NFL Draft Picks Compete for Starting Roles in 2025

Several NFL analysts predict that rookie draft picks could unexpectedly compete for starting roles in the 2025 season. For the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Pro Football Focus highlights rookie cornerback Jacob Parrish as a potential contender for a starting job due to his strong performances in pre-draft events and upcoming opportunities in minicamp and training camp. The Pittsburgh Steelers' Jack Sawyer, initially expected to be a rotational edge rusher, is projected by NFL.com analyst Chad Reuter to compete for significant snaps or a starting spot, especially given the injury histories of T.J. Watt and Alex Highsmith. Similarly, the Las Vegas Raiders' fourth-round pick Dont'e Thornton may earn a starting wide receiver role, with Reuter noting his potential to join second-rounder Jack Bech in the lineup if he can expand his route running. Each team appears open to competition among rookies, with starting roles up for grabs depending on preseason performance and team needs.