Kickstart Your Fantasy Season with Smart Picks

As the 2025 fantasy football season kicks off, savvy managers can gain a significant edge by capitalizing on sleeper picks. Whether you're looking to improve your draft-day blunders or bolster a weak bench, these hidden gems can make all the difference in your lineup. With insights from training camp and preseason performance, we've identified eight sleepers to consider this week, all of whom are available in over 50% of leagues.

Trevor Lawrence: The Jaguars' Ace

The Jacksonville Jaguars have brought in head coach Liam Coen, raising the fantasy stock of key offensive players, especially quarterback Trevor Lawrence. After showcasing Pro Bowl-level form in 2022, throwing for over 4,000 yards in consecutive seasons, Lawrence is primed for a breakout year with significant weapons at his disposal. In week one, he faces off against the Carolina Panthers, who struggled defensively last year by allowing the most passing touchdowns.

Tua Tagovailoa: Ready to Shine

When healthy, the Miami Dolphins' Tua Tagovailoa stands out as a top-tier QB1. Last season, he finished ninth in scoring among quarterbacks, throwing for 4,624 yards and 29 touchdowns. With a clean injury report entering week one against the Indianapolis Colts, he will have explosive playmakers like Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle by his side, making this matchup ripe for fantasy points.

De'Von Achane and Ollie Gordon II: Rookie Duo in Miami

Although De'Von Achane is expected to play, look for rookie running back Ollie Gordon II to make an impact as well. Gordon, who impressed in the preseason, may share the workload but is set to be a significant contributor against a suspect Colts run defense ranked 24th last season.

Woody Marks: A Texas Surprise

Sneaking under the radar, Woody Marks, a Houston Texans fourth-string running back, could emerge with opportunities in a tricky backfield situation. With injuries to key players and a revamped offensive line, Marks may showcase his potential as a three-down back.

Joe Flacco: Veteran Leadership

The Cleveland Browns may find competitive ground early in the season with veteran quarterback Joe Flacco at the helm. With a consistently weak Bengals pass defense in front of him, he has the chance to distribute the ball effectively, especially to third-year receiver Cedric Tillman.

Kayshon Boutte: Hidden Gem in New England

With offseason attention on Stefon Diggs, keep an eye on Kayshon Boutte, who might be the New England Patriots' breakout receiver. After a strong offseason and with a favorable matchup against the Raiders, Boutte has the potential to shine under second-year quarterback Drake Maye.

Hunter Henry: The Steady Tight End

Hunter Henry remains a reliable option for the Patriots, accumulating significant yardage last season. With newfound weaponry around him, he still poses a reliable threat that could prove crucial in the passing game this week.

Brenton Strange: A Rising Tight End

If you missed out on elite tight ends, add Brenton Strange to complete your Lawrence stack. Positioned in an offense poised for success, he could see a high volume of targets and should not be overlooked going forward.

As the season unfolds, these sleepers could provide the boost you need to put your team over the top. Happy drafting!