The week following the Conference Championship Games can often feel like a lull in the NFL and fantasy football world. However, it’s the perfect opportunity to reflect on the remarkable performances we witnessed throughout the season. Just as the league honors its stars with the Pro Bowl Games, we too can celebrate the fantasy football sensations who made a significant impact this year.
This week, I’m excited to unveil my 2024 All-Breakout Team—a compilation of players who not only emerged as fantasy powerhouses but also played pivotal roles in helping fans clinch playoff spots and league championships. Additionally, I’ll provide a glimpse into each player’s 2025 outlook to see if their future shines as brightly as their recent performances.
Quarterback – Jayden Daniels, Commanders
Daniels had a phenomenal fantasy season, racking up 351.6 points, which placed him fourth among quarterbacks and fifth among all offensive players. He consistently delivered, scoring over 20 points in 10 games and averaging an impressive 29.9 points during the fantasy playoffs. His regular season total of 355.8 fantasy points is the second-highest ever for a rookie quarterback, just shy of Cam Newton’s record of 369.3 points set in 2011.
2025 Outlook: The future looks incredibly bright for Daniels. There’s no reason to believe he won’t continue his ascent in his second NFL season. I have him ranked among the elite fantasy quarterbacks, joining the ranks of Josh Allen, Lamar Jackson, and Jalen Hurts. Expect him to be a top-50 selection in upcoming drafts.
Running Back – Bijan Robinson, Falcons
Robinson’s journey this season was a tale of two halves. Initially, he struggled, averaging just 13.5 points in his first five games. But then, he found his groove, averaging 22.8 points over the next 12 games. During this stretch, he scored over 20 points in 10 games and topped 24 points in two of his three fantasy postseason appearances. Notably, he averaged over 23 touches per game during this period.
2025 Outlook: As he enters his age-23 season, Robinson stands out as the best young running back in the league. With Michael Penix Jr. taking the reins at quarterback, he’ll remain the focal point of Atlanta’s offense. I foresee him being the first overall pick in the 2025 fantasy drafts.
Wide Receiver – Brian Thomas Jr., Jaguars
Brian Thomas Jr. (BTJ) made waves as the fifth rookie wide receiver selected based on NFFC ADP data, trailing only Marvin Harrison Jr., Malik Nabers, Xavier Worthy, and Rome Odunze. Yet, he finished first among non-quarterback rookies in total fantasy points. Only elite talents like Ja’Marr Chase, Justin Jefferson, and Amon-Ra St. Brown outperformed him at the position overall.
2025 Outlook: BTJ is the latest LSU wideout to shine in the fantasy realm, and I expect his success to continue. The Jaguars’ decision to hire former Buccaneers OC Liam Coen as their new head coach is promising. I believe Thomas Jr. will be a top-12 wideout in the 2025 drafts.
Tight End – Brock Bowers, Raiders
Bowers was a highly touted prospect coming out of college, but his rookie season exceeded all expectations. He led all tight ends in fantasy points, amassing 1,194 yards on 112 catches, both of which were the highest in the league for his position. Bowers consistently delivered, scoring 14-plus points in 10 games and hitting the 20-point mark three times since Week 11.
2025 Outlook: For Bowers to maintain his elite status, the Raiders must enhance their passing game, potentially adding a top-tier wideout who could divert some targets away from him. With Pete Carroll now at the helm, the team also needs to address their quarterback situation—perhaps looking at Russell Wilson. Regardless, I have Bowers ranked as the top tight end for the upcoming season.
Flex – De’Von Achane, RB, Dolphins
Achane showcased his potential as a rookie and took significant strides in Year 2. He finished fifth in points among running backs, averaging 17.6 points per game. Remarkably, he had eight games where he scored over 20 points and four games where he exceeded 26 points. At just 23 years old, Achane is poised to become one of the premier fantasy backs for years to come.
2025 Outlook: Regardless of what the Dolphins decide to do with their backfield, Achane has proven himself capable of being a featured player in their offense. I anticipate he’ll be a first-round pick in most fantasy drafts, with a ceiling no lower than a top-15 overall selection.
As we celebrate these breakout stars, it’s essential to keep an eye on their trajectories for the upcoming seasons. The excitement of fantasy football lies not only in the present but also in the potential of these players to become cornerstones of our fantasy teams for years to come. Who are you most excited to draft in 2025? The future is bright for these breakout stars!
