{"id":223800,"date":"2025-10-14T10:56:09","date_gmt":"2025-10-14T10:56:09","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us\/223800\/"},"modified":"2025-10-14T10:56:09","modified_gmt":"2025-10-14T10:56:09","slug":"on3-2025-midseason-true-freshman-all-american-team","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us\/223800\/","title":{"rendered":"On3 2025 Midseason True Freshman All-American Team"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>We\u2019ve reached the midpoint of the 2025 college football season, making it a perfect time to take stock of one of the sport\u2019s most intriguing storylines \u2014 the true freshmen. Across the country, first-year players are not only earning meaningful snaps but shaping outcomes for playoff contenders and rebuilding programs alike.<\/p>\n<p>Several who were featured on On3\u2019s <a href=\"https:\/\/www.on3.com\/news\/preseason-true-freshman-all-american-team-2025\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Preaseason True Freshman All-Americans<\/a>\u00a0 have lived up to the billing, while others have quickly emerged as breakout stars in their debut seasons.<\/p>\n<p>Here is On3\u2019s\u00a0Midseason True Freshman All-American Team\u00a0for the 2025 campaign. Players within each position group are presented in alphabetical order.<\/p>\n<p>QB Malik Washington \u2013 Maryland<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.on3.com\/rivals\/malik-washington-153853\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Malik Washington<\/a> headlines a talented group of true freshman quarterbacks midway through the 2025 season. The 6-foot-4, 230-pound signal caller has flashed considerable physical tools while guiding Maryland to a 4-2 start, completing 62 percent of his passes for 1,506 yards and 10 touchdowns against two interceptions, while also rushing for three scores. Washington leads all true freshmen in both passing yards and passing touchdowns.<\/p>\n<p>Washington has shown a big-time arm with the confidence to attack all areas of the field. He is aggressive pushing the ball vertically and unafraid to challenge tight windows, routinely making <a href=\"https:\/\/x.com\/fsh733\/status\/1977147661309640863\" rel=\"nofollow\">high-difficulty throws<\/a>. His athleticism also shows up when plays break down, allowing him to extend plays and pick up key yards on the ground. Washington has shown well in two close Big Ten losses and continues to look more comfortable each week.<\/p>\n<p>A local product from Severn (Md.) <a href=\"https:\/\/www.on3.com\/high-school\/archbishop-spalding-severn-md-11166\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Archbishop Spalding<\/a>, Washington was a major recruiting win for <a href=\"https:\/\/www.on3.com\/rivals\/coach\/mike-locksley-134031\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Mike Locksley<\/a> and gives Maryland its most optimistic quarterback outlook in years. Ranked as the No. 105 overall prospect and No. 11 quarterback in the 2025 cycle according to the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.on3.com\/rivals\/rankings\/industry-player\/football\/2025\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Rivals Industry Ranking<\/a>, Washington looks like a foundational piece for the Terrapins\u2019 future.<\/p>\n<p>RB Bo Jackson \u2013 Ohio State<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.on3.com\/rivals\/bo-jackson-154732\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Bo Jackson<\/a> has emerged as the primary ball carrier for the nation\u2019s top-ranked team. The Cleveland native has quickly become a steady and physical presence in Ohio State\u2019s backfield, showing size, contact balance, and downhill power that belie his true freshman status. Through five games, Jackson has rushed for 407 yards at 7.0 yards per carry with two touchdowns, impressive production on such a loaded roster, especially considering he did not record a carry in the season opener against Texas.<\/p>\n<p>Jackson\u2019s power and vision between the tackles have stood out, as he leads all true freshman running backs in yards after contact with 305, according to Pro Football Focus. His ability to run through arm tackles and stay balanced through contact gives <a href=\"https:\/\/www.on3.com\/rivals\/coach\/ryan-day-133992\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Ryan Day<\/a> and running backs coach <a href=\"https:\/\/www.on3.com\/rivals\/coach\/carlos-locklyn-150366\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Carlos Locklyn<\/a> a promising young centerpiece for the Buckeyes\u2019 ground game moving forward. A former four-star prospect and the No. 9 running back and No. 160 overall prospect in the 2025 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.on3.com\/rivals\/rankings\/player\/football\/2025\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">On300<\/a>, Jackson looks poised to carry on Ohio State\u2019s tradition of high-end running back play.<\/p>\n<p>RB Nate Sheppard \u2013 Duke<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.on3.com\/rivals\/nate-sheppard-162080\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Nate Sheppard<\/a> has quickly emerged as one of the top offensive playmakers among true freshmen and a go-to weapon for Duke\u2019s offense. The Louisiana native leads all true freshman running backs with 447 rushing yards, averaging a sensational 8.0 yards per carry with four touchdowns. He has also proven to be a versatile threat out of the backfield, adding 102 receiving yards and another score through the air.<\/p>\n<p>Sheppard\u2019s combination of vision, instincts, and play speed has made him one of the most efficient young runners in the country. He runs with a low center of gravity and balance through contact, showing the ability to stay square and explode through arm tackles. That well-rounded skill set has allowed him to impact the game both as a runner and receiver. He showed flashes of this dynamic ability as a senior at <a href=\"https:\/\/www.on3.com\/high-school\/mandeville-mandeville-la-16196\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Mandeville<\/a> (La.) High, where he averaged more than 200 yards from scrimmage and 3.4 touchdowns per game before sustaining a season-ending injury.<\/p>\n<p>Since arriving in Durham, Sheppard has added quality weight to his frame, up to 200 pounds from around 180 in high school, while retaining his explosiveness. A <a href=\"https:\/\/www.on3.com\/rivals\/nate-sheppard-162080\/industry-comparison\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">four-star prospect<\/a> according to On3, Sheppard looks like a major recruiting steal for the Blue Devils and a dynamic factor for their offense moving forward.<\/p>\n<p>WR Vernell Brown III \u2013 Florida<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.on3.com\/rivals\/vernell-brown-iii-152985\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Vernell Brown III<\/a> has been one of the most reliable true freshman wide receivers in college football this season. The Florida native has caught 27 passes for 366 yards, ranking second among all true freshmen in receiving yards. He has been a first down machine, moving the chains on more than half of his receptions while proving effective working all levels of the field.<\/p>\n<p>Brown\u2019s polish and competitive temperament have translated to the college level. He is a shifty route-runner who creates consistent separation and shows the body control to win at the catch point. His quickness and precision as a route technician make him a natural fit in Florida\u2019s passing attack.<\/p>\n<p>The Gators have found a dynamic tandem in Brown and fellow freshman <a href=\"https:\/\/www.on3.com\/rivals\/dallas-wilson-162895\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Dallas Wilson<\/a>, giving them two of the top first-year wideouts in the country. A Florida legacy from Orlando (Fla.) <a href=\"https:\/\/www.on3.com\/high-school\/jones-orlando-fl-19493\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Jones<\/a>, Brown was ranked as the No. 30 overall prospect and No. 6 wide receiver in the 2025 cycle according to the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.on3.com\/rivals\/rankings\/industry-player\/football\/2025\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Rivals Industry Ranking<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>WR Dakorien Moore \u2013 Oregon<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.on3.com\/rivals\/dakorien-moore-28026\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Dakorien Moore<\/a> has lived up to the hype fitting of a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.on3.com\/rivals\/rankings\/industry-five-stars\/football\/2025\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Five-Star Plus+<\/a> prospect and the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.on3.com\/rivals\/rankings\/industry-player\/football\/2025\/?position=wr\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">No. 1 wide receiver<\/a> in the 2025 recruiting cycle. The freshman has already become the leading receiver for No. 8 Oregon and the top target for Heisman contender <a href=\"https:\/\/www.on3.com\/rivals\/dante-moore-29804\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Dante Moore<\/a>, showing the talent and polish that made him one of the biggest recruiting wins in recent years.<\/p>\n<p>Through the first half of the season, Moore ranks third among all true freshmen with 335 receiving yards along with two touchdowns. His blend of dynamic long speed, crisp route running, and high-end ball skills have carried over to Saturdays. Moore can take the top off a defense but is equally comfortable working underneath, showing a well-rounded skill set that is rare for a first-year receiver.<\/p>\n<p>As Oregon enters the heart of Big Ten play, Moore\u2019s production and target share should only continue to grow. His early impact highlights the strength of the Ducks\u2019 2025 freshman class, which also features running backs <a href=\"https:\/\/www.on3.com\/rivals\/dierre-hill-152391\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Dierre Hill<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.on3.com\/rivals\/jordon-davison-147046\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Jordon Davison<\/a> along with cornerback <a href=\"https:\/\/www.on3.com\/rivals\/brandon-finney-176795\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Brandon Finney<\/a>. Moore already looks like one of the most naturally gifted young wide receivers in college football.<\/p>\n<p>WR Malachi Toney \u2013 Miami<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.on3.com\/rivals\/malachi-toney-158769\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Malachi Toney<\/a> has been the leading receiver for <a href=\"https:\/\/www.on3.com\/rivals\/carson-beck-18711\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Carson Beck<\/a> and the No. 2 Hurricanes, and one of the surest bets for inclusion on the Midseason True Freshman All-American Team. The explosive first-year wideout leads all true freshmen with 375 receiving yards and three touchdown receptions, establishing himself as a go-to target for one of the top teams in college football.<\/p>\n<p>Toney\u2019s versatility has made him a key player in <a href=\"https:\/\/www.on3.com\/rivals\/coach\/shannon-dawson-131498\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Shannon Dawson<\/a>\u2019s attack. The offensive coordinator can line him up all over the field to create mismatches, and Toney consistently finds ways to separate and make plays in space. He has shown excellent burst and acceleration in the open field, often winning foot races once he hits the second level. His 211 yards after the catch easily leads all true freshman wide receivers, showing his ability to turn short throws into big gains.<\/p>\n<p>Toney has been at his best in big moments, combining for 189 yards and three touchdowns in marquee matchups against Notre Dame and Florida State. The youngest player on this year\u2019s Midseason True Freshman All-American Team, Toney reclassified from the 2026 to the 2025 cycle and only recently turned 18, making his early production even more remarkable.<\/p>\n<p>OL Michael Carroll \u2013 Alabama<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.on3.com\/rivals\/michael-carroll-157319\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Michael Carroll<\/a> has steadily worked his way into Alabama\u2019s offensive line rotation, nailing down a starting role at right tackle. The former five-star prospect has allowed just three pressures and zero sacks on 78 passing plays so far this season and holds the 2nd highest Pro Football Focus grade (73.1) among Power Five true freshman offensive linemen with at least 100 snaps.<\/p>\n<p>Although he played primarily at guard in high school, Carroll has looked natural working at right tackle for the Crimson Tide. He played particularly well in the win over Vanderbilt and was competitive against a dangerous Missouri front. Carroll\u2019s combination of size, balance, and movement skills makes him one of the more advanced young linemen in the country.<\/p>\n<p>A Pennsylvania native, Carroll ranked as the No. 14 overall prospect in the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.on3.com\/rivals\/rankings\/industry-player\/football\/2025\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">2025 Rivals Industry Ranking<\/a> and the top interior offensive line prospect nationally. Just halfway through his freshman season, he already looks like an impact player for Alabama\u2019s offensive front for years to come.<\/p>\n<p>OL Michael Fasusi \u2013 Oklahoma<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.on3.com\/rivals\/michael-fasusi-163101\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Michael Fasusi<\/a> was the headliner in <a href=\"https:\/\/www.on3.com\/college\/oklahoma-sooners\/football\/2025\/industry-comparison-commits\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Oklahoma\u2019s 2025 signing class<\/a> and was considered a key addition as the Sooners looked to retool their offensive line. The former <a href=\"https:\/\/www.on3.com\/rivals\/rankings\/industry-five-stars\/football\/2025\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Five-Star Plus+<\/a> prospect has already stepped into a major role, starting four games at left tackle and protecting quarterback <a href=\"https:\/\/www.on3.com\/rivals\/john-mateer-63401\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">John Mateer<\/a>\u2019s blindside. Despite missing some time with injury, Fasusi has performed as well as any freshman lineman in the country.<\/p>\n<p>Fasusi has surrendered only four pressures and one sack on 119 pass-blocking snaps according to Pro Football Focus, an impressive mark for a first-year player at one of the game\u2019s most demanding positions. He combines plus length and power with a physical, aggressive playing style. His punch at the point of attack consistently jars defenders, and his balance in pass protection has fared well against high-level competition.<\/p>\n<p>Fasusi looks like the next star lineman for veteran offensive line coach <a href=\"https:\/\/www.on3.com\/rivals\/coach\/bill-bedenbaugh-132429\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Bill Bedenbaugh<\/a>. The former <a href=\"https:\/\/www.on3.com\/rivals\/rankings\/industry-player\/football\/2025\/?position=ot\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">No. 1 offensive tackle<\/a> and No. 8 overall prospect in the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.on3.com\/rivals\/rankings\/industry-player\/football\/2025\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">2025 Rivals Industry Ranking<\/a>, he is already validating that lofty status and giving Oklahoma a long-term anchor on the edge.<\/p>\n<p>OL John Mills \u2013 Washington<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.on3.com\/rivals\/john-mills-156270\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">John Mills<\/a> entered the season as a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.on3.com\/news\/preseason-true-freshman-all-american-team-2025\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Preseason True Freshman All-American<\/a> selection and has lived up to that billing. The 6-foot-6, 325-pound left guard has played 221 snaps for Washington, providing size, strength, and stability up front.<\/p>\n<p>Through his first six games, Mills has surrendered only six pressures and zero sacks on 127 pass-blocking snaps. He holds the highest grade (73.3) among Power Four true freshman offensive linemen  with at least 100 snaps, per Pro Football Focus. His ready-made frame and natural play strength have allowed him to adjust quickly to the physical demands of college football.<\/p>\n<p>A San Francisco (Calif.) <a href=\"https:\/\/www.on3.com\/high-school\/st-ignatius-college-preparatory-san-francisco-ca-4555\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">St. Ignatius<\/a> product, Mills was a Rivals Industry three-star prospect who initially committed to Texas before flipping to Washington just days before the Early Signing Period.<\/p>\n<p>OL Spike Sowells \u2013 NC State<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.on3.com\/rivals\/isaac-sowells-jr-177424\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Spike Sowells<\/a> has come on strong in recent weeks and established himself as a key piece of NC State\u2019s offensive line. Originally projected as a center out of high school, the true freshman has settled in at right guard for the Wolfpack and continues to show steady improvement with each outing.<\/p>\n<p>Sowells turned in his best performance of the season in Saturday\u2019s game against Notre Dame, holding his own against one of the nation\u2019s more physical defensive fronts. He has allowed zero sacks and just four pressures on 128 pass-blocking snaps this season, according to PFF. Sowells brings plus length, a stout base, and a physical edge to his play, showing the power to hold up against interior rushers and the balance to stay square in pass protection.<\/p>\n<p>An NFL legacy, Sowells was a big senior riser in the 2025 cycle on the heels of strong film and an impressive showing at the Navy All-American Bowl. He finished as a four-star prospect and the No. 145 overall player in the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.on3.com\/rivals\/rankings\/industry-player\/football\/2025\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Rivals Industry Ranking<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>OL Jaymar Tasi \u2013 New Mexico<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.on3.com\/rivals\/jaymar-tasi-243422\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Jaymar Tasi<\/a> has been one of the most productive true freshman offensive linemen in the country and holds the highest Pro Football Focus grade among all true freshmen with over 100 snaps played. The 6-foot-2, 300-pound lineman has been a standout run blocker for New Mexico, seeing time at both guard spots for the Lobos.<\/p>\n<p>Through his first six games, Tasi has allowed just one pressure and one sack on 68 pass-blocking snaps, according to Pro Football Focus. His consistency and ability to handle multiple positions have made him an early contributor in his first college season. Tasi initially signed with Idaho out of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.on3.com\/rivals\/jaymar-tasi-243422\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Seattle Roosevelt<\/a> before following head coach <a href=\"https:\/\/www.on3.com\/rivals\/coach\/jason-eck-132370\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Jason Eck<\/a> to New Mexico.<\/p>\n<p>All-Purpose Caleb Hawkins \u2013 North Texas<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.on3.com\/rivals\/caleb-hawkins-180902\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Caleb Hawkins<\/a> has been a revelation for North Texas, playing a major role in helping the Mean Green to one of its best starts in years. The true freshman running back has been one of the most productive players in the Group of Five, leading all freshman running backs with seven rushing touchdowns while totaling 307 yards on the ground.<\/p>\n<p>Hawkins brings an impressive blend of power, size, and versatility to the Mean Green offense. At 6-foot-2 and 200 pounds, he has the strength to finish runs through contact and the quickness to make defenders miss, leading all true freshmen in missed tackles forced with 22. He has also shown reliable hands as a receiver, adding 120 yards through the air. <\/p>\n<p>A former three-star prospect out of Shawnee (Okla.) <a href=\"https:\/\/www.on3.com\/high-school\/null-27735\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">North Rock Creek<\/a>, Hawkins has shown the ability to impact the game as both a runner and receiver gives North Texas a true all-purpose weapon for the program moving forward.<\/p>\n<p>DL Chaz Coleman \u2013 Penn State<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.on3.com\/rivals\/chaz-coleman-242875\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Chaz Coleman<\/a> has been one of the most dynamic true freshman pass rushers in college football this season. The Penn State standout earned On3\u2019s <a href=\"https:\/\/www.on3.com\/news\/true-freshman-standouts-from-week-2-of-college-football-chaz-coleman-michael-fasusi\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">True Freshman of the Week<\/a> in Week 2 and has continued to produce at a high level. According to Pro Football Focus, Coleman holds the highest grade among true freshman pass rushers (81.1) with at least 100 snaps, tallying 12 pressures and one sack through the first half of the season.<\/p>\n<p>Coleman\u2019s athleticism and flexibility have stood out. He shows outstanding first-step quickness and the ability to bend naturally around the edge, traits that have allowed him to make an early impact despite not enrolling until the summer. A former high school quarterback and basketball standout, he quickly adapted to the position and added more than 20 pounds of muscle to his frame since arriving on campus.<\/p>\n<p>Coleman ranked as a four-star prospect and the No. 137 overall player in the 2025 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.on3.com\/rivals\/rankings\/player\/football\/2025\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">On300<\/a>. His early production suggests he could be the next in a line of disruptive edge defenders for Penn State.<\/p>\n<p>DL Mandrell Desir \u2013 Florida State<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.on3.com\/rivals\/mandrell-desir-176488\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Mandrell Desir<\/a>  has been a steady disruptor for Florida State, showing the ability to impact games while lining up across multiple spots on the defensive front. The true freshman has played 151 snaps and totaled 12 pressures, eight stops, and one sack, registering at least one pressure in every game this season, according to Pro Football Focus.<\/p>\n<p>Desir\u2019s physicality and effort have allowed him to create consistent backfield disruption, while his effort and motor show up on film as a run defender. He was instrumental in Florida State\u2019s Week 1 win over Alabama, making several key plays that helped swing momentum early.<\/p>\n<p>A product of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.on3.com\/high-school\/norland-miami-fl-12408\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Miami Norland<\/a> High School, Desir is part of a talented young defensive line group for the Seminoles that includes his twin brother, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.on3.com\/rivals\/darryll-desir-176487\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Darryll Desir<\/a>. He was ranked as a three-star prospect according to the Rivals Industry Ranking.<\/p>\n<p>DL Zahir Mathis \u2013 Maryland<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.on3.com\/rivals\/zahir-mathis-149805\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Zahir Mathis<\/a> has been the most productive true freshman pass rusher to this point in the season. He leads all true freshmen with five sacks and ranks second with 21 total pressures, per Pro Football Focus. Mathis has recorded at least one sack in five of Maryland\u2019s six games.<\/p>\n<p>His length and athleticism have shown up off the edge, where he has created steady disruption as both a pass rusher and on special teams. Mathis has also used his reach to affect passing lanes and blocked a kick in Maryland\u2019s game against Wisconsin.<\/p>\n<p>A Philadelphia native, Mathis was initially committed to Ohio State before signing with Maryland during the Late Signing Period. He was rated as a four-star prospect and the No. 170 overall player in the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.on3.com\/rivals\/rankings\/industry-player\/football\/2025\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Rivals Industry Ranking<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>DL Sidney Stewart \u2013 Maryland<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.on3.com\/rivals\/sidney-stewart-176774\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Sidney Stewart<\/a> pairs with <a href=\"https:\/\/www.on3.com\/rivals\/zahir-mathis-149805\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Zahir Mathis<\/a> to give Maryland a productive duo of true freshman pass rushers. While Mathis brings length at 6-foot-6, 225 pounds, Stewart is more compact at 6-foot-2 and 255 pounds. According to Pro Football Focus, he leads all true freshmen with 22 pressures and has also recorded three sacks.<\/p>\n<p>Stewart\u2019s burst, bend, low center of gravity, and active hands have shown up on tape, allowing him to generate steady disruption early in his college career. A cousin of former Maryland basketball player and current New Orleans Pelican <a href=\"https:\/\/www.on3.com\/rivals\/derik-queen-34919\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Derik Queen<\/a>, Stewart has made an early impact in his first season on campus.He was rated as a three-star prospect in the Rivals Industry Ranking.<\/p>\n<p>LB Antoine Deslauriers \u2013 Syracuse<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.on3.com\/rivals\/antoine-deslauriers-179907\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Antoine Deslauriers<\/a> has been the top true freshman linebacker in the Power Four ranks to this point in the season. The 6-foot-1, 235-pounder has logged 234 snaps for Syracuse, totaling 29 tackles, six pressures, 12 stops, one sack, and one pass breakup, per PFF.<\/p>\n<p>Deslauriers played a key role in <a href=\"https:\/\/www.on3.com\/news\/true-freshman-standouts-from-week-4-of-college-football\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Syracuse\u2019s Week 4 win over Clemson <\/a>and has been a steady contributor throughout the first half of the season. He arrived with an advanced physical build and has shown the ability to handle the transition to the college level right away.<\/p>\n<p>A native of Montreal, Quebec, Deslauriers played his high school football at <a href=\"https:\/\/www.on3.com\/high-school\/rabun-gap-nacoochee-school-rabun-gap-ga-19756\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Rabun Gap-Nacoochee<\/a> in Georgia. He is joined by classmate <a href=\"https:\/\/www.on3.com\/rivals\/demetres-samuel-180242\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Demetres Samuel<\/a> as impact true freshmen on Syracuse\u2019s defense.<\/p>\n<p>LB Elijah Melendez \u2013 Auburn<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.on3.com\/rivals\/elijah-melendez-177512\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Elijah Melendez<\/a> is emerging as a disruptive presence in Auburn\u2019s defense through the first half of the season. The true freshman has recorded 22 tackles, 12 stops, two pressures, and one sack, according to Pro Football Focus.<\/p>\n<p>Melendez is a fast, physical linebacker who uses his speed to make plays behind the line of scrimmage and delivers heavy contact as a tackler. He turned in one of his best performances of the season in Saturday\u2019s game against Georgia, finishing with six tackles, two tackles for loss, and a sack.<\/p>\n<p>The 6-foot, 228-pound linebacker was once committed to Miami before signing with Auburn. A native of Kissimmee (Fla.) <a href=\"https:\/\/www.on3.com\/high-school\/osceola-kissimmee-fl-14220\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Osceola<\/a>, Melendez was ranked as the No. 198 overall prospect in the 2025 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.on3.com\/rivals\/rankings\/player\/football\/2025\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">On300<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>DB Brandon Finney \u2013 Oregon<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.on3.com\/rivals\/brandon-finney-176795\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Brandon Finney<\/a> has already made a huge impact in the secondary for a top-ten Oregon team and looks like a budding star in the secondary for <a href=\"https:\/\/www.on3.com\/rivals\/coach\/dan-lanning-134322\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Dan Lanning<\/a>. To this point in the season, he has been the most difficult true freshman cornerback in the country to throw against.  Finney has allowed just three completions on 15 targets for 28 yards with zero touchdowns surrendered and holds the lowest completion percentage (20%) among all true freshmen who have played at least 100 snaps, per PFF.<\/p>\n<p>Finney made his biggest play of the season in Oregon\u2019s win over Indiana, intercepting <a href=\"https:\/\/www.on3.com\/rivals\/fernando-mendoza-43783\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Fernando Mendoza<\/a> for a <a href=\"https:\/\/x.com\/oregonfootball\/status\/1977138422679834817\" rel=\"nofollow\">pick-six to tie the game in the fourth quarter<\/a>. At 6-foot-2 and 203 pounds, he was one of the more physically gifted cornerbacks in the 2025 cycle and was ranked as a four-star prospect and the No. 58 overall player in the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.on3.com\/rivals\/rankings\/industry-player\/football\/2025\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Rivals Industry Ranking<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>DB Bryce Fitzgerald \u2013 Miami<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.on3.com\/rivals\/bryce-fitzgerald-175337\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Bryce Fitzgerald<\/a> entered college with a reputation as a ballhawk after recording 10 interceptions during his junior season at Miami (Fla.) <a href=\"https:\/\/www.on3.com\/high-school\/columbus-miami-fl-14178\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Columbus<\/a>. He has carried that skill set to Miami, leading all true freshmen with three interceptions to this point in the season.<\/p>\n<p>Fitzgerald has combined instincts, range, and ball skills with a knack for jumping passing lanes, consistently finding ways to make plays even as part of a deep secondary unit. He has surrendered just 31 yards in coverage this season, according Pro Football Focus.<\/p>\n<p>A plus athlete with advanced coverage ability, Fitzgerald has shown comfort patrolling the deep part of the field. One of the younger impact true freshmen in the country, he turned 18 in August, similar to his teammate <a href=\"https:\/\/www.on3.com\/rivals\/malachi-toney-158769\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Malachi Toney<\/a>. Fitzgerald was ranked as a four-star prospect and the No. 120 overall player in the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.on3.com\/rivals\/rankings\/industry-player\/football\/2025\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Rivals Industry Ranking<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>DB Graceson Littleton \u2013 Texas<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.on3.com\/rivals\/graceson-littleton-236316\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Graceson Littleton<\/a> has been a mainstay on Texas\u2019 defense throughout the season, flashing as early as the Week 1 showcase game against Ohio State. His coverage polish and advanced change of direction have made him an instant contributor at slot corner for the Longhorns.<\/p>\n<p>Littleton has logged 236 snaps and leads all true freshman cornerbacks with two interceptions, including one off <a href=\"https:\/\/www.on3.com\/rivals\/john-mateer-63401\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">John Mateer<\/a> in Red River on Saturday. He has also been active in run support with 17 stops on the season. Littleton\u2019s cover skills give him the potential to see additional work on the outside as his role expands.<\/p>\n<p>The 6-foot, 180-pound defender from Tampa (Fla.) <a href=\"https:\/\/www.on3.com\/high-school\/wiregrass-ranch-zephyrhills-fl-25409\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Wiregrass Ranch<\/a> was ranked as a four-star prospect, the No. 49 overall player, and the No. 6 cornerback in the 2025 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.on3.com\/rivals\/rankings\/player\/football\/2025\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">On300<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>DB John Peters \u2013 Western Michigan<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.on3.com\/rivals\/john-peters-237834\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">John Peters<\/a> is the lone Group of Five defender on the Midseason True Freshman All-American Team and has earned that distinction with his lockdown play in coverage. The Western Michigan standout has surrendered just six catches on 19 targets for 59 yards and zero touchdowns, per Pro Football Focus.<\/p>\n<p>Beyond simply limiting completions, Peters has made plays on the ball at a high rate, recording one interception and three pass breakups. He\u2019s also proven himself against Power Four opponents, allowing only two receptions on five targets for 11 yards in games against Illinois and Michigan State.<\/p>\n<p>A high-level athlete, Peters was a state medalist hurdler and posted outstanding testing numbers during the recruiting process. The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.on3.com\/high-school\/merrillville-merrillville-in-5166\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Merrillville<\/a> (Ind.) High product held a high three-star rating of 88 from On3 in the 2025 cycle.<\/p>\n<p>DB DJ Pickett \u2013 LSU<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.on3.com\/rivals\/dj-pickett-37324\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">DJ Pickett<\/a> looks like the next star cornerback at LSU under defensive backs coach <a href=\"https:\/\/www.on3.com\/rivals\/coach\/corey-raymond-131490\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Corey Raymond<\/a>. The true freshman has paired with Virginia Tech transfer <a href=\"https:\/\/www.on3.com\/rivals\/mansoor-delane-82201\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Mansoor Delane<\/a> to give the Tigers one of the nation\u2019s more formidable cornerback duos.<\/p>\n<p>Through six games, Pickett has surrendered just six completions on 13 targets for 64 yards with no touchdowns allowed, while adding an interception. He\u2019s coming off his best outing of the season in LSU\u2019s win over South Carolina and continues to show growth each week.<\/p>\n<p>At 6-foot-5 and 195 pounds, Pickett is a jumbo-sized defender who moves with the fluidity of a much smaller player. He\u2019s also proven to be an effective blitzer, generating four pressures and a sack.Pickett was a massive recruiting win for LSU as the Tigers rebuilt their secondary. The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.on3.com\/rivals\/rankings\/industry-five-stars\/football\/2025\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Five-Star Plus+<\/a> prospect ranked as the No. 10 overall player and the No. 1 cornerback in the 2025 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.on3.com\/rivals\/rankings\/player\/football\/2025\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">On300<\/a>.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"We\u2019ve reached the midpoint of the 2025 college football season, making it a perfect time to take stock&hellip;\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":223801,"comment_status":"","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[67],"tags":[125631,1373,125632,125633,125634,125635,1376,1384,125636,399,64054,64055,125637,64058,125638,125639,125640,125641,1409,1410,125642,398,396,397,125643,99,1416,125644],"class_list":["post-223800","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","category-ncaa-football","tag-antoine-deslauriers-25-rabun-gap-nacoochee-school","tag-bo-jackson-25-villa-angela-st-joseph-hs","tag-brandon-finney-25-mcdonogh-school","tag-bryce-fitzgerald-25-belen-jesuit-prep","tag-caleb-hawkins-25-north-rock-creek","tag-chaz-coleman-25-warren-g-harding","tag-dakorien-moore-25-duncanville","tag-dj-pickett-25-zephyrhills","tag-elijah-melendez-25-osceola","tag-football","tag-graceson-littleton-25-wharton","tag-isaac-sowells-jr-25-louisville-male","tag-jaymar-tasi-25-roosevelt","tag-john-mills-25-st-ignatius-college-preparatory","tag-john-peters-25-merrillville","tag-malachi-toney-26-american-heritage","tag-malik-washington-25-archbishop-spalding","tag-mandrell-desir-25-miami-norland-hs","tag-michael-carroll-25-img-academy","tag-michael-fasusi-25-lewisville","tag-nate-sheppard-25-mandeville","tag-ncaa","tag-ncaa-football","tag-ncaafootball","tag-sidney-stewart-25-concordia-prep","tag-sports","tag-vernell-brown-iii-25-jones","tag-zahir-mathis-25-imhotep-institute"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/223800","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=223800"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/223800\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/223801"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=223800"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=223800"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=223800"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}