With the 2025 NFL draft in the rearview, we can examine all the rookie classes. In this case, I list which first-year player will have the most significant impact on their respective teams.
Here are the rookies in the AFC North who should make noise in their first season.
Baltimore Ravens
EDGE Mike Green
The Ravens did select safety Malaki Starks in the first round. While Starks does have an easy path to the starting lineup, his life is only going to be easier on the backend of the defense with pressure on opposing quarterbacks, which Green will be the one supplying. It might have been a bit of a surprise that Green fell in the draft, so this was a steal for Baltimore. Green will play behind Kyle Van Noy and Odafe Oweh, but his services will be put to good use, and his pass-rush prowess should translate to this level. The former Marshall product’s 51 quarterback pressures were tied for sixth-most in the FBS.
Pittsburgh Steelers
RB Kaleb Johnson
Despite being in a spot to draft Shedeur Sanders, the Steelers stayed away and selected Johnson to address their biggest remaining position need. Offensive coordinator Arthur Smith’s system is perfect for a player like Johnson, who is excellent with inside- and outside-zone concepts. Jaylen Warren is best used as a change-of-pace back, so Johnson should get plenty of volume in his rookie season. And with an improved Pittsburgh offensive line, Johnson should find success running behind it.
Cincinnati Bengals
EDGE Shemar Stewart
The Bengals’ first-round selection of Stewart received mixed reviews because he’s a toolsy player who didn’t have the production in college of a first-round player. But the upside is through the roof, as he possesses elite athleticism and strength for a player of his size (6-foot-5 and 267 pounds). Stewart will learn from Trey Hendrickson, who will help unlock his full potential, while defensive coordinator Al Golden will get him up to speed quickly.
Cleveland Browns
RB Quinshon Judkins
First-round pick Mason Graham and second-round pick Carson Schwesinger are unlikely starters from Day 1, which is why Judkins could have the biggest impact. Judkins profiles as the immediate 1A option in the backfield committee that will include Jerome Ford and fourth-round pick Dylan Sampson. Judkins will get a lot of early-down touches, and he has the skill set to produce and mitigate a fairly average Browns offensive line.
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