The 2024 fantasy football season might have just ended, but it’s never too soon to glance ahead at what the next fantasy campaign could look like. That includes the players who could emerge into this year’s Sam Darnold, Bucky Irving, Brian Thomas Jr., or Jonnu Smith. That’s right, it’s time to look ahead to some potential fantasy sleepers for next season.
Exciting Prospects for 2025
As we look forward to the upcoming season, it’s essential to keep in mind that NFL teams and depth charts will change significantly in the next several months. With that in mind, I’ve identified 10 players who could become valuable assets without the cost of a high draft pick. Let’s dive into some intriguing names that could make waves in 2025!
Michael Penix Jr., QB, Falcons
Penix Jr. will enter the offseason as the No. 1 quarterback in Atlanta, and the talent surrounding him should excite fantasy fans. With standout players like Bijan Robinson in the backfield and Drake London and Darnell Mooney in the passing game, Penix Jr. has a fantastic opportunity to make a Year 2 impact. Could he be the sleeper quarterback you’ve been searching for?
Audric Estime, RB, Broncos
The Broncos’ current management drafted Estime last year, and I foresee him taking over the team’s backfield in 2025. With Javonte Williams potentially hitting free agency after a disappointing season, Estime could step into the lead runner role under head coach Sean Payton. Imagine snagging a starting running back late in your draft!
J.J. McCarthy, QB, Vikings
For McCarthy to emerge as a fantasy sleeper, the Vikings would need to part ways with Sam Darnold. If that happens, McCarthy could shine as an NFL starter. The offense led by Kevin O’Connell is very quarterback-friendly, positioning McCarthy to potentially make a significant impact. Could he be the late-round quarterback steal of your draft?
Marvin Mims Jr., WR, Broncos
Mims Jr. started to show his potential in the second half of the season, racking up 434 yards, six touchdowns, and 108.2 fantasy points in his final seven games. Averaging an impressive 15.5 points per game during that stretch, Mims Jr. could emerge as a solid No. 3 fantasy wide receiver in 2025. Will he be the hidden gem you need for your roster?
Ricky Pearsall, WR, 49ers
Pearsall flashed potential as a rookie and should improve in his sophomore season. The 49ers’ receiving corps is crowded, especially with Deebo Samuel Sr. coming off a disappointing year and Brandon Aiyuk recovering from a torn ACL. If the 49ers decide to make changes, Pearsall could be a name to remember in 2025. Could he be the breakout star in a revamped offense?
Bryce Young, QB, Panthers
Could Young finally meet the high expectations set for him in both real and fantasy football? The No. 1 overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft showed signs of improvement during his last four games, throwing eight touchdown passes with just two interceptions and averaging 23.1 fantasy points. He could be a worthwhile late-round pick in your upcoming drafts. Are you ready to take a chance on him?
Brenton Strange, TE, Jaguars
While the Jaguars still have Evan Engram under contract, there’s uncertainty about his return next season. If Engram is released or traded, Strange could step into a prominent role in the offense. Trevor Lawrence has shown a penchant for targeting tight ends, making Strange a potential asset in 2025. Will you keep an eye on this situation?
Kayshon Boutte, WR, Patriots
The Patriots have several young wideouts who could emerge next season, but Boutte might be the best of the bunch. Over the last eight weeks of the season, he led all New England wide receivers in snaps, targets, receiving yards, and fantasy points. He’s worth considering as a late-round flier in redrafts, especially as Maye’s potential top option. Are you ready to take a risk on this promising receiver?
Ben Sinnott, TE, Commanders
Sinnott didn’t make a significant impact as a rookie, but he learned from veteran Zach Ertz. With Ertz likely to become a free agent, Sinnott could take over the starting role in an offense that targeted Ertz 91 times this past season, ranking eighth among tight ends. Keeping tabs on this situation could pay off in your fantasy league. Will Sinnott be the tight end sleeper you’ve been waiting for?
Jalen Coker, WR, Panthers
While Xavier Legette might be the bigger name among the young Panthers receivers, Coker could be the one to target in fantasy drafts. He scored 14 or more points in two of his last four games as a rookie and saw at least five targets in five of his final seven games. Coker will have late-round, deep-sleeper appeal in drafts. Are you ready to take a chance on this rising star?
As we gear up for the 2025 fantasy football season, keep these potential sleepers in mind. They could be the difference-makers that elevate your team to new heights. Happy drafting!
