NFL Rookies Secure Starting Roles Amid Veteran Injuries, Depth Shifts

Several NFL teams are seeing rookie players take significant roles during the 2025 training camps and preseason preparations. The San Francisco 49ers face challenges with injuries to running backs Jordan James and Isaac Guerendo, both sidelined for weeks, prompting increased reps for Patrick Taylor Jr. and Corey Kiner; meanwhile, linebacker Dee Winters has secured the starting spot over rookie Nick Martin. For the Minnesota Vikings, first-round pick Donovan Jackson has been named the starting left guard, impressing coaches early on and seemingly supplanting veteran Blake Brandel without competition. The Detroit Lions’ rookie wide receiver Isaac TeSlaa is making a strong impression and could be overtaking veteran Tim Patrick’s role, thanks to his outstanding athleticism and solid preseason performances. These developments highlight a trend of rookies stepping up amid veterans' injuries or competition, emphasizing the importance of preseason for earning playing time. Teams are leveraging their rookie talent to fill gaps and enhance their rosters as the NFL season approaches.