The NFL has always been a mix of players that includes both seasoned veterans and antsy rookies. Back in the day, it was an oddity to see a 40+ year old player suit up on Sundays, but now even that is in vogue.
And players who enter the league have been getting younger. Last year, RB Braelon Allen of the New York Jets was just 20 years old and nine months on opening day. This season, Cleveland Browns RB Dylan Sampson played in Week 1 at the same age, with his 21st birthday one week away.
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BROWNS PLAYERS WHO COULD SEE MORE PLAYING TIME
In this year’s NFL draft, 257 players were selected. In addition, 484 undrafted rookie free agents were signed shortly after the draft concluded. That is a lot of infusion of youth into the league in just one short year.
For the Browns, their 2025 rookie class has gotten a lot of attention. So far, there isn’t a single player who appears not to be a contributor on game days, either starting or providing quality depth. And their rookie players have helped on both sides of the ball.
ESPN has made a first-quarter list of who they believe are the best rookies so far in this young season. All of their opinions were ranked by polling five in-house NFL analysts and reporters — Matt Bowen, Kalyn Kahler, Jeff Legwold, Matt Miller, and Jordan Reid.
Here’s part of their list:
1. WR Emeka Egbuka: Round 1 #19 – Tampa Bay Buccaneers
2. EDGE Abdul Carter: Round 1 #3 – New York Football Giants
5. RB Cam Skattebo: Round 4 #105 –Giants
6. LB Carson Schwesinger: Round 2 #33 – Browns
Analysis:
“Schwesinger has arguably been the most impressive rookie defender this season. His range was among the many positives on his scouting report coming out of UCLA, and that has carried over into the NFL. The rookie learning curve hasn’t affected him at all. His instincts, tackling ability, and effort are on display weekly. Schwesinger was Cleveland’s second defensive pick in the 2025 draft (defensive tackle Mason Graham went No. 5), but he is already a building block for a Browns defense that is among the best in the league.”
9. RB Quinshon Judkins: Round 2 #36 – Browns
Analysis:
“Judkins has the stature of an NFL lead back. He is an urgent runner with the foot quickness and short-area juice to make defenders miss in tight quarters. He has seen at least 20 touches in three games this season, and he can produce on screens and checkdowns. In Kevin Stefanski’s offense, where the run game is a foundational component, Judkins has been an easy fit since his debut in Week 2.”
10. QB Jaxson Dart: Round 1 #25 – Giants
Also received Top-15 votes from ESPN panelists:
DT Mason Graham: Round 1 #5 – Browns
