By Mark Pszonak
There are always a few true freshmen who play major roles during a season. In 2024, players like Ohio State wide receiver Jeremiah Smith, South Carolina defensive end Dylan Stewart and Georgia safety KJ Bolden not only excelled but were also vital factors for their team who helped shape the season. Here are five true freshmen who have the potential to do the same in 2025:
1. RB Gideon Davidson, Clemson
The skinny: Expectations are through the rough for Clemson, with skilled veterans returning at many positions. However, that isn’t true at running back, where Gideon Davidson will likely play a vital role. He has impressed since his arrival on campus, and with Jay Haynes still rehabbing from his torn ACL in the ACC Championship Game, Davidson will be given every opportunity to shine and help the Tigers reach their lofty goals.
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2. WR Dakorien Moore, Oregon
The skinny: With the loss of most of their receiving production, Dakorien Moore was already going to play a very important role in 2025 for the Ducks. But that role became even more important when top returning receiver Evan Stewart suffered a torn patellar tendon injury in his knee during the spring. While there is some hope that he might return late in the season, the injury puts even more pressure on Moore to quickly become a key part of Oregon’s offense.
3. QB Bryce Underwood, Michigan
The skinny: No true freshman has more pressure on them than Bryce Underwood in 2025. Aside from being handed the keys to the Wolverines’ offense, it has been well publicized that he received a great deal of money to excel while in Ann Arbor. On top of this, Michigan is coming off a disappointing season, so expectations will be for a quick rebound. If this happens, Underwood will have to prove to everyone that he is worth the hype and money.
4. RB Harlem Berry, LSU
The skinny: With Heisman Trophy candidate Garrett Nussmeier back at quarterback, expectations in Baton Rouge are understandably very high. They will be even higher if the Tigers can establish a reliable running game. This is where Harlem Berry comes into play. While LSU does return Kaleb Jackson and Caden Durham, Berry played an equal role throughout spring, which immediately put the spotlight on him. If this continues into the season, expect the hype around him to quickly grow.
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5. WR Kaliq Lockett, Texas
The skinny: If Kaliq Lockett can equal or improve on Ryan Wingo’s 2024 true freshman season, then the Longhorns may be in line for another deep playoff run. Wingo totaled 29 receptions for 472 yards and two touchdowns despite having to compete with Matthew Golden and Isaiah Bond for balls. With those two now in the NFL, Lockett comes into a better situation where he will have more of an opportunity to shine while playing with the possible top pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, quarterback Arch Manning.
