The 2025-2026 NFL season kicks off on Thursday, September 4, 2025, with the Philadelphia Eagles hosting the opening game. The regular season will run until January 4, 2026, followed by playoffs starting on February 10 and culminating in Super Bowl LX on February 8, 2026, at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California, which marks the venue’s first time hosting the Super Bowl since 2016.
While established stars will certainly take the spotlight, this season also brings a fresh wave of talent worth watching. These rising players are poised to make a splash and could soon find themselves among the NFL’s elite.
1. Ashton Jeanty (RB, Boise State)
The Raiders took and bet on Jeanty’s three-down potential early. He profiles as an immediate RB1 with dual-threat capability. Jeanty ran with exceptional contact balance and low pad level at Boise State, regularly turning the inside zone into chunk yardage. His addition has already nudged Las Vegas’ projected NFL win totals upward in some sportsbooks, signaling growing confidence in the team’s revamped offense.
The Las Vegas Raiders needed juice in the backfield and someone who could stay on the field in 11 personnel. Jeanty can pass-protect, work through progressions in check-down windows, and flex out in empty sets. He’s a modern back, scheme-versatile, durable, and dynamic in space. If he stays healthy, his rookie usage could trend into 275+ touches.
2. Travis Hunter (WR/CB, Colorado)
No player this season brought more positional flexibility than Travis Hunter. At Colorado, he logged over 1,000 snaps during the 2024 season, splitting time between wide receiver and cornerback. He finished with 57 receptions for 721 yards and 5 touchdowns, along with 3 interceptions and 7 pass breakups on defense. Few prospects showed that level of endurance and two-way production at a high level.
The Jacksonville Jaguars plan to deploy him primarily at wide receiver, where his route running, spatial awareness, and hands make him a legitimate threat at all three levels. On tape, he flashed the ability to track deep balls, win against press coverage, and make high-difficulty catches. His instincts and competitive edge give him immediate WR1 upside, even as he transitions to a full-time role.
3. Will Campbell (OT, LSU)
Campbell anchored LSU’s offensive line in 2024, starting every game and logging over 800 snaps at left tackle. He allowed just 2 sacks and drew only one penalty all season. His pass-blocking efficiency ranked among the best in the SEC, and he consistently graded out near the top in both zone and power run schemes. His tape showed clean technique and a firm understanding of leverage and timing.
The New England Patriots drafted him to protect the blindside and bring stability to a front that struggled with pressure off the edge. He’s quick out of his stance, maintains a strong base, and resets well when challenged by counters. His hands are accurate, and his punch neutralizes speed-to-power moves. Campbell has the frame and footwork to be a plug-and-play tackle.
4. Tyler Booker (OG, Alabama)
Booker logged over 750 snaps at left guard in 2024 and didn’t allow a sack all season. His run-blocking efficiency helped Alabama finish among the top teams in rushing success rate, and he routinely won matchups against interior defenders with length and power. His balance, hand placement, and footwork were clean throughout the year. He also earned All-SEC honors and was a team captain.
This Week’s NFL Matchups on FanDuel feature the Dallas Cowboys as one of the favorites in the trenches, and Booker’s presence on the interior is part of the reason. He brings immediate toughness to the Cowboys’ front and plays with excellent pad level. He recovers quickly when defenders cross his face, can climb to the second level without losing control, and should start Week 1 without much adjustment.
5. Mason Graham (DT, Michigan)
Graham recorded 45 total tackles, 8.5 tackles for loss, and 5 sacks in 2024. He also generated 12 quarterback pressures and consistently disrupted interior gaps against top offensive lines. His snap quickness and hand usage allowed him to penetrate early, and he held up well when facing double teams. Michigan’s defensive front often relied on him to reset the line of scrimmage.
The Cleveland Browns needed an interior lineman who could anchor against the run and collapse the pocket on passing downs. Graham checks both boxes. He shoots gaps with urgency, uses strong leverage to disengage, and maintains a high motor from early downs through third-and-long. He’ll likely start in a 3-tech role and contribute right away as a backfield disruptor with long-term upside.
NFL 2025-26 Will Be Led By QBs and Non-QBs
The 2025–2026 season features impact talent on both sides of the ball. Travis Hunter brings rare versatility, while Mason Graham boosts Cleveland’s defensive line. Dallas adds power inside with Tyler Booker, and Will Campbell strengthens New England’s protection. Ashton Jeanty gives the Raiders a true every-down threat out of the backfield. Keep an eye on these names—they’re about to get loud!
