle: Olumuyiwa Fashanu, New York Jets
The Jets’ decision to draft Olumuyiwa Fashanu 11th overall in 2024 has the potential to pay off significantly. After a rocky start, where he initially struggled with a 47.1 grade, Fashanu found his groove late in the season, raising his pass-blocking grade considerably. Now poised to take on a full-time role as the starting left tackle, Fashanu’s development is key for the Jets’ offensive line. With a focus on improving the running game and providing better protection for quarterback Justin Fields, Fashanu’s breakout year could be imminent.
Guard: Peter Skoronski, Tennessee Titans
Peter Skoronski has been on the radar since being drafted 11th overall in 2023. His performance has steadily improved, particularly in pass-blocking. Despite a disappointing overall grade the previous two seasons, Skoronski’s late-season form showcased his potential, earning a league-high pass-blocking grade of 88.2 over the last seven games. With the Titans reinforcing their offensive line—adding veterans like Kevin Zeitler—Skoronski could benefit from better protection schemes and thus elevate his game significantly in 2025.
Center: Jackson Powers-Johnson, Las Vegas Raiders
As the standout center from the 2024 draft, Jackson Powers-Johnson showed promise in his rookie season, earning a solid 68.3 pass-blocking grade while adjusting to different positions. With the Raiders moving forward without previous starter Andre James, Powers-Johnson has the opportunity to stabilize his position and become a cornerstone of the offensive line. The Raiders’ revamped offense, featuring new quarterback Geno Smith, could lean heavily on a well-functioning offensive line, making 2025 a pivotal year for Powers-Johnson.
Defensive Tackle: Jer’Zhan Newton, Washington Commanders
Jer’Zhan Newton joins the Commanders after being a force in college, and while his rookie season saw limited action, flashes of brilliance indicated his potential. With Daron Payne limited due to injury, Newton stepped up and showed what he could do, earning 23 quarterback pressures. As he hones his skills against both the run and pass, 2025 could be his breakout year on a defense that boasts significant talent.
EDGE: Kayvon Thibodeaux, New York Giants
Kayvon Thibodeaux’s first few seasons as a top-five draft pick have been mixed, but a strong finish to the 2024 season hints at greater things to come. The arrival of new talent on the Giants’ defensive line may actually provide more space for Thibodeaux to flourish. If he can capitalize on the pick-and-roll opportunities provided by a strong defensive front, we could see a dramatic increase in his sack totals and overall disruptive play.
Linebacker: Tyrice Knight, Seattle Seahawks
Tyrice Knight had a solid outing in his rookie season, earning a respectable 65.4 grade while showcasing his ability to tackle. Heading into 2025, he is expected to take on a more significant role as the team’s weak-side linebacker. With the potential for growth in coverage and run support, Knight could leap into more prominent territory within a restructured Seahawks defense.
Cornerback: Kool-Aid McKinstry, New Orleans Saints
Kool-Aid McKinstry made significant strides in his rookie season, stepping in as a starter and showing glimpses of brilliance. Given the uncertainty surrounding the Saints’ overall roster in 2025, McKinstry’s development into a top cover corner is essential. With the previous top corners out of the picture, McKinstry’s game could elevate greatly in the upcoming season.
Safety: Javon Bullard, Green Bay Packers
Javon Bullard quickly found himself in a starting role for the Packers and showcased impressive skills both in coverage and run support. With another offseason to acclimate and clarify his role in a more versatile defensive setup, Bullard could become a linchpin for a Green Bay defense poised for growth in 2025.
In summary, each player’s potential improvement during the upcoming season makes for an exciting narrative in the lead-up to the 2025 NFL season. Fans are hopeful that these athletes will rise to the occasion, turning promise into performance and propelling their teams to new heights.
