Every rookie in the NFL wants to see the field in his first season. That's the ultimate goal, right? Not to simply get drafted, but to actually play in the NFL and make an impact. But not every rookie is capable of that; some players take time to develop before they're ready for the NFL field, and some players spend their entire careers on the practice squad. It's not just about talent; it's also about fit, the team's scheme, and football IQ.
This year, the Washington Commanders drafted players on both sides of the ball who look to make a splash in 2025, and PFF recently put rookies into three categories for earning a starting spot by Week 1: Virtual locks, on the cusp, and could win a competition.