Who is NFL rookie of the season? Sky Sports experts rank their top five

**Who is NFL Rookie of the Season? Sky Sports Experts Rank Their Top Five**

As the 2025 NFL season heats up, the conversation surrounding potential Rookie of the Year candidates is intensifying. The excitement of following the league unfolds further as veterans and fresh talent clash on the field, and no one is itching to discuss these budding stars quite like Sky Sports NFL analysts Jason Bell and Phoebe Schecter. In their latest segment, they ranked their top five rookies of the season thus far, shedding light on the phenomenal performances that have captivated fans nationwide.

### 1. **Caleb Williams, Quarterback, Chicago Bears**

Kicking off their list is none other than Caleb Williams, the standout quarterback who was the first overall pick of the 2025 draft. Williams, known for his incredible arm strength and playmaking ability, has quickly made a name for himself in the Windy City. With over 2,500 yards and 20 touchdown passes in his first 10 games, his on-field composure and ability to read defenses have drawn comparisons to NFL legends. Bell applauds Williams' knack for extending plays, while Schecter notes his poise under pressure, particularly in high-stakes situations. As the Bears vie for a playoff spot, Williams is certainly emerging as the frontrunner for this season's Rookie of the Year.

### 2. **Drew Sanders, Linebacker, Denver Broncos**

In the second spot, we find linebacker Drew Sanders, a versatile talent who is making waves in his first season. The former Arkansas standout has swiftly become a staple in the Broncos' defense, recording 75 tackles, including 10 tackles for loss and 5 sacks, as of Week 10. His sideline-to-sideline speed allows him to disrupt both the run and the pass game, and his football IQ has made him an integral part of Denver’s defensive schemes. Bell and Schecter are impressed with Sanders' ability to read plays and effectively communicate with his teammates, which speaks volumes about his readiness to tackle the challenges of the NFL.

### 3. **J.J. McCarthy, Quarterback, Washington Commanders**

Landing in third place, J.J. McCarthy has taken the reins as the starting quarterback for the Washington Commanders. After a standout college career at Michigan, McCarthy has continued to dazzle in the NFL. He has thrown for over 2,000 yards and 15 touchdowns, showing an impressive blend of accuracy and mobility. According to Phoebe Schecter, his ability to connect with emerging weapons in the Commanders’ receiving corps has been a highlight. McCarthy's development as a leader on the field reflects his high football acumen, paving the way for a promising future in the league.

### 4. **Zay Flowers, Wide Receiver, Baltimore Ravens**

Wide receiver Zay Flowers lands fourth on the list, solidifying his reputation as one of the most explosive players in the NFL. The former Boston College star has quickly established chemistry with quarterback Lamar Jackson, making plays that keep defenses guessing. With 750 receiving yards and a team-leading 7 touchdowns at this stage, his ability to separate from defenders and make catches in traffic has not gone unnoticed. Bell emphasizes Flowers’ impact on the Ravens’ offensive scheme, while Schecter marvels at his footwork and route-running finesse that regularly leave defenders in the dust.

### 5. **Jared Ficklin, Safety, New Orleans Saints**

Rounding out the top five is Jared Ficklin, a safety bringing versatility and tenacity to the New Orleans Saints’ secondary. The former All-American from Alabama has shown remarkable instincts, recording 4 interceptions and over 50 tackles in a strong debut season. His ability to play both safety positions gives the Saints head coach many strategic options. Both Bell and Schecter commend Ficklin’s awareness on the field, crucial for his role in one of the league's most challenging divisions.

As the season progresses, the competition for the Rookie of the Year title will undoubtedly tighten. However, with these top five candidates making headlines with impressive performances, it’s clear that the future of the NFL is bright, and fans should keep a close watch on these exceptional talents. Stay tuned for more insights and updates as the 2025 NFL season unfolds!