As the NFL gears up for the 2025 preseason, the excitement is palpable among fans and fantasy football managers alike. Although the Hall of Fame Game featuring the Detroit Lions and Los Angeles Chargers may primarily showcase players looking to secure their roster spots, it marks the beginning of the football season's buildup. With the Philadelphia Eagles set to face the Dallas Cowboys in the season opener, anticipation grows for the upcoming competitive landscape. Additionally, fantasy football draft season is fully underway, prompting managers to embark on a reflective journey in preparation for their draft day.

One crucial step in this preparation involves reviewing player rankings. Fantasy managers closely examine how analysts assess player value and hold that information against average draft positions (ADP). This process helps managers identify who may represent good value, where overdrafting occurs, and which players could emerge as sleepers for the season. Moneyline serves as a comprehensive resource for managers with position-specific rankings for both PPR (points per reception) and standard scoring leagues, alongside a list of the top 100 players for each format. However, it is essential to remember that while the top 100 player rankings provide insight, a rigid drafting approach may compromise a team's success. Flexibility and a keen understanding of league dynamics are vital as drafts unfold.

In both PPR and standard scoring leagues, managing running back positions poses unique challenges, with teams striving to harness the talents of their players effectively. A breakdown of top players reveals varied drafting strategies. Notably, the running back landscape has evolved, pushing traditional tactics to adapt to this changing environment. With limited true workhorse backs available, evaluating prospects such as Alvin Kamara, James Conner, Dak Prescott, and Lamar Jackson becomes increasingly critical.

Fantasy managers are also encouraged to explore receiver prospects, as their value often rises within PPR formats, where wide receivers tend to score more points overall compared to running backs. This shift in dynamic has led to innovative drafting styles, enabling managers to construct effective lineups better aligned with their preferred strategies. Teams have the opportunity to focus on solidifying their rosters while keeping an eye on emerging talents, such as Jayden Reed and Cedric Tillman, who may offer additional points as solid contributors this season.

Tight ends present another interesting facet within fantasy drafts. Once dominated by Travis Kelce, recent seasons have introduced exciting options such as Brock Bowers and Trey McBride. The strategies surrounding tight end selection typically focus on balancing the selection of elite players with finding value mid-to-late in drafts. As the dynamics of team defenses and kickers unfold, the overarching principle remains to approach these selections with a degree of patience, waiting to allocate late picks to these positions. As the story of the 2025 season evolves, many eyes will be on standout players while evaluating their impact on a fantasy roster. Building a successful lineup requires awareness of trends and individual performances while remaining adaptable in a shifting league landscape.