Ranking 2025 NFL Rookie Impact for Non-Round 1 Draft Picks- Who’s Making Noise Early?
The spotlight of the NFL Draft always shines brightest on Round 1 picks, but history shows us that impact players can come from anywhere.
From Tom Brady to Amon-Ra St. Brown, the later rounds often produce stars who defy expectations. As the 2025 NFL season kicks off, a handful of non-Round 1 rookies are already turning heads. Whether you're analyzing team depth or using a betting calculator to gauge early-season odds, these under-the-radar talents are making Day 1-type impacts despite slipping past Day 1.
1. RB Keilan Robinson – Round 4, Arizona Cardinals
Speed kills—and Keilan Robinson has plenty of it. Drafted in the fourth round, the former Texas back has injected life into Arizona’s offense with his explosive burst and receiving skills. With injuries in the Cardinals’ backfield, Robinson has seized a starting role, averaging 5.3 yards per carry and showing flashes reminiscent of a young Alvin Kamara. Don’t be surprised if he becomes the centerpiece of their offense by midseason.
2. EDGE Zion Tupuola-Fetui – Round 3, Pittsburgh Steelers
Leave it to the Steelers to find a pass-rushing gem in the third round. Zion Tupuola-Fetui, out of Washington, has quickly adapted to Pittsburgh’s defensive scheme, registering 4.5 sacks and 2 forced fumbles in the first six games. Opposing tackles struggle to handle his rare blend of size and speed. Not just a situational player, he’s making a serious case for Defensive Rookie of the Year consideration.
3. WR Xavier Weaver – Round 5, New Orleans Saints
Quietly, one of the most reliable targets in this rookie class, Xavier Weaver, has brought consistency and route-running precision to New Orleans. While not as flashy as some first-round receivers, he’s already tallied 35 receptions and 3 touchdowns, emerging as a favorite for Derek Carr on third downs. The Saints may have found a long-term slot weapon without spending big draft capital.
4. CB Khyree Jackson – Round 3, Minnesota Vikings
At 6'3" with long arms and elite instincts, Khyree Jackson has been a welcome addition to Minnesota’s secondary. Selected in the third round, he's already logged two interceptions and ten passes defended. More than just a ballhawk, Jackson is also a physical tackler helping the Vikings turn their defensive identity around.
5. TE Jaheim Bell – Round 4, Green Bay Packers
Bell came into the league with a “Swiss army knife” label, and Green Bay has wasted no time putting that versatility to use. He’s lined up at tight end, fullback, and even slot receiver. With 250 receiving yards and a pair of red-zone touchdowns, Bell is quickly becoming Jordan Love’s go-to security blanket. His blocking has also helped stabilize the run game. Bell is a talented and versatile offensive player who has yet to find his rhythm.
Final thoughts
The 2025 rookie class is already proving that talent isn’t confined to the first round. Teams willing to dig deeper in the draft are reaping the benefits. While first-rounders grab headlines, it's the under-the-radar rookies—gritty, hungry, and overlooked—who are quietly rewriting narratives and changing games.
Keep your eye on these names. They may not have heard their names called early, but they’re letting their play speak volumes.