Introduction

It's finally here—Week 1 of the fantasy football season! Fantasy managers everywhere are filled with excitement as they prepare to see all those hours spent in draft season come to fruition. While drafting a solid team is crucial, in-season management is equally important, if not more so. This includes grabbing contributors off the waiver wire, making impactful trades, and setting an optimal weekly lineup. In this article, we dive into essential position-by-position rankings and sleeper picks to help you navigate the initial week of the 2025 season.

Start Strong: Quarterback Rankings

Don't get experimental—stick with your top draft picks. Starting your chosen quarterback is vital. Here are some players to watch:

• Baker Mayfield, Tampa Bay Buccaneers (at ATL) [DraftKings DFS Value: $6,600]: After finishing as the QB3 last year, he faces a favorable matchup against an Atlanta defense that struggled against quarterbacks.
• Bryce Young, Carolina Panthers (at JAC) [DraftKings DFS Value: $5,700]: Young has the potential to start strong against a Jacksonville team that allowed the most passing yards per game in 2024.

Consider avoiding:

• Jared Goff, Detroit Lions (at GB) [DraftKings DFS Value: $6,500]: Goff could struggle against a strong Packers defense.
• Patrick Mahomes, Kansas City Chiefs [DraftKings DFS Value: $5,900]: The Chargers were solid against the pass last season, and a trip to Brazil may hinder performance.

Running Back Forecast

This week is ideal for focusing on your clear starters due to minimal injuries. Players to watch include:

• Chuba Hubbard, Carolina Panthers (at JAC) [DraftKings DFS Value: $6,000]: After a strong 2024 season, Hubbard will face a porous Jacksonville run defense.
• Alvin Kamara, New Orleans Saints (vs. ARI) [DraftKings DFS Value: $6,200]: Expect Kamara to see significant usage against an average Cardinals defense.

Avoid:

• James Cook, Buffalo Bills (vs. BAL) [DraftKings DFS Value: $6,200]: Tough matchup against a solid Ravens run defense.
• D'Andre Swift, Chicago Bears (vs. MIN) [DraftKings DFS Value: $5,900]: Good run defense from the Vikings could challenge Swift.

Wide Receiver Insights

As the season opens, patience with your big-name receivers is essential. Key players to watch include:

• D.J. Moore, Chicago Bears (vs. MIN) [DraftKings DFS Value: $6,100]: Strong fantasy finish last year, facing a defense that struggled against receivers.
• Khalil Shakir, Buffalo Bills (vs. BAL) [DraftKings DFS Value: $5,600]: The Ravens struggled against the pass, making Shakir a viable option.

Avoid:

• Nico Collins, Houston Texans (at LAR) [DraftKings DFS Value: $7,400]: Weak offensive line could hinder performance against a solid Rams defense.
• DK Metcalf, Pittsburgh Steelers (at NYJ) [DraftKings DFS Value: $5,900]: Facing tough cornerback coverage could limit his impact.

Tight Ends to Consider

Identifying potential breakout tight ends early is essential this year. Key players include:

• David Njoku, Cleveland Browns (vs. CIN) [DraftKings DFS Value: $4,700]: The Bengals allowed the most PPR points to tight ends last season.
• Kyle Pitts Sr., Atlanta Falcons (vs. TB) [DraftKings DFS Value: $4,300]: Facing a Buccaneers defense that struggled against tight ends could offer Pitts scoring opportunities.

Players to avoid:

• Evan Engram, Denver Broncos (vs. TEN) [DraftKings DFS Value: $4,500]: Potential for an unproductive game against Tennessee.
• Travis Kelce, Kansas City Chiefs (at LAC) [DraftKings DFS Value: $5,200]: May struggle early in the season.

Final Thoughts

While Week 1 can be unpredictable, relying on your top players and monitoring matchups is crucial for a successful start. The fantasy season is just beginning, so make your picks wisely and enjoy a thrilling start to 2025!