As college football gears up for the 2025 season, a new wave of talent is ready to step into the spotlight. While veterans and returning stars often dominate the preseason headlines, it’s the breakout players—those who seize larger roles, emerge from relative obscurity, or make the leap from promising recruits to full-fledged game-changers—who often reshape the narrative of a season.
Here’s a comprehensive look at 45 breakout stars poised to make waves in the 2025 college football season. These players represent a mix of rising sophomores, new starters, high-profile transfers, and under-the-radar talents from across the country. Expect many of them to become household names by December.
Quarterbacks:
- Dante Reno – South Carolina: The former 4-star recruit is expected to take over full-time duties. Reno’s arm talent and poise make him a high-upside pick to lead the Gamecocks’ offense.
- Devin Brown – Ohio State: With another year of development under Ryan Day, Brown could become a Heisman candidate if he locks in as the starter.
- Jackson Arnold – Oklahoma: After flashes of brilliance in 2024, Arnold is set to command one of the nation’s most dynamic offenses.
- Avery Johnson – Kansas State: A dual-threat weapon who adds a new dimension to K-State’s offense, Johnson has the tools to be one of the Big 12’s top playmakers.
- Collin Schlee – UCLA: A veteran transfer, Schlee has athleticism and arm strength. Under new leadership at UCLA, he could shine in the Big Ten spotlight.
Running Backs:
- Justice Haynes – Alabama: After waiting his turn, Haynes is now the focal point in the Tide’s backfield. Expect a breakout campaign.
- Rueben Owens – Texas A&M: Explosive in limited carries last season, Owens has the vision and burst to be a
