As college football shifts into the offseason, attention inevitably turns to the stars who are expected to shape the upcoming 2025 season. With each year, college football evolves, driven by the emergence of new talent, player development, and shifting dynamics within conferences and programs. This offseason, anticipation is particularly high as teams and fans eagerly look to see which players will rise to prominence, dominate on the field, and potentially enter the conversation for the prestigious Heisman Trophy.
While many of the established superstars from the previous season are looking to transition to the NFL, a new crop of talent is set to emerge, with several key players already being heralded as potential game-changers. From quarterbacks who can reshape offenses to defenders who can alter the course of games, the 2025 college football season is expected to be defined by a blend of experienced upperclassmen and highly touted underclassmen making their marks on the field.
Quarterbacks to Watch
1. Drake Maye, North Carolina
Drake Maye’s meteoric rise in the college football landscape has been nothing short of spectacular. The North Carolina quarterback showcased his elite arm talent and poise under pressure in 2024, guiding the Tar Heels to a successful campaign and putting up impressive numbers. With another year of development under his belt, Maye enters 2025 as one of the most intriguing prospects in college football. His ability to throw from the pocket and extend plays with his legs makes him a dual-threat nightmare for defenses.
Maye is expected to be a top contender for the Heisman Trophy in 2025, as his natural ability, combined with an explosive offensive system at UNC, gives him all the tools to put up massive numbers. With NFL scouts keeping a close eye on him, the pressure will be on to deliver another standout season. If he continues to progress and remain consistent, there’s no question that Maye could be the face of college football in 2025.
2. Quinn Ewers, Texas
After a somewhat uneven 2024 season, Quinn Ewers is poised for a breakout in 2025. The Texas quarterback has all the physical attributes to be one of the best in the country: a powerful arm, excellent mobility, and the size to withstand hits at the next level. His performance in 2024 showed flashes of brilliance, but he struggled with consistency at times, making 2025 a crucial year for his development.
If Ewers can put everything together under head coach Steve Sarkisian’s offense, Texas could become a serious contender not just for the Big 12 title, but potentially for a playoff berth. With star players around him like running back Jonathon Brooks and wide receiver Xavier Worthy, Ewers has the weapons to excel, and many are already predicting a Heisman-worthy season from the Texas signal-caller.
3. J.J. McCarthy, Michigan
J.J. McCarthy has been one of the most hyped quarterbacks in recent memory, and after leading Michigan to an appearance in the College Football Playoff, the 2025 season could be his stage to prove he’s one of the top quarterbacks in the nation. His ability to lead Michigan’s high-powered offense, paired with his mobility and knack for making plays in big moments, makes him a prime candidate to thrive in 2025.
McCarthy’s decision-making, which had been a point of focus in the past, is expected to improve with another year of experience. Michigan has a strong supporting cast, and McCarthy’s leadership will be key to their title hopes. If he can continue to grow and limit mistakes, McCarthy could easily find himself in the Heisman conversation and Michigan in the national title hunt.
4. Caleb Williams, USC (if eligible)
Although Caleb Williams will likely be entering the NFL draft in 2025, should he opt to stay another year, he would undoubtedly be the top player to watch in the country. The USC star has set the college football world on fire, winning the 2024 Heisman Trophy and leading the Trojans to significant victories. His combination of arm strength, mobility, and playmaking ability is unmatched at the college level, and he has the potential to lead USC to the top of college football in 2025.
Even if he decides to depart early for the NFL, his brief but remarkable time in college football has solidified his place as one of the most dominant players in recent history. However, if he stays for one more season, the 2025 campaign will see him trying to cap off his college career with a national championship.
Running Backs to Watch
1. Blake Corum, Michigan
Blake Corum’s return for the 2025 season is expected to bring even more excitement to the Michigan backfield. After being one of the top running backs in college football during 2024, Corum proved that he’s a workhorse back capable of taking over games with both his vision and speed. With his combination of power and finesse, Corum can break off huge runs and is a key part of Michigan’s balanced offensive attack.
His leadership and production will be critical as the Wolverines continue to chase a national title in 2025. If Corum stays healthy and continues to perform at a high level, expect him to be a Heisman contender once again, as he will likely be one of the most productive backs in the country.
2. Raheim Sanders, Arkansas
Raheim “Rocket” Sanders was one of the breakout stars in the 2024 season, displaying incredible speed, vision, and durability in a workhorse role for Arkansas. Heading into 2025, Sanders is poised to take his game to the next level. He has the capability to break tackles, outrun defenders, and contribute in the passing game. Arkansas will likely rely heavily on Sanders to keep opposing defenses honest, and with another year of experience, he’s primed for a special season.
3. Travion Henderson, Ohio State
Travion Henderson has been one of the most highly touted running back prospects in recent years, and after battling through injuries in 2024, he is expected to return to form in 2025. Henderson has the balance, vision, and burst to be one of the top backs in the nation, and if Ohio State can build its offense around him, he could be poised for a massive year. The Buckeyes are always in the hunt for the playoff, and Henderson could be the driving force behind their run in 2025.
Wide Receivers and Playmakers to Watch
1. Marvin Harrison Jr., Ohio State
Perhaps the most anticipated wide receiver in college football, Marvin Harrison Jr. is a future first-round NFL draft pick. His combination of size, athleticism, and ball skills makes him an impossible matchup for most defenders. With Ohio State’s explosive offense, Harrison has the chance to put up ridiculous numbers in 2025. His ability to take over games and make highlight-reel catches will make him one of the most electrifying players to watch.
2. Xavier Worthy, Texas
Xavier Worthy’s development as a dynamic playmaker at Texas has been nothing short of impressive, and the 2025 season promises to be his best yet. Worthy has a rare ability to stretch the field and make big plays on both short and deep routes. As a primary target for Quinn Ewers, Worthy’s speed and playmaking ability will be crucial for Texas in their hunt for a Big 12 title and a playoff berth. Expect him to be one of the top wide receivers in the nation, putting up huge numbers and leaving defenses scrambling to contain him.
3. Brock Bowers, Georgia
Tight end Brock Bowers is the quintessential matchup nightmare. His ability to line up both in the slot and on the line of scrimmage gives Georgia’s offense incredible flexibility, and his receiving skills are among the best in the nation for any position. Bowers has the size and hands to be a dominant force, and with Georgia’s strong running game and offensive system, he is poised for a massive season.
Defenders to Watch
1. Dallas Turner, Alabama
Dallas Turner is one of the premier pass-rushers in college football, and after an outstanding 2024 season, the Alabama linebacker will be a key figure in the Tide’s defense in 2025. His ability to disrupt the quarterback and create turnovers is invaluable for Alabama, and his performance will be crucial in the team’s quest for another national title. Turner’s relentless motor and ability to play in both the pass and run game make him one of the most complete defenders in the country.
2. Kool-Aid McKinstry, Alabama
As one of the top cornerbacks in college football, Kool-Aid McKinstry has the tools to shut down opposing wide receivers. His exceptional coverage skills and ball-hawking ability make him a game-changer in the secondary. Alabama will rely heavily on McKinstry to help neutralize top wide receivers in 2025, and his performance will play a pivotal role in determining the success of their defense.
3. Jeremiah Trotter Jr., Clemson
Jeremiah Trotter Jr. has already established himself as one of the best linebackers in college football. His ability to read the offense, make tackles in the backfield, and contribute in pass coverage makes him a standout performer. Clemson’s defense will revolve around Trotter’s leadership and playmaking ability, and in 2025, he’s expected to be one of the top defensive players in the nation.
As we enter the 2025 college football season, the excitement is palpable. From quarterbacks with Heisman potential to game-changing defenders, the stars of 2025 will be some of the most talked-about athletes in the country. The landscape of college football is ever-changing, but the one constant remains: the players who rise to the occasion and dominate on the field will define the season.
For fans and analysts alike, the offseason provides the perfect opportunity to speculate on who will become the next legends of college football. With so much talent across the nation, the 2025 season promises to be an exciting chapter in the sport’s storied history.
