In the NFL, rookies rarely dominate immediately after transitioning from college football, with each player developing at their own pace. However, the transition into a sophomore NFL season often brings heightened expectations for improvement, especially for those picked in the first round who are expected to be game-changers by their second year. The progression from rookie to a reliable professional requires patience but demands significant growth within that second season.
This pattern holds true across the league, where some rookies, such as Washington Commanders’ quarterback Jayden Daniels, emerge as exceptions by performing at exceptional levels from the start. Daniels, for instance, defied conventions by starting as a rookie, passing for over 3,500 yards, and leading his team both in rushing and deep playoff runs. Yet for most players, ups and downs on the journey to becoming full-time NFL starters are typical.
Caleb Williams Looks to Stabilize Chicago Bears’ Offense
Caleb Williams‘ journey with the Chicago Bears illustrates the challenges top rookie quarterbacks face. Initially reluctant about joining the Bears, Williams reversed his decision after a visit. Yet, his first NFL year was turbulent due to staff changes, including the midseason firing of offensive coordinator Shane Waldron and head coach Matt Eberflus. The Bears’ organizational revamp, headed by new coach and offensive play-caller Ben Johnson, signals a fresh start for Williams this season.
The team‘s general manager, Ryan Poles, has strengthened the roster significantly around Williams, adding key offensive linemen Joe Thuney, Drew Dalman, and Jonah Jackson, along with skill position talents like tight end Colston Loveland and receiver Luther Burden III. Williams now faces the task of improving his game preparation, enhancing his technique—especially his footwork under center—and perfecting timely and rhythmical throws.
“To me, it was more of creating an environment to challenge [Williams] more than it was to—I don’t know another word—but kind of baby him along,”
Ryan Poles said.
“I think there’s a space for building someone’s confidence, but I think you have to be demanding and challenging of the expectations of what you’re looking for. I think guys respond to that really well, and I think he needs that and desires that.”
—Ryan Poles, Chicago Bears General Manager
Williams’ performance will also be under constant comparison with Jayden Daniels, who was drafted immediately after him. Both quarterbacks are expected to prove their worth as franchise leaders in the 2025 season.
Michael Penix Jr. Steps into Starting Role for Atlanta Falcons
Michael Penix Jr.’s selection by the Falcons caused a stir due to the team‘s earlier investment in veteran Kirk Cousins. Despite Cousins’ four-year, $180 million contract, Penix rose to starter by the end of his rookie season after Cousins was benched. Penix showed flashes of potential during his three late-season starts, including a dominant Week 18 performance that boosted his overall grade from Pro Football Focus.
While his accuracy and decision-making fluctuated, Penix demonstrated strong instincts and the ability to manipulate defenses, signaling potential franchise quarterback talents. The coaching staff has voiced optimism about Penix’s growth, emphasizing his understanding of the game and natural playmaking ability.
“There’s a couple things about those three games where it’s just his ability to manipulate defenders with his eyes,”
said quarterbacks coach T.J. Yates.
“How he saw the entire picture was kind of set in stone for all of us. Like, ‘Alright, we got a guy here.'”
—T.J. Yates, Atlanta Falcons Quarterbacks Coach
Now a full-time starter, Penix must prove he can guide the Falcons—who are loaded with skill-position talent—to their first playoff appearance since 2017.
J.J. McCarthy Set to Take Lead Role for Minnesota Vikings
J.J. McCarthy faces the challenge of living up to lofty expectations as he enters his second NFL season with the Minnesota Vikings. After the team traded up to select him 10th overall in the 2024 draft, McCarthy’s rookie year ended prematurely due to a torn meniscus during preseason, preventing any game action.
Meanwhile, veteran Sam Darnold took over as the starter, performing at a Pro Bowl level with career highs in completion percentage, passing yards, and touchdowns. Darnold led the Vikings to a stellar 14-3 record but departed in free agency, opening the door for McCarthy to prove himself.
The Vikings’ head coach Kevin O’Connell, known for his quarterback development, provides a solid environment for McCarthy to succeed. McCarthy expressed confidence in his readiness to start and embrace the leadership role demanded of him.
“I know I’m ready to start,”
McCarthy said.
“…just the confidence in my skills and abilities and just being able to do my job. And to simplify things to the best of my ability every single day. And just to take it one day at a time, one play at a time. And I have a tremendous coaching staff, a tremendous group of guys around me that I can lean on and they can lean on me.”
—J.J. McCarthy, Minnesota Vikings Quarterback
Though promising, McCarthy has yet to prove himself as a reliable NFL starter, and the 2025 season will be crucial for him to earn the team’s trust.
Marvin Harrison Jr.’s Physical Growth Fuels Rising Expectations
Marvin Harrison Jr., drafted by the Arizona Cardinals, entered the league with comparisons to Hall of Famer Calvin Johnson, widely regarded as one of the best wide receiver prospects in recent memory. While his rookie season was solid, Harrison openly acknowledged areas for growth, particularly in physical strength needed to compete at the NFL level.
“Yeah, I definitely put on some pounds,”
Harrison said.
“I think I added some muscle to my body a little bit.”
—Marvin Harrison Jr., Arizona Cardinals Wide Receiver
ESPN’s Josh Weinfuss noted the Cardinals hope Harrison’s added strength combined with his rookie experience will translate to greater productivity in his sophomore season, potentially boosting the team‘s win totals.
During his rookie year, Harrison displayed intermittent bursts of explosiveness, especially early in games, where he scored his first four touchdowns in the first quarter. He finished the year with 62 receptions for 885 yards and eight touchdowns—numbers comparable to his father‘s rookie stats, who is a Hall of Famer.
However, other rookie receivers like Malik Nabers, Brian Thomas Jr., and Ladd McConkey outpaced Harrison’s production last year, highlighting the need for him to elevate his overall game. The Cardinals’ coaching staff appears ready to improve Harrison’s effectiveness by deploying more varied route concepts, such as moving him pre-snap, incorporating bunch formations, and using switch releases that create separation, rather than relying solely on him to win individual matchups.
For Arizona to fulfill its postseason ambitions, Harrison must grow as both a player and a weapon within an improved offensive scheme during the 2025 NFL season.
Steelers Pin Hopes on Rookie Tackle Troy Fautanu
Offensive lineman Troy Fautanu’s rookie campaign with the Pittsburgh Steelers was cut short by injuries after the team planned to install him as the starting right tackle. Initially sidelined by an MCL sprain in preseason, he returned only to suffer a dislocated kneecap, leading to placement on injured reserve.
“Troy had been lighting it up,”
Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin stated following the injury.
“I don’t talk a lot during the preseason, particularly about rookies because it doesn’t help me and it doesn’t help them, but based on my actions in terms of putting him in the lineup, I’m sure you have an understanding of what I was looking at in team development.”
—Mike Tomlin, Pittsburgh Steelers Head Coach
In Fautanu’s absence, rookies Zach Frazier (center) and Mason McCormick (right guard) impressed, showing depth along the offensive line. With left tackle Dan Moore Jr. departing in free agency, Broderick Jones will slide to that position, opening a crucial opportunity for Fautanu to solidify the right tackle spot. Success here is vital, especially considering the uncertainty surrounding the Steelers’ quarterback room, which could include an aging Aaron Rodgers or less established alternatives.
Jordan Morgan Returns to Natural Tackle Role for Packers
Green Bay Packers offensive lineman Jordan Morgan, initially drafted 25th overall in 2024 and starting his rookie season at guard, is preparing to compete for the left tackle spot during training camp. Morgan, who started all 37 of his college games at left tackle for the Arizona Wildcats, aims to reclaim his natural position.
“The same thing you see, right?”
Packers offensive line coach Luke Butkus remarked.
“How athletic he is, how easy he moves and how smooth it looks. I was just talking to (assistant offensive line coach Eddie) Gordon, and sometimes it looks like he’s not straining or playing hard.”
“I think it’s just natural. It’s easy for him to just move, to gain ground, to just skim the blades of the grass. It’s effortless, where a guy like me, it looks clunky and robotic. But really like where he’s headed and the direction he’s going. Love it.”
—Luke Butkus, Green Bay Packers Offensive Line Coach
Switching back to tackle may help alleviate some of Morgan’s prior shoulder injury concerns, as the tackle position often requires more technique and athleticism rather than the brute physicality demanded of interior linemen. The Packers’ offense, led by 26-year-old quarterback Jordan Love, will benefit from Morgan’s ability to protect Love’s blind side in the seasons to come.
Laiatu Latu Aims to Fulfill Colts’ High Hopes at Defensive End
The Indianapolis Colts placed lofty expectations on rookie defensive end Laiatu Latu when selecting him 15th overall in the 2024 NFL draft. General manager Chris Ballard proudly praised Latu as the best rusher in the draft, emphasizing the defensive player’s elite potential.
“We got the best f–king rusher in the draft,”
Ballard reportedly said following the selection. —Chris Ballard, Indianapolis Colts General Manager
Despite these accolades, Latu’s rookie season saw modest production, with four sacks placing him fifth among rookies and falling short of Defensive Rookie of the Year honors, which went to Jared Verse of the Rams.
Now, the Colts are aiming for significant progress during Latu’s sophomore season. Latu is expected to be a starting defensive end following the departure of Dayo Odeyingbo, and he faces competition from Kwity Paye, Tyquan Lewis, Samson Ebukam, and second-round pick JT Tuimoloau.
“He does it the right way,”
Colts head coach Shane Steichen said.
“The way he works, his work ethic is tremendous. I think you’ll see a big jump from Year 1 to Year 2. I think he had four (sacks) his rookie year. If we can get into double digits in Year 2 that’d be tremendous.”
—Shane Steichen, Indianapolis Colts Head Coach
Latu’s performance in 2025 will be critical to sustaining the Colts’ defensive pass rush and justifying the high hopes set for him.
Vikings Edge Rusher Dallas Turner Looks to Break Out
Dallas Turner’s rookie year was marked by limited playing time, appearing in only two games and recording three sacks and 12 total tackles. Viewed as one of the top pass-rusher prospects of the 2023 draft class, Turner struggled to find a consistent role behind seasoned veterans Jonathan Greenard and Andrew Van Ginkel.
Turner’s path to prominence included a distinguished college career at Alabama, where he led the SEC with 10 sacks in 2023, earned Co-Defensive Player of the Year honors, and achieved Consensus All-American status. Despite this pedigree, his rookie season showcased the challenges of adjusting to the NFL level at just 21 years old.
In 2025, Turner must build on his limited experience and develop into the impactful pass rusher the Vikings envision, potentially increasing his snap count and contributions to the defense.