AFC North Shockers: Late-Round Rookies Who Could Take Over in 2025

Every year, Day 3 of the NFL Draft delivers a few stunners, hidden gems who go from overlooked to undeniable. And in the gritty, no-nonsense AFC North, the 2025 class may have struck gold. Rookie minicamps are done, and some of these under-the-radar rookies are already flashing star potential.

Cleveland Browns

Shedeur Sanders (QB, Colorado) ,Forget where he was drafted, Shedeur has starter energy. With poise, accuracy, and leadership oozing from his game, he’s already the most exciting QB prospect in the Browns’ room. If Deshaun Watson falters, don’t be shocked if Sanders steals the spotlight.

Dylan Sampson (RB, Tennessee), Blink and he’s gone. Sampson’s electric burst and elusiveness could instantly change the Browns’ backfield. If Nick Chubb isn’t 100%, Sampson could be this year’s breakout lightning bolt.

Pittsburgh Steelers

Jack Sawyer (EDGE, Ohio State) , A fourth-round robbery. Sawyer was born for AFC North football, violent hands, relentless motor, and a chip on his shoulder. He’s coming for quarterbacks and could become a Day 1 disruptor in Pittsburgh’s rotation.

Donte Kent (CB/PR, Central Michigan), Don’t underestimate the seventh round. Kent has the quicks and instincts to become a lockdown slot corner and make noise as a returner. He’s a hidden weapon with game-breaking potential.

Cincinnati Bengals

Jalen Rivers (OL, Miami) ,The Bengals need protection for Joe Burrow, and Rivers might just bulldoze his way into the lineup. He’s a nasty, flexible lineman who brings grit and power to an O-line that must improve fast.

Javon Solomon (EDGE, Troy) ,Pure energy. Solomon doesn’t stop until the whistle (and sometimes not even then). With elite get-off and a nose for the QB, he could be Cincinnati’s next pass-rush secret weapon.

Baltimore Ravens:

Mike Green (EDGE, James Madison), The Ravens know how to find defensive gems, and Green is next. Explosive, athletic, and productive, he’s tailor made for Baltimore’s aggressive scheme. Don’t be surprised if he’s making plays by Week 1.

Isaiah Davis (RB, South Dakota State), Tough. Nasty. Fearless. Davis brings smashmouth football back to Baltimore. He’s a perfect short-yardage hammer who could become a Ravens fan favorite by midseason.

Bottom Line:

These aren’t just “good value picks”, they’re future playmakers. The AFC North just got a serious injection of attitude, talent, and upside. Keep your eyes on these rookies. The takeover starts now.