Getting Ready for the 2025 Fantasy Football Draft

As the NFL enters its second week of preseason, teams are conducting their "dress rehearsals" while fantasy managers face the reality of their upcoming drafts. It's a thrilling yet pressure-filled season that requires careful strategy—there are no do-overs in the quest for a championship team.

To help you navigate your draft, we present comprehensive position-by-position rankings for PPR leagues in 2025, including insights on overvalued players, undervalued players, and sleeper picks. Our analysis is based on key player performances and average draft positions (ADP) courtesy of Footballguys and FFToday.

Quarterback Rankings

Quarterbacks are pivotal in the NFL, but the fantasy landscape provides different dynamics. While elite players like Josh Allen and Patrick Mahomes hold substantial value, waiting to select a quarterback can yield more advantageous picks in terms of roster balance.

Overvalued Quarterbacks

• Josh Allen, Buffalo Bills (ADP: QB2) - Despite being the reigning MVP, Allen's performance last season places him at risk of falling short of expectations.
• Patrick Mahomes, Kansas City Chiefs (ADP: QB6) - With changes in the Chiefs’ receiving corps, Mahomes’ previous high finishes may not repeat.

Undervalued Quarterbacks

• Dak Prescott, Dallas Cowboys (ADP: QB13) - Prescott’s history of strong performances makes him a savvy pick if he rebounds from injury.
• J.J. McCarthy, Minnesota Vikings (ADP: QB18) - McCarthy’s starting role combined with ample talent around him could yield surprising results.

Sleeper Quarterback

Bryce Young, Carolina Panthers (ADP: QB24) - After showing promise late in the season, Young's third year might propel him into the top ranks.

Running Back Rankings

Running back remains a critical, yet tricky position in fantasy drafts. While traditional strategies vary, identifying reliable starters is essential for championship success.

Overvalued Running Backs

• Saquon Barkley, Philadelphia Eagles (ADP: RB2) - Following a record-setting year, regression is likely for Barkley this season.
• Omarion Hampton, Los Angeles Chargers (ADP: RB15) - Despite rising expectations, competition from veteran Najee Harris complicates his value.

Undervalued Running Backs

• Chase Brown, Cincinnati Bengals (ADP: RB11) - Brown’s transition to a primary role last year positions him as a valuable asset.
• Alvin Kamara, New Orleans Saints (ADP: RB17) - Kamara continues to accumulate points despite age and team struggles.

Sleeper Running Back

Dylan Sampson, Cleveland Browns (ADP: RB51) - With uncertainty in the Browns' backfield, Sampson's strong collegiate performance may lead to a standout rookie year.

Wide Receiver Rankings

The prominence of wide receivers in fantasy drafts has grown, with many managers opting for receivers early due to scoring potential.

Overvalued Wide Receivers

• Puka Nacua, Los Angeles Rams (ADP: WR4) - Concerns regarding quarterback Matthew Stafford’s health may hinder Nacua’s performance.
• Tyreek Hill, Miami Dolphins (ADP: WR12) - His decline in output raises questions about his ceiling this season.

Undervalued Wide Receivers

• Mike Evans, Tampa Bay Buccaneers (ADP: WR18) - Consistency and production keep Evans as a solid choice despite age.
• Jerry Jeudy, Cleveland Browns (ADP: WR33) - Despite Cleveland's QB issues, Jeudy’s previous performances warrant attention.

Sleeper Wide Receiver

Demario Douglas, New England Patriots (ADP: WR70) - Expected to step into a key role, Douglas offers upside as a potential breakout.

Tight End Rankings

Tight end depth is improving, offering varied options now compared to previous years dominated by Travis Kelce.

Overvalued Tight Ends

• T.J. Hockenson, Minnesota Vikings (ADP: TE6) - Following an injury, Hockenson may not return to elite form.
• Mark Andrews, Baltimore Ravens (ADP: TE7) - A high reliance on touchdowns poses risks for Andrews this season.

Undervalued Tight Ends

• Evan Engram, Denver Broncos (ADP: TE8) - With strong precedent in past seasons, Engram could yield significant value.
• Kyle Pitts, Atlanta Falcons (ADP: TE16) - Despite last year’s struggles, improved involvement is anticipated.

Sleeper Tight End

Mason Taylor, New York Jets (ADP: TE26) - With significant opportunities expected, Taylor may thrive as a rookie.

Kicker and Defense Draft Strategy

The best strategy for kicker and defense positions is to wait until late in the draft, using those rounds for depth and upside before picking the highest-scoring options available.

Final Thoughts

In summary, the fantasy football landscape for 2025 is ripe with opportunity across all positions. Flexibility in your drafting strategy will allow managers to adapt and find the best value available. The rhythm of drafting may be unpredictable, but with the right preparation, success is within reach.