The 2025 NFL season has highlighted remarkable progress among players across various positions, with several athletes demonstrating substantial improvement from the previous year. This year’s standout performers not only elevated their individual statistics but also played pivotal roles in their teams’ successes.
Quarterback: Drake Maye’s Breakout Performance
Drake Maye of the New England Patriots has emerged as the most improved quarterback in the league. After a promising rookie season, Maye’s performance soared in 2025. Under the guidance of offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels, the Patriots revamped their offense, which had previously ranked 26th in expected points added (EPA) per play in 2024. Maye completed a league-high 71.2% of his passes, amassing 4,662 yards, 31 touchdowns, and only eight interceptions. His efforts helped lead the Patriots to a 13-4 record and their first AFC East title since 2019. Maye’s overall PFF grade of 90.1 ranks third among quarterbacks, positioning him as a strong contender for the MVP award, potentially becoming the first second-year quarterback to win the honor since Lamar Jackson in 2019.
Key Contributors Across Positions
D’Andre Swift, playing for the Chicago Bears, has reclaimed his potential after a challenging previous season. With a PFF grade of 82.7, Swift rushed for a career-high 1,141 yards and 10 touchdowns in 2025, benefitting from a strong offensive line. His partnership with rookie Kyle Monangai helped the Bears reach the postseason for the first time since 2020.
In Jacksonville, Parker Washington has emerged as a key target for quarterback Trevor Lawrence. With an overall PFF grade of 82.6, Washington recorded 58 receptions for 847 yards and five touchdowns. His performance solidified his role as a reliable slot receiver amid the Jaguars’ revamped receiving corps.
Tight end Kyle Pitts of the Atlanta Falcons finally showcased his talent, catching a career-high 88 passes for 928 yards and five touchdowns. His PFF receiving grade reached 82.0, indicating a significant step forward in his development.
On the offensive line, Warren McClendon Jr. of the Los Angeles Rams transformed from backup to starter, earning a PFF grade of 81.7. He allowed only one sack in ten starts, becoming a critical component of the Rams’ offensive front.
Defensively, Quinnen Williams of the Dallas Cowboys rebounded from a lackluster previous season. After being traded from the New York Jets, Williams recorded a PFF grade of 88.8 and led all defensive tackles in run-defense grade with 91.7. His performance revitalized the Cowboys’ defense, contributing significantly to their success.
Rising Stars on Defense
Byron Young, an edge defender for the Los Angeles Rams, had a breakout season with a PFF grade of 85.6, ranking among the top edge rushers. He recorded 64 pressures and 13 sacks, solidifying his position as a key contributor to a top-performing defense.
Linebacker Divine Deablo, now with the Atlanta Falcons, achieved a career-best PFF grade of 77.7, playing a crucial role in the team’s defensive turnaround. His strong coverage skills led to a significant improvement in pass defense.
In the secondary, Donte Jackson of the Los Angeles Chargers demonstrated a remarkable comeback after a disappointing 2024 season. With a PFF coverage grade of 73.4, Jackson allowed only 24 catches for 325 yards, helping the Chargers maintain one of the league’s strongest pass defenses.
Finally, safety Antonio Johnson of the Jacksonville Jaguars emerged as the top safety in the league with a PFF grade of 86.9. His impressive coverage skills and tackling ability contributed significantly to the Jaguars’ defensive improvement, which ranked third in EPA per play allowed in 2025.
The 2025 NFL season has showcased a wealth of talent and potential, with these players not only improving their individual performances but also driving their teams to greater heights. As the league looks forward to the upcoming draft and offseason, these athletes will undoubtedly be key figures in shaping their teams’ futures.
