Well, here we go. It’s time to start ranking the best players in the ACC for the 2025 season.
As usual, we hope you enjoy the rankings.
Previous and Upcoming Rankings
Quarterbacks | Running Backs | Wide Receivers | Offensive Linemen | Defensive Linemen | Linebackers | Cornerbacks | Safeties | Special Teams
1) Justin Joly, NC State
NC State has an absolute stud in Tight End Justin Joly. Last season, he had 43 catches for 661 yards. That’s over 15 yards per catch, which was one of the highest for a Tight End in 2024. You’ve probably even seen him on a preseason All-American team. He’s an NFL prospect who could go in the middle of the NFL Draft.
2) RJ Maryland, SMU
RJ Maryland of SMU is the lone returning tight end from last year’s top 5 ACC Tight end list. He was on his way to a 1st or 2nd team All-ACC before a mid-season injury. Through mid-October he had 24 receptions for 359 yards. In a full season, his numbers would have compared favorably to Joly’s. If he stays healthy the entire season, he’s going to get drafted and he could go as high as the 2nd or 3rd round.
3) Benji Gosnell, Virginia Tech
TE Benji Gosnell becomes the first Virginia Tech entry to be among the top 5 ACC players at their position. Gosnell had a fine 2024, which saw him have 32 catches for 341 yards and 2 TD catches. He reportedly turned down a massive NIL from USC to stay at Virginia Tech, making Hokie fans very happy he’s back in Blacksburg.
4) Jeremiah Franklin, Boston College
Jeremiah Franklin of Boston College was one of the Eagles pass catching leaders last year with 27 catches for 311 yards. He really started playing well in the second half of last year, with 16 of his catches coming in November. Franklin is a player to keep an eye on in the Boston College offense.
5) Elijah Lofton, Miami
The next great TE star in the ACC could be at the University of Miami. Elijah Lofton was one of the most highly recruited Tight Ends in the country. He just oozed potential in his true freshman year of 2024 with 9 catches for 150 yards, and he even had a rushing TD. He’s going to be a bigger part of Miami’s offense this year and could be set for a big season.
