🔥 2025 NFL Standouts: The Top-Performing Players at Every Position So Far

Last updated Oct 8, 2025

2025 NFL Season: Who’s Really Balling Out So Far?

Five weeks down in the 2025 NFL season, and wow, things have already gone a bit wild. Preseason predictions? Yeah, most of them are already in the trash. From the Ravens trying to find their rhythm to the Colts unexpectedly lighting things up, it’s been a rollercoaster of big plays, turnovers, and jaw-dropping moments.

And it’s not just teams shaking things up—individual stars are rewriting the script, too. Some of the usual legends are still bossing their positions, while others seem a step off their game. On the flip side, we’ve got some new names showing up big time, proving they belong in the spotlight.

Let’s take a look at who’s truly standing out after five weeks—these are the highest-graded NFL players at every position so far according to PFF’s numbers. (And just so you know, only players with at least 120 snaps make the cut.)

Offensive Line Dominance: Penei Sewell is Making History

Detroit Lions fans, this one’s for you. Penei Sewell is absolutely tearing it up right now. Through five games, he’s posted the highest PFF grade ever recorded by an offensive lineman at this stage of a season. Yeah, ever. His blocking has been nearly flawless, both in pass protection and run support, and he’s quickly building a Hall-of-Fame-level résumé before our eyes.

It’s rare to see a lineman grab headlines, but when you’re this dominant, people can’t ignore you.

Lockdown Corner: Will Johnson Shuts It Down

Rookie corner Will Johnson has made a huge splash for the Arizona Cardinals. He’s allowing only 65 yards total into his coverage this season—that’s elite territory. Johnson’s instincts, confidence, and ability to track the ball have made him one of the toughest corners to throw against so far.

For a first-year player to look this composed against NFL-caliber receivers? That’s scary good.

The Form Guide: Surprises Everywhere

If you looked at the preseason rankings, a few of these names wouldn’t have been there. Some top-tier players have been inconsistent, and others—especially rookies and second-year guys—are finally breaking through. That’s what makes this part of the season so fun: it’s not about who’s hyped, it’s about who’s actually producing.

Teams like the Colts, Texans, and Lions are benefiting big from their rising stars, while powerhouses like the Ravens and Chiefs are still looking for that full-team consistency.

Head-to-Head Moments That Stood Out

Several player matchups have already given us mini classics. Sewell vs. Myles Garrett? An absolute battle of strength and technique. Johnson’s matchup against CeeDee Lamb? The rookie held his own like a seasoned vet. These are the kind of duels that define early-season momentum and can shift the balance of entire games.

Players to Watch Next

Penei Sewell (Lions) – Can he maintain this historic pace?
Will Johnson (Cardinals) – If he keeps this up, he’s Defensive Rookie of the Year material.
Anthony Richardson (Colts) – The breakout quarterback everyone’s suddenly watching.
Micah Parsons (Cowboys) – Always a threat to explode statistically and wreck games.

These guys are setting the standard right now, but the next few weeks will tell who’s really built to last.

Betting Tips & Fantasy Edge

If you’re into fantasy or prop betting, PFF+ has become the go-to edge tool for serious fans. Keep an eye on offensive linemen like Sewell when evaluating running backs’ yardage props—it all connects. And corners like Johnson can make opposing WRs risky fantasy starts.

Smart bettors are already adjusting, leaning into matchups that align with these top-graded players.

Final Thoughts

Five weeks in, and the 2025 NFL season has already given us plenty to talk about. From unexpected rookie brilliance to record-breaking performances in the trenches, it’s shaping up to be one of the most unpredictable seasons in recent memory.

So buckle up—the next few weeks will separate the early flash from the real elite. And if the current trend continues, we might be witnessing the rise of a new generation of NFL superstars.