ESPN analyst Aaron Schatz ranked every 2025 rookie class by first‑year production, using Sports Info Solutions’ total‑points metric and FTN Network DVOA tweaks. The list isolates on‑field value, ignoring injuries that sidelined prospects like Travis Hunter. A stark gap separates the top four squads from the rest of the league.

New Orleans Saints topped the rookie impact chart, driven by second‑round quarterback Tyler Shough, who posted a 49.2 QBR in nine starts, and first‑round left tackle Kelvin Banks Jr., who logged solid run‑block numbers. On defense, third‑round pick Jonas Sanker earned All‑Rookie honors, while Quincy Riley and Danny Stutsman contributed depth.

The Cleveland Browns surprised analysts by anchoring their rookie success on defense rather than quarterback play. Second‑round linebacker Carson Schwesinger amassed 156 tackles, ranking second league‑wide among rookies, while first‑round tackle Mason Graham solidified the line. Despite individual flashes, none of the top classes lifted their teams into playoff contention, underscoring that rookie production alone rarely reshapes a franchise’s fortunes.