2025 NFL Quarterly All-Pro Picks: Surprises and Superstars Shine Early

The 2025 NFL season has delivered its fair share of exhilarating moments and unexpected performances, and as we hit the quarter mark, it’s time to recognize the players who have truly elevated their game. While some familiar NFL predictions often highlight established stars, this season’s first All-Pro selections feature a compelling mix of perennial favorites and stunning breakouts. From a revitalized veteran quarterback to a rookie tight end making waves, the landscape is shifting, offering a glimpse into what promises to be an unforgettable year.

Sports Illustrated’s Matt Verderame has meticulously analyzed the league’s top performers through the first four weeks, compiling our inaugural quarterly All-Pro team. While these selections are a snapshot in time, they provide crucial insights into the season’s evolving narratives and the players who are setting the pace. Let’s dive into the standout talents across every position.

Quarterback: Veteran Resurgence and Shocking Ascensions

First Team: Matthew Stafford, Rams

Second Team: Daniel Jones, Colts

Matthew Stafford, at 37 years old and coming off an injury-plagued offseason, has defied expectations. His performance has been nothing short of spectacular, leading the Rams’ potent offense. With 1,114 passing yards (2nd in NFL), an impressive 8.2 yards per attempt (5th), and eight touchdown passes (3rd), Stafford is playing at an MVP level. Crucially, he’s minimized mistakes, throwing only two interceptions after a career often marked by double-digit picks.

The biggest surprise? Daniel Jones. After winning the starting job in Indianapolis, the 28-year-old veteran has become the feel-good story of 2025. Jones has thrown for 1,078 yards on 8.9 yards per attempt, ranking third in EPA per play (0.312) and second in success rate (56.2%). His inclusion is a testament to his remarkable turnaround.

Running Back: AFC South Dominance

First Team: Jonathan Taylor, Colts

Second Team: Travis Etienne Jr., Jaguars

The AFC South boasts two of the league’s most productive running backs. Jonathan Taylor leads the NFL with 414 rushing yards, averaging 5.4 yards per attempt, and has added 13 catches for 113 yards. For the Jaguars, Travis Etienne Jr. has been the offensive engine. In a contract year, he ranks third in rushing with 394 yards and leads the league with 6.1 yards per carry, along with three total touchdowns.

Fullback: A Niche Position’s Enduring Stars

First Team: Kyle Juszczyk, 49ers

Second Team: Robbie Ouzts, Seahawks

Despite the fullback position becoming increasingly rare, Kyle Juszczyk continues to set the standard. In his 13th season, the Harvard product plays 33% of offensive snaps, with seven catches for 70 yards and a touchdown, while excelling in the run game. Rookie Robbie Ouzts earns second-team honors for his impactful play before an injury, contributing significantly on 35% of snaps and special teams.

Wide Receivers: Record-Breaking Starts and Breakout Stars

First Team: Puka Nacua, Rams; Quentin Johnston, Chargers; Amon-Ra St. Brown, Lions

Second Team: Justin Jefferson, Vikings; Jaxon Smith-Njigba, Seahawks; Garrett Wilson, Jets

Puka Nacua’s start to the season has been historic. With 42 receptions and a league-leading 503 yards, he’s on pace for an astounding 178 catches and 2,137 yards—both NFL records. Quentin Johnston, a 2023 first-round pick, is finally realizing his potential, with 22 catches for 337 yards, helping the Chargers to a 3-1 start. Amon-Ra St. Brown leads the league with six touchdowns and 27 catches on 32 targets, showcasing his elite efficiency.

Tight End: Emerging Talents

First Team: Trey McBride, Cardinals

Second Team: Tyler Warren, Colts

Trey McBride, often overlooked on the Cardinals, has emerged as one of the league’s elite pass-catching tight ends. He ranks second among tight ends with 234 yards and a touchdown. Rookie Tyler Warren, the 14th pick from Penn State, has been a revelation for the Colts, leading the position with 19 catches and 263 yards, including a 79-yard play against the Broncos.

Offensive Line: Anchors of Dominance

Left Tackle: Garret Bolles (Broncos), Joe Alt (Chargers)

Left Guard: Joel Bitonio (Browns), David Edwards (Bills)

Center: Creed Humphrey (Chiefs), Tyler Linderbaum (Ravens)

Right Guard: Trey Smith (Chiefs), Quinn Meinerz (Broncos)

Right Tackle: Penei Sewell (Lions), Lane Johnson (Eagles)

The offensive line is where games are won, and these players have been exceptional. Garret Bolles leads all tackles with a 92.1 pass-blocking grade, anchoring a Broncos line with the highest pass-blocking grade in the NFL (81.2). Joel Bitonio continues his decade-long dominance, while Creed Humphrey and Trey Smith are integral to the Chiefs’ top-tier protection. Penei Sewell and Lane Johnson remain the league’s premier right tackles, providing elite protection for their respective quarterbacks.

Edge Rushers: Elite Pass-Rushing Prowess

First Team: Myles Garrett, Browns; Will Anderson Jr., Texans

Second Team: Brian Burns, Giants; Nik Bonitto, Broncos

Myles Garrett continues to solidify his case as the best player in the NFL. Coming off a Defensive Player of the Year season, he leads the league with five sacks and an astonishing 34.7% pass-rush win rate. Will Anderson Jr. has been a force for the Texans, with three sacks and a 31.3% win rate, forming a dominant duo with Danielle Hunter.

Defensive Tackles: Interior Wrecking Crews

First Team: Jeffery Simmons, Titans; Chris Jones, Chiefs

Second Team: Jalen Carter, Eagles; Calais Campbell, Cardinals

Jeffery Simmons has been a bright spot for the Titans, recording three sacks, five quarterback hits, and 10 hurries. Chris Jones, a future Hall of Famer, continues to command double teams and disrupt opposing offenses with 10 hurries, even in his age-31 season.

Linebackers: Tackling Machines and Versatile Playmakers

First Team: Patrick Queen, Steelers; Bobby Wagner, Commanders; Quay Walker, Packers

Second Team: Fred Warner, 49ers; Demario Davis, Saints; Tremaine Edmunds, Bears

Patrick Queen has been outstanding for the 3-1 Steelers, with 35 tackles, one sack, and two passes defensed. Bobby Wagner, at 35, remains a marvel, tallying 42 tackles, two sacks, and four tackles for loss, on pace for his 12th consecutive All-Pro selection. Quay Walker has been a pleasant surprise for the Packers, showcasing his versatility with three tackles for loss and two passes defensed.

Cornerbacks: Lockdown Coverage and Ball Hawks

First Team: Quinyon Mitchell, Eagles; Derek Stingley Jr., Texans

Second Team: Jamel Dean, Buccaneers; Isaiah Rodgers, Vikings

Quinyon Mitchell has built on his terrific rookie season, allowing only 12 receptions on 27 targets for 87 yards and zero touchdowns. Derek Stingley Jr. continues to be one of the league’s best cover men, with an interception and four passes defensed, contributing to Houston’s stingy secondary. Isaiah Rodgers has been a playmaker, scoring two touchdowns and blocking a field goal.

Slot Cornerback: Crucial Interior Defenders

First Team: Trent McDuffie, Chiefs

Second Team: Jourdan Lewis, Jaguars

Trent McDuffie has been a star since entering the league, locking down receivers in the slot and on the perimeter. Jourdan Lewis, a savvy offseason signing, has already recorded two interceptions, helping the Jaguars lead the NFL in takeaways.

Safeties: Versatile Playmakers in the Secondary

First Team: Derwin James, Chargers; Kamren Curl, Rams

Second Team: Kyle Hamilton, Ravens; Antoine Winfield Jr., Buccaneers

Derwin James continues to do it all for the Chargers, with 1.5 sacks, four tackles for loss, and two passes defensed. Kamren Curl has been a key contributor to the Rams’ secondary with a sack and two interceptions. Kyle Hamilton and Antoine Winfield Jr. are also performing at elite levels, poised for potential All-Pro honors.

Special Teams: Kicking, Punting, and Returning Excellence

Kicker: Spencer Shrader (Colts), Brandon Aubrey (Cowboys)

Punter: Jordan Stout (Ravens), Blake Gillikin (Cardinals)

Kick Returner: Chimere Dike (Titans), Isaiah Davis (Jets)

Punt Returner: Marcus Jones (Patriots), Tory Horton (Seahawks)

Special Teamer: Kylen Granson (Eagles), Danny Stutsman (Saints)

Long Snapper: Andrew DePaola (Vikings), Morgan Cox (Titans)

Spencer Shrader has been a revelation for the Colts, hitting 13-of-14 field goals. Brandon Aubrey, a two-time All-Pro, continues to showcase his powerful leg, making all four attempts from 50+ yards. Jordan Stout leads the league in net yards per punt, while Chimere Dike and Marcus Jones are electric return specialists, with Jones highlighted by an 87-yard punt return touchdown.

Looking Ahead

As the 2025 NFL season progresses, these early All-Pro selections will undoubtedly evolve. The intensity will only grow as teams battle for playoff positioning, and new stars will emerge while others solidify their legacies. For now, this list celebrates the players who have truly distinguished themselves through the first quarter, setting a high bar for excellence in professional football.