ClutchPoints
Four games into the 2025 NFL season, the rookie class has already sorted into tiers, and the Offensive Rookie of the Year race has taken early shape. At this point, voters prize two things above all else: consistent opportunity and production in high-leverage moments. That means red-zone looks, third-down conversions, and splash plays that swing games.
So let’s take a look at the five rookies who have earned meaningful roles, produced impact plays, and built statistical resumes that can survive scrutiny over the long haul. Each name on this list examines why the player matters now, what could derail the bid, and what they must sustain to stay in the conversation.
Who takes the top spot? Let’s count down the top five.
Honorable mention: Packers WR Mathew Golden, Giants RB Cam Skattebo, Browns RB Quinshon Judkins, Giants QB Jaxson Dart
McMillan was drafted eighth overall and has shown flashes of elite potential early. Through four games, he has logged 18 receptions for 278 yards per PFF’s stat sheet. He is the only rookie wideout in PFF’s Top 15 rookie rankings at the quarter mark, landing at No. 14 overall.
One stat worth noting: McMillan has slightly more receiving yards than Tyler Warren does (by 15 yards), but has run 39 more routes to do so. That suggests Warren’s usage has been more efficient, though McMillan’s raw production is higher.
The only thing holding him back from ranking higher is his lack of red-zone production. He’s still searching for his first NFL touchdown, but his size and body control make it likely that one is coming soon. If Carolina’s offense starts finishing drives, McMillan could easily crack the top three.
Hampton has 270 rushing yards and two rushing TDs through four games, averaging about 5.0 yards per carry, numbers that reflect a clear uptick in workload and explosiveness lately.
Hampton turned in a signature long run and a 100-plus yard game recently, and the Chargers have leaned on him as their primary back in the absence of other options after the injury to Najee Harris. His yards-per-carry show he’s producing efficiently with the volume he’s earned.
What he needs: Consistent high snap share. Hampton’s path to OROY is straightforward: sustain carries and convert short-yardage and red-zone chances. A prolonged hot streak in Justin Herbert’s offense converts quickly into headline stats.
Jeanty sits among the rookie rushing leaders in the NFL with 68 carries for 282 yards and multiple TDs, and he’s flashed true workhorse potential with a big Week 4 outing, producing a 100-plus yard game.
Jeanty has the classic OROY profile: volume, tackle-breaking ability, and touchdown production. He also contributes as a receiver, giving him third-down value that voters appreciate.
What he needs: Durability and role stability. If the Raiders continue to hand him 18-22 touches a game, Jeanty projects to climb into the top spot. If his snaps dip or he...
