As you gear up for your fantasy football drafts, understanding which players to target and which ones to avoid is crucial to your success. With an overwhelming amount of information available, utilizing our expert consensus fantasy football rankings alongside the average draft position (ADP) can significantly streamline your decision-making process. This approach allows you to pinpoint players that experts are enthusiastic about drafting at their ADP and those they recommend waiting on. Let’s explore some noteworthy fantasy football sleepers that could provide excellent value in your upcoming drafts.
Fantasy football sleepers are players who possess the potential to exceed expectations and become significant contributors for fantasy managers. Identifying these players can give you a competitive edge when forming your roster.
After suffering an Achilles injury in Week 1 of the 2023 season, J.K. Dobbins made a remarkable comeback in 2024, amassing 905 rushing yards and nine touchdowns playing for the Chargers in 13 games. Now joining the Denver Broncos, Dobbins will be part of Sean Payton’s backfield, which typically features multiple running backs. Although rookie R.J. Harvey will play a significant role, Dobbins is likely to emerge as Payton’s preferred goal-line back, making him a player to watch in your drafts. – Pat Fitzmaurice
Another intriguing prospect is Bhayshul Tuten, who recently signed with the Jacksonville Jaguars. Tuten is expected to help elevate their scoring capabilities in 2025. Competing for touches with Travis Etienne and Tank Bigsby, Tuten has shown exceptional skills in college, ranking highly in metrics such as yards after contact per attempt and elusive rating. He is a high-upside player who could yield great returns this season. – Derek Brown
Seventh-round rookie Jacory Croskey-Merritt, affectionately known as “Bill,” has emerged as a standout in training camp and is on track to become the starting running back for the Washington Commanders. His unusual college path, which included stints at Alabama State, New Mexico, and Arizona, has not hindered his potential. With impressive pro day metrics, including a 4.45-second 40-yard dash, Croskey-Merritt deserves mid-round consideration in drafts as he could be a delightful surprise. – Pat Fitzmaurice
Jaydon Blue fell to the fifth round of the NFL Draft due to the depth of the running back class, but he possesses three-down playmaking ability. His performance metrics in college suggest he could carve out an immediate role in the Dallas Cowboys backfield, especially given the struggles of players like Javonte Williams and Miles Sanders. Blue has the potential to become the team’s lead back quickly, making him a valuable sleeper. – Derek Brown
Jayden Higgins was selected as the fifth wide receiver in the NFL Draft, and he is set to take on a significant role for the Houston Texans as the starting outside receiver opposite Nico Collins. Higgins has been an underrated prospect, showcasing impressive metrics in college. With a strong catch rate and the ability to make contested catches, he could develop into a reliable target for quarterback C.J. Stroud, making him a solid WR3/4 with WR2 upside. – Derek Brown
Marvin Mims demonstrated significant upside in the latter half of the 2024 season, averaging 62 receiving yards per game. As a young player in a growing offense, Mims is poised for a breakout in 2025 and could be a valuable addition to your roster. – Andrew Erickson
Demario Douglas is a low-risk, high-reward option in the late rounds. His performance last season indicated that he has the potential to be a flex option, especially if quarterback Drake Maye takes a leap forward in 2025. – Derek Brown
Cedric Tillman showed promise last season as the Browns’ top wideout following Amari Cooper's departure. Now fully healthy, Tillman could be a key player in Cleveland's passing game and an excellent sleeper for this draft season. – Andrew Erickson
Drake Maye had a solid rookie season, averaging 16.8 fantasy points per game despite a challenging supporting cast. With improvements to the offensive line and new weapons in the receiving corps, Maye is a strong candidate for a breakout season in 2025. – Pat Fitzmaurice
J.J. McCarthy is another quarterback worth targeting as he steps into a favorable situation. The Minnesota Vikings have a pass-heavy approach, and McCarthy’s college metrics indicate he has the talent to succeed in this environment. – Derek Brown
Trevor Lawrence might finally break out this season after being limited by injuries in the past. With new coaching and improved talent surrounding him, 2025 could be a pivotal year for Lawrence. – Pat Fitzmaurice
After a tumultuous season, CJ Stroud is set for a rebound in 2025. With a revamped offensive line and an influx of talent at skill positions, Stroud has the potential to return to the top tier of fantasy quarterbacks. – Derek Brown
Tyler Warren received first-round draft capital but faces a challenging environment in Indianapolis. With a crowded receiving corps, he may struggle to meet expectations, making him a tight end to monitor in drafts. – Derek Brown
Hunter Henry had a career-high season in several metrics last year and could see even more opportunities in 2025, especially with rookie quarterback Drake Maye at the helm. If he can improve his touchdown production, he might provide low-end TE1 value. – Pat Fitzmaurice
With Evan Engram's departure, Brenton Strange is in a prime position to take over as the Jaguars' top tight end. Given his performance last season and the potential for an expanded role, Strange is an intriguing sleeper to consider as well. – Pat Fitzmaurice
By keeping an eye on these fantasy football sleepers, you can enhance your roster and gain a competitive advantage in your league. Good luck in your drafts!
