2025 Cleveland Browns Fantasy Preview
2025 Cleveland Browns Fantasy Preview The 2025 NFL Draft provided the perfect opportunity for GM Andrew Berry and head coach Kevin Stefanski to hit reset on a roster that fell to 3-14 last season. Mission accomplished. The Browns added weapons on both sides of the ball and acquired Jacksonville’s first-rounder in 2026. While the draft brought an infusion of youth, that didn’t necessarily apply to the most important position. Deshaun Watson’s albatross contract still hamstrings the Browns. Recovering from a torn Achilles, Watson is expected to miss most, if not all, of the 2025 season. 40-year-old Joe Flacco is expected to take over as the starter in his return to Cleveland. Kenny Pickett, third-rounder Dillon Gabriel, and embattled fifth-round rookie Shedeur Sanders give the Browns depth under center. Nick Chubb was not retained, which opens the door for second-round Ohio State rookie Quinshon Judkins to take over as the starter. Judkins (6-0, 219) has good size and ranked 4th in FBS with 179 missed tackles forced in 2024. He was the third running back selected in this deep class and has RB2 upside in an offense that wants to rely on the rushing attack. Judkins will form a solid tandem with Jerome Ford, who averaged 5.4 yards per tote last season and caught 37 balls. Fourth-round Tennessee RB Dylan Sampson has a three-down skill set and gives the Browns depth after they ranked 27th in rushing EPA last season. Flacco winning the starting job and staying there would be a welcome development for Cleveland’s underwhelming passing attack. Even in a lost season, Jerry Jeudy ranked 7th with 144 targets. He only caught 90 of those looks (62.5 percent catch rate), but still produced 1,229 receiving yards. Jeudy is locked into the WR1 slot, while Cedric Tillman looks like a solid late-round sleeper target. Tillman had a monster three-game stretch before a concussion ended his season. With Amari Cooper gone, Tillman projects to be Cleveland’s WR2. Michael Woods, DeAndre Carter, Diontae Johnson, and David Bell will vie for WR 3 duties. With David Njoku, the Browns were already set at tight end. However, they added promising Bowling Green rookie Harold Fannin Jr. in the third round. Njoku ranked 6th with 13.1 fantasy points per game, and Fannin set an FBS record with 117 receptions in 2024 for 1,555 yards. Cleveland only used multiple tight ends on 16.4 percent of their snaps in 2024, which ranked 22nd. The addition of Fannin and the lack of wideout depth indicate that rate will climb significantly in 2025. Fantasy Grade: D QB Flacco, Joe, CLE [QB1] It looks like Deshaun Watson (Achilles) won’t play in 2025. As insurance, the Cleveland Browns re-signed Joe Flacco as the transitional starter. Flacco famously went ham for the Browns in 2023, throwing for 323 yards and 2.6 touchdowns per game in a five-game stint to end the season and lead the Browns to the playoffs. We can’t expect that kind of production in the reunion, but Flacco is a reliable veteran who will push the ball downfield. As a pure passer, Flacco is a significant upgrade from anyone else on the roster, and good news for Cleveland pass catchers. ADVICE: Could post surprisingly decent numbers as a streaming option. QB Pickett, Kenny, CLE [QB2] The Browns first signed Kenny Pickett as insurance in case Deshaun Watson misses the 2025 season. Cleveland also added veteran Joe Flacco and drafted Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders. These additions will make it difficult for Pickett to make much of an impact this season. ADVICE: Only has modest Superflex appeal if he somehow wins Cleveland’s starting job. RB Judkins, Quinshon, CLE [RB1] Cleveland’s rushing attack struggled without Nick Chubb last season, ranking dead last in attempts (312) and 31st in yards (1,253). They also averaged just 4.0 yards per carry with a mere seven touchdowns. Browns’ backs caught 63 passes for 429 yards and one touchdown on 87 targets. Enter Quinshon Judkins from Ohio State, who scored 50 touchdowns in 42 games. Despite fewer carries in 2024 (194 versus 274 and 271 previously), he scored consistently and added 59 receptions for 442 yards and five touchdowns on 72 career targets. Judkins will replace Chubb in a Cleveland offense that wants to establish the run. UPDATE: Judkins is facing serious charges for an offseason domestic assault. We’re now recommending that fantasy managers fade the rookie. Only the Cleveland Browns. ADVICE: Great landing spot, but Judkins’s offseason arrest complicates his immediate and long-term future. RB Ford, Jerome, CLE [RB2] Jerome Ford went from backing up Nick Chubb to potentially playing behind two rookie rushers. Ford performed well as Cleveland’s top back last year, ranking top 10 in routes run (236), yards per touch (5.6), and explosive play rate (106.8). But with the Browns adding Quinshon Judkins in Round 2 and Dylan Sampson in Round 4, Ford won’t be able to match last year’s 54.1 percent snap share. Instead, Ford is more likely to be the change-of-pace and main passing down option, but with Judins’s availability now in doubt, he becomes a nice value target. ADVICE: Has some PPR value as a stash, or low-end flex option in deeper leagues. RB Sampson, Dylan, CLE [RB3] ADVICE: Tennessee’s all-time single-season TD record holder (22), Sampson has explosive acceleration. With Judkins now in doubt, Sampson has an outside shot at posting usable fantasy stats. He’s a strong late-round draft target. WR Jeudy, Jerry, CLE [WR1] No wide receiver ran more routes last year than Jerry Jeudy’s 700. Despite being hampered by a Cleveland offense that scored the fewest points in the league, Jeudy delivered WR16 overall numbers. His massive target load (144) and sheer volume of catches (90) were enough to overcome low touchdown production and eight drops. With Joe Flacco projected to open the season under center, Jeudy will remain heavily involved in Cleveland’s game plan. Jeudy was primarily targeted downfield in 2024, but his elite route-running should open up more underneath targets. That could lead to an increased
2025 Cincinnati Bengals Fantasy Preview
Cincinnati Bengals No team embodies the Tecmo Bowl spirit of ‘all offense, no defense, no punting’ mentality quite like the Cincinnati Bengals. By signing QB Joe Burrow, WR Ja’Marr Chase, and WR Tee Higgins to expensive long-term deals, the Bengals should field a potent offense for years to come, with little salary cap space to fortify a defense that ranked 25th in 2024. That makes Bengals players highly desirable fantasy targets. Burrow led the NFL with 4,918 passing yards and 43 touchdowns. He finished as fantasy’s QB2 after missing seven games in 2023. Playing behind a suspect offensive line, Burrow engineered an offense that ranked 6th in scoring (27.8), 8th in yards per play (5.8), and 10th in EPA per play (0.07). Burrow/Chase stacks won countless fantasy titles last season and will be one of the most sought-after stacks again in 2025. Defacto GM Duke Tobin evenly split Cincinnati’s six 2025 NFL Draft picks on defense and offense, targeting the trenches. Tobin did not address the RB position until he selected Tahj Brooks in the 6th round, cementing Chase Brown as a legitimate RB1 target. Brown produced 1,350 scrimmage yards and 11 scores despite not starting until Week 4. Brown scored 13-plus fantasy points in 12 of his 13 starts and will see plenty of touches in his third season. Ja’Marr Chase was fantasy football’s No. 1 wideout who commanded a league-high 175 targets. Those ample looks resulted in Chase pulling the receiving Triple Crown. Duplicating last year’s production will be difficult, but Chase warrants 1.01 attention in all leagues. Now locked into Cincinnati for four years, Tee Higgins ranked 5th with 18.7 PPR points per game, giving the Bengals the top duo in football. Higgins missed five games with hamstring and quad injuries but scored 12-plus fantasy points in nine of the 10 full games he played. Andrei Iosivas returns as the WR3 after the Bengals ignored the position in free agency and the draft. Iosivas will need to improve his consistency, but he is worth late-round consideration in deeper leagues. And just because the QB and wideouts got extensions didn’t exempt the tight ends. Mike Gesicki re-signed for three years and returns to lead Cincinnati’s TE rotation. Gesicki finished just outside TE1 range last season and ranked 12th with 83 targets. He’s a solid TE2 fantasy option but will continue to split playing time with Drew Sample and Erick All, who missed most of his rookie campaign. The Bengals should once again be able to score and surrender plenty of points. That makes targeting Cincinnati skill position players a solid investment on draft day. Fantasy Grade: A QB Burrow, Joe, CIN [QB1] Joe Burrow delivered a stellar 2024 fantasy season, leading the NFL in passing yards (4,918), touchdowns (43), and completions (460), while maintaining a 70.6 percent completion rate. He averaged 22-plus fantasy points per game, ranking as the QB3 overall. Burrow’s advanced metrics underscore his elite performance: he topped the league in pass attempts (652), red zone throws (126), and air yards (4,609). His 6.6 percent touchdown rate and 1.7 percent turnover-worthy play rate highlight his efficiency and decision-making. Paired with an elite supporting cast and a defense that will lead to fantasy-friendly game scripts, Burrow remains a top fantasy option in an expanding QB class. ADVICE: Still elite, but likely to be overdrafted. RB Brown, Chase, CIN [RB1] Chase Brown was one of last year’s biggest breakouts. After Zack Moss went down with a Week 8 neck injury, Brown became Cincinnati’s feature back. Starting in Week 9, Brown averaged 23.6 touches, 116.2 scrimmage yards, and housed six touchdowns. Moss is slated to return in a backup role, and the Bengals reunited with Samaje Perine, but Brown is expected to have a prominent role as the team’s three-down starter. Brown will see favorable game scripts in a Cincinnati offense projected to be among the highest-scoring NFL offenses. ADVICE: Finished as the RB10 last season and is poised to have a more prominent role in 2025. RB Moss, Zack, CIN [RB2] Moss opened the season as Cincinnati’s lead back, scoring 12-plus PPR points in three of the club’s first four games. But Moss’s lack of explosive plays resulted in him losing snaps to Chase Brown before a neck injury ended Moss’s season after Week 8. Now, Moss is clearly behind Brown on the depth chart. But the Bengals may hesitate to keep giving Brown over 23 touches per game, freeing up Moss to see early-down work. Even if Brown remains the bellcow, Moss is one of the top handcuffs to target in a Bengals’ offense that averaged 27.8 points per game last season. ADVICE: Handcuff to Chase Brown, who could factor in as a short-yardage option. WR Chase, Ja’Marr, CIN [WR1] Fresh off a historic Triple Crown season, Chase remains the premier fantasy wideout. With Joe Burrow healthy and Tee Higgins re-signed, defenses can’t focus solely on him. The Bengals had one of the most explosive passing games in the league, and they made no changes to the staff or players involved in the passing game. Expect elite volume, red-zone dominance, and explosive plays. He’s the consensus WR1 and a strong candidate for the No. 1 overall pick in PPR formats. ADVICE: Elite WR1 with league-winning upside—worthy of the top overall pick. WR Higgins, Tee, CIN [WR2] Tee Higgins quietly delivered an elite 2024 season when on the field, finishing sixth among wide receivers in fantasy points per game (18.5) despite missing five contests due to injury. He set career highs in touchdowns (10) and was a top-20 fantasy scorer in seven of his 12 games. Cincinnati once again leaned heavily on the pass, especially near the goal line, where Higgins thrived—his eight end-zone targets from inside the 3-yard line ranked second in the league, producing four scores. The Bengals return the same offensive core, and Higgins remains locked in as a starting outside receiver opposite Ja’Marr Chase. His touchdown upside and target share remain strong as
2025 Fantasy Football Rankings Update and Player News
2025 Fantasy Football Rankings Update 2025 Fantasy Football Rankings Update and Player News (July) Training camps haven’t even opened yet, but we’ve already got developments that impact our award-winning 2025 Fantasy Football Rankings. Staying updated on player news and notes is integral for keeping rankings and projections as accurate as possible. That necessitated a refresh to our preseason projections. Before we get into this July fantasy football rankings update, here are some links that will help in your preseason research and draft prep: Jody Smith’s Fantasy Football Rankings with Tiers (Members only) 2025 Team Previews Fantasy football tools High-Stakes strategy Player News Impacting Rankings In many cases, rookies have already begun arriving at training camps. However, most veterans will report next week. With practices looming, there has been a flurry of activity that resulted in an update to our projections. Rashee Rice Many people didn’t expect any resolution in Rashee Rice’s pending legal issues this season. However, out of nowhere, Rice pleaded guilty to two 3rd-degree felonies related to a high-speed crash in Dallas. I’m no later, but my good friend Drew Davenport is. Below, Davenport breaks it down: What’s the suspension going to be for Rashee Rice this year? We’ve got the Jordan Addison case dialed in (see the included tweet for that Update), but the Rice case is more complicated. Here’s my #FFLegalUpdate on what suspension to expect… 1/🧵https://t.co/abOR9whjsR — Drew Davenport (@DrewDavenportFF) July 18, 2025 It sounds like a suspension is looming in 2025 for Rice. Not next year, as many projected. The suspension could be anywhere from two to six games, with three to four most likely. This quells the notion that Rice is a top-20 fantasy wideout this season. I accounted for a ~4-game absence for Rice, which drops him down into WR4 territory. It also gives a slight boost to Xavier Worthy and Marquise Brown, with Brown moving up inside the top 60. Jordan Addison We also got some clarity on Jordan Addison’s looming suspension. Once again, consulting a legal expert, Addison is looking at a shorter suspension. It’s been a wild day with two legal situations being resolved on the same day. I’ll keep them separate for clarity. First up, an #FFLegalUpdate on Jordan Addison and a 2025 suspension from the NFL. 1/🧵 — Drew Davenport (@DrewDavenportFF) July 18, 2025 However, if he does indeed miss the 2-3 games that are currently projected, Addison becomes a touchdown-dependent WR3. That, and the QB change in Minnesota, makes Addison a volatile WR3. Who benefits? That’s TBD. Keep an eye on the Vikings’ WR3 job between Jalen Nailor and incoming rookie Tai Felton, who we like. Jauan Jennings Contract Set to make $7.5 million this season, Jauan Jennings has demanded a new contract or trade. Reportedly, Jennings is seeking $15-20 million annually. Jennings didn’t do a lot in his first three seasons before stepping up last year to deliver WR27 numbers. However, that opportunity only came after Deebo Samuel and Brandon Aiyuk struggled through injury-shortened 2024 campaigns. But with Samuel traded to Washington and Aiyuk expected to open the season on the PUP list, Jennings was set to open the season as Kyle Shanahan’s No. 1 wideout. Jennings, 28, has leverage. But it remains to be seen if John Lynch will engage a potential holdout. For now, I have not changed Jennings’s projections. However, the risk of missing preseason reps or a potential trade is worrisome. Quinshon Judkins Arrest More legal woes. Judkins was arrested for battery. It’s an inauspicious start for the rookie rusher’s career. With the release of the police report in the Quinshon Judkins case we have more information to dissect in figuring out his pending Battery charge. Here are some of my initial reactions to what’s contained in the report and how it impacts the final outcome.#FFLegalUpdate 1/ pic.twitter.com/bBFLd3YyMH — Drew Davenport (@DrewDavenportFF) July 14, 2025 It sounds like a lengthy suspension is looming for Judkins. He had RB3/flex potential, but he’s now a total fade for us. My update has Judkins below Jerome Ford, who looks like a solid mid-to-late round target. Also, fellow rookie Dylan Sampson has some late-round sleeper appeal. Mike Williams Retires After eight NFL seasons, Mike Williams, 30, retired. A first-round pick in 2017, Williams played 18 games last year but only managed to snag 21 passes. Injuries sapped his explosiveness. In fact, per FantasyPoint’s Average Separation Score (ASS), Williams was one of the worst separators in the NFL. He simply couldn’t get open any longer. While Williams’s retirement will give more targets to Quentin Johnston, Johnston is also near the bottom in creating separation. Ladd McConkey is the only Chargers’ wideout who can consistently get open. Could a reunion with Keenan Allen be looming? Stock Report 📈 Drake Maye D’Andre Swift Jerome Ford Roschon Johnson Dylan Sampson Brashard Smith Jakobi Meyers Ricky Pearsall Hollywood Brown Tai Felton Dont’e Thornton Savion Williams David Njoku 📉 Baker Mayfield James Cook Joe Mixon Trey Benson Terry McLaurin Rashod Bateman Tre Harris Ray-Ray McCloud Jonnu Smith WARNING! Don’t let a fancy website fool you! You need trustworthy rankings to win at fantasy football. We’ve got them! 150+ websites ranked us Top 2 in the industry for our draft rankings. Get expert advice from Captain Jody Smith and our team of high-stakes winners. Use code JODY30 for 30% off your first two months. Ready to bring home that championship? Click NOW!
2025 Baltimore Ravens Fantasy Preview
2025 Baltimore Ravens Fantasy Preview The Ravens won the formidable AFC North for the second consecutive season but fell to the Bills in a heartbreaking AFC Divisional Playoff loss. For GM Eric DeCosta and head coach John Harbaugh, reinforcing the offensive line and secondary were the top priorities for a roster that sits atop the NFL with a preseason over/under of 11.5 wins. QB Lamar Jackson had the finest season of his career en route to an overall QB1 finish. Jackson threw for a career-best 4.172 yards and 41 touchdowns while leading the position with 915 rushing yards. Jackson has zero bust games and accounted for multiple scores in 15 of his final 17 games, including the postseason. Securing Jackson on draft day will be expensive, but he’s one of the safest bets in fantasy for managers looking to secure an elite quarterback early. Derrick Henry (31) is old for a running back, but he is a unique physical freak who showed no signs of slowing down. He led the AFC with 1,921 rushing yards and scored a career-high 18 touchdowns. In his age-30 season, Henry forced the most missed tackles (89) and most breakaway runs (30) of his career. There are no metrics that indicate Henry is past his prime. He’s the perfect fit in Todd Monken’s offense and in fantasy lineups. Ancillary back Justice Hill averaged a solid 8.5 fantasy points as Baltimore’s change-of-pace runner. Hill never received more than five carries in a regular-season game but corralled 42-of-51 targets. He’s a solid handcuff target for Henry managers and offers some weekly flex appeal in deeper PPR leagues. The Ravens add WR DeAndre Hopkins in free agency. Nuk saw steep drop-offs in yards after catch, yards per route run, and ADOT- all signs of a declining player. However, he still has tremendous hands and compiled a 54.2% contested catch rate. He has the potential to be a good possession option for Jackson, with plus red-zone potential. Zay Flowers finished one spot out of WR2 range with a solid 74/1,059/4 sophomore campaign. Flowers was most effective between the numbers, which bodes well for his potential to continue to ascend into the top-20 wideout range with Hopkins and Rashod Bateman commanding attention. Bateman broke out with a career-high nine scores, but is highly unlikely to approach last year’s gaudy stats as the fourth option. Baltimore has a pair of standout tight ends. Mark Andrews led all tight ends with 11 touchdowns and finished as the overall TE6 after a slow start. Isaiah Likely finished 16th with a 42/477/6 showing that included five weekly TE1 finishes. Andrews is on the TE1/2 radar, and Likely is a high-upside mid-to-late round depth target. Fantasy managers should also take note of sixth-round PK Tyler Loop from Arizona, who is the first kicker drafted in franchise history and is expected to take over for Justin Tucker. Fantasy Grade: B+ QB Jackson, Lamar, BAL [QB1] In his third season in Todd Monken’s system, Lamar Jackson posted QB1 overall numbers. He threw for a career-high 4,172 yards and 41 touchdowns against only four interceptions. Jackson has jelled in this offense, posting a +11.6 EPA when under pressure and leading the NFL in passing EPA versus zone coverage and against 2-high looks. In addition to becoming an elite passer, Jackson also ran for a position-leading 915 yards. Jackson is a cheat code that has improved each season in Monken’s offense. He’ll have a hard time topping last year’s numbers, but Jackson is locked in top-3 signal caller. ADVICE: Dual-threat weapon primed for another elite run. RB Henry, Derrick, BAL [RB1] Have you seen Derrick Henry’s workout regimen? If anyone can defeat Father Time, it’s Henry. At 30, when most mortal running backs are retired, Henry set a personal-best with 2,191 scrimmage yards and 5.9 yards per carry. He was second in the league in carries (325), rushing (1,921), and touchdowns (18). Henry was PFF’s top-graded running back and forced a league-high 89 missed tackles. There are no signs that Henry is slowing down in an offense that calls over 32 runs per game, the 2nd-most in the NFL. Finally, Henry won’t catch many passes, which puts him a notch below the elite, three-down studs. ADVICE: The best pure runner in the league, in the perfect offense. RB Hill, Justice, BAL [RB2] Derrick Henry stayed healthy, but Hill still received enough touches to finish as a top 40 running back in PPR leagues. That production’s main driver was putting up career-best numbers (42/j383/3) as an outlet receiver. Hill did not garner more than five carries in any regular-season tilt. He’s not a traditional handcuff because the Ravens wouldn’t use Hill or any other back in the same way they utilize Henry. However, Hill has some RB5/6 value as the Ravens’ main pass-catching weapon. ADVICE: Don’t count on another top-40 finish, but Hill has some value as a receiver. WR Flowers, Zay, BAL [WR1] Zay Flowers’s sophomore numbers were strikingly similar to his rookie season. He ranked 30th in fantasy points during his rookie season and 25th in 2024. Last year, he was top-20 in targets (116), target share (25.7 percent), and yards (1,059). However, Flowers only had four WR1/2 weeks, with two dud outings (not including Week 18). He has settled in as a dependable weekly source of targets and catches, who will occasionally pop a huge play (10th in YAC and 11th in deep targets). That makes him a high-upside WR3/flex option in the NFL’s top-ranked offense. ADVICE: Steady WR3 who offers weekly WR1 upside. WR Bateman, Rashod, BAL [WR2] Bust After averaging 78.5 fantasy points per season in three years, Rashod Bateman exploded to finish with 174.6 points in 2024. The main reason- he jumped up to nine touchdowns after scoring four total in three years. Not only was last season an outlier, it’s also not sustainable. Bateman only averaged 3.9 targets per game, scoring on six of his nine red-zone targets. DeAndre Hopkins will also
2025 New York Jets Fantasy Preview
2025 New York Jets Fantasy Preview The New York Jets entered the 2025 offseason aiming to rebuild after a disastrous 5-12 season in 2024, marked by the failure of the Aaron Rodgers experiment and the longest active playoff drought in American professional sports (14 years). Under new head coach Aaron Glenn and general manager Darren Mougey, the Jets adopted a measured approach, focusing on youth, depth, and fortifying the offensive line while addressing defensive and skill-position needs. Priority One for the Jets was to get younger and more athletic and quarterback. Enter Justin Fields, who signed a two-year, $40 million deal. Fields may not be the long-term answer to a fan base that has mostly never experienced a franchise signal caller. Still, he can be a formidable running weapon who offers enough potential as a passer to contend for QB1 numbers. In six starts for Pittsburgh a year ago, Fields averaged 18.9 fantasy points per game, which would have ranked seventh at the position. However, much of Fields’s production is based on his elite rushing upside. The Jets have a surplus of young running backs and lack proven pass catchers. That relegates Fields to QB2 territory, but one that has a high ceiling, particularly in best ball formats. Speaking of New York’s backfield, the club ranked 31st in rushing behind a line that ranked 28th in run-block win rate and allowed 48 sacks (27th). New offensive coordinator Tanner Engstrand will employ a run-heavy, play-action scheme that the additions of first-round OT Armand Membou and veteran RT Chukwuma Okorafor will reinforce. Breece Hall’s numbers fell off after breaking out in 2023. Selected in the first round of many fantasy drafts, Hall declined to 876 rushing yards and 56 receptions. He still averaged 15.3 fantasy points per game, but the new regime has talked up using a three-man backfield this season. That and Fields’s presence keep Hall in RB2 territory. Braelon Allen and Isaiah Davis will also be involved, but should be viewed only as handcuffs to Hall. No. 1 wideout Garrett Wilson was tied for 4th in targets (153) and ranked 9th with 253.3 PPR points. While Wilson is reportedly excited to be reunited with his former Ohio State teammate at quarterback, Fields has never attempted more than 370 passes in the NFL. Aaron Rodgers threw 584 last season. For Wilson to earn a similar target number this season, he would have to command an impossible 41.3 percent target share. Wilson is an elite wideout, but regression is in order. New York has little depth after Wilson. Allen Lazard and fourth-round rookie Arian Smith will vie for targets in an offense that projects to be bottom-10 in passing attempts. Second-round LSU tight end Mason Taylor takes over for Tyler Conklin and could be heavily involved from Day One. Taylor (6-5, 255 pounds) set an LSU record for tight ends with 129 catches. Taylor was the youngest player in the 2025 NFL Draft, has NFL bloodlines, and the skill set to make an immediate fantasy impact. Fantasy Grade: C QB Fields, Justin, NYJ [QB1] Sleeper Justin Fields has dealt with plenty of adversity, from a lame-duck head coach, revolving door of offensive coordinators, lack of talent, and a porous offensive line. Yet, Fields posted two top-10 showings in fantasy points per game while starting in Chicago. Most of that boils down to Fields being an elite runner, but his passing numbers and ability to lead an offense were enough for the QB-starved Jets. New York is similar to those Bears squads in employing a lack of receivers and a poor offensive line. But maybe that’s just what Fields needs to resurrect his career- and fantasy value. ADVICE: Elite rushing upside puts Fields in QB1/2 territory. QB Taylor, Tyrod, NYJ [QB2] The Jets signed Justin Fields to a 2-year deal. But Fields has never played a full season in the NFL. New York also wisely secured Taylor, a veteran backup who is more than capable of running Tanner Engstrand’s offense. Both players ran a 4.51 40 (99th percentile) at their respective NFL Combines. Taylor has been a solid veteran for over a decade and has slightly higher career completion and QB ratings than Fields. If Fields has another injury, which happens frequently with his style, Taylor can be more than capable of chipping in weekly QB2 stats. ADVICE: Justin Fields handcuff to consider in deeper Superflex leagues. RB Hall, Breece, NYJ [RB1] Hall did not live up to his first-round ADP, but it wasn’t a total loss. Hall led all running backs with 423 routes run and was 4th in receptions (57) and receiving yards (483). However, Hall wasn’t as effective as a runner. His breakaway rate declined by 35 percent, his yards after contact per attempt dropped from 3.41 to 3.04, and he fumbled six times. New head coach Aaron Glenn has stated that Hall could be put into a three-man committee. ADVICE: Still plenty of big-play potential, but there is some boom-or-bust potential with targeting Hall as an RB2. RB Allen, Braelon, NYJ [RB2] Braelon Allen posted a 96th-percentile Speed Score at the 2024 NFL Combine, but that didn’t translate onto the field. Allen averaged a meager 3.6 yards in his 92 carries as a rookie. He fared better as a receiver, snagging 19 balls for 148 yards and a score. New head coach Aaron Glenn plans to use multiple backs for the Jets, but Allen is clearly behind Breece Hall. Allen (6-1, 235) has the size to be a factor in short-yardage situations, so that role is worth monitoring. He’s an RB4/5 in his sophomore season. ADVICE: RB4/5 that could see his role grow with New York’s new staff. RB Davis, Isaiah, NYJ [RB3] ADVICE: In one of Aaron Glenn’s press conferences at the NFL Combine, he said, “I would say that we have three running backs on this team that we’re gonna utilize as much as possible.” That could be coach speak, but Davis averaged 5.8 yards
2025 New England Patriots Fantasy Preview
2025 New England Patriots Fantasy Preview The New England Patriots entered the 2025 offseason with a clear mandate to rebuild around second-year quarterback Drake Maye after consecutive 4-13 seasons in 2023 and 2024. With new head coach Mike Vrabel, the most cap space in the NFL ($120 million), and nine draft picks, the Patriots focused on bolstering the offensive line, adding playmakers for Maye, and reinforcing the defense. Maye far exceeded expectations in Year One. Despite playing behind the second-worst pass-blocking line and a questionable group of pass-catchers, Maye showed real promise. In 10 starts where Maye attempted 20-plus passes, he averaged 223.1 passing yards with 15 TD passes and 10 interceptions. He also chipped in another 41 yards with two more scores on the ground. That’s a 17-game pace of 3,793 passing yards, 697 rushing yards, and 29 total touchdowns. Even better, GM Eliot Wolf invested the No. 4 pick on OT Will Campbell, the premier tackle in the 2025 NFL Draft. Additional reinforcements and the arrival of Vrable bring a renewed sense of optimism to New England for the first time in three years. Second-round RB TreVeyon Henderson is one of those upgrades for a Patriots’ offense that ranked 31st in 2024. New England’s rushing attack ranked 26th in yards per carry (4.0) and 28th in EPA per rush (-0.08). Henderson’s 8.1 percent explosive run rate complements Rhamondre Stevenson (6-0, 227 lbs, 4.2 YPC) and Antonio Gibson (6-0, 228 lbs, PFF grade: 75.4), forming a dynamic backfield. Henderson is an excellent blocker and offers three-down potential in an ascending offense. Another significant addition for the club was signing WR Stefon Diggs to a three-year deal. Diggs is coming off a torn ACL but is expected to be ready for Week 1. Diggs brings slot/perimeter flexibility and an alpha mentality to a unit that sorely needed a veteran infusion. Third-round rookie WR Kyle Williams boasts 4.4 speed and excellent downfield ball skills. Williams also scored 14 touchdowns for Washington State and provides much-needed speed on the perimeter. With Diggs and Williams outside, Demario Douglas will remain a consistent source of targets in the slot. Douglas should be a reliable, high-floor source of targets. Maye relied on his tight ends a ton last year. New offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels prefers versatile tight ends, which bodes well for Hunter Henry, who is coming off a TE11 finish. Henry will likely see more in-line snaps, where he can’t be put in favorable mismatches. New England also re-signed Austin Hooper, who caught 45 balls for 476 yards and three scores last season. Fantasy Grade: C QB Maye, Drake, NE [QB1] There is a lot of hype around Drake Maye after a rookie season that resulted in 17 total touchdowns and 10 interceptions. Maye made a mark as a runner, where he led the league with 7.8 yards per rush. He wasn’t as effective as a passer. In 10 full games, Maye topped 250 yards only twice. He also ranked 30th in adjusted yards per attempt (5.7) and 28th in air yards (190.8/game). But the additions of veteran WR Stefon Diggs and a pair of rookies (RB TreVeyon Henderson, WR Kyle Williams) will help. ADVICE: Rushing upside puts him in upside QB2 range. QB Dobbs, Joshua, NE [QB2] After trading Joe Milton, the Patritos signed journeyman Josh Dobbs as a mentor and insurance for Drake Maye, who missed four games in his rookie season with separate hand and head injuries. Dobbs was decent with extended playing time in 2023 and boasts a 103.4 Athletic Score. He performs well as a runner but is more limited than Maye as a passer. If a Maye injury occurs, Dobbs has some QB2 streaming appeal. But he is better off left on the waiver wire. ADVICE: Potentially a streamer if Drake Maye is injured. RB Henderson, TreVeyon, NE [RB1] Sleeper TreVeyon Henderson dazzled in his freshman year, with 184 carries for 1,255 yards and 15 touchdowns. He added 27 catches for 312 yards and four scores. Injuries and sharing carries with Quinshon Judkins later curbed his role, but his career 77 catches for 853 yards and six touchdowns on 95 targets, paired with a 4.43 40-yard dash, and 91st-percentile Speed Score, showcase his potential. Unfortunately, the presence of Rhamondre Stevenson complicates Henderson’s early role. However, he’s a better runner than Stevenson and had no fumbling issues at Ohio State. ADVICE: Potential three-down speedster is the most explosive back in New England. High-upside RB3. RB Stevenson, Rhamondre, NE [RB2] New England wanted to add speed to their backfield and did so by adding TreVeyon Henderson with the 38th pick of the 2025 NFL Draft. Stevenson has regressed for two consecutive years. He ranked 39th in yards per touch (4.0) last season, led all running backs with seven fumbles, and ranked 140th with a (-39.1) EPA. Mike Vrabel will likely start with a committee, but Henderson checks all the boxes to emerge as New England’s best back. That makes Stevenson a change-of-pace option with some plus pass-catching and red-zone value. ADVICE: More likely to be New England’s 1B than 1A, Stevenson has middling RB3 value. RB Gibson, Antonio, NE [RB3] Gibson was in and out of the starting lineup last season. Overall, he compiled 744 scrimmage yards and a single score on 143 touches (RB47). However, with TreVeyon Henderson now in the fold, it will be hard for Gibson to command enough touches to be fantasy-relevant. WR Diggs, Stefon, NE [WR1] Diggs saw a 52.8 percent slot rate last season in Houston before he tore his ACL. Now 31 and coming off a major knee injury, that inside usage makes sense for the Patriots, who desperately needed wide receiver help. Diggs posted top-20 weekly numbers in four of his eight games last season, catching four-plus balls in every game. Sans much established target competition in New England, Diggs will be the team’s No. 1 wideout. Reportedly, Diggs is running ahead of pace in his recovery, putting him tentatively in
2025 Miami Dolphins Fantasy Preview
2025 Miami Dolphins Fantasy Preview Despite having the easiest schedule in the NFL in the last 25 years, the Miami Dolphins sputtered to an 8-9 record and missed the playoffs. Now, pressure may be mounting for GM Chris Grier and head coach Mike McDaniel, who must quickly rebuild the trenches on both sides and navigate injury and off-the-field woes. The chief concern for the Dolphins is keeping QB Tua Tagovailoa healthy. Tagovailoa has a well-chronicled concussion history and can ill afford to put himself in a position to take another big hit. Worse, a Dolphins’ offensive line that ranked 20th in pass protection also lost LT Terron Armstead, who retired. Tagovailoa has missed 3-plus games in four of his five seasons and ranked just 16th in fantasy points per game last season. There is too much risk to consider Tagovailoa anything more than an adequate fantasy QB2 with modest week-to-week streaming appeal. A popular breakout pick last summer, RB De’Von Achane stayed healthy and lived up to those lofty expectations. The second-year dynamo ranked 5th in PPR scoring and led all running backs in receptions (78) and touchdown grabs (6). Raheem Mostert departed in free agency, leaving Jaylen Wright and Alexander Mattison as the only competition for touches. Achane should be viewed as an elite fantasy option who will command a second-round price tag in redraft formats. Miami led the league with 401.3 yards of offense per game in 2023 but fell to 20th last year, averaging 75 fewer yards per contest. Injuries played a big part in that, as Jaylen Waddle missed a pair of games and Tyreek Hill battled a wrist injury all season. Now, Hill is rumored to be on the trade block after some bizarre social media posts and on domestic incident clouded his future. A healthy Hill is still one of the most dynamic weapons in football, but he’s a risky WR2 in fantasy. Waddle failed to accrue 100 targets for the first time in his career, resulting in his worst fantasy performance. There’s some rebound potential here, especially if Hill is absent. Waddle is an upside WR3 in PPR formats. Nick Westbrook-Ikhine will be a WR3 upgrade over Odell Beckham and Malik Washington, who slides down to this year’s WR4 role. At tight end, Jonnu Smith proved to be a savvy late-round target, finishing as the overall TE4 on a career-high 111 targets. We don’t expect Smith to repeat that production, but the Dolphins will see plenty of fantasy-friendly game scripts and return more-or-less intact. Smith is a solid second-tier TE1 to target in the middle rounds. Fantasy Grade: B- QB Tagovailoa, Tua, MIA [QB1] Tua Tagovailoa’s 2025 fantasy outlook hinges on health and efficiency in Miami’s high-octane offense. In 2024, he posted a league-best 72.9% completion rate, 2,867 yards, 19 TDs, and 7 INTs in 11 starts, with a 2.36-second time-to-throw and 5.1 air yards per attempt, showcasing quick, precise decision-making. However, his injury history—missing six games (concussion, hip)—makes him a high-risk QB2. There are also concerns about Hill’s status on the roster, which increases the risk. Tagovailoa adds little as a runner, which caps his upside. It’s hard to envision a path to top 12 numbers, making him a mid-range QB2. ADVICE: Risky QB2 that may have already peaked. RB Achane, De’Von, MIA [RB1] After a dynamic rookie season, De’Von Achane again was one of the most efficient fantasy options. Despite seeing a middling 59.1 percent opportunity share (24th), Achane finished as the RB6, averaging 17.6 PPR points per game. The main catalyst for that production came via his high-volume role in Miami’s passing attack. Achane was essentially the Dolphins’ WR3. He led all RBs in receptions (78), receiving yards (592), and TD grabs (6). Raheem Mostert is gone, and Miami didn’t add any real competition to reduce Achane’s touches. He looks primed to post another top-5 season in 2025. ADVICE: Elite pass-catching potential keeps Achane in top-5 fantasy territory. RB Mattison, Alexander, MIA [RB2] ADVICE: Mattison has averaged under four yards per carry in four consecutive seasons. He’s not taking carries away from De’Von Achane. He can, however, play in short-yardage or give Achane a breather. Mattison profiles as a middling handcuff in deeper leagues. RB Wright, Jaylen, MIA [RB3] Had his moments as a rookie, but Wright will compete with Alexander Mattison for backup duties. WR Hill, Tyreek, MIA [WR1] Last season, Hill started strong (7/130/1) but struggled midseason (48/571/3), hampered by wrist and foot injuries. He rebounded in Weeks 14 and 17 but ended weakly. His 11.8 yards per catch was a career low. Even in a down season (by his standards), Hill still ranked 16th in targets (122) and caught 81 balls for 959 yards and half a dozen scores. Quarterback woes were the biggest factor in the drop-off, but off-the-field concerns also hold down his potential. At 31, Hill’s 2024 decline ranks him as a mid-tier WR2, with his value tied to Tagovailoa’s health. ADVICE: Boom/Bust WR2 with a massive ceiling. WR Waddle, Jaylen, MIA [WR2] After Tyreek Hill joined Miami, Jaylen Waddle’s explosiveness grew, though his 2022 targets dropped to 117 from 141. He recorded 75 catches for 1,356 yards and eight touchdowns, averaging 18.1 yards per catch. In 2023, injuries limited him to 14 games, with 72 catches for 1,014 yards and four touchdowns, his lowest marks in three years. Last season, Waddle’s yards per catch fell to 12.8, with 58 catches and two touchdowns, underperforming in 10 of 15 starts. His best games (5/109, 8/144/1, 9/99) were at home. As a mid-tier WR3, Waddle’s high ceiling offers value in 2025 drafts. ADVICE: Declining output makes him a solid value, dependent on his QB staying healthy. WR Westbrook-Ikhine, Nick, MIA [WR3] Don’t overreact to last season’s gaudy TD numbers. NWI won’t get many targets as Miami’s WR3. WR Washington, Malik, MIA [WR4] Mike McDaniel tends not to incorporate his ancillary receivers into the weekly game plan often. Washington had some early offseason hype, but
2025 Buffalo Bills Fantasy Preview
2025 Buffalo Bills Fantasy Preview After ranking 9th in both passing and rushing last season, the 2025 Buffalo Bills return mostly intact. Most of Buffalo’s offseason changes came on the defensive side of the ball. They released Von Miller, traded Kaiir Elam, and added DE Joey Bosa. Additionally, the first three picks in the 2025 NFL Draft bolstered Sean McDermott’s defense. However, extensions for Josh Allen and Khalil Shakir assure that the Bills should remain a potent offense for years to come. Allen’s numbers dipped a bit in 2024. He had his lowest passing yards (3,731) and touchdown (28) output in five years. However, Allen ran for a dozen scores and finished as a top-3 fantasy quarterback for the fifth consecutive season. He remains an elite option and is one of the safest bets on draft day for fantasy managers willing to secure an elite signal caller early. RB James Cook posted his second-straight 1,000-yard rushing season and tied for the league lead with 16 rushing scores. His overall production was down from 2023, and he is now seeking a long-term extension as he enters the final year of his rookie deal. Seeing such a huge spike in one-year touchdowns and potentially missing offseason reps due to the contract impasse are concerns. But the Bills did not address running back in the draft, making Cook a strong RB2 with RB1 upside. Ray Davis chipped in 631 scrimmage yards and six scores in a secondary role. Depending on how the Cook contract situation plays out, Davis looks like a strong late-round value target. The Bills didn’t add any significant depth at wideout, ignoring the position until the 7th round. Fresh off his extension, Khalil Shakir looks secure as the No. 1 wideout. Shakir had the best season of his career and ranked 12th in the NFL with a 72.1 percent slot rate. But after Shakir, things are less predictable. Speedy Joshua Palmer’s three-year, $29 million deal indicates he is locked into the WR2 role and will act as Allen’s downfield playmaker. Amari Cooper is a free agent, freeing up more potential playing time for Keon Coleman. Curtis Samuel adds depth and could surpass Coleman if the second-year wideout doesn’t become more consistent. After a strong rookie showing, Dalton Kincaid fell off. He missed four games with a knee injury and wasn’t utilized downfield as much. Dawson Knox also remained involved, averaging a career-high 14.1 yards per reception. Kincaid still posted the 13th-best PFF grade for tight ends with more than 30 targets, so there’s reason to think Kincaid can be a borderline TE1 again if he remains healthy. Fantasy Grade: B QB Allen, Josh, BUF [QB1] Josh Allen’s numbers dipped in 2024, yet he still ranked inside the top-3 fantasy signal-callers for the fifth consecutive season and won an NFL MVP. That consistency puts Allen in elite company and is why he’s our top QB in 2025. After surpassing 4,000 passing yards for four straight seasons, Allen slipped to 3,731 with 28 scores last season. However, he supplemented that with elite rushing production, including 12 rushing scores. That dual-threat capability and tremendous durability make Allen one of the safest bets in fantasy. The Bills having a top-5 easiest schedule this year only cements Allen’s elite status. ADVICE: Elite option in every format worthy of an early selection. RB Cook, James, BUF [RB1] After never topping two rushing touchdowns in a season, James Cook exploded for a league-high (tied) 16 scores in 2024 en route to an overall RB8 finish. Cook topped 1,000 rushing yards for the second consecutive season, ranked 3rd in EPA (+40.1), and was top-12 in broken tackle rate (11.1 percent). Understandably, Cook is looking for some long-term security, but as long as he’s back in the lineup for the season opener, he remains a quality RB2 in a potent Buffalo offense that produced an NFL-best 32 rushing touchdowns last season. ADVICE: Last season’s TD output looks like an outlier, which could lead to Cook being overdrafted. RB Davis, Ray, BUF [RB2] In 2024, Ray Davis rushed for 442 yards (3.9 YPC) and three touchdowns on 113 carries, adding three receiving TDs (17 receptions, 5.9 PPG, PPR). His Week 18 start (15/64/1, 2/1/1) and Week 6 outburst (20/97, 3/55) show RB2 upside if James Cook (RB9, 5.2 YPC) misses time. At 5-8 and weighing 211 pounds, with a 4.52 40-yard dash, Davis’s 3.81 yards after contact (751 total) highlight his power. Buffalo was top 10 in rushing and led the NFL in rushing scores, so Davis should be on the fantasy radar as a potentially valuable reserve. ADVICE: Handcuff target who will occasionally post standalone flex numbers. RB Johnson, Ty, BUF [RB3] ADVICE: Buffalo ranked 8th with 28.9 rushes per game. Johnson did see 25 targets last year and averaged over five yards per carry, but he is squarely behind James Cook and Ray Davis in the touch pecking order. WR Shakir, Khalil, BUF [WR1] In his third season, Khalil Shakir topped the Bills’ receivers with 76 receptions, 821 yards, and four touchdowns on 100 targets, ranking 37th in PPR wide receiver scoring (182.5 points). His standout games (nine catches for 107 yards and five catches for 106 yards with a touchdown) showed reliability over explosive plays, surpassing 10 fantasy points in 14 of 18 starts, making him a steady flex option in three-receiver leagues. With seven or fewer targets in 73.7 percent of games, Shakir’s 78.3 percent catch rate highlighted his efficiency. His four-year, $60.2 million extension in February 2025 underscores Buffalo’s confidence in his growth. ADVICE: Reliable WR3 with 1,000-yard potential. WR Palmer, Joshua, BUF [WR2] In 2024, Joshua Palmer underwhelmed in the Chargers’ run-first attack. Palmer had three standout games (4 catches for 63 yards; 2 for 63 yards, 1 TD; 6 for 78 yards) but saw four or fewer targets in 10 of 15 games. His 15.3 yards per catch (15.0 in 2023) highlights his deep-threat role, unlike his 2022 career highs (72 catches,
Fantasy Football Injury Report
Summer is here, which means fantasy football draft season is just around the corner. Winter seems like a long time ago, and that means football fanatics have likely forgotten about injuries that could impact players’ status on draft day. FullTime‘s Fantasy Football Injury Report catches you up on the latest injury news ahead of redraft season. Some of these players had offseason ‘clean-up’ procedures. Meanwhile, others were hurt late in 2024, and we may have forgotten about those injuries. Here is the latest fantasy football injury report and how those ailments may impact 2025 drafts. Quarterbacks Dak Prescott (Dallas Cowboys) – A hamstring injury cost Prescott half of the 2024 season. However, he was on the field during OTAS, indicating that he is fully recovered. A fully healthy Prescott has a ton of sleeper appeal as a borderline QB1 who can be drafted late. Trevor Lawrence (Jacksonville Jaguars) – Lawrence had surgery on his non-throwing AC joint in December and dealt with a concussion. He participated in light duty while wearing an arm sleeve during OTAs. Reports indicate Lawrence is progressing well and will be a full participant in the preseason. Anthony Richardson (Indianapolis Colts) – One of last season’s most-hyped players, it’s been a steep and sudden decline for Anthony Richardson. From his erratic passing to the latest news that he aggravated the AC joint injury that limited his 2024 season, Richardson could lose his starting job to Daniel Jones. Richardson is currently expected to be back and compete with Jones in camp, but is barely draftable in single-QB formats. Deshaun Watson (Cleveland Browns) – Recovering from a torn Achilles, Watson is out of his walking boot and was throwing on the sidelines during OTAs. These are positive developments, as Watson appears to be ahead of pace in his recovery and keeping him away from massages. Still, with Joe Flacco and two rookies, the Browns won’t be in any hurry to rush him back into action. Running Backs Christian McCaffrey (San Francisco 49ers) – CMC has ‘zero restrictions’ in San Francisco’s offseason program. That’s great news for a player who suffered through an injury-marred 2024 campaign. Fantasy managers know the risk. When healthy, McCaffrey is at or near the top of the RB leaderboards. But the frequent injuries can be debilitating for fantasy rosters. One of the biggest risk/reward picks of the year. Joe Mixon (Houston Texans) – Mixon sat out OTAs while sporting a walking boot. The undiagnosed injury was listed as “minor,” but it is a worrisome development. Additionally, the signing of Nick Chubb is another blow to Mixon’s fantasy appeal. Earlier this offseason, Mixon was a strong RB2 value. Now, he is a considerably riskier investment. Jonathon Brooks (Carolina Panthers) – The Panthers placed Brooks (knee) on the season-ending PUP list on May 8. After only nine carries in his rookie campaign, the much-heralded running back will miss his sophomore season. Brooks is barely relevant in dynasty leagues and has no redraft value. Wide Receivers Amon-Ra St. Brown (Detroit Lions) – One of the league’s best wideouts, St. Brown was sidelined during OTAs after undergoing a clean-up procedure on his right knee during the offseason. The surgery was considered minor and isn’t expected to impact his 2025 availability. Hopefully, it’s just procedural caution on the Lions’ part. Tyreek Hill (Miami Dolphins) – The wrist injury that lingered for most of last season is no longer considered a factor. However, it was a rough offseason for Hill, who remains a somewhat risky WR2 with top-5 upside if he and Tua Tagovailoa can stay off the fantasy football injury report. Chris Godwin (Tampa Bay Buccaneers) – Godwin is working his way back from his season-ending Week 7 ankle injury. GM Jason Licht indicated that he expects Godwin to be on the field for Week 1. Stefon Diggs (New England Patriots) – Diggs was at OTAs, which bodes well for his 2025 availability. He tore his ACL in October but is already back participating in speedboat practice activities. He’s got a decent shot at being ready for Week 1. David Bell (Cleveland Browns) – Bell missed most of 2024 after suffering a season-ending dislocated hip in Week 2. He should be back to compete for the WR4 role in the preseason. Expected to Miss Time in 2025 Brandon Aiyuk (San Francisco 49ers) – Head coach Kyle Shanahan indicated that Aiyuk (knee) is a candidate to open the season on the PUP list. If that happens, he’ll miss at least the first four games. Aiyuk tore his ACL in late October and won’t participate in the preseason. He’s a risk/reward target in the middle rounds. Christian Watson (Green Bay Packers) – The oft-injured Watson tore his ACL. However, that latest injury occurred in Week 18. Even an optimistic recovery timetable would see Watson missing at least half of this season. The addition of first-round rookie WR Matthew Golden tells us all we need to know about Watson’s (lack of) 2025 potential. Tank Dell (Houston Texans) – As a reminder, Dell is not expected to play in 2025. He suffered a devastating leg injury in Week 16. Dell dislocated his knee, tore his ACL, MCL, and LCL, and also injured his meniscus. The Texans added two Iowa State wide receivers on Day Two, all but signaling that Dell won’t play in 2025. Trent Taylor (San Francisco 49ers) – Taylor was placed on season-ending IR Moose Muhammad III (Carolina Panthers) – The undrafted free agent out of Texas A&M, Muhammad was waived with an injury designation. He went unclaimed on waivers and reverted to Carolina’s injured reserve. Tight Ends Kyle Pitts (Atlanta Falcons) – Pitts missed OTAs with a foot injury but has been present in the building for team meetings. He will return for training camp. Colston Loveland (Chicago Bears) – Chicago’s first-round rookie had offseason shoulder surgery, and it’s unknown if he will be fully ready to participate in camp when it opens. Taysom Hill (New Orleans Saints) –
FFWC High-Stakes Strategy (2025)
Fantasy Football World Championship (FFWC) Strategy for 2025: A Comprehensive Guide The Fantasy Football World Championship (FFWC) is one of the most prestigious high-stakes fantasy football competitions, attracting top-tier players who compete for significant cash prizes and bragging rights. With the 2025 fantasy football season here, crafting a winning strategy requires a blend of preparation, adaptability, and a deep understanding of the FFWC’s unique format. This article delves into detailed strategies for dominating your FFWC drafts and in-season management, leveraging insights from industry experts, recent trends, and the evolving landscape of fantasy football in 2025. Understanding the FFWC Format The FFWC is a high-stakes fantasy football competition with entry fees that can reach four or five figures, making every decision critical. The format typically includes: Scoring: Full-point PPR (points per reception), which emphasizes players with high target volumes, particularly wide receivers and pass-catching running backs. Starting Lineups: 1 QB, 2 RBs, 3 WRs, 1 TE, 1 FLEX (RB/WR/TE), 1 DST, and no kickers. This setup prioritizes depth at skill positions. Draft Structure: 18-round drafts with no in-draft trades, requiring precise player selection and roster construction. Roster Management: Weekly Free Agent Acquisition Budget (FAAB) and First-Come-First-Serve (FCFS) systems for waiver wire pickups. Prizes: League prizes of $500 per league and a grand prize exceeding $150,000, with the Circa Fantasy Football World Championships offering additional live event incentives in Las Vegas from August 10 to September 6, 2025. The FFWC’s high-stakes nature and competitive player pool demand a strategic approach that balances risk and reward while capitalizing on the latest trends in the NFL and fantasy football. Key Trends Shaping 2025 FFWC Strategy Fantasy football in 2025 is markedly different from previous years, driven by shifts in NFL offensive schemes and player usage. Here are the critical trends to consider: The Rise of Dual-Threat Quarterbacks: The 2025 season is described as the “golden age of elite fantasy QBs.” Players like Jalen Hurts, Josh Allen, Lamar Jackson, Jayden Daniels, and Joe Burrow (when healthy) are game-changers due to their rushing upside and passing production. These quarterbacks can single-handedly tilt weekly matchups, making them high-priority targets in FFWC drafts. Evolving Running Back Committees: Backfield committees are increasingly common, with teams splitting carries among multiple running backs. This unpredictability requires drafters to prioritize running backs with defined roles or those in high-volume offenses. Players like James Conner, who has consistently finished as a top-15 PPR running back, remain valuable despite committee concerns. Wide Receiver Depth and PPR Value: The FFWC’s PPR scoring amplifies the value of wide receivers who command high target shares. Players like Calvin Ridley and Jakobi Meyers, who have posted strong PPR numbers despite inconsistent quarterback play, are excellent mid-round targets. The depth at this position allows for flexible draft strategies. Tight End Volatility: The tight end position remains the shallowest in fantasy football, with elite options like Brock Bowers and Trey McBride offering consistency but requiring high draft capital. The gap between top tight ends and the TE12 is smaller than in previous years, making it less critical to invest early in this position. Rookie Impact: The 2025 rookie class is deep at running back and tight end but underwhelming at quarterback. Players like Ohio State’s Quinshon Judkins are emerging as potential RB1s in dynasty and redraft formats, making them key targets for FFWC managers looking for breakout stars. Draft Strategy for FFWC 2025 Early Rounds (1-3): Anchor Your Roster The first three rounds are critical for securing elite talent that can carry your team. Given the FFWC’s PPR scoring and roster requirements, prioritize players who offer high floors and ceilings. Quarterback Strategy: While dual-threat quarterbacks are tempting, the depth at this position in 2025 allows you to wait until rounds 3-5 for players like Jayden Daniels or Joe Burrow. Instead, focus on elite running backs or wide receivers early. If you do target a quarterback, Jalen Hurts or Josh Allen are worth considering for their rushing upside. Running Back Priority: Despite the rise of committees, workhorse running backs remain valuable. Target players like Christian McCaffrey, Breece Hall, or Bijan Robinson, who are likely to see heavy workloads in PPR-friendly offenses. If you miss out on a top-tier RB, consider James Conner in the mid-rounds, who offers RB1 production at a discount (ADP: 54.8, RB19). Wide Receiver Dominance: The PPR format makes wide receivers like CeeDee Lamb, Tyreek Hill, or Justin Jefferson prime first-round targets. Their high target volumes ensure consistent points. Pairing an elite wide receiver with a top running back creates a balanced foundation. Tight End Decision: Avoid reaching for tight ends like Brock Bowers or Trey McBride in the early rounds. The opportunity cost is too high when you can secure elite RBs or WRs. Instead, target value tight ends like Evan Engram or David Njoku later. Mid Rounds (4-8): Build Depth and Value The mid-rounds are where you separate yourself in FFWC drafts by finding players who outperform their ADP. Target High-Upside Running Backs: Look for running backs in committee situations with potential for breakout roles. Examples include players like Zamir White or Tyjae Spears, who could see increased touches in favorable offenses. James Conner, as mentioned, is a steal at RB25 if he falls. Wide Receiver Bargains: Players like Calvin Ridley (ADP: 7.09) and Jakobi Meyers (ADP: 8.03) are ideal mid-round targets. Ridley’s 1,000-yard seasons and Meyers’ consistent top-30 PPR production make them reliable WR2/3 options with upside. Quarterback Value: If you haven’t drafted a quarterback, this is the range to target players like Anthony Richardson or Kyler Murray, who offer dual-threat potential at a lower cost than the elite tier. Tight End Options: If you bypass early tight ends, look for value in players like Jake Ferguson or Kyle Pitts, who have high ceilings but come at a lower ADP. The tight end position’s volatility makes it viable to wait and still secure a starter. Late Rounds (9-18): Upside and Handcuffs The later rounds are for high-upside picks, handcuffs, and