Rookies Making Headlines - Preseason Standouts to Watch in 2025

The preseason is always full of surprises, but this year’s rookie class is putting on a show that rivals anything that Hollywood could dream up.

Some are already earning starting reps. Others are turning heads with speed, strength, or sharp routes. There are also a few who look ready to change their teams' Week 1 plans.

If you’re following NFL betting news or checking camp updates each day, these names should be on your radar.

They’re not just worth watching for fantasy leagues; they could also shake up the odds in early games this season.

Here’s a closer look at the rookies making the most noise so far.

Woody Marks Is Rising Fast in Houston

Houston’s backfield has gotten messy, and Woody Marks might be the one to clean it up.

With Joe Mixon out indefinitely and Nick Chubb still not back to full speed, the Texans need someone to step up.

Marks has the tools to do it. He caught over 200 passes in college and knows how to handle pressure. The Texans are expected to throw a lot this year, and Marks fits that plan.

If he gets first-team snaps over the next few weeks, he’s a name to watch in early NFL betting predictions.

Luther Burden III Starting to Click

Luther Burden missed some key time in the spring. But now that he’s back at Bears’ practice, he’s starting to get into rhythm.

He had one rough moment in camp that drew headlines, but that’s not the full story.

Burden brings size, toughness, and big-play potential. He can work inside or rotate with D.J. Moore, depending on the look.

With more time, he could see early playing time in three-receiver sets.

Coaches want him to earn it, and he just might.

Colston Loveland Looks Ready

Another Chicago rookie worth focusing on is Colston Loveland. Even though he was limited earlier this offseason, he’s now getting regular work with the starters.

Loveland can catch, block, and make defenders miss. He may end up taking the top tight end spot from Cole Kmet, especially in an offense that uses two tight ends often.

That kind of role could mean more early touches and more targets inside the red zone.

Raiders Wide Receiver Room Heats Up

The Raiders' wide receiver group is starting to shape up, and two rookies are in the mix.

Dont’e Thornton brings speed and size on the outside. He’s been working with the first team and could fill that X-receiver role right away.

Even if he’s not getting the ball often, his presence helps stretch the field and opens things up for others.

Jack Bech is another name to know. He has flashed during full-contact drills and brings more quickness and versatility.

If the Raiders use three wideouts more often, both rookies could see snaps early.

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Egbuka Impressing in Tampa Bay

Tampa Bay’s first-round pick, Emeka Egbuka, is off to a great start. With Chris Godwin’s status still unclear for Week 1, Egbuka might step in right away.

He has already earned praise from quarterback Baker Mayfield and looks locked in during team drills.

He’s competing for targets, but he’s one of the top performers in camp. That could lead to strong early-season usage in a system that returned nearly all of last year’s starters.

Skattebo in the Mix for New York

The Giants' offense may not light up the scoreboard, but Cam Skattebo is making a strong case for touches.

He’s splitting time with Tyrone Tracy Jr., but coaches want to see what he can do with the starters.

Skattebo has power near the goal line and could carve out a role in short-yardage spots.

If he proves he can block on passing downs, his role might grow quickly.

Travis Hunter Doing it All

Travis Hunter has been one of the most talked-about rookies, and for good reason.

In camp, he has already made plays on both sides of the ball.

On offense, he has caught 10 passes and scored a touchdown.

On defense, he has broken up three passes and allowed just two completions. His stamina is off the charts, and that’s helped him stand out in Jacksonville’s heat.

He won’t be on the field every snap, but he could have big moments in key games. That makes him tough to plan for, and interesting for bettors watching player props.

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Omarion Hampton Earning the Job

With Najee Harris still out after an eye injury, Omarion Hampton is getting a chance to shine for the Chargers.

He has got burst speed, good size, and the ability to catch passes out of the backfield.

He’s not a perfect fit in every run scheme, but that might not matter right now. Hampton is getting most of the early-down work in camp and could lead the team in touches if Harris stays sidelined.

Kyle Williams Competing in New England

New England’s receiver room is still sorting itself out, and Kyle Williams is making a move.

He’s in a close battle with Kayshon Boutte for the X-receiver role. What’s helped him stand out is his ability to get open quickly and create yards after the catch.

Quarterback Drake Maye seems to trust him on short, quick routes, exactly the kind of plays the Patriots need more of.

Chargers Add Depth with Rookie WRs

With Mike Williams retired, the Chargers need new options at wideout. Two rookies, Tre Harris and KeAndre Lambert-Smith, are stepping up.

Harris could be more involved right away, but Lambert-Smith brings something different.

He’s winning on deep routes, which helps stretch the defense. Even if his role is limited, his speed forces opponents to respect the deep ball.

That matters for spacing, play calling, and how defenses line up, which can shift how bettors view total points or quarterback props.

Staying Ahead in Preseason Betting

Keeping up with camp reports isn’t just about fantasy football. It matters for early-season betting as well.

Rookies can shift depth charts, game plans, and team totals, sometimes without warning.

Platforms that offer fast updates and live NFL betting insights, and research can help bettors react before lines move.

Sites like FanDuel Sportsbook make it easy to track odds, props, and depth chart news all in one place.

Rookie Buzz Can Shape Week 1

Rookies often take time to find their rhythm. But some get there faster than others, and when they do, they change things.

They open up playbooks. They shift the way games are called. And they create matchups that weren’t expected.

All of that can impact the way the market moves leading up to the opener.

*Information is correct as of 2025/08/04 and subject to change.