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Here are 32 players presenting good value in fantasy football.
Greetings, Falcoholics! It’s that time of the year again. The 2025 NFL season is just around the corner, and that means it’s time to talk about fantasy football.
Since 2019, I’ve been predicting top sleepers from each NFL team to help you dominate your fantasy league drafts. You can revisit my picks from
2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, and
2024 by clicking the respective years.
Now, before diving into the 2025 sleeper list, let’s review the criteria. Each player chosen offers significant potential value for your fantasy team, based on points-per-reception (PPR) scoring format. While some names may be familiar, their average draft position (ADP) indicates they offer great value.
Without further ado, let’s get started!
RB Trey Benson (2024), RB Keaontay Ingram, (2023), WR Rondale Moore (2022),
RB Chase Edmonds (2021), WR Andy Isabella (2020), QB Kyler Murray (2019)
After being suspended for the first five games in 2024, Zay Jones had a hard time getting on track for the rest of the season. But after an offseason which the Cardinals decided to re-sign Jones, 2025 could be his year to contribute.
Now, he likely won't make a huge impact, but Jones is surely a guy to monitor for one of your weekly substitutions or if you get hit by the injury bug, making him a fine deep sleeper.
QB Kirk Cousins (2024), QB Desmond Ridder (2023), RB Tyler Allgeier (2022), WR Russell Gage (2021), TE Hayden Hurst (2020), TE Austin Hooper (2019)
For the last two seasons I’ve gone with a Falcons quarterback, and it has fell flat. This year, I’m taking a leap of faith with Kyle Pitts. If Pitts was ever going to be relevant again in Atlanta, it’s this year. After a stellar rookie season, Pitts has been a huge disappointment. It’s possible that quarterback play had a little to do with that.
With Michael Penix Jr. squarely fitted to start for the Falcons, Pitts may finally get the production many have craved. With how thin the tight end group is in fantasy football, Pitts could be steal considering his current ADP having him in the 20-25 range for tight ends.
WR Devontez Walker (2024), WR Rashid Bateman (2023), WR Devin Duvernay (2022), WR Rashod Bateman (2021), RB J.K. Dobbins (2020), RB Mark Ingram (2019)
Like Pitts, Isaiah Likely isn’t technically a sleeper, because most fantasy managers have heard of him. But he’s still in a crowded tight end room on an offensive powerhouse which has many mouths to feed. With that being said, Likely is a better weapon than Mark Andrews and it’s only a matter of time until he completely surpasses him on the depth chart.
As unreliable as tight ends have been in recent years, Likely has the talent and potential opportunity to become a weekly tight end starter in all leagues.
WR Keon Coleman (2024), TE Dalton Kincaid (2023), RB James Cook (2022), WR Gabriel Davis (2021), WR John Brown (2020), WR Cole Beasley (2019)
With the current state of things in Buffalo, Ray Davis is very promising in fantasy football. James Cook and the Bills are seemingly going through some things, and Ty Johnson, although decent in a pinch, isn’t that guy. Davis should push for more usage in 2025 and could develop into a goal-line back for the Bills.
QB Bryce Young (2024), TE Hayden Hurst (2023), TE Tommy Tremble (2022), QB Sam Darnold (2021), TE Ian Thomas (2020), WR D.J. Moore 2019)
One of my favorite dark horse players last year was Panthers’ Jalen Coker. Coker is very talented, and although the Panthers have a crowded receiving corps which only got more crowded this offseason, Coker’s talent will be difficult for the Panthers to store away. In my eyes, Coker can easily push for a WR 2-3 role and even have top top-35 receiver production this season, even with young competition on the roster.
QB Caleb Williams (2024), RB Roschon Johnson (2023), QB Justin Fields (2022), WR Darnell Mooney (2021), WR Anthony Miller (2020), WR Allen Robinson (2019)
Luther Burden III is essentially a dark horse to have real value. On a team with less weapons, he would definitely be someone to draft, but with the current roster in Chicago, Burden is someone to keep an eye on. If things break right for him, or if there’s any injuries that flare up, Burden could find himself being added by fantasy managers.
TE Mike Gesicki (2024), TE Ira Smith Jr. (2023), TE Hayden Hurst (2022), QB Joe Burrow (2021), QB Joe Burrow (2020), QB Andy Dalton (2019)
2025 could be a big year for Andrei Iosivas. The Bengals have arguably the best receiving group in the league, with Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins. In my eyes, Iosivas is an insane flex player on fantasy rosters this season and has the potential to improve on his 2024 numbers of 36 catche for 479 yards and six touchdowns, especially with an improving rapport with Joe Burrow.
RB Jerome Ford (2024), WR Elijah Moore (2023), WR Donovan Peoples-Jones (2022), WR Donovan Peoples-Jones (2021), QB Baker Mayfield (2020), QB Baker Mayfield (2019)
A super sleeper in Cleveland would be running back Dylan Sampson. The
Browns’ backfield is in flux with Quinshon Judkins’ future uncertain after a July arrest.
Sampson’s receiving ability and draft capital make him a sneaky flex option who could push for a major role if he beats out Jerome Ford or an injury occurs.
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Cowboys Defense (2024), TE Luke Schoonmaker (2023), WR James Washington (2022), WR Michael Gallup (2021), TE Blake Jarwin (2020), WR Michael Gallup (2019)
Similar to my words above, rookie running backs are always intriguing, especially when their team doesn’t have a for-sure starter. Jaydon Blue will have to surpass Javonte Williams, but if he can continue utilizing his speed and pass catching-abilities I think he can make an impact on the Cowboys this season.
I’m not sure if he will be the starter by season’s end, but he can definitely push for split carries with Williams.
WR Josh Reynolds (2024), TE Greg Dulcich (2023), TE Greg Dulcich (2022), RB Javonte Williams (2021), QB Drew Lock (2020), WR Courtland Sutton (2019)
Once considered an under-the-radar prospect out of UCF, RJ Harvey surprised many when the Broncos selected him with the 60th overall pick in the second round of the 2025
NFL Draft. While he didn’t enter the league with the hype of a top-tier back, Sean Payton clearly saw something worth investing in.
The Broncos have since added the injury-prone JK Dobbins, who is currently expected to start, but I have a feeling Harvey will start by season’s end.
WR Jameson Williams (2024), RB David Montgomery (2023), WR Jameson Williams (2022), WR Amon-Ra St. Brown (2021), TE T.J. Hockenson (2020), WR Kenny Golladay (2019)
Tim Patrick might be flying under the radar as a potential fantasy contributor in 2025. In the two games last season where he saw more than four targets, he averaged 17.7 PPR points and 1.5 touchdowns.
With Jameson Williams ahead of him, one injury could open the door for Patrick to deliver solid upside.
WR Dontayvion Wicks (2024), WR Jayden Reed (2023), WR Christian Watson (2022), RB A.J. Dillon (2021), RB A.J. Dillon (2020), WR Geronimo Allison (2019)
Matthew Golden is an intriguing fantasy sleeper in 2025, especially in dynasty leagues, thanks to his elite speed and big-play potential. His impact in PPR formats might be limited early on, but his ability to deliver splash plays and late-round upside makes him a worthy flier in a crowded room with an unsure pecking order.
His impact may be later on in the season, but definitely someone to grab if you can.
RB Jawhar Jordan (2024), QB C.J. Stroud (2023), TE Brevin Jordan (2022), WR Keke Coutee (2021), RB David Johnson (2020), WR Keke Coutee (2019)
Jayden Higgins could surprise as the
Texans’ WR2 in 2025. In a loaded offense with plenty of targets up for grabs, he’s shaping up to be a deep sleeper worth stashing. He’s certainly someone I’m hoping flies under the radar in my re-draft leagues. In dynasty leagues, he’s definitely worth grabbing if available.
QB Anthony Richardson (2024), WR Josh Downs (2023), QB Matt Ryan (2022), QB Carson Wentz (2021), WR Michael Pittman Jr. (2020), WR Devin Funchess (2019)
Josh Downs enters 2025 as a sneaky PPR asset who could easily beat his draft cost if the Colts get more consistent quarterback play, which is likely. He’s a reliable target underneath and has a clear path to WR2 value if this offense takes a step forward. He’s previously proved he can be their best fantasy receiving threat.
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WR Brian Thomas (2024), RB Tank Bigsby (2023), WR Christian Kirk (2022), WR Laviska Shenault Jr. (2021), TE Tyler Eifert (2020), WR Marqise Lee (2019)
Trevor Lawrence isn’t a sleeper by name, but he’s flying under the radar as a potential fantasy difference-maker in 2025. With Liam Coen bringing a fresh offensive system and Brian Thomas and Travis Hunter adding explosive playmaking to the Jaguars’ attack, Lawrence is set up for his best season yet. Don’t be surprised if he outperforms expectations and sneaks into QB1 territory.
WR Xavier Worthy (2024), WR Skyy Moore (2023), WR Marquez Valdes-Scantling (2022), WR Demarcus Robinson (2021), RB Clyde Edwards-Helaire (2020), WR Mecole Hardman (2019)
As I’ve mentioned, I’ve always been a fan of rookie running backs in fantasy, and Brashard Smith is one to watch in Kansas City. The seventh-rounder brings blazing 4.39 speed and a wide receiver background, giving Patrick Mahomes another potential weapon in the passing game.
The Chiefs’ backfield isn’t set in stone, so Smith’s versatility makes him an intriguing late-round stash in fantasy drafts.
WR Ladd McConkey (2024), WR Quentin Johnston (2023), WR Jalen Guyton (2022), TE Jared Cook (2021), QB Tyrod Taylor (2020), TE Hunter Henry (2019)
You may be wondering who Oronde Gadsden II even is if you didn’t know his dad. Well, he’s one of my favorite sleepers this season, especially in dynasty leagues. The
Chargers’ fifth-round pick is a unique tight end-wide receiver hybrid with the skill set to create mismatches all over the field. Jim Harbaugh’s offense loves using versatile weapons, and if Gadsden eventually wins the starting job, he has the upside to become one of the sneakiest fantasy values at the position.
RB Blake Corum (2024), RB Kyren Williams (2023), WR Van Jefferson (2022), TE Tyler Higbee (2021), RB Cam Akers (2020), WR Josh Reynolds (2019)
Jordan Whittington is an intriguing sleeper in the Rams’ offense, especially for dynasty managers. He’s flashed as a reliable slot option and could see his role grow if injuries or roster changes open the door. With his versatility and ability to make plays in space, Whittington is the kind of late-round flier who could pay off big.
RB Jaylen Wright (2024), RB De’Von Achane (2023), WR Cedrick Wilson (2022), QB Tua Tagovailoa (2021), WR Preston Williams (2020), WR Kenny Stills (2019)
I know I had Jaylen Wright as my sleeper last year, but this time it feels different. The
Dolphins’ second year running back has the speed to rip off chunk plays and could step into a much bigger role as De’Von Achane’s primary backup.
QB Sam Darnold (2024), WR Jordan Addison (2023), TE Irv Smith Jr. (2022), TE Irv Smith Jr. (2021), WR Justin Jefferson (2020), QB Kirk Cousins (2019)
After missing his entire rookie season with a torn meniscus, J.J. McCarthy is locked in as the Vikings’ Week 1 starter and enters one of the best fantasy setups you could ask for. Kevin O’Connell’s quarterback-friendly system has consistently produced fantasy value, and now McCarthy gets to run the show with elite weapons like Justin Jefferson, Jordan Addison, and T.J. Hockenson in a pass-heavy offense. Last year I took a shot on Sam Darnold as my sleeper, which paid off. This time McCarthy is my guy—and I’m confident this pick has even more upside than with Darnold.
WR DeMario Douglas (2024), TE Mike Gesicki (2023), RB Pierre Strong Jr. (2022), WR Jakobi Meyers (2021), WR N’Keal Harry (2020), WR N’Keal Harry (2019)
TreVeyon Henderson may not profile as a workhorse, but his speed and playmaking ability make him dangerous in limited touches. The Patriots spent a second-round pick on him, and I personally don’t have a lot of faith in Rhamondre Stevenson leading the backfield season-long. Henderson has a real shot to lead the team in carries while adding value as a pass-catcher.
WR Bub Means (2024), WR Rashid Shaheed (2023), WR Chris Olave (2022), QB Jameis Winston (2021), RB Latavius Murray (2020), TE Jared Cook (2019)
As a Falcons fan, this isn’t about bias—I just can’t bring myself to trust anyone on the Saints for fantasy outside of Alvin Kamara. Brandin Cooks is back in New Orleans with a path to targets behind Chris Olave, but I’m not convinced the offense will support consistent production. If anyone’s getting it, it’ll be Cooks.
RB Tyrone Tracy Jr. (2024), WR Wan’Dale Robinson (2023), WR Kadarius Toney (2022), QB Daniel Jones (2021), QB Daniel Jones (2020), WR Golden Tate (2019)
Theo Johnson is a deep sleeper to keep an eye on in New York. He finished his rookie year strong and now steps into an offense led by Russell Wilson, with a real chance to carve out a bigger role. If his late-season flashes carry over, Johnson could emerge as a sneaky late-round tight end option.
WR Malachi Corley (2024), TE Tyler Conklin (2023), WR Braxton Berrios (2022), QB Zach Wilson (2021), WR Denzel Mims (2020), TE Chris Herndon (2019)
There’s no guarantee this pays off, but Justin Fields rushing upside alone keeps him intriguing—remember, he finished as QB6 in 2022 thanks to 1,100+ rushing yards and eight scores. With weapons like Garrett Wilson and Breece Hall around him, anything is possible if Fields finds even a little consistency as a passer.
TE Brock Bowers (2024), TE Michael Mayer (2023), WR Demarcus Robinson (2022), WR John Brown (2021), WR Hunter Renfrow (2020), RB Josh Jacobs (2019)
Dont’e Thornton Jr. is an intriguing sleeper in Las Vegas with the tools to break out if things click. At 6’5” with 4.3 speed, he’s a legit deep threat who can take the top off defenses and stretch the field in Chip Kelly’s up-tempo offense. If he secures a starting role, Thornton has the raw upside to deliver big plays and surprise fantasy managers.
RB Will Shipley (2024), WR Quiz Watkins (2023), RB Kenneth Gainwell (2022), WR DeVonta Smith (2021), QB Carson Wentz (2020), WR DeSean Jackson (2019)
While A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith dominate targets, Jahan Dotson finished last season strong and showed up big in the
Super Bowl. If he locks down the WR3 role, his speed and route-running give him the upside to shine whenever opportunities open up.
WR Roman Wilson (2024), RB Jaylen Warren (2023), WR George Pickens (2022), Defense (2021), WR Diontae Johnson (2020), WR James Washington (2019)
Falcons fans will already recognize this as a sneaky sleeper—Arthur Smith loved Jonnu Smith in Atlanta and Tennessee, and now they’re both reunited in Pittsburgh. While the tight end room is crowded, Smith’s familiarity with the system could give him a surprising role, especially in a run-heavy attack that leans on play-action. As much as I like Pat Freiermuth, I think Jonnu with finish the season with more fantasy production.
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WR Ricky Pearsall (2024), QB Sam Darnold (2023), QB Trey Lance (2022), QB Trey Lance (2021), WR Brandon Aiyuk (2020), RB Tevin Coleman (2019)
I’m sticking with Ricky Pearsall as one of my fantasy sleepers in 2025. With Deebo Samuel Sr. traded this offseason, Pearsall has a clear path to a bigger role in San Francisco’s offense. He flashed his upside late last year, racking up 14 catches for 210 yards and 2 touchdowns over the final two games, including a monster 141-yard outing against Detroit in Week 17. If he builds on that momentum, Pearsall could be a steal in fantasy drafts.
WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba (2024), Jason Myers (2023), TE Noah Fant (2022), WR D’Wayne Eskridge (2021), TE Will Dissly (2020), WR D.K. Metcalf (2019)
Sam Darnold was my sleeper last year in Minnesota, and he paid off big for fantasy managers. All he needed was a real shot, and now he gets another one in Seattle with a loaded group of weapons around him. With Jaxon Smith-Njigba and Cooper Kupp at his disposal, Darnold has the tools to surprise again—and if you can grab him late in drafts, he could be a season-long starter and a steal.
TE Cade Otton (2024), WR Trey Palmer (2023), WR Russell Gage (2022), RB Giovani Bernard (2021), RB Ronald Jones II (2020), WR Chris Godwin (2019)
I don’t care that the Bucs have a loaded WR room—I think over the final stretch of last season, Baker Mayfield built real comfort with Jalen McMillan. He scored seven touchdowns in the last five games of 2024 and showed he can make plays all over the field. Even with Mike Evans, Chris Godwin, and Emeka Egbuka around, McMillan’s chemistry with Mayfield makes him an intriguing late-round flier who could carve out a bigger role than expected.
QB Will Levis (2024), RB Tyjae Spears (2023), TE Austin Hooper (2022), WR Josh Reynolds (2021), QB Ryan Tannehill (2020), TE Delanie Walker (2019)
Cam Ward brings exciting upside to the Titans’ offense and could surprise fantasy managers in 2025. His dual-threat skill set gives him the potential for spike weeks, and if his development takes off, he could quickly move from a late-round stash or Superflex option into a reliable starter. Ward’s rushing ability alone makes him worth a shot in deeper leagues, and he has a chance to outplay his draft slot in most leagues.
Washington Commanders — WR Luke McCaffrey
QB Jayden Daniels (2024), QB Sam Howell (2023), QB Carson Wentz (2022), QB Ryan Fitzpatrick (2021), RB Adrian Peterson (2020), RB Adrian Peterson (2019)
After a promising rookie season, there’s a real chance for a second-year breakout in Washington’s offense. Luke McCaffrey has shown he can separate, win tough catches, and thrive in the slot, and with Jahan Dotson no longer on the team, the path to more snaps is wide open. Year two is often when receivers make their biggest leap, and if he builds stronger chemistry with Jayden Daniels, he could become a sneaky PPR weapon and a late-round steal in drafts.
️ 348 carries
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