10 prospects to watch in 2025

LB | Dominik Chong Qui, Atlanta United (2007)

Chong Qui has received high praise from new first-team manager Ronny Deila and even made his first-team debut despite not being on a first-team contract. He is an ascending prospect with significant potential, and it will be interesting to see if the hype translates into dominance at the MLS Next Pro level. It's important to note that he is just days away from being a 2008, U-17 World Cup eligible player.

CB | Christopher Cupps, Chicago Fire (2008)

Cupps is another prospect on a clear upward trajectory. Having recently signed a homegrown contract, he has already made appearances in the first-team squad. He is expected to log close to 2,000 minutes in MLS Next Pro this season, and strong performances could convince Chicago Fire’s decision-makers that he is ready for MLS action in 2026.

CB | Ian James, Sporting KC (2008)

Like Cupps, James signed a homegrown deal this offseason. He has already been involved with the first team and even made his debut in the Concacaf Champions Cup. This season in MLS Next Pro will be a key opportunity for him to demonstrate that he is close to being first-team ready.

DM | Adri Mehmeti, New York Red Bulls (2009)

One of the youngest starters in MLS Next Pro this year, Mehmeti will get significant minutes despite the likelihood that the Red Bulls' second team struggles. Playing against more mature competition will be crucial for his development.

CM | Jude Terry, LAFC (2008)

Terry’s playing time in MLS Next Pro last season was more limited than expected, though he featured consistently toward the end of the year. This season, he is expected to be a regular starter. A high-potential midfielder, Terry will aim to prove he doesn’t belong in MLS Next Pro for long.

AM/RW | Gustavo Caraballo, Orlando City (2008)

Carballo has taken his game to another level at the U-18 level and recently earned his first-team debut. While he has yet to sign a first-team deal, it is likely in the works. Carballo will be a key figure for Orlando City’s second team and hopes to earn a spot on the U.S. U-17 Youth National Team ahead of the World Cup.

AM | Cavan Sullivan, Philadelphia Union (2009)

Sullivan’s name speaks for itself. While expected to be a rotational player and substitute for the first team, he will likely still see a decent amount of minutes in MLS Next Pro this season and USMNT diehard fans will be watching.

Winger | Stephen Hurlock, Atlanta United (2006)

Hurlock is the oldest player on this list, and I am eager to see if he can dominate in MLS Next Pro. He has been excelling at the U-18 level and, as one of the oldest players in that division, looks strong. His combination of strength, explosiveness, and technical skill makes him an intriguing winger prospect. He could be a late bloomer who is starting to hit his stride.

Winger | Nimfasha Berchimas, Charlotte FC (2008)

This will be Berchimas’ third full season in MLS Next Pro. While currently recovering from a foot injury with an unclear return date, he will need to start producing at a higher rate when he returns to maintain his elite prospect status.

CF | Tomo Allen, San Jose Earthquakes (2007)

San Jose’s decision not to give Allen more opportunities in MLS Next Pro last season was questionable, especially after a strong U-17 campaign. He has continued to produce at a high rate in MLS Next, and now he must prove he can succeed against more mature defenders. Significant minutes in MLS Next Pro this season will be crucial for Allen to solidify his status as a top prospect.