The 2025 NFL season is shaping up to showcase the emergence of several former first-round picks poised for significant breakouts. Among them is Quentin Johnston, whose NFL breakout in 2025 is highly anticipated after a promising but uneven start. While not every top draft pick bursts onto the scene immediately, many develop over a few years before reaching their full potential. This hopeful group, long overshadowed but loaded with talent, is ready to make a lasting impact on the league.
Anthony Richardson’s Growth as a Young Quarterback
Anthony Richardson, selected in the top five of the 2023 NFL Draft by the Indianapolis Colts, remains a focal point of excitement heading into 2025. Although he has thrown fewer professional passes than many quarterbacks see in college, Richardson’s raw athleticism and arm talent continue to impress. His 2024 season demonstrated flashes of brilliance despite accuracy struggles, registering a Big-Time Throw rate of 6.8%, which, if qualified, would have placed him among the league’s elite in that category. Entering his third year in the system led by coach Shane Steichen and surrounded by emerging skill players, Richardson is expected to outcompete Daniel Jones in training camp and emerge as the Colts’ clear franchise quarterback during the regular season.
Drake London’s Steady Rise with the Falcons
Drake London stands on the cusp of wider recognition after a breakout 2024 campaign where he caught 100 passes for 1,271 yards and scored nine touchdowns, despite split quarterback play that included Kirk Cousins and rookie Michael Penix Jr. Known for a rugged, physical style reminiscent of Brandon Marshall, London leverages his nearly 6-foot-4, 220-pound frame and dependable hands to excel as a rebounder downfield. With Penix settling into the Falcons’ offense, London is expected to extend his threat deeper downfield in 2025, becoming the centerpiece of a revitalized offense driven by a younger, more aggressive passing attack.
Darnell Wright’s Emergence as a Premier Offensive Tackle
Darnell Wright’s progress continues to impress as the Chicago Bears’ 2022 top-10 draft pick firmly establishes himself as a dominant presence at left tackle. Towering at 6-foot-5 and tipping the scales over 330 pounds, Wright combines surprising agility with intense focus, consistently excelling in both run blocking and pass protection. Despite protecting a rookie quarterback who suffered a league-leading 68 sacks last year, Wright’s individual assignments were executed with authority. With the arrival of new head coach Ben Johnson, renowned for his innovative play-calling, the offensive line’s effectiveness, including Wright’s performances, is expected to improve significantly, showcasing Wright as one of the NFL’s best young blindside protectors by season’s end.
Quentin Johnston’s Path Toward a Breakout Season
Despite a rocky rookie year, Quentin Johnston’s potential remains unmistakable as he enters his third NFL season with the Los Angeles Chargers. The 2023 first-round pick has steadily improved, posting 711 receiving yards in his second year while showing better route running, ball security, and yards after catch. Johnston forced five missed tackles on 38 catches in 2023 and increased that to 15 on 55 receptions the following season. His large frame and growing confidence in Justin Herbert’s offense position him for a “sneaky-good” Year 3, likely approaching or surpassing 1,000 receiving yards. The Chargers, led by Jim Harbaugh’s coaching staff, are expected to tailor their game plan to create opportunities for Johnston’s unique blend of size and speed. Although he will continue to drop some passes, his ability to make spectacular plays on all levels of the field, especially against zone coverage, remains highly promising.
Calijah Kancey’s Anticipated Defensive Breakthrough
Calijah Kancey, a standout from the University of Pittsburgh, looks ready to elevate his game in 2025 as one of the NFL’s premier interior pass rushers. In his first two seasons with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Kancey has maintained a pressure rate of around 10%, though he has struggled somewhat against the run. With additional strength gained since entering the league, Kancey is expected to consistently overpower and outmaneuver opposing centers and guards in the coming year. His quick first step, effective use of leverage, and polished pass-rushing techniques, when paired alongside Vita Vea on the Buccaneers’ defensive line, should result in a breakout season featuring over 60 pressures. Under the guidance of defensive coordinator Todd Bowles, Kancey’s skill set is due for full expression as he becomes a defining force in one of the <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/football/nfl/nfc/”>NFC’s strongest defenses.
Why 2025 Marks a Turning Point for These Former First-Round Picks
The 2025 NFL season represents a pivotal moment for these young talents who were once hyped but struggled to meet expectations initially. Players like Anthony Richardson, Drake London, Darnell Wright, Quentin Johnston, and Calijah Kancey are entering their third professional seasons, an important stage for many first-rounders to translate potential into consistent dominance. With improved coaching, enhanced physical development, and growing experience, they are positioned to validate their draft pedigrees and influence their teams significantly. For Quentin Johnston, in particular, this year could cement his status as a formidable receiver in the NFL.