The 2025 NFL draft class has been one of the most highly anticipated in recent memory, with several teams hoping to find their next franchise quarterback or dominant defender. Now, NFL.com has released its rookie report cards, giving fans and analysts a chance to evaluate the performances of every team's drafted players. The report card system assigns a letter grade to each player, based on their production, coaching feedback, and game footage analysis.
Rookie Report Card Standouts
Among the standout performers in the rookie report cards are several players who have exceeded expectations. One of the top graded players is running back, Tyler Jackson, who was drafted by the Kansas City Chiefs in the second round. Jackson has averaged over 4.5 yards per carry and has scored 3 touchdowns in his first 5 games, earning him a grade of A-.
Another impressive performer is wide receiver, Ethan Hall, who was drafted by the Los Angeles Chargers in the first round. Hall has hauled in 22 receptions for 350 yards and 2 touchdowns, earning him a grade of A. His strong route running and hands have made him a trusted target for Chargers quarterback, Justin Herbert.
Rookie Report Card Disappointments
Not all rookies have performed as well as expected, however. One of the biggest disappointments is linebacker, Ryan Lee, who was drafted by the New York Giants in the first round. Lee has struggled to adapt to the Giants' defense, struggling with assignment mistakes and lack of tackling ability. His grade is a D+, and he will need to turn his season around to avoid being relegated to a backup role.
Another underperforming rookie is tight end, Michael Brown, who was drafted by the Cleveland Browns in the second round. Brown has struggled to find open spaces in the Browns' offense, and his blocking has been a liability. His grade is a C-, and he may need to fight for playing time in the coming weeks.
Team Rankings and Overall Grades
At the top of the rookie report card rankings are the Kansas City Chiefs, who have a team grade of A-. The Chiefs have gotten strong performances from their entire rookie class, including Jackson, who has been a key contributor to their high-powered offense. The Los Angeles Chargers are close behind, with a team grade of A, thanks to the strong play of Hall and several other rookies.
On the other end of the spectrum are the New York Giants and Cleveland Browns, who have team grades of D+. The Giants have struggled with several of their rookies, including Lee, while the Browns have been hampered by injuries and lack of production from their rookies.
The NFL rookie report cards provide a valuable assessment of the performances of every team's 2025 draft class. While some teams have gotten strong contributions from their rookies, others have struggled to find success. As the season continues, it will be interesting to see how these rookies develop and how they contribute to their teams' success.