Not every freshman can follow in the footsteps of Jeremiah Smith. The Ohio State wide receiver was a standout anomaly last season when he immediately became a college football sensation. Only a select few from the top recruits of the 2025 freshman class will snag starting roles early on, with even fewer making a significant impact right away. Spring camp is their first chance to showcase potential, and some freshmen have already started this journey.
Last offseason, it was clear Jeremiah Smith was set to become a major player for Ohio State. Similarly, this spring has revealed a few early enrollees who look poised to push into the lineup as rookies.
Whether traditional or modified, spring games are a public stage for freshmen to make their debut at their new campuses. Certain players, in particular, should be on your radar during these scrimmages.
Here’s an insider look at 10 true freshmen to watch in the upcoming college football spring games:
Bryce Underwood, Quarterback, Michigan
As the top recruit of the 2025 class, Bryce Underwood stands a strong chance of starting as quarterback. With dreams as grand as claiming "a couple of Heismans and at least one national title," Underwood began his path last winter. By joining the Wolverines during bowl practices, he’s now in the mix to outplay incoming transfer Mikey Keene and the returning Davis Warren.
Gideon Davidson, Running Back, Clemson
Insider Austin Hannon says Gideon Davidson might well emerge as Clemson’s leading running back in his first year. With limited experienced competition, Davidson could grab a substantial role straight away. As a top-five running back prospect, Davidson is positioned to shine, especially since Clemson needs to fill the void left by Phil Mafah, leading to some inventive positional shuffling.
Dakorien Moore, Wide Receiver, Oregon
Oregon has experienced significant changes in its lineup this offseason, opening up wide receiver spots with the departures of Tez Johnson and Traeshon Holden. Dakorien Moore, heralded as the top pass-catcher in his class, might just step up as the next standout freshman receiver. After flipping his commitment from LSU to Oregon, Moore is slated for multiple years of success within a power-packed offense.
Kaliq Lockett, Wide Receiver, Texas
With an opening in Texas’s wide receiver corps, Kaliq Lockett is a prime contender for the spot as a new recruit. The second-ranked pass-catcher will be a crucial part of the Longhorns’ highly praised recruiting class. His performance against Texas’s strong defense will be vital, and his speed and agility can potentially offset any concerns about his weight.
Michael Fasusi, Offensive Lineman, Oklahoma
In a year marked by exceptional offensive line talent, Oklahoma scored big with Michael Fasusi. After a challenging previous season due to injuries, the Sooners were in dire need of a fresh start, and Fasusi, turning heads in the spring, is poised to fill that gap. Despite the usual developmental time needed for linemen, Fasusi’s talent and Oklahoma’s needs provide him with a unique opportunity.
David Sanders Jr., Offensive Lineman, Tennessee
Tennessee feels optimistic seeing David Sanders Jr. shine in his initial spring. Competing for the open right tackle position, Sanders’s impressive performance suggests he could play a significant role in the upcoming season. The Vols’ reshuffled line offers a prime opportunity for the 11th overall 2025 recruit to leverage his substantial potential.
Elijah Griffin, Defensive Lineman, Georgia
With several Georgia linemen headed to the NFL, and two heals from injuries, Elijah Griffin finds himself in a perfect position to stand out. If he can make an impression during camp, keeping him off the field could be tough. With his athletic build, Griffin looks ready to be the next major player on Georgia’s defensive line.
Devin Sanchez, Cornerback, Ohio State
Devin Sanchez has already made waves at Ohio State, poised for a vital role in his freshman year. Despite Ohio State’s depth, Sanchez’s skill stands out in a program that regularly cycles through NFL-ready talent. As the number one corner in his class, Sanchez’s drive and performance have set high expectations.
DJ Pickett, Cornerback, LSU
In a significant offensive move, LSU’s acquisition of DJ Pickett underlines his potential. With his towering physique and impressive wingspan, Pickett is likely to start early, distinguishing himself among the five-star recruits as a freshman starter.
Daryus Dixson, Cornerback, Penn State
Penn State’s Terry Smith isn’t shy about pushing capable freshmen into action, and Daryus Dixson might be the next to capitalize on that philosophy. Even against some of his higher-ranked peers, Dixson’s clear potential and dynamics carry him to possibly surpass veterans for playtime, ensuring he becomes a regular feature on the field.
