2025 NFL Fantasy Football Rankings

Aug 4

Written By Alex Percey, Dominic Orrico, Logan Lazarczyk

Quarterbacks

The most crucial position in American sports. The highest scoring position (on average) in fantasy football. Having an elite quarterback in fantasy football can give your team an extra five to eight points per game versus an average one, so it’s essential to know who to draft, who to avoid, and who could break out this season. Luckily, we’ve got you covered with our rankings of the top 25 quarterbacks (and a sleeper) for the 2025 NFL season.

Tier 1: The Elite (Target in rounds 3-4)

Josh Allen - BUF
In 2024: 379.04 points - QB2
Josh Allen has been a top-three quarterback mainstay for the last half a decade. After three consecutive QB1 finishes, he was usurped by his AFC rival, Lamar Jackson, in 2024. However, Josh beats Lamar every year in what is arguably the most important statistical category for a quarterback. Over the last two seasons, Allen has rushed for 27 touchdowns, the second most by a quarterback. That on-the-ground scoring production, along with a slightly improved supporting cast from last year, gives him the edge in this ranking.

Lamar Jackson - BAL
In 2024: 430.38 points - QB1
Coming off his best passing season by far, Lamar looks to repeat his QB1 finish. However, some regression has to be expected from the astronomical numbers he put up last year. Because he shares a backfield with Derrick Henry, he doesn’t score that many rushing touchdowns, which limits him from having the super high floor that Allen and Hurts have. Still, nobody in the league is as much of a dual threat as Jackson, and you can expect him to have another great year of production.

Jayden Daniels - WAS
In 2024: 355.82 points - QB5
Very few rookies in NFL history have come into the league and had as much of an impact as Jayden Daniels did in 2024. The LSU Alumni put up Lamar numbers on the ground with more touchdowns, while still being efficient through the air. This year, the retooled Washington offense should boost him even higher, though the McLaurin situation is a bit concerning. This year, Daniels seems like a top-five lock, and his upside is incredible.

Tier 2: Almost the Best (Target in rounds 5-7)

Joe Burrow - CIN
In 2024: 372.82 points - QB3
It’s hard for a pocket passer to be a top-tier fantasy quarterback, but Joe Burrow manages just fine. Last year, he led the league in pass yards and touchdowns and is likely to do it again, passing to the best WR duo in the league, Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins. Usually, throwing 650 passes comes with double-digit interceptions, but Burrow only had nine last year. His astronomical passing stats and precision make him a top-tier fantasy QB.

Jalen Hurts - PHI
In 2024: 315.12 points - QB8
Let's be honest, we all know the deal when it comes to Hurts. He’ll be pretty efficient through the air, but he'll be in the bottom half of the league in pass attempts. On the ground, he will rack up 12 or more rush touchdowns, 10+ on tush-push plays, and probably run for somewhere between 600-800 yards. These trends have held steady the last four seasons, and he’s been a top ten quarterback in each and top three in two. He’s about as safe as it gets.

Patrick Mahomes - KC
In 2024: 283.02 points - QB12
Mahomes is a unique case in fantasy football this year. He finished outside the top ten quarterbacks last year, and hasn’t looked like himself during the regular season since 2022. All he does is win, going 15-1 last year, and he still is considered by league personnel to be the best quarterback in the league. This year, with the healthiest and strongest supporting cast he has had in a while, I think we see Mahomes’ return to putting up top-tier numbers through the air, and his current ADP makes him a steal in the fifth/sixth.

Tier 3: Elite Upside or High Volume (Target in rounds 8-12)

Kyler Murray - ARI
In 2024: 297.24 points - QB10
Kyler Murray is the prototype of a startable fantasy quarterback. When healthy, you can depend on him for a couple of passing touchdowns and around 40 yards rushing each game. He’s been a top ten fantasy quarterback four of his six seasons in the league. His pocket passing has improved over the last few years, and with Marvin Harrison Jr. set to make a jump this season, it's only up from here.

Bo Nix - DEN
In 2024: 317.2 points - QB7
Bo Nix finished last year on a heater. From week four on, he passed for 29 touchdowns and just eight interceptions. He also had a sizeable rushing load, which adds to his upside. This season, with a newly re-signed Courtland Sutton and free agency addition Evan Engram, Nix very well could become an elite fantasy QB1.

Baker Mayfield - TB
In 2024: 365.8 points - QB4
Baker Mayfield is the epitome of a gunslinger. His 41 touchdowns were second in the league last year, but his 16 interceptions were first. Overall, his passing number cannot be overlooked, and the air-raid offensive strategy was only furthered by the selection of Emeka Egbuka in the draft. However, the mastermind behind Baker’s return to glory, Liam Cohen, has departed for Jacksonville, so we will see how Mayfield fares without last year’s play-caller. A slight decline in production is likely.

Justin Fields - NYJ
In 2024: 119.14 points (6 games)
Justin Fields is an anomaly in the NFL. He’s never been a top ten quarterback in the league, maybe not even top 20, but in fantasy, he’s a stud. His incredible rushing statistics elevated him to a QB6 campaign in his only full healthy season, even though he was 26th in passing yards. He has never thrown for 200 yards per game in a season, but is still a QB1 value pick for his ground game.

Dak Prescott - DAL
In 2024: 116.52 points (8 games)
Dak Prescott is one of the most up-and-down quarterbacks in the league. In the last three years, he led the league in interceptions, then came second in MVP voting, and then threw eight picks in eight games. It’s hard to know what you’re going to get from him other than passing yards, of which he always gets plenty. We all know he can play at a high level, and adding George Pickens to his receiving corps makes his situation even more attractive.

Brock Purdy - SF
In 2024: 266.86 points - QB13
Purdy has been top 10 in fantasy points per game the last two seasons, but his scoring dropped off heavily last season. Going from 30 touchdowns to only 20 (albeit in two fewer games) is concerning, but what is more concerning is the downturn of his receiving core. Brandon Aiyuk is no longer himself, and Deebo Samuel left the team for Washington. However, Kittle remains the foundation of the 49ers' passing attack, and other players like Ricky Pearsall could step up. With McCaffery returning as well, we should see another solid season from Purdy in 2025.

Drake Maye - NE
In 2024: 177.14 points (10 games)
Drake Maye managed to put together serviceable fantasy football numbers with the worst supporting cast in football last season. Now, with a new play caller, WR1, and a retooled offensive line, his ceiling is much higher. There are still some efficiency concerns (10 INT in 10 games, only 175 yards/game), but his production on the ground (7.8 yards per carry) makes him very enticing. He may become a legitimate fantasy QB1 by the end of the season; only time will tell.

Tier 4: Backups or Unproven Guys (Target after Round 12)

Caleb Williams - CHI
In 2024: 254.54 points - QB16
Caleb Williams’ fantasy football relevance this year relies on the offensive mastery of Ben Johnson. Ben turned Jared Goff and the Detroit Lions into a touchdown machine the past few seasons, and this year he has the chance to do so with the 2024 number one overall pick and a talented receiving room of D.J. Moore, Rome Odunze, and rookie tight end Colston Loveland. A Caleb Williams breakout after a not-half-bad rookie campaign seems very likely.

Justin Herbert - LAC
In 2024: 285.4 points - QB11
Justin Herbert is a great quarterback in an offense that doesn’t support great fantasy production. He had the best year of his career last year in many ways, throwing a league-low three interceptions, but with only 504 pass attempts, he ended the season as QB 11. Coach Jim Harbaugh loves to run the ball, and they are even more committed to it this year after drafting RB Omarion Hampton in the first round. Though Herbert has all the talent in the world and good rushing ability, he just doesn’t have the fantasy upside.

Trevor Lawrence - JAX
In 2024: 125.12 points (9 games)
After two subpar seasons, Trevor Lawrence isn’t even on many people’s fantasy football radars. But he should be. One of the best prospects this century, Lawrence has disappointed fans so far, but it isn’t all his fault. I’m still a believer, and if you watch the film, you will be too. This year, he has his best receiving corps of his career, adding Travis Hunter to last year’s breakout Brian Thomas Jr., to make one of the most exciting receiving duos. That weaponry, plus his above-average rushing, makes him a QB2 at worst this season.

CJ Stroud - HOU
In 2024: 220.38 points - QB18
Call it what it is: C.J. Stroud had a sophomore slump last season. He threw fewer touchdowns and yards than in his rookie of the year campaign, with more interceptions. Most of his receiving weapons dealt with injuries, and Stefon Diggs has left the team for New England. The Texans reloaded in free agency and the draft. The signed Christian Kirk and drafted the Iowa State duo of Jayden Higgins and Jaylin Noel to add to Tank Dell and the stud Nico Collins. They might just have the deepest receiver room in the league, and it sets up Stroud to throw for a ton of yards.

J.J. McCarthy - MIN
In 2024: 2991 yards, 22 TD, 4 INT.
J.J. McCarthy is not a rookie, but he might as well be. McCarthy was injured in last year’s preseason and watched on the sidelines as Sam Darnold of all people put up elite numbers. Still, the Vikings parted ways with Darnold in favor of McCarthy, so they are very high on the Michigan product. ESPN projects McCarthy to throw 16 interceptions this year, which is insane, as he never threw more than 5 in a season in college. He has always been a lower-volume passer, so it will be interesting to see how he adjusts to O’Connell’s pass-happy system. Still, with JJettas and Jordan Addison as his weapons, the transition will be made much easier.

Cam Ward - TEN
In 2024: 4313 yards, 39 TD, 7 INT.
Speaking of rookies, let’s talk about Cam Ward. To be honest, it seems like nobody is talking about Cam Ward. I can’t remember a quarterback drafted first overall that has had less buzz around them entering the season. Maybe it’s because everyone knew he would be the first pick for months before the draft, even though he was never considered the best player in the draft. No matter the reason, he is underhyped this season. He threw 39 touchdowns last year and nearly 350 yards per game. He was prolific and is bringing his top receiver from college with him to his NFL team. Plus, Tyler Lockett and Calvin Ridley aren’t slouches themselves. He should have a good passing year even though he’s on the Titans, and don’t discount his rushing.

Jared Goff - DET
In 2024: 324.49 points - QB6
Jared Goff was an MVP contender for most of last season. That seems unbelievable, but the Ben Johnson offense pushed him to heights we had never seen. He has the privilege of leading one of the best and most balanced offenses in the league, and always puts up yards if nothing else. The big drawback with him is that he will, every once in a while, put up an awful performance, last year throwing five picks in one game. With Johnson gone, I expect a large dip in touchdowns for Goff as the team will likely lean more on the ground game rather than creativity in the passing game.

Tier 5: Deeper leagues/last resorts

Jordan Love - GB
In 2024: 233.86 points - QB17
Jordan Love showed flashes of brilliance last season but struggled with consistency. His arm talent and ability to extend plays give him upside, but the Green Bay offense can be unpredictable. With a young receiving corps, he’s a risky pick but could pay off in deeper leagues.

Tua Tagovailoa - MIA
In 2024: 181.58 points (11 games)
Tua Tagovailoa’s efficiency is undeniable, but his fantasy production is limited by Miami’s run-heavy scheme and his injury history. He’ll put up solid numbers when healthy, but his ceiling is capped compared to dual-threat QBs.

Bryce Young - CAR
In 2024: 195.02 points (12 games)
Bryce Young showed improvement last season but still faces challenges with Carolina’s offense. His mobility adds some fantasy value, but he’s a last-resort option until the Panthers’ offensive line and weapons improve.

Matthew Stafford - LAR
In 2024: 214.58 points - QB19
Matthew Stafford remains a reliable veteran, but his fantasy output depends heavily on the health of his receivers. With Cooper Kupp and Puka Nacua, he has upside, but age and injury concerns make him a risky pick.

Sam Darnold - NYJ
In 2024: 307.96 points - QB9
Sam Darnold surprised everyone with a top-10 finish last season, but his move to the Jets introduces uncertainty. With a strong supporting cast, he could maintain decent production, but his inconsistency makes him a last-resort option.

Running Backs

Bijan Robinson - ATL
Robinson is arguably the most talented running back in the NFL. Still, the offense hasn’t fully come together, as the Atlanta Falcons have struggled to find a long-term solution at quarterback. It was a minimal sample size, but it seems Michael Penix Jr. could be that answer for the Falcons. Because of that, Robinson can now be locked in as a top-three pick in fantasy drafts. Robinson’s receiving output dropped when Penix Jr. took over for the final three weeks, averaging only four targets and 6.6 receiving yards during that stretch.
However, his efficiency and explosiveness on the ground were fully maximized, averaging 118 rushing yards and 5.2 yards per carry, while rushing for two touchdowns in each of the final three games of the season. Robinson was given more opportunities with Penix Jr. and the offense sustaining more drives. In addition, the passing offense was more explosive, keeping opposing defenses on their heels and opening up larger lanes for Robinson to run through. If the offense resembles anything close to what it was during that timeframe, look for Robinson to prove his draft price and those who invest the first- or second-overall pick on him, correct.

Jahmyr Gibbs - DET
New offensive coordinator, new role for Gibbs in the Detroit Lions' offense. John Morton told reporters during training camp that Gibbs will line up as a slot receiver consistently. In addition, Gibbs has been the first running back on the field with the starters during training camp. In the past, David Montgomery was initially involved in the offense before incorporating Gibbs into the mix. When Montgomery suffered a knee injury that would sideline him for the final weeks of the regular season, Gibbs proved he could be a workhorse back.
In those final three regular-season games, the 23-year-old running back totaled 470 yards on 75 carries (6.2 yards per carry), while rushing for five touchdowns and catching 14 passes for 122 yards and another score. Montgomery will not be out of the picture, but Morton expands Gibbs’ role; the Alabama product could be a dominant force, as he can explode on the ground and offer value in the receiving game. Gibbs is another player who will most likely be a top-five pick in drafts.

Saquon Barkley - PHI
Barkley had a historic season in his first year with the Philadelphia Eagles, helping them win the Super Bowl. The 28-year-old running back had career highs in carries (345), rushing yards (2,005), and rushing touchdowns (13) - which could have easily been in the 20s if Jalen Hurts didn’t vulture goal-line scores with the tush push.
Nonetheless, Barkley had one of the best seasons of all time, but it is going to be virtually impossible for him to replicate that again in 2025. Regardless, Barkley is still an elite fantasy option and will most likely finish as a top-three running back in fantasy this season. With that being said, it will be interesting to see if Philadelphia will take some of the load off of Barkley and keep him healthy for a playoff run.

Ashton Jeanty - LV
Jeanty has been the most polarizing rookie running back since the aforementioned Barkley in 2018. Having Jeanty this high could cause some pushback, but the Boise State product could be the league’s leading rusher in his rookie season. That is how good he is. For one, the Las Vegas Raiders’ running backs behind Jeanty on the depth chart consist of Raheem Mostert, Sincere McCormick, and Zamir White.
In short, this is Jeanty’s backfield. With Pete Carroll taking over as the head coach and Geno Smith brought in as the starting quarterback, this offense can leap in 2025. Jeanty will be the engine that drives this offense, and the weapons on the outside, including Brock Bowers, will only open up more space for Jeanty. The rookie running back can do it all, and this is the cheapest he will go for during the prime of his career. Buy in when you can at a value price. This will be the only year you will be able to.

Christian McCaffery - SF
This comes with a ton of trepidation, but if McCaffery can stay healthy, he may prove to be one of the biggest steals in fantasy this year. Currently, McCaffery’s ADP is 10th overall off the board and the fifth running back taken in half-PPR leagues. There is a world where the 29-year-old running back outperforms that ADP, and if he does, he can be a league winner. We already know what he offers on both as a runner and receiver. Still, when you take into account the 49ers’ current wide receiver situation, McCaffery could see additional opportunity in the passing game.
Brandon Aiyuk is likely to start the season on the PUP, Jauan Jennings re-aggravated a calf injury he suffered earlier in the offseason, and Ricky Pearsall has been injury-riddled in his short career so far. Because of those factors, and the fact that McCaffery has been an elite running back for about a decade, he possesses elite return. This could be the year the wheels fall off, but if they don’t, you could be the benefactor of people being too scared to pull the trigger on McCaffery in the first round.

Derrick Henry - BAL
Every year, people ride off Henry because of his age and heavy usage during his career, but everyone should draft him until the wheels fall off. In Henry’s first season with the Baltimore Ravens, the 31-year-old running back rushed for 1,921 yards and 16 touchdowns on 325 carries. Lamar Jackson’s threat in the running game will continue to open up enormous lanes for the 6-foot-2, 252-pound running back. He may not be a great pass catcher, but it doesn’t matter if he is going to run for double-digit touchdowns again. Henry is another player whose ADP has slipped due to these factors.

Bucky Irving - TB
Irving was a fourth-round pick by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2024, so he had to carve out a role for himself with the team not investing an expensive pick on him. If he were a higher pick, the Buccaneers probably would have turned to him quicker last season. Rachaad White has always been an uninspiring and inefficient runner, but Tampa Bay continued to rely on him for multiple weeks. It took until Week 11 for Irving to finally earn double-digit opportunities consistently, and once he gained that responsibility, White vanished from the offensive game plan.
Fast forward to now, and Irving expects to be somewhat of a three-down, workhorse back. If the 22-year-old running back can pan out in that role, he is capable of delivering an elite RB1 season in 2025. He is a strong runner for his size and a great option out of the backfield in the passing game. In PPR leagues, Irving can be another one of these league winners like he was in 2024. Going at the back half of the second round and early in the third round is an absolute steal.

De’Von Achane - MIA
Drafting any players associated with the Miami Dolphins comes with a great deal of risk, but Achane’s floor could be one of the highest if Tua Tagovailoa stays healthy. Tagovailoa played 11 games in 2024. In those games, Achane rushed for 621 yards and five touchdowns, while securing 67 passes for 530 yards and six receiving touchdowns. That is elite production, but what are the chances the quarterback is available for all 17 games?
Well, Tagovailoa has played a full season only once in his first five years in the league. The offensive line is also a significant question mark for the Dolphins, and if defenses have figured out Mike McDaniel’s scheme, it could be difficult for Achane to find space in between the tackles. It’s unfair to have Achane outside the top 10, but it is in the realm of possibilities for the 23-year-old running back to disappoint in 2025.

Chase Brown - CIN
Running backs who can catch out of the backfield on explosive offenses always have an edge in fantasy. Brown has gone from an under-the-radar running back option to a premier choice at a reasonable price in the third round. Heading into last season, Brown was competing with Zack Moss for the starting running back role. It turned into a timeshare for the first four weeks of the season before Brown separated himself.
Despite this and seeing 229 carries, the 25-year-old running back totaled 990 rushing yards and seven touchdowns. Now, Brown is the clear RB1 for the Bengals; he is primed to break out and return immense value for drafters who take him in the early parts of drafts.

Josh Jacobs - GB
The Green Bay Packers made an aggressive addition in free agency last offseason, signing Jacobs to a four-year, $48 million contract. Green Bay utilized the 27-year-old running back as a true workhorse, giving him 301 carries. In return, Jacobs produced 1,329 yards and 15 touchdowns. Jacobs’ opportunities were elevated with Jordan Love battling knee and groin injuries during the early part of the season, which he probably played through all season long.
Love could be airing the ball out more this season after the Packers invested a first-round pick on Matthew Golden, who has looked the part in training camp. The rush attempts and yards may come down slightly, but the touchdowns will continue to be there, as Green Bay will lean on Jacobs in the red zone.

Jonathan Taylor - IND
Despite having a tumultuous quarterback room with Anthony Richardson and Joe Flacco rotating in and out for multiple weeks, Taylor won many people their fantasy football championships. In the fantasy playoffs last season (Weeks 15-17), the 26-year-old running back ran for 520 yards and six touchdowns in that span. Yes, carried the ball 29, 32, and 34 times in those respective games, but he took advantage of the monstrous amount of work.
This season, the quarterback position continues to be up in the air with Richardson and Daniel Jones competing for the starting job. Richardson earning the starting job would unlock this offense more than Jones. The offense could be shaky, but if not, Taylor could prove this ranking is too low.

Kyren Williams - LAR
Williams is entering the final year of his current contract, and according to multiple reports, has been in contract negotiations with the team throughout the offseason. If a deal transpires, it would do wonders for Williams’ dynasty value. As for 2025, his value will remain the same as long as Matthew Stafford's health does not become an issue. Williams is another running back who does not offer much in the passing game, catching only 34 passes for 182 yards and two touchdowns.
However, where Williams lacks in pass-catching, he makes up for it on the ground and in the endzone. Last season, the 24-year-old running back ran for 1,299 yards and 14 touchdowns. There is no imminent danger to that role, and if the Rams' offense is as efficient as always, Williams will continue to be a dominant force and score plenty of red zone touchdowns.

Chuba Hubbard - CAR
Hubbard had six games of 20+ fantasy points last season, and with Jonathan Brooks seemingly out another season, the 26-year-old running back could be primed for another elite season. Jonathon Brooks is slated to miss the entire 2025 season, giving Hubbard another full workload in Dave Canales’s offensive scheme. Having Hubbard as your team’s RB2 is one of the more ideal team-building ideologies heading into draft season.

Omarion Hampton - LAC
Another rookie running back makes the top 15, which would not be shocking due to trends in recent memory. After the first round came and went, the thought was that the Los Angeles Chargers would have a two-headed backfield with Najee Harris and Hampton. That very well could be the case, but Hampton’s role could be elevated quicker than anticipated. Harris, unfortunately, suffered an eye injury on July 4, and his return to the team is unknown at this time. If Harris is forced to miss time, Hampton could be looking at a three-down role as soon as Week 1.
If that is the case, Hampton’s ADP will skyrocket, and if there is no news by the time your draft rolls around, you could be getting an absolute steal in the 3rd/4th round. It was always expected that Hampton would eventually earn the starting role at some point during the season, but circumstances could have as the Chargers' RB1 for the entire regular season. J.K. Dobbins was the RB16 before his season was paused due to an MCL injury. The former North Carolina running back is a much more explosive and elusive player than Dobbins at this point in their careers. If the injury-plagued Dobbins can maximize this offensive line and scheme, why can’t Hampton potentially return borderline RB1 value?

James Cook - BUF
A steady strategy in fantasy football is to target running backs on contract years, looking for long-term deals. It has been well-advertised that Cook is seeking a contract extension with the Buffalo Bills heading into the 2025 season. Although it seems those chances are bleak, as we are just over a month away from opening week, it is still smart to draft Cook.
The Bills cycle through their backfield of Cook, Ray Davis, and Ty Johnson, but there is no doubt Cook is the most explosive running back on the depth chart. The 25-year-old running back is touchdown-dependent, and with Josh Allen stealing goal-line opportunities, it can become frustrating. Still, Cook’s ability to break big plays and catch out of the backfield is a significant reason to consider him in PPR formats. With a full season as the lead back, Cook could deliver RB2 value with occasional RB1 weeks, especially if he capitalizes on his receiving skills.

Wide Receivers

Ja’Marr Chase - CIN
Chase is coming off a Triple Crown 2024 season, leading the league in receptions (127), yards (1,708), and touchdowns (17). 2025 will look identical for the Cincinnati Bengals, who will have to lean on Joe Burrow and the offense to carry them every week. Last season, the Bengals averaged 27.8 points per game.
Unlike the second-ranked receiver on this list, Chase will have continuity with his quarterback, who is a top-four signal-caller in the league. Cincinnati may not have much success in winning 10+ games this season, but barring injury, this should be a top-five offense in the NFL, and Chase will continue to be the focal point.

Justin Jefferson - MIN
Entering 2024, the Minnesota Vikings quarterback situation was a question mark with Sam Darnold earning the starting job after J.J. McCarthy suffered a season-ending meniscus tear in the preseason. Despite that, Jefferson still finished second in the league in receiving yards and was a significant component in the Vikings’ surprising 14-3 campaign. This season will have the same narrative at the quarterback position, as Minnesota allowed Sam Darnold to walk in free agency, pivoting to McCarthy.
The 22-year-old quarterback is a complete unknown, and it could take some time for the 2024 first-round pick to find his footing in the NFL. In addition, Jefferson is dealing with a hamstring strain that could keep him out for the rest of training camp. Soft tissue injuries are worrisome this time of year because of the uncertainty of when they will heal, and they are the type of injuries that can easily be re-aggravated. Nonetheless, Jefferson should be a top-five pick in fantasy this season. He could very well end up being the WR1 at the end of the season if McCarthy develops into a dependable quarterback.

CeeDee Lamb - DAL
Lamb has established himself as a top-three wide receiver in both fantasy and the NFL. Over the past three seasons, Lamb has been the only dependable pass-catching option for Dak Prescott. Despite defenses understanding the Dallas Cowboys have had no other threat in that span, and focusing all their attention on Lamb, the 26-year-old receiver has compiled 343 receptions for 4,302 yards and 27 touchdowns.
With George Pickens now part of the picture, Lamb will finally have a counterpart whose defense will have to respect. This will allow Lamb more opportunities against single coverage and ample space in the middle of the field. Some people may view Pickens as a player who can subtract targets from Lamb, but it could lead to more consistent production from the offense, which increases Lamb’s effectiveness in the red zone.

Brian Thomas Jr. - JAC
There is always a young receiver who catapults marquee veterans at each position every year. Thomas Jr. is that player this year, and he isn’t exactly jumping from a WR2 to a WR1. In a season where Mac Jones played a significant amount of snaps, the former LSU receiver finished 2024 as the WR4 in 2024. So, this spot would indicate that the 22-year-old wideout will officially establish himself as a bona fide first-round pick for the foreseeable future.
Similarly to Lamb, opposing defenses cannot afford to solely lock in on Thomas Jr. with Travis Hunter on the opposite side of the field. Thomas Jr. will play the Mike Evans role in Liam Coen’s offense, which is never an issue. The floor may be lower than a few of the next receivers, but his ceiling is higher than everyone outside the top three.

Amon-Ra St. Brown - DET
St. Brown is one of the safest players, let alone wide receivers, in the entire draft. Although the equation does not consist of a potential WR1 overall finish, his ability to rack up receptions will always have him positioned as a top 5-7 receiver in fantasy as long as he stays healthy. Because St. Brown operates exclusively from the slot, big plays come sparingly, but touchdowns have been there for the 25-year-old receiver, who has hit paydirt 22 times over the last two seasons (10 in 2023 and 12 in 2024).
With Ben Johnson no longer the offensive coordinator, it will be interesting to see if St. Brown’s role changes at all in 2025. Jahmyr Gibbs could play more snaps in the slot, which could eat into St. Brown’s dominance as the middle-of-the-field receiver in the offense. Nonetheless, no one should hesitate to take the slot wideout in the mid-late first round in drafts this season.

Nico Collins - HOU
Consistent production is more suitable for top-end, season-long finishes than a few “blow-up performances,” which can be few and far between. This is the main reason why Collins is the next player on the list, rather than a couple of explosive players, who could be dependent on the big plays due to subpar quarterback play. The Houston Texans' receiving depth chart has been a revolving door the last two seasons, but the one constant is Collins, who has separated himself as the true go-to option for C.J. Stroud.
With Tank Dell out for the season and Stefon Diggs in New England, the 26-year-old’s competition for targets will be Christian Kirk and two incoming rookies. Because of that, Collins should remain as a clear WR1 in fantasy in 2025, and if the Texans offense can bounce back and stay healthy, Collins is one of the safest picks and could return value at the end of the first round.

Malik Nabers - NYG
Nabers had an elite rookie campaign with one of the worst quarterback rooms in 2024, which consisted of Daniel Jones, Drew Lock and Tommy Devito. This offseason, the New York Giants “revamped” the quarterback room with Russell Wilson, Jameis Winston, and Jaxson Dart. Not sure how much of an improvement it is with Wilson already named the starter, but Nabers proved last season that he can overcome significant deficiencies at the quarterback position. Wilson is somewhat of an upgrade over last year’s quarterback, but his dependency on the “moon ball” and struggles in accuracy over the middle of the field is why Nabers is this low.
Still a great spot for a top receiver, but there could be some meat left on the bone in 2025. Even if Dart comes in at some point during the season, there is going to be a significant learning curve for the former Ole Miss quarterback. If Wilson and Dart can accurately distribute the ball to Nabers in the intermediate parts of the field, the former LSU wideout can finish higher than where he currently is in these rankings. However, Wilson showed last season with Pickens that the deep ball is not a sustainable factor in the passing attack, which has me worried about Nabers in 2025. Sometimes, a receiver can only do so much with mediocre quarterback play.

Drake London - ATL
London came to life when Michael Penix Jr. started the final three weeks of the season. In those games, London averaged 13 targets, 7.3 receptions, 117.3 receiving yards, and .67 touchdowns. It was apparent that Penix Jr. identified London as a go-to option and overwhelmingly targeted the 24-year-old receiver time and time again. With Penix Jr. entering this season as the starting quarterback, the rapport between these two players will only grow.
The target share may not be as immense as it was in the short sample size we saw last season, but the quarterback play should be more consistent, while offering explosive plays regularly. If Penix Jr. takes a leap in 2025, so could London’s finish among the receivers in fantasy.

Puka Nacua - LAR
Nacua is a clear WR1 in the NFL, but there are several question marks for the third-year receiver. Health has always been an issue for Nacua, dating back to his collegiate career. His physical style of play puts himself at a higher risk for lingering injuries. That was the case in 2024, as Nacua missed six games with an irritating shoulder injury that he suffered early in the season. Matthew Stafford’s health is also something to monitor, and if the 37-year-old quarterback missed significant time with any injury, it would be detrimental to the pass-catching options in this offense.
Secondly, the Los Angeles Rams went out in free agency and signed Davante Adams. The 32-year-old receiver may not be a WR1 anymore, but he is an upgrade over Cooper Kupp, who was phased out of the offense last season. Adams will cannibalize Nacua’s production, especially in the red zone. That leads right into the last point, which is that touchdowns have come sparingly for Nacua during his first two seasons. After finishing 2023 with six touchdowns, Nacua totaled three receiving touchdowns in 2024, albeit he only played in 11 games. Nacua can easily finish as a top 10 receiver, but there are concerns about opportunities and health, which has him slide to this spot.

Ladd McConkey - LAC
McConkey quickly earned the trust of Justin Herbert last season, ending up as the only receiver on the roster with 80+ receptions and 1,000+ receiving yards. The Chargers drafted Tre Harris and hope Quentin Johnston takes that next step, but McConkey will continue to be the top receiver in this offense.
Although size and durability are always a concern, McConkey is a safe option in the second round of most fantasy drafts. WR10 is probably the ceiling for McConkey in 2025, but if you can pair him with an explosive wide receiver in either the first or third rounds, he is an excellent option for that type of build.

Tee Higgins - CIN
You always want receivers on pass-happy offenses, and that factor elevates Higgins over a few other wideouts in consideration for this spot. Higgins is the second fiddle in the Bengals’ passing attack, but because Burrow will be throwing 30+ times a game weekly, the 26-year-old wideout will see more opportunities for explosive plays and touchdowns. As long as Higgins and the key players on this offense remain available throughout the season, this offense will return elite value.

A.J. Brown - PHI
Brown has been in consideration for the last few positions, but the fact of the matter is, the Philadelphia Eagles' offense revolves around Saquon Barkley and the rushing attack. Brown had six games of six or fewer targets, which is not a stat reflective of his talent, but a reminder that this team leaned on Barkley heavily. Now, the Eagles cannot be the 29th passing offense again in 2025 if they want a chance at repeating as Super Bowl champions. Barkley is also not going to total over 2,000 all-purpose yards again.
If Philadelphia pulls back on running the football, Brown could outperform this ranking and slot into the top 10 at the position. The 28-year-old receiver is still a player I will be targeting if he slips into the middle portion of the second round. It would be shocking if Brown does not finish 2025 as a top-12 receiver.

Jaxon Smith-Njigba - SEA
Halfway through last season Smith-Njigba established himself as the WR1 in the Seattle Seahawks offense, and that was with DK Metcalf and Tyler Lockett part of the equation. Both of those players are no longer part of the team, opening up even more opportunities for the presumed top option in the passing attack. Seattle replaced those two receivers with Cooper Kupp and Marquez Valdes-Scantling. Neither of these players will threaten Smith-Njigba’s status in the offense. Throughout the final nine games in 2024, Smith-Njigba averaged 15 fantasy points (half-ppr) while seeing an average of 8.3 targets per game.
The 24-year-old receiver is another pass catcher who primarily operates in the slot and the middle of the field. With Darnold as the quarterback and Klint Kubiak as the play-caller, it will be interesting to see how Smith-Njigba is utilized this upcoming season. With that being said, in half-PPR and full-PPR leagues, Smith-Njigba is a value in the later picks in the second round.

Garrett Wilson - NYJ
Wilson has surpassed 1,000 receiving yards in each of his first three seasons in the NFL, despite having poor quarterback play. It could be another mediocre quarterback throwing Wilson the football with Justin Fields as the presumed starter, but the two played together at Ohio State. There is hope for Wilson to finish inside the top 12 with Fields as his quarterback. In 2023, D.J. Moore was the WR9 when Fields was the starting quarterback for the Chicago Bears.
There will be weeks where Wilson leaves more to be desired because of potential struggles in the passing game, but he is a clear alpha in the offense, and other than Wilson, there are no reliable options on the outside. The Jets will be playing from behind more often than not, which is a plus for Wilson and his fantasy production.

Marvin Harrison Jr. - ARI
This is a shot on a player who was highly-touted coming out of college and viewed as a “can’t miss” prospect. 2024 was a turbulent one for Harrison Jr., but the shortcomings fell on play calling and inconsistency from Kyler Murray. The 22-year-old receiver looks poised to have a breakout campaign in 2025 after reporting to camp with noticeably more muscle and a focus on becoming a true number-one option for Murray.
Despite only averaging 52.1 yards per game last season, Harrison Jr. still totaled 885 receiving yards and eight touchdowns on only 62 receptions. The former Ohio State receiver was completely misutilized, running fade routes repeatedly. With a new play caller and a more diverse route tree, look for Harrison Jr. to surprise many in the fantasy community this upcoming season.

Tight Ends

Brock Bowers - LV
Maybe some high expectations for Bowers as a second-year player, but his 1,194 yards, 112 receptions, and five touchdowns are going to make him a PPR monster. With a solid upgrade at quarterback, as the Raiders picked up Geno Smith, expect Bowers' targets to skyrocket to the moon, making him an elite option at tight end.

Trey McBride - ARI
If there were no Brock Bowers, this would be our consensus number 1 pick in PPR formats. Even in a Cardinals room that isn’t entirely his, with the potential breakout of Marvin Harrison Jr., McBride calls for a majority of targets as Kyler Murray loves his tight ends. Like Zach Ertz years before, he should have plenty of opportunity and targets to make him another elite option at TE.

George Kittle - SF
In past years, Kittle has been hit or miss due to injury and inconsistent target shares, but this season, without Deebo Samuel, I can see Kittle getting a larger, more consistent role in this offense. Eclipsing 1,000 yards in the past two years and signing a new contract for the next four years, it seems the 49ers have a plan to incorporate him significantly in their offense.

T.J. Hockenson - MIN
Maybe some will say this is high, but I can see a real possibility of a top 5 or even top 3 finish for Hockenson. While he hasn’t been on the field as much after the trade to the Vikings due to injury, Kevin O’Connell’s offense is going to revolve around JJ McCarthy, and McCarthy's success will involve Hockenson as a safety valve. With only four games played last season, he averaged 113.5 yards per game. Expect high receptions and targets this season in PPR formats.

Travis Kelce - KC
The long-time TE1 has finally slowed in production as age catches up. But don’t doubt Kelce just yet; he is still on a pass-heavy team with the best quarterback in the NFL, especially with Rashee Rice's undetermined timeline for return and Xavier Worthy's role as a deep threat.

Sam LaPorta - DET
LaPorta finds himself lower on this list with the transition into a run-heavy system with Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery, but with a new OC at the helm, the passing attack could be utilized more often. Even in a down year for LaPorta, he still notched 60 receptions, 726 yards, and seven touchdowns, finishing 6th overall in TE rankings. LaPorta is a safe mid- to high-end TE1.

Evan Engram - DEN
Engram was nothing short of a wide receiver in a tight end's body in Jacksonville. This Denver team has a similar construct to the Jaguars, with Courtland Sutton being the clear-cut WR1. Still, there is plenty of room for Engram, especially considering head coach Sean Payton was quoted earlier this year saying he needed a “joker” in Denver’s offense, capable of creating mismatches with the opposing team's defense. View Engram as a mid TE1.

Mark Andrews - BAL
Andrews has always been a healthy target in fantasy, drawing a high percentage of target share as a safety option able to stretch the field. Recently, his ADP has dropped due to injuries, age, and competition, especially in the tight end room with Isaiah Likely emerging as a future starter in the league. Still, Andrews finished strong last year and had 673 yards receiving, along with an impressive 11 touchdowns. Expect regression from the veteran, but you can value him as a low-end TE1.

David Njoku - CLE
Njoku’s ranking this year doesn't reflect his ability, but the team around him, and specifically, the instability at quarterback. This team does not have a clear-cut number 1 starter at quarterback, and it's going to affect everyone’s production. In years past, Njoku could only do as much as he was given with his targets. Pair that instability with weak quarterback play, and it is hard to rank him any higher despite his explosiveness. Njoku will be a low-end TE1.

Tucker Kraft - GB
I enjoyed watching Kraft last year, especially with him developing his chemistry with Jordan Love and notching 707 yards last year with seven touchdowns, solidifying him as the number one tight end option on that team. The problem is that there are way too many mouths to feed on that team. With the addition of Matthew Golden in the first round, it doesn’t leave a lot of targets out there for Kraft. I would expect that he is a big boom or bust guy the entire season, and would leave him as a fringe-to-low-end TE1.

Dallas Goedert - PHI
Goedert is in the same boat as Kraft; skilled tight end with a ton of potential for big games, but just too many mouths to feed. On top of that, the Eagles are utilizing the run more often than not, and that doesn’t leave Goedert a ton of room for receptions. However, he could have low reception and big yard games. View him as another high-end TE2 to a fringe TE1.

Tyler Warren - IND
Warren went later in the draft than most expected this year, but don’t let that push you away from his incredible potential and college tape. He was used at Penn State as a versatile athlete who could play multiple offensive positions like fullback, lineman, tight end, and wide receiver, all to an elite level. Depending on how the Colts view him, he could be this year's Brock Bowers. I don’t anticipate a good first half of the season, but I can see him finishing the year strong. This is heavily dependent on the quarterback situation and who is chosen as the QB1, but view him as a low-end TE1, high-end TE2.

Jake Ferguson - DAL
Ferguson missed some time last year due to injury, but still managed to finish 9th in tight end rankings last year. He had 88 targets, but the problem was that he had no touchdowns last year. His red zone usage was a problem, and with the addition of George Pickens, it creates an issue with his usage. Still, he averaged 10.2 points last year and could have a better year as long as his red zone usage improves. View Ferguson as a mid to high-end TE2.

Jonnu Smith - PIT
From weeks 11-15 of last year in fantasy, Smith was virtually unstoppable on the Dolphins. The waiver wire lists had his face plastered all over, and for good reason: he averaged double-digit points every week, producing solid numbers. I don’t know if lightning can strike twice, but it sure is possible in Pittsburgh with only D.K. Metcalf firmly ahead of Smith; he can demand 8-11 targets per game. View Smith as a mid to high-end TE2 with potential for TE1 numbers.

Dalton Kincaid - BUF
Despite Kincaid’s struggles last year, I believe this year he can bounce back, especially with the team losing Amari Cooper. Be mindful that touchdowns will be hard to come by as Allen loves to rush the ball close to the goal line. View Kincaid as a mid TE2.

Colston Loveland - CHI
The Bears selected Loveland with the 10th pick in this draft, shocking many. With Ben Johnson at the helm as the Bears' new head coach, he’s stated he’s looking to do something similar in Chicago with Loveland and other Bears’ tight end Cole Kmet, as he did in Detroit with the running backs. Loveland was a monster at Michigan, grabbing 1,466 receiving yards in 2024 and handling up to 37% of the target share. If this receiving room weren’t so crowded, I would have as much confidence, if not more, than I do for Tyler Warren. Since we have to wait and see how he is utilized, he is a low-end to mid TE2, but like Warren, if he breaks out, don’t be afraid to put him in your lineups weekly.

Hunter Henry - NE
Even with the addition of Stefon Diggs, I think Henry can be a solid piece of this New England offense. Mike Vrabel has a history of using tight ends all over the field as versatile players. Henry still has it despite being a veteran, and even though he only notched two touchdowns last year, he had 97 targets and 674 yards with a 19.2% target share. The only thing that scares me is that he could be used as more of a utility player rather than a pure receiver. Henry still demands respect for his consistency, but it’s not enough to put him in your lineups as an assured starter. With the addition of a new offensive piece and the uncertainty of his role in this new offense, look at him as a low-end to mid TE2.

Brenton Strange - JAX
We saw Strange last year while Engram was hurt, as he was given a 14.6% target share, but only averaged 6.9 fantasy points. Strange is the new TE1 in Jacksonville, but with a star-studded receiver room that includes Brian Thomas Jr. and Travis Hunter, he’s not going to see himself viewed as anything above a low-end TE2.

Isaiah Likely - BAL
One of the best handcuffs in fantasy, Likely's only downfall is the presence of Mark Andrews; otherwise, he has the makings of a top 10 tight end with a high-powered offense. Grabbing six touchdowns as a backup is quite impressive, but as long as Andrews remains, he is a low-end TE2. If Andrews goes down, view him as a potential low-end to mid TE1.

Kyle Pitts - ATL
I think at this point everyone dreads drafting Pitts and no one knows how to put him with his ADP, but I have a sliver of hope this year. His target share has no consistency, and even if he does get the targets, he struggles to get yards. The big hope for Pitts is that maybe a quarterback change can rejuvenate his performance and make him a viable option, but the chances of that are slim to none. View him as a high-end TE3 that may have some potential upside in some matchups.

Kickers

And for good measure, we ranked kickers, too. ESPN didn’t do it (they projected every kicker goes 5/7 from 50+. Lazy), so we have you covered. Here are the top options for this season:

Tier 1: (Round 14)

Brandon Aubrey
50+ yard makes reign supreme, and he’s the best at them.

Cameron Dicker
Remarkably consistent, young, and on a good offense.

Ka’imi Fairbairn
Made the second-most 50-yarders last year and should get more XPs this season.

Tier 2: (Round 16-17)

Chris Boswell
Top kicker last year, 13/15 from 50+ is insane. It might be time for him to regress.

Jason Sanders
About even with Boswell, but not as many long field goals. Inconsistent offense.

Chase McLaughlin
High volume offense so that it will take plenty of XPs. Kicked 30/32 last year.

Jake Bates
More XPs than anyone and good from distance, but Dan Campbell hurts his volume.

Tier 3: (Why?)

Will Lutz
Jason Myers
Ryan Fitzgerald

Defense/Special Teams

Baltimore Ravens

Denver Broncos

Philadelphia Eagles

Pittsburgh Steelers

Minnesota Vikings

Houston Texans

Buffalo Bills

Kansas City Chiefs

Detroit Lions

Los Angeles Chargers

Seattle Seahawks

Los Angeles Rams

Green Bay Packers

New York Jets

San Francisco 49ers

New England Patriots

New York Giants

Chicago Bears

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Dallas Cowboys

Fantasy Football

Alex Percey, Dominic Orrico, Logan Lazarczyk