NFL Fantasy Football Trends: Players to Watch in 2025
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As the NFL preseason unfolds, identifying emerging trends is crucial for fantasy football success. Waiting for consensus signals a lost edge; proactive analysis can unlock league-winning potential. This report highlights key player developments and projected ADP shifts, building on previous observations from the 2025 season.
Rashee Rice: A Rising Star
Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Rashee rice is rapidly gaining momentum as a top fantasy pick. Despite a late-season knee injury, his performance in limited action last year was exceptional, averaging 17.6 points per game in his first three healthy weeks.
Chiefs beat reporter Jesse Newell of the Athletic noted that sources within the team believe Rice may have even increased his explosiveness post-injury. Newell stated, “People around the Chiefs actually think Rice might have more explosiveness than he did pre-injury…When he’s on the field, I fully expect Rice to be the Chiefs’ No. 1 WR, as he’s been quarterback Patrick Mahomes’ favorite target by far in training camp.”
did You Know? Rice’s 17.6 points per game would have ranked second only to Ja’Marr Chase across the entire 2024 season.
Current ADP places Rice at 78 overall (WR35), a value manny analysts believe is substantially undervalued. A projected early-September ADP of 51 overall (WR24) reflects his growing potential. Could Rice outperform receivers like Garrett Wilson?
Cooper Kupp: Still a Reliable Option
Seattle Seahawks receiver Cooper Kupp, now 32, presents an intriguing opportunity despite recent injury concerns and a change of scenery. While he finished as WR41 and WR40 in the past two seasons, missing games each year, his skill set remains potent.
Michael Salfino suggests Kupp could reasonably see 130 targets given the current Seahawks receiving corps. Beat reporter Michael-Shawn Dugar emphasizes kupp’s continued ability to create separation, stating, “Kupp gets open with elite quickness out of his breaks…Kupp has shown the mental and physical capacity to win his fair share of battles.”
Despite potential health risks, Kupp’s points-per-game performance last season (WR22) makes him a compelling value at his current ADP of 97 overall (WR45). A projected rise to 85 overall (WR39) is anticipated as his training camp performance gains recognition. What are your thoughts on Kupp’s potential in a new offense?
Keenan Allen: Ready to thrive
Los Angeles Chargers wide receiver Keenan Allen’s arrival in a new system has not fully translated into an ADP increase. Concerns about his 2024 production (WR35) are likely overstated,with much of the blame attributed to the previous offensive coordinator,Shane Waldron.
Data reveals a stark contrast in Allen’s performance under Waldron versus after his departure: his yards per route run increased from 1.04 to 1.62, and his EPA per target more than quadrupled from 0.07 to 0.30. Chargers beat reporter Daniel Popper notes Allen is already making an impact in practice.
Allen’s ability to effectively operate both in the slot and outside, coupled with limited receiving options for Justin herbert, positions him for a strong season. His current ADP of 107 overall (WR51) is considered too low, with a projected rise to 91 overall (WR43).
Trending Down: Chris Godwin
Tampa Bay Buccaneers receiver Chris Godwin‘s ADP is declining due to ongoing ankle injury recovery. He is likely to begin the season on the PUP list, creating uncertainty for fantasy managers.
Despite this, GM Jason Licht has indicated Godwin is “exactly where they anticipated” in his recovery. However, the risk is already factored into his ADP of 88 overall (WR42). A projected drop to 98 overall (WR46) is expected as he continues to miss practice time.
Rookie Watch: Braelon Allen
New York Jets running back Braelon Allen is emerging as a potential lead back.The athletic‘s Zack Rosenblatt reports Allen has been “one of the most impressive guys on the field” during joint practices.
Jets assistant coach aaron Glenn praised Allen’s physicality, stating, “Braelon is a 240-pound man that’s always falling forward…it’s going to weigh on defensive players.” while Breece Hall remains the starter, a more even split is anticipated, with Allen’s ADP projected to rise from 143 overall (RB47) to 115 overall (RB38).
Pro Tip: Monitor Allen’s usage in the coming weeks; a significant role could make him a steal at his current ADP.
Deep Dive: Harold Fannin Jr.
cleveland Browns tight end Harold Fannin Jr. is a hidden gem in training camp. Despite being undrafted, he is showing potential as a No. 2 option in the passing game.
Zac Jackson’s camp report highlights Fannin’s progress, noting he “is ahead of schedule” and “is going to line up all over the formation.” Currently undrafted in most leagues (TE47),Fannin could become a valuable late-round pick.
| Player | Current ADP | Projected ADP (Early September) | Position |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rashee Rice | 78 (WR35) | 51 (WR24) | WR |
| Cooper kupp | 97 (WR45) | 85 (WR39) | WR |
| Keenan Allen | 107 (WR51) | 91 (WR43) | WR |
| Chris Godwin | 88 (WR42) | 98 (WR46) | WR |
| Braelon Allen | 143 (RB47) | 115 (RB38) | RB |
the NFL landscape is constantly evolving,and identifying these early trends is paramount for fantasy success. Player injuries, coaching changes, and emerging rookies all contribute to shifting values. staying informed through reliable sources like The Athletic and consistent monitoring of training camp reports are essential.The principles of identifying undervalued players based on opportunity and talent remain consistent year after year.
Frequently Asked Questions
- what is ADP in fantasy football? Average Draft Position (ADP) is the average slot a player is drafted in fantasy leagues.
- Why is Rashee Rice considered a good value? His current ADP doesn’t reflect his potential as a top-tier receiver, especially given his performance before his injury.
- Is Cooper Kupp still a reliable fantasy option? despite his age and injury history, Kupp’s skill set and potential target share make him a worthwhile pick.
- How does injury impact a player’s fantasy value? Injuries significantly lower a player’s ADP, creating potential value if they recover well.
- What should I look for in a late-round rookie pick? Focus on rookies who are impressing in training camp and have a clear path to playing time.
We hope this analysis provides you with a strategic advantage in your fantasy football drafts. Share this article with your league mates, and let us know your thoughts in the comments below! Don’t forget to subscribe for more in-depth NFL coverage.
