Your League-Winning Breakouts: 2025’s Must-Draft QBs, RBs, WRs & TEs
Every year, there are players in fantasy football that your friends/family tell you to NOT draft or to stay away from for their own benefit.
If you sleep on the wrong guys, someone else hoists YOUR trophy. The key to success isn’t just about missing out on the top players early, but overlooking those hidden gems that can be found in the later rounds!
Every fantasy season brings a new wave of talent ready to smash expectations. Whether it’s mid/late round gems or unpredicted surges throughout the season, identifying breakout stars before the rest of the league does is how titles are won. This list breaks it down by position (QB, RB, WR, and TE), spotlighting five players at each spot poised to leap into fantasy relevance in 2025.
Quarterbacks – Ready To Make Some Noise
#5: Michael Penix Jr. - Atlanta Falcons
Redshirt years are rare in the NFL, but Michael Penix Jr. might prove why they’re a game-changer. After spending his 2024 rookie season learning behind Kirk Cousins, Penix steps into the starting role in 2025 with a full year of NFL preparation under his belt. Armed with a dynamic skill set and an Atlanta offense loaded with weapons, Penix Jr. is poised to emerge as a sneaky fantasy football gem.
The Falcons’ offense revolves around All-Pro running back Bijan Robinson, whose explosive playmaking and consistent production (1,456 total yards and 14 TDs in 2024) will keep defenses honest. This balance sets up Penix perfectly, allowing him to exploit play-action opportunities in a scheme tailored to his strengths. With elite weapons like Drake London stretching the field and Kyle Pitts dominating the middle, Penix has a trio of high-caliber targets that can ease the transition for a first-year starter. London’s deep-threat ability (1,271 receiving yards in 2024) and Pitts’ matchup-nightmare presence that's been eager to bloom create a versatile passing attack that could inflate Penix’s fantasy output.
Stability in the playbook is another plus. With Zac Robinson returning as offensive coordinator, Penix Jr. benefits from continuity in a system that emphasizes rhythm and efficiency, ideal for a young quarterback. Robinson’s scheme, which produced a top-12 scoring offense in 2024, leverages quick reads and misdirection, aligning perfectly with Penix’s skill set.
Penix Jr. isn’t just a pocket passer.
He’s a composed, battle tested dual-threat quarterback who can punish defenses with both his arm and legs. In his senior year at Washington, Penix’s resilience through early-career injuries shined as he led the Huskies to the 2023 National Championship Game. He showcased poise, elite field vision, and a knack for big plays.
He’s not just stepping in to manage the offense, he’s stepping in as a leader. If the Falcons turn him loose, Penix Jr. could turn heads fast.
#4: Bryce Young - Carolina Panthers
Year three is make or break for Bryce Young, and the Carolina Panthers have finally set the stage for a course correction.
After a turbulent 2024 season, plagued by one of the NFL’s worst offensive lines and a lackluster supporting cast, Young enters 2025 with upgraded protection, sharper play calling, and a receiving core tailored to his pinpoint accuracy. The former No. 1 overall pick is primed for a breakout year that could make him a fantasy football steal.
The Panthers offseason moves signal a clear commitment to Young’s success. The additions of savvy slot receiver Hunter Renfrow and dynamic rookie Tetairoa McMillan, paired with the return of second year standout receiver Xavier Legette (49 REC, 497 YDs, 4 Rec TD) instantly elevate the passing game. Veteran Adam Thielen, with his reliable hands and route-running finesse (615 YDs, 5 TDs in 2024) remain a steady underneath option.
This revamped arsenal gives Young the tools to showcase the precision and anticipation that made him a Heisman Trophy winner at Alabama.
Young's pocket mobility and off-script playmaking add sneaky fantasy upside. In 2024, he scrambled for 249 yards and 6 rushing TDs. New offensive coordinator Dave Canales, known for reviving Geno Smith and Baker Mayfield, could incorporate more RPOs and designed movement to unlock Young’s athleticism. Projections for 2025 suggest a modest but valuable fantasy floor.
The real catalyst for Young’s breakout lies in his mental toughness. Despite enduring a brutal first two seasons, saddled with 22 sacks and just 15 passing TDs in 2024, Young maintained composure and accountability. These traits mesh well for a third-year leap. With a fortified offensive line, free agent signings, and Canales’ quarterback friendly scheme, Young has the breathing room to rediscover his rhythm.
#3: Kyler Murray - Arizona Cardinals
Kyler Murray enters his seventh NFL season with more urgency than ever. Now 27 years old, the former No. 1 overall pick finds himself at a career crossroads. The talent and athleticism is still there, but the window to prove he can lead a franchise and consistently produce as a fantasy QB1 is shrinking.
Strangely, this year still might be his best shot. Marvin Harrison Jr. gives Arizona a true WR1 for the first time since DeAndre Hopkins, while tight end Trey McBride has emerged as one of the league’s most dynamic pass-catching threats. If Murray can develop the chemistry needed with both weapons, the ceiling on this offense jumps significantly.
His rushing upside has always been his fantasy cheat code, and now that he’s further removed from injury, there’s real potential for that part of his game to re-emerge. Last season, Murray put up his best rushing numbers since 2020 with half the attempts. In 2024, he had 78 carries for 572 yards and five TDs. With a tad more volume and the combination of receiving threats to throw off defenses, opposing teams could struggle choosing to defend the pass or load up the box to stop James Connor and Murray’s running ability.
Arizona’s defense also got better with the draft selections of Walter Nolen III from Ole Miss and Will Johnson from Michigan. Combine that with an improved supporting cast on offense and Murray’s proven mobility, the result could be his most complete fantasy season yet, right when he needs it most.
#2: Caleb Williams - Chicago Bears
Caleb Williams starts his second year with new head coach, Ben Johnson. Last season, Johnson led one of the best offenses in Detroit as Offensive Coordinator and aims to do the same with Caleb and the team.
Williams’ 3,541 YDs, 20 passing TDs, 6 INT was a strong start to his rookie campaign, but going to the ground 68 times to lead the league in sacks was alarming. Protecting the former 2021 No. 1 pick should be priority number one for HC Ben Johnson.
Fast forward to 2025, and the Bears have addressed these issues head-on. The addition of star guard Joe Thuney via trade from Kansas City and a bolstered offensive line through free agency should give Williams the protection he needs to showcase his elite arm talent and playmaking ability.
Ben Johnson’s arrival is the game-changer. Known for scheming open receivers and maximizing quarterback efficiency, Johnson’s track record with Jared Goff (top-10 fantasy QB in multiple seasons) suggests he can unlock Williams’ potential. The Bears’ receiving corps is stacked with DJ Moore, Rome Odunze, and rookie additions Colston Loveland and Luther Burden III, providing Williams with diverse weapons to exploit defenses. Odunze, in particular, is expected to take a leap as a sophomore, potentially becoming Williams’ go-to target in high-leverage situations.
Williams’ mobility adds to his fantasy floor. His 489 rushing yards as a rookie were underutilized in designed runs, but Johnson’s creative play-calling could incorporate more quarterback runs, similar to how he schemed for Goff’s occasional scrambles. If Williams approaches 600-700 rushing yards with a handful of rushing touchdowns, he could mirror the fantasy production of players like Jalen Hurts or Jayden Daniels.
#1: C.J. Stroud - Houston Texans
C.J. Stroud isn’t just a breakout candidate for 2025, he’s poised for a major leap to the company of NFL’s elite quarterbacks. After a year two campaign that saw him cement his status as a franchise cornerstone, Stroud enters his third NFL season with a perfect blend of experience, talent, and an upgraded offensive system that could propel him into the top-5 fantasy QB conversation.
In 2024 Stroud’s stats took a bit of a dive from his rookie year, throwing for 3,727 YDs, 20 Passing TDs, and 12 INT, finishing as a mid-tier QB1 in fantasy points. While those numbers aren’t terrible, they merely scratched what he showed in his rookie year when he put up 4,108 YDs, 23 passing TDs, and only 5 INT. Sophomore year woes in the NFL aren't out of the ordinary. Still, the Houston Texans doubled down on their young star in the offseason, bolstering their offense with key additions and hiring new offensive coordinator Nick Caley, whose play-calling can maximize Stroud’s upside.
The Texans’ receiving corps underwent a major overhaul with Stefon Diggs departing to New England and Tank Dell likely being injured through the 2025 season, leaning into a unique Iowa State pipeline.
Houston drafted dynamic rookies Jaylin Noel and Jayden Higgins, both of whom bring speed and playmaking ability from their Cyclones days.
In his 4 years with Iowa St, Noel had career numbers of 244 REC, 2,851 YDs (1,194 in 2024), and 18 receiving TDs. Jayden Higgins began his collegiate career at Eastern Kentucky for his first two years, where he totaled 87 REC, 1,151 YDs, and 13 TDs. After transferring to Iowa State to join Noel for his final two years, he then totaled 140 REC, 2,166 YDs, and 15 TDs.
Both rookie receivers now reunite in Houston to help continue revitalizing a growing winning culture in Houston around Stroud on offense.
They join All-Pro Nico Collins, who’s posted career numbers the past two seasons totaling 148 REC, 2,303 YDs, and 15 TDs. The addition of veteran Christian Kirk in the slot, signed from Jacksonville, gives Stroud a savvy route-runner for strikes across the field. Tight end Dalton Schultz and running back Joe Mixon round out an offense brimming with versatility.
Nick Caley’s air raid scheme emphasizes tempo, spread formations, and aggressive downfield passing, perfect for Stroud’s skill set. Caley’s experience under McVay brings a layer of creativity that could unlock new dimensions in Houston’s attack, with Stroud projected to push in 2025. His 2024 output adds a sneaky fantasy floor, and Caley’s up-tempo system may incorporate more quarterback movement to exploit Stroud’s mobility.
For fantasy managers, C.J. Stroud represents the ultimate high ceiling quarterback. With a revamped receiving corps, a dynamic offensive scheme, and the poise of a proven winner, Stroud is ready to dominate in 2025. Expect him to light up scoreboards, silence doubters, and lead the Texans and your fantasy team to new heights.
Running Backs – Set to Get Fed
#5: Bucky Irving. - Tamba Bay Buccaneers
At just 22 years old, Bucky Irving has seized the Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ starting running back role for 2025, overtaking Rachaad White after a standout rookie campaign in 2024. With his blend of explosive rushing, receiving prowess, and an expanded role in a dynamic offense, Irving is a prime breakout candidate for fantasy football managers, especially in PPR leagues.
In 2024, Irving showcased his potential as a dual-threat back, racking up 207 carries for 1,122 YDs with 8 rushing TDs. His efficiency (5.4 yards per carry) and nose for the end zone made him a fan favorite, but it’s his work in the passing game that elevates his fantasy appeal.
Irving hauled in 47 catches on 52 targets for 392 YDs, proving he’s a reliable check-down option for Baker Mayfield. While he didn’t score a receiving touchdown last season, his involvement in the passing game screams PPR gold.
Heading into 2025, Irving’s volume is set to skyrocket as the new starting RB. With Rachaad White relegated to a complementary role, Irving could see 250+ carries and 100+ targets, pushing him toward 1,500 total yards and double digit touchdowns. His youth, burst, and ability to break tackles make him a perfect fit for Tampa Bay’s up tempo attack.
Irving feels like a steal for a player with his workload and skill set. By season’s end, ranking him at #5 on this breakout list might be a mistake as he barrels toward fantasy stardom.
#4: Devon Achane - Miami Dolphins
De’Von Achane enters his third NFL season with the potential to be a top 5 fantasy football running back, ready to unleash as the Miami Dolphins’ lead back. After two years of splitting duties, Achane now owns the backfield, and his explosive playmaking makes him a must-draft in all fantasy formats, especially PPR leagues.
As a rookie in 2023, Achane burst onto the scene with 800 YDs and 8 TDs on just 103 carries across 11 games, averaging an eye-popping 7.8 yards per carry. His receiving ability added 27 REC for 197 YDs and 3 TDs, showcasing his dual-threat ability. In 2024, despite sharing touches again, he upped his workload to 203 carries for 907 YDs and 6 TDs, while hauling in 78 catches on 94 targets for 592 YDs and 6 receiving TDs. His efficiency can not be denied in Mike McDaniel’s up tempo offense.
With the backfield reins now fully his in 2025, Achane is poised for a monster campaign. The Dolphins’ system perfectly suits Achane’s home run ability. Without Raheem Mostert eating into his carries, Achane's elusiveness, strength, and breakaway speed make him a threat to score on any touch.
Achane’s breakout is imminent, and fantasy managers who snag him will feel his presence all season long. By December, he could be carrying teams to championships.
#3: Ashton Jeanty - Las Vegas Raiders
How does a rookie running back crack the top three on a breakout list? When he’s Ashton Jeanty, that’s how!
The Las Vegas Raiders No. 6 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft is an electrifying talent who lands the starting role from day one, and his arrival signals a seismic shift for a team desperate to revive its ground game.
Fresh off a historic college career at Boise State, Jeanty is poised to light up fantasy scoreboards in 2025. Jeanty’s 2024 season at Boise State was nothing short of legendary. He finished with 374 carries, 2,601 YDs (second most in FBS history behind Barry Sanders’ 2,628 YDs), and 29 rushing TDs (FBS Single-Season Top-10 record).
In Las Vegas, Jeanty steps into a dream scenario. The Raiders’ 2024 rushing attack was one of the NFL’s worst after losing Josh Jacobs to Green Bay, but new HC Pete Carroll and offensive coordinator Chip Kelly will build around Jeanty’s dynamic skill set.
Veteran Raheem Mostert, now 33 years old, serves as injury insurance and a complementary piece, not a threat to Jeanty’s lead role. With Geno Smith at quarterback and no true WR1 beyond All-Pro TE Brock Bowers (112 REC, 1,194 YDs, 5 TDs in 2024), defenses will likely key on him and Jeanty but struggle, especially in Chip Kelly’s run-heavy, creative scheme that emphasizes tempo, motion, and spread formations.
While Jeanty’s Boise State workload won’t be replicated, he’s still projected for 200+ touches in a Raiders offense tailored to his strengths. His ability to break tackles and score from anywhere makes him a PPR monster with a floor of 1,000 total yards and 10 touchdowns. By season’s end, Jeanty could ignite Raider Nation and fantasy rosters alike.
#2: Bijan Robinson - Atlanta Falcons
Entering his third NFL campaign, the Atlanta Falcons’ star running back is primed to continue to dominate. Thanks to an expanded role, a dynamic new quarterback in Michael Penix Jr., and an offensive scheme that maximizes his talent. If you’re first priority is a workhorse RB with top-3 upside, Robinson is your guy.
In 2024, Robinson delivered 1,456 total yards (1,069 rushing, 387 receiving) and 10 TDs (8 rushing, 2 receiving) on 258 touches, finishing as a top-5 RB in PPR leagues. Robinson's efficiency was elite, averaging 5.1 yards per carry, 8.3 yards per reception, and 62 forced missed tackles. Yet, the Falcons conservative play calling capped his ceiling.
Enter 2025, where offensive coordinator Zac Robinson, now in his second year, unleashes a more aggressive, RB-centric attack. With Penix at quarterback, the Falcons’ play-action game will open massive running lanes, allowing Robinson to showcase his vision, burst, and tackle-breaking ability.
Despite splitting a workload with Tyler Allgeier last season (Robinson: 304 carries, Allgeier: 137 carries), Robinson’s receiving prowess sets him apart. His 61 catches for 431 YDs to Allgeier's 13 catches for 88 YDs in 2024 showcased Robinson's lead role as a check-down magnet. With Penix Jr. at the helm, Robinson could see increased numbers in 2025. Paired with Drake London and Kyle Pitts still evolving to punish defenses, he’ll start to face lighter boxes, boosting his chances for explosive runs.
At 23 years old, Robinson’s blend of youth, durability, and three-down skill set makes him a fantasy manager’s dream. The Falcons commitment to building around him signals a breakout that could redefine Atlanta’s offense. Draft Robinson with confidence. He’s ready to carry fantasy teams to glory again in 2025.
#1: Jahmyr Gibbs - Detroit Lions
Some may raise eyebrows at Jahmyr Gibbs as the #1 breakout running back for 2025, but we’re standing firm. This Detroit Lions superstar is poised to dominate fantasy football. At just 23 years old, Gibbs is coming off a monster 2024 season and generating buzz in training camp for an even bigger role in the passing game, per The Athletic. With a sky-high ceiling in PPR leagues, Gibbs is ready to cement himself as a top-tier RB1.
In 2024, Gibbs erupted for 1,412 rushing yards on 250 carries, scoring 16 rushing TDs while averaging 5.6 YPC. His explosiveness shone in the passing game, too, with 52 REC for 517 YDs and 4 TDs, making him a true PPR weapon.
Despite sharing the backfield with David Montgomery (185 carries, 775 YDs, 12 TDs in 2024), Gibbs out-touched his veteran counterpart and capitalized on Montgomery’s three game injury absence to cement his role as Detroit’s lead back.
Heading into 2025, Gibbs’ role is expanding further. Training camp reports highlight his increased involvement in the passing game with new offensive coordinator John Morton, scheming more targets for Gibbs in space. Gibbs’ elusiveness pairs perfectly with Detroit’s run-heavy attack, which led the NFL in rushing yards last season. At 28, David Montgomery may slide into a third down, short yardage role, leaving Gibbs to handle more touches and receptions.
Gibbs’ youth, speed, and three-down versatility make him a fantasy manager’s dream. With a new offensive system designed to exploit his skills and a Lions offense that remains a juggernaut, Gibbs is poised to deliver top-3 RB production. Draft him early, and watch him carry your fantasy team to a championship in 2025.
Wide Receivers — One Step from Stardom
#5: Tetairoa McMillan - Carolina Panthers
As the only rookie wide receiver on the breakout list, Tetairoa McMillan isn’t just a promising talent, he’s a potential fantasy star from day one.
Drafted by the Carolina Panthers at No. 8 in the first round to ignite their passing game, McMillan’s college production at Arizona: 90 REC for 1,402 YDs and 10 TDs as a junior, followed by 84 REC for 1,319 YDs and 8 TDs as a senior, screams WR1 potential. At 6’5” with elite speed and crisp route running, McMillan is poised to become Bryce Young’s favorite weapon and a fantasy football steal in 2025.
McMillan lands in a Panthers offense desperate for a true alpha receiver.
While Young’s supporting cast was praised earlier, McMillan stands out as the frontrunner to claim the WR1 role. Despite Xavier Legette showingflashes in his 2024 rookie season, he struggled getting open and catching the ball consistently, prompting Carolina to invest a first-round pick in McMillan. Veteran Adam Thielen remains a reliable security blanket, but at 34 years old, he’s unlikely to handle a full snap count, opening the door for McMillan to dominate targets.
McMillan’s size-speed combination makes him a matchup nightmare, capable of winning jump balls and stretching the field. In Dave Canales’ quarterback-friendly scheme, which revived Baker Mayfield and Geno Smith, McMillan should see a lot of targets early, especially in red-zone situations where his 6’5” frame shines. His college efficiency suggests he can replicate his Arizona production.
McMillan's immediate role, physical tools, and hopeful chemistry with Bryce Young make him a breakout candidate who could outshine his draft slot and light up fantasy scoreboards all season long.
#4: Jameson Williams - Detroit Lions
Jameson Williams at No. 4 might raise eyebrows, but the Detroit Lions’ speedster is ready to explode in 2025. After a breakout 2024 season where he finally saw consistent snaps, Williams posted 58 REC for 1,001 YDs and 7 TDs, averaging an electric 17.3 YPC.
Now entering the final year of his rookie deal, the 25 year old wideout is hungrier than ever to cement his status as a fantasy star, and he might just outshine his WR1 counterpart, Amon-Ra St. Brown.
Williams’ 2024 campaign marked a turning point. His 17.3 YPC showcased his deep-threat ability, stretching defenses and opening up Detroit’s fast tempo offense, which ranked top-5 in scoring (29.8 PPG). While Williams does have a new offensive coordinator and St. Brown remains a PPR machine (104 REC, 1,211 YDs, 9 TDs), Williams’ big-play potential can steal the spotlight.
The Lions' new offensive coordinator, John Morton, replaces Ben Johnson but keeps the aggressive scheme that suits Williams perfectly. With Jahmyr Gibbs commanding attention in the backfield, along with St. Brown and TE Sam LaPorta drawing coverage, Williams should see single coverage often, boosting his chances for explosive plays. His growing chemistry with Jared Goff, who threw for 4,629 yards in 2024 (2nd in NFL), adds to the optimism.
As Williams approaches the end of his rookie contract deal, his motivation is sky-high. Expect him to build on his 2024 breakout In a Lions offense loaded with weapons, Williams’ speed and hunger make him a WR2 with WR1 upside, ready to light up fantasy scoreboards in 2025.
#3: Marvin Harrison Jr. - Arizona Cardinals
Marvin Harrison Jr. enters his second NFL season as a breakout star in waiting, ready to elevate his game. In 2024, the No. 4 overall pick delivered a solid rookie campaign with 62 REC for 885 YDs and 8 TDs. However, his 53.4% catch rate (62 of 116 targets) with several drops in critical red-zone situations leaves room for growth. If Harrison Jr. sharpens his hands and builds chemistry with Kyler Murray, the sky’s the limit in 2025.
Harrison’s 2024 production, while impressive, only hints at his potential. He still led the team in receiving TDs, and his 14.3 YPC showcased his ability to stretch the field. The Cardinals’ offense leaned heavily on Harrison as a rookie, but drops and inconsistent quarterback play capped his ceiling. A full offseason with Murray should unlock a more seamless connection, especially on deep balls and red-zone targets where Harrison’s frame and elite body control shine.
At 23, Harrison’s pedigree, athleticism, and growing rapport with Murray make him a prime breakout candidate. If he converts those missed targets into catches, expect 90+ receptions, 1,000+ yards, and double digit touchdowns. Draft him with confidence, he’s poised to dominate fantasy scoreboards and prove to Cardinals faithful this is just the beginning.
#2: Brian Thomas Jr. - Jacksonville Jaguars
Brian Thomas Jr. is no longer a sleeper, he’s a breakout star ready to dominate as a top-tier WR1 in 2025. After a dominant rookie season with the Jaguars, the 22 year old LSU product is poised to build on his 2024 success, fueled by a revamped offense under new head coach Liam Coen and a healthy Trevor Lawrence. With elite size, speed, and a knack for big plays, Thomas is a fantasy manager’s dream.
In 2024, Thomas set Jaguars rookie records with 87 REC, 1,282 YDs, and 10 TDs on 133 targets. His 562 yards after catch ranked among the NFL’s best, showcasing his ability to turn short passes into chunk gains. Down the stretch (Weeks 13-18), Thomas was the WR2 in fantasy points per game, averaging 98.8 receiving yards and a 31.6% target share with backup QB Mac Jones. With Lawrence back under center, his ceiling is even higher.
The Jaguars’ 2025 offense is built around Thomas. The addition of rookie Travis Hunter alongside Parker Washington, creates a versatile receiving corps that prevents defenses from keying on Thomas. Coen’s scheme, which produced top 10 fantasy receivers in Tampa Bay, emphasizes slot usage and deep shots, perfect for Thomas who thrived in the slot last season.
Thomas’ 2024 red-zone prowess signals double digit touchdown potential again. With Lawrence healthy and Coen’s aggressive play-calling, Thomas is projected for 100+ receptions, 1,000+ yards, and 10+ touchdowns. At just 22, his combination of proven production and untapped upside makes him a no-brainer. Draft him early, he’s ready to lead fantasy teams to championships in 2025.
#1: Malik Nabers - New York Giants
Malik Nabers is anothe LSU WR product ready to leap into superstardom. After a dazzling rookie season with the New York Giants, the 22-year-old phenom is poised to dominate as the NFL’s next elite WR1. With unmatched athleticism, a massive target share, and a revitalized Giants offense under Brian Daboll, Nabers is set to redefine fantasy football in 2025.
In 2024, Nabers erupted for 109 REC (5th in NFL 24’-25’), 1,304 YDs (7th in NFL 24’-25’), and 7 TDs on 170 targets. His 612 yards after catch ranked among the league’s best, showcasing his ability to turn quick slants into explosive plays. Despite inconsistent quarterback play from Daniel Jones and Drew Lock, Nabers commanded a 29.8% target share, third-highest among NFL receivers, and thrived in high-pressure situations, with 18 red-zone targets and a 68.2% contested catch rate.
The Giants’ 2025 offense is tailor-made for Nabers to soar. With Daniel Jones gone, veteran quarterback Russell Willson, brings a dynamic arm and dual-threat ability. The Giants also selected Jaxson Dart, the 2025 No. 25 overall pick from Ole Miss (4,279 passing yards, 29 TDs, 6 INT in 2024 college season). Dart’s deep-ball accuracy pairs perfectly with Nabers if there's a QB change, bound to set up explosive plays.
Rookie running back Cam Skattebo, a versatile weapon drafted from Arizona State (1,711 rushing yards, 24 total TDs in 2024), adds a pass-catching threat out of the backfield, forcing defenses to spread thin. Darius Slayton remains an option on the field, but Nabers is the undisputed alpha, likely commanding a large target share once again.
Brian Daboll’s creative scheme will lean on Nabers’ versatility and needred-zone targets to be hauled in. With Wilson's Super Bowl leadership keeping defenses honest and opening the field, Nabers is projected for higher stats 2025. At just 22, he’s a fantasy pick ready to anchor your lineup. Draft Nabers with supreme confidence, he’s the breakout star destined to dominate scoreboards and lead your team to a championship.
Tight Ends — Worth The Hype
#5: Jake Ferguson - Dallas Cowboys
Jake Ferguson is poised to crash the elite tight end party in 2025, making him a prime breakout candidate for fantasy football managers. The 26 year old Dallas Cowboys tight end has steadily climbed the ranks, and with a solidified role as one of Dak Prescott’s go to targets, Ferguson is ready to deliver TE1 production in PPR leagues. His combination of reliable hands, red-zone prowess, and a vertical threat makes him a steal in 2025 Fantasy drafts.
In 2024, Ferguson posted 59 REC for 494 YDs and zero TDs on 86 targets. His 68.6% catch rate showcased his efficiency, despite competing with CeeDee Lamb for targets. Ferguson’s chemistry with Prescott shone, especially in clutch situations, where he converted 12 of 14 3rd down targets for first downs.
The Cowboys’ 2025 offense, led by Mike McCarthy and coordinator Brian Schottenheimer, remains a pass-first juggernaut, ranking top-5 in passing attempts per game. With Brandin Cooks aging and no clear WR2 emerging, Ferguson’s target share is set to grow, potentially hitting 100+ targets. His 6’5”, 245 pound frame makes him a mismatch in the red zone, and Prescott’s trust in sending Ferguson the 2nd most receiving targets in 2024 ensures a high floor.
At 26, Ferguson is entering his prime with the tools to make him a top-5 TE with top-3 upside. Fantasy managers, don’t sleep on Ferguson. Draft him when you need a TE and watch him anchor your lineup with consistent production in 2025.
#4: Colston Loveland - Chicago Bears
Colston Loveland arrives in Chicago as a rookie tight end with the tools to redefine the position for fantasy football in 2025. Drafted in the first round at No. 10 by the Bears, the former Michigan star steps into a high-octane offense led by Caleb Williams and orchestrated by Ben Johnson, making him an instant breakout candidate. With elite athleticism and a knack for finding soft spots in defenses, Loveland is poised to become an important piece of Chicago’s passing attack.
At Michigan in 2024, Loveland dominated in his three years at Michigan, totaling 117 REC, 1,466 YDs, and 11 TDs. His 6’5”, 245 pound frame make him a matchup nightmare, with 24 contested catches and 412 yards after contact as a junior in 2024. Now paired with Williams, Loveland is set to thrive in Johnson’s creative scheme, which produced a top-10 fantasy TE with Sam Laporta in Detroit.
The Bears’ 2025 receiving corps, featuring DJ Moore, Rome Odunze, and Luther Burden III, forces defenses to spread thin, leaving Loveland to exploit underneath routes and red-zone opportunities. With veteran Cole Kmet expected to lead more of a blocking role, this positions Loveland as Chicago’s primary pass-catching tight end. His college tape shows a natural chemistry with mobile quarterbacks, and Williams’ scrambling ability should create open looks for Loveland, especially on play-action.
At 22, Loveland’s youth and immediate role make him a steal in Fantasy Football drafts even as a rookie. Snatch him up and watch him soar as the Bears’ next reliable big target in 2025.
#3: Tyler Warren - Indianapolis Colts
Tyler Warren, the Indianapolis Colts’ rookie tight end out of Penn State, is ready to ignite their passing attack and become a fantasy football breakout in 2025. Drafted to address a glaring need for a big target in the passing game, the 6’5”, 256 pound phenom brings a unique skill set to an offense desperate for a spark. With Anthony Richardson looking to rebound from a turbulent 2024, Warren’s arrival could be the key to unlocking the QB's potential, and your fantasy roster.
At Penn State in 2024, Warren dominated with 104 REC, 1,233 YDs, and 8 REC TDs along with 26 Carries for 218 rushing yards and 4 rushing TDs. He showcased his ability to win in traffic and break tackles. Warren’s towering frame and soft hands give Richardson a true red-zone monster and a safety valve on broken plays.
Richardson’s 2024 season was rocky, with 1,814 passing yards, 8 TDs, and 12 INT in 11 games, getting benched for a few games amid performance issues. Criticism may've periodically plagued Warren's quarterback, but his catch radius and physicality should simplify Richardon's reads.
The Colts’ offense, under Shane Steichen, is poised for a leap with Warren complementing Pittman, Josh Downs, and speedster Alec Pierce. Warren’s ability to stretch the seam and box out defenders aligns perfectly with Steichen’s play-action-heavy scheme.
Warren’s immediate role as Indy’s TE1 makes him a fantasy gem, At 22, this rookie star is ready to turn the page for Richardson and deliver for fantasy managers. Grab him and watch him become a cornerstone of your 2025 lineup.
#2: Trey McBride - Arizona Cardinals
Trey McBride isn’t chasing a breakout in 2025—he’s doubling down on his 2024 explosion to cement himself as a fantasy football elite. After a stellar campaign, the Arizona Cardinals’ tight end is primed to dominate as a top-tier TE1, continuing his connection with Kyler Murray and a offense that thrives on versatility. At 25, McBride is ready to anchor fantasy lineups with unrelenting consistency.
In 2024, McBride erupted for 111 REC, 1,146 YDs, and 2 TDs on 147 targets, finishing as the TE4 in PPR points (181.9, 11.4 per game). His 75.5% catch rate underscored his reliability. The low touchdown count was a fluke, as Murray’s inconsistent red-zone accuracy and effort to gain chemistry with rookie Marvin Harrison Jr. at the same time as McBride stole some momentum from the team overall.
Arizona’s 2025 offense remains a pass-heavy juggernaut. With Harrison Jr. drawing coverage and James Conner’s run game forcing lighter boxes, McBride is overdue for a touchdown surge. McBride’s 2024 28.1% target share ensures a high floor, while his growing role in the offense could unlock more big plays.
At 25 years old, McBride’s youth, volume, and untapped touchdown potential make him a fantasy gem. He’s a lock for top-5 TE production with TE1 upside. Fantasy managers, secure McBride early, he’s the Cardinals’ not-so-secret weapon ready to dominate your 2025 lineup.
#1: Brock Bowers - Las Vegas Raiders
Brock Bowers isn’t just a breakout candidate for 2025, he’s the tight end to own in fantasy football, poised to dominate as the Las Vegas Raiders’ top target.
After a stellar rookie season with a rotation of quarterbacks throwing him the ball, the 22 year old phenom finally gets a major upgrade at QB with Geno Smith, a gunslinger who elevates Bowers’ ceiling to new heights. With no true WR1 and rookie sensation Ashton Jeanty commanding defensive attention, Bowers has nothing but daylight ahead.
In 2024, Bowers set the NFL ablaze with 112 REC for 1,194 YDs and 5 TDs on 153 targets, finishing as the TE1 in PPR points (255.0, 15.0 per game). His 2024 26% target share showcased his dominance, even with Aidan O’Connell and Gardner Minshew at quarterback. Now, with Geno Smith’s 4,320 passing yards (4th in 2024) and 70.4% completion rate, Bowers is set to feast in a scheme under new offensive coordinator Chip Kelly.
The Raiders’ lack of a clear WR1 ensures Bowers remains the focal point, likely commanding 150+ targets. Ashton Jeanty’s arrival as a rookie RB forces defenses to split their focus, opening up underneath and seam routes for Bowers.
Bowers’ youth, elite production, and perfect offensive fit make him a fantasy juggernaut. He’s a first round talent at a scarce position. Fantasy managers, lock in Bowers early. He’s ready to lead the Raiders’ passing game and your lineup to a 2025 championship.
