Not every five-star recruit from the 2024 ESPN 300 was inserted into a starting role as a true freshman last fall, despite what their ranking might suggest. Numerous variables can take precedent over pure talent, and it often takes a year of seasoning or depth-chart movement before elite prospects break out in their second season.

Ohio State's Jeremiah Smith and Alabama's Ryan Williams became instant superstars as true freshmen in 2024, and we have a strong list of super sophomores ready to emerge in 2025, following the path of Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love , who made this list last year.

Note: These rankings omitted any player who started more than two games last season.

1. Julian Sayin , QB, Ohio State

A heralded quarterback recruit in 2024, Sayin has the physical

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