Rookies with More College Experience Excel in NFL, PFF Data Shows

Analysis reveals that NFL rookies with extensive college playing time are performing better, with a significant increase in high-graded players having over 1,750 college snaps.

<p>As the NFL offseason begins, attention shifts to scouting for the upcoming draft, highlighting the importance of players' college experience. Recent data from PFF indicates that a growing number of successful NFL rookies have accumulated substantial playing time in college, with 62.5% of the highest-graded rookies last season having played at least 1,750 snaps.</p><p>This trend has been consistent over the past four years, with the percentage of impressive first-year players with significant college snaps increasing from 40% in 2022 to 62.5% in 2025. Notable rookies such as Jackson Hawes and Tetairoa McMillan exemplify this pattern, showcasing how extensive college experience can translate into immediate NFL success.</p><p>While the data suggests that more seasoned players tend to perform better, it is not a guarantee of success. Some highly-rated players have not played many snaps in college, and factors such as health and coaching also play crucial roles in a rookie's performance. The evolving landscape of college football may further influence these trends in the future.</p>