The 2025 NFL Draft has concluded, bringing significant changes to the fantasy football landscape. As promising rookies step into ideal situations and veterans see their value decline, fantasy managers must reassess their rankings, depth charts, and draft strategies. Whether you’re gearing up for redraft season or immersed in dynasty rookie drafts, knowing which players have gained or lost value is crucial for gaining a competitive advantage. In this article, we will detail the most impactful NFL Draft winners and losers for fantasy football, spotlighting rookies like RJ Harvey and Travis Hunter, while also discussing veterans such as Najee Harris and Cole Kmet, whose fantasy relevance may be waning. If you’re searching for insights on “NFL Draft winners and losers for fantasy,” you’ve come to the right place. Let’s dive in!
RJ Harvey (RB – DEN) is undoubtedly one of the biggest winners post-draft. Having been selected by the Denver Broncos, he finds himself in a prime position to claim the starting running back role. Competing with Jaleel McLaughlin and Audric Esteme, Harvey’s opportunity is bolstered by the presence of head coach Sean Payton, who favors running backs with exceptional vision. As a result, he ranks as the 9th overall player in rookie rankings, making him a strong first-round pick in rookie drafts and a valuable sleeper in redraft formats.
Jaydon Blue (RB – DAL) may have been a fifth-round pick, but he is a favorite among fantasy analysts due to his favorable situation with the Dallas Cowboys. With a lack of a definitive starter in the backfield and the addition of offensive linemen to improve protection, Blue's potential to excel in the passing game makes him a late second-round target in superflex rookie drafts.
Kaleb Johnson (RB – PIT) is another player to watch. As a physical running back, he is well-suited for the Pittsburgh Steelers’ run-heavy offense. With Najee Harris now in Los Angeles and Jaylen Warren’s injury history, Johnson has a clear path to significant carries, potentially leading to a 70/30 split in the backfield.
Kyle Williams (WR – NE) is turning heads as a late second-round pick in a crowded New England receiving corps. Analysts previously overlooked him, but his potential for targets has surged, making him a valuable late-round pick in drafts.
Travis Hunter (WR – JAC) is another significant winner, with the Jacksonville Jaguars planning to use him primarily as a wide receiver. This decision elevates him to the early first round of rookie drafts, given his upside and the team’s intention to utilize him as a scoring threat.
Najee Harris (RB – LAC) has seen his fantasy value take a hit after the Los Angeles Chargers drafted Omarion Hampton. Harris’s role now seems uncertain as the team appears to be shifting towards a committee approach, relegating him to a low-ceiling flex option for the upcoming season.
Cole Kmet (TE – CHI) was positioned for a breakout year but suffered a setback when the Chicago Bears selected Colston Loveland and Luther Burden III in the draft. This influx of talent has diminished Kmet’s potential target share, leaving him with little value in deeper leagues.
D’Andre Swift (RB – CHI) was another player expected to lose ground, as the Bears brought in minimal competition for his role. However, he remains the best pass-catching option in the backfield, making him a mid-range RB2 with upside.
Jordan Love (QB – GB) is now a likely low-end QB1 after the Green Bay Packers invested heavily in improving his receiving corps. With new targets and an upgraded offensive line, Love’s value has surged.
Caleb Williams (QB – CHI) has seen his situation improve dramatically with the Bears overhauling their offensive line and adding weapons, positioning him for a potentially explosive season.
