NFL Names Multiple Rookie Busts Including Vikings, Saints, Seahawks

As the 2025 NFL season approaches, several rookies are under scrutiny for their potential to either succeed or become busts. The New Orleans Saints' first-round pick Kelvin Banks Jr. is viewed as a possible bust candidate by Bleacher Report's Kristopher Knox, though his college performance suggests he has the tools to avoid failure as a rookie. Similarly, Minnesota Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy, coming off a knee injury and high expectations as a first-round pick, has been labeled a potential bust despite no regular-season NFL experience, highlighting the pressure on him to justify being the team's future QB1. In Seattle, the Seahawks face a unique offseason situation with second-round rookie contracts, notably for safety Nick Emmanwori, who could set a precedent with his yet unsigned fully guaranteed deal. The Seahawks also have promising rookies like wide receiver Tory Horton, expected to fill voids left by departed veterans, though some past picks, such as offensive lineman Christian Haynes, have struggled, raising concerns about the team's recent drafting success in the trenches. These narratives underscore the challenges and high stakes rookies face as they transition into pivotal roles on their teams in 2025.