Out of Nowhere: Predicting the NFL’s Surprise Player Performances of 2025
The NFL is a league of constant surprises. Every year, players emerge from relative obscurity to become key contributors, changing the landscape of their teams and the league. Remember when Patrick Mahomes took the league by storm? Or when Cooper Kupp had his record-breaking season? These unexpected leaps in performance are what make the NFL so captivating. As we gear up for the 2025 season, let’s dive into some predictions for players who could come “Out of Nowhere” and deliver standout performances.
Quarterbacks Ready to Ascend
J.J. McCarthy (Minnesota Vikings): With the Vikings sticking with McCarthy as QB1, the stage is set for him to take a significant leap. Given the chance, McCarthy could become a valuable fantasy asset.
Justin Fields (New York Jets): Fields’ rushing ability alone makes him a fantasy football sleeper. Although his passing stats may be flawed, his legs provide a consistent boost. If he gets significant playing time, he could easily outperform his current ADP (Average Draft Position).
Caleb Williams (Chicago Bears): Despite a challenging rookie season marked by a staggering 68 sacks, Williams flashed moments of brilliance. With a potentially revamped offensive line and continuity in offensive weapons like D.J. Moore, Rome Odunze, and Cole Kmet, Williams has the tools to succeed. Under the guidance of new head coach Ben Johnson, Williams is positioned to take a substantial leap in his sophomore season.
Running Backs Primed for a Breakout
Tank Bigsby (Jacksonville Jaguars): Bigsby could see an increased role in the Jaguars’ offense. If he can improve his pass-catching abilities, he has the potential to become a dual-threat weapon.
Jordan Mason (Minnesota Vikings): With Dalvin Cook no longer in the picture, Mason has an opportunity to carve out a significant role in the Vikings’ backfield. His physical running style could make him a valuable asset in short-yardage situations.
Dylan Sampson (Tennessee Titans): Sampson is considered a Day Three sleeper for the class. Keep an eye on him as a potential late-round gem who could exceed expectations.
Wide Receivers on the Verge
Keon Coleman (Buffalo Bills): Coleman averaged a huge 19.2 yards per catch last year, showcasing his downfield threat ability. If he can improve his connection with Josh Allen, he could become a dangerous weapon in the Bills’ offense.
Rome Odunze (Chicago Bears): Odunze was the WR3 in the Bears’ offense, but with potential changes in the offseason, he could become a massive benefactor. If Keenan Allen leaves, Odunze’s target share could significantly increase.
Ricky Pearsall (San Francisco 49ers): Pearsall’s final two games of the 2024 season showcased his potential, posting 141 yards and a touchdown against Detroit in Week 17, followed by a 69-yard, one-touchdown performance in Week 18 against Arizona. Opportunity is key, and Pearsall may find himself as the 49ers’ primary receiver should Deebo Samuel depart in free agency and Brandon Aiyuk’s return from a severe knee injury proves challenging.
Xavier Worthy (Kansas City Chiefs): Worthy’s speed and route-running ability make him a perfect fit for the Chiefs’ offense. With Patrick Mahomes throwing him the ball, Worthy has the potential to become a star.
Tight Ends Ready to Emerge
Cole Kmet (Chicago Bears): Kmet has the potential to become a reliable target in the Bears’ offense. If he can improve his consistency, he could become a valuable fantasy asset.
Jake Ferguson (Dallas Cowboys): With Dalton Schultz now in Houston, Ferguson has an opportunity to become the Cowboys’ primary tight end. His athleticism and receiving skills make him a player to watch.
Elijah Arroyo (Philadelphia Eagles): Arroyo’s explosive athleticism could intrigue the Eagles. His 16.9 yards per reception ranked second among qualified FBS tight ends in 2024.
Defensive Surprises
Milton Williams (New England Patriots): With a defensive-line guru in new Patriots DC Terrell Williams, the former third-round pick should ascend right away with his new team. New England is counting on it after signing Milton Williams to a four-year, $104 million contract.
Nick Emmanwori (Carolina Panthers): Every year, there’s at least one player who rises up draft boards thanks to a jaw-dropping combine performance that showcases rare athletic traits. In 2025, that player might be South Carolina’s Nick Emmanwori. He posted a career-best 79.6 PFF grade in his final college season.
Demetrius Knight Jr. (South Carolina): Knight will be one of the oldest prospects in the 2025 NFL Draft, but he is a mature player with good processing and fundamentally sound tackling. His run-defense angles can be a bit overaggressive, but you’ll take that trade-off due to how well he moves in coverage and when pursuing ball carriers.
Predicting which players will break out is always a challenge, but by identifying those with the talent, opportunity, and coaching to succeed, we can get a glimpse into the future stars of the NFL. The 2025 season promises to be full of surprises, and these players are just a few who could come “Out of Nowhere” and make a significant impact.