As Memorial Day weekend approaches, signaling the unofficial start of summer, many across America are lighting grills and opening swimming pools. While this season may carry various meanings for different individuals, for fantasy football enthusiasts, it marks the impending arrival of draft season. Though fantasy leagues are not yet in full swing, including major events like the Scott Fish Bowl, now is the crucial time for fantasy managers to begin researching and evaluating players to ensure a successful season ahead.

Among the perennial top-drafted quarterbacks in fantasy leagues, Josh Allen remains a noteworthy name. According to early Average Draft Position (ADP) data from Fantasy Pros, Allen is projected to be selected late in the second round as the 21st overall pick. Analyst Kendall Valenzuela from Fantasy Life emphasizes Allen's consistent performance over the past five seasons, noting that he has finished among the top three quarterbacks in fantasy points per game. Last season, Allen showcased significant improvement, recording a career-low five interceptions while throwing for 3,731 yards and 28 touchdowns, even though his supporting cast ranked just 27th in average Open Score. Additionally, Allen's dual-threat capability, demonstrated by his 531 rushing yards and 12 rushing touchdowns, solidifies his standing in the rankings.

However, there are arguments against selecting Allen at the end of the second round. One concern is that taking a quarterback that early can often backfire, leading to a positional 'hole' on the roster. In one-quarterback leagues, the advantage Allen provides over later-round quarterbacks may be outweighed by the resulting deficiencies at other key positions such as wide receiver or running back. Furthermore, the reliance on rushing touchdowns for fantasy production raises questions about Allen's overall effectiveness, especially given that last season marked his lowest passing yardage since 2019. While Allen is undeniably a talented quarterback, a wait-and-see approach may be prudent when considering the position.

For Justin Fields, the 2025 season presents an opportunity for redemption, being the starting quarterback for the New York Jets after stints with two previous teams. Fields has experienced a rocky career in the NFL, including being benched by the Pittsburgh Steelers last season after six games. Yet, Jets defensive tackle Quinnen Williams expressed confidence in Fields' potential, describing him as among the elite dual-threat quarterbacks in the league. Fields' ability to generate yardage with his legs makes his early ADP of QB15 appealing to fantasy managers. In 2022, Fields became the third quarterback to surpass 1,000 rushing yards in a season and finished sixth in fantasy points per game among his peers. Even during his six games with the Steelers last year, Fields impressed with averages of about 18.9 fantasy points per game, making him a valuable option.

Saquon Barkley, running back for the Philadelphia Eagles, is another player drawing attention as he boasts an early ADP of the third overall pick in fantasy drafts. Barkley's performance last season, where he surpassed 2,000 rushing yards and averaged 22.0 PPR points per game, aligns him with many top players. However, analyst Pat Fitzmaurice from Fantasy Pros cautions fantasy managers to consider Barkley's extensive workload in 2024, pointing out that he touched the ball 482 times throughout the season, including playoff games. This substantial workload raises concerns about the longevity of his performance, especially given that players who exceed a high number of carries often experience regression the following season. Barkley's history of injuries— including a torn ACL and multiple ankle injuries—further complicates the outlook.

D'Andre Swift of the Chicago Bears is often viewed skeptically by fantasy managers, given his underwhelming performance in terms of rushing efficiency last season. However, analyst Ted Chymz of Fantasy Pros asserts that Swift's talent is undeniable. At just 26 years old, Swift brings a three-down skill set to a Bears offense that shows promise with new offensive coordinator Ben Johnson. Despite skepticism, Swift's potential to lead the backfield makes him an intriguing option for those aiming to strike a balance between risk and reward in their fantasy drafts.

As for rookies, Ashton Jeanty has emerged as a highly regarded prospect following an impressive season at Boise State. Drafted sixth overall in the 2025 NFL Draft, Jeanty's early ADP places him eighth overall and fourth among running backs. Raiders edge-rusher Maxx Crosby praised Jeanty's work ethic and determination, highlighting his experiences and decision-making prior to being drafted. However, while expectations are high for Jeanty, fantasy managers should approach his selection with caution, as the transition to the NFL involves facing a higher caliber of competition. Concerns also arise regarding the offensive line's performance, which may limit his ability to deliver top-tier fantasy numbers right away.

In the previous season, Marvin Harrison Jr., a rookie wide receiver for the Arizona Cardinals, experienced a drop-off in his projected output after being highly touted entering the league. Even with respectable statistics, he finished as WR30 in points per game, leading to mixed feelings among fantasy managers. Analysis from Dalton Del Don at Yahoo Sports suggested that Harrison's metrics and target share indicate room for improvement. Despite concerns with the quarterback situation, there remains optimism about a rebound season for Harrison, particularly with his offseason conditioning and strengthened chemistry with quarterback Kyler Murray.

Tyreek Hill, once regarded as one of the NFL's premier wide receivers, faces critical scrutiny entering the 2025 season. Following a challenging year, Hill's rapport with the Dolphins' new wide receivers coach, Robert Prince, appears to be thriving, further fueling optimism for his rebound. Many fantasy managers seem to share this sentiment, as Hill's ADP climbs into the top-15. However, an analysis by Kevin Tompkins highlights a concerning decline in Hill's target metrics and efficiency, raising valid concerns about his long-term viability as a standout WR in the league.

Chris Olave, after suffering multiple concussions last season, is also attracting attention in the fantasy landscape. Saints head coach Kellen Moore has high expectations for Olave in 2025, emphasizing his talent and versatility. Concerns surrounding Olave's health and an uncertain quarterback situation linger, yet his ability to dominate target share in New Orleans presents a potential path to a successful season, should he remain available for play.

Finally, Travis Kelce, the stalwart tight end of the Kansas City Chiefs, faces questions about his viability as he enters age 36. Kelce's performance last year marked a notable decline, with the lowest total yards and touchdowns since his rookie season. Analysts point to age-related regression and reduced efficiency as factors to consider when drafting him this season. While his volume remains noteworthy, the current ADP places him closer to his ceiling rather than his floor, which fantasy managers should carefully examine before selecting him.

Kyle Pitts, another tight end struggling to meet expectations, may benefit from improved offensive chemistry and a better understanding of his role within Atlanta's system. Coaches highlight his extraordinary talent, and with the right support, there remains potential for a breakout in the upcoming season. Despite the skepticism surrounding him, Pitts' ADP has fallen, offering an intriguing opportunity for those willing to invest in his potential.