2025 NFL Fantasy Football: Top Players to Watch for Breakout Seasons
Discover the top NFL players poised for breakout seasons in 2025 fantasy football. Learn who will benefit from vacated touches and how to strategize your draft.

Wide Receivers
Jerry Jeudy, Cleveland Browns
Jerry Jeudy had a career-best season in 2024, finishing as the WR13 in fantasy football. With 145 targets, 90 receptions, and 1,229 receiving yards, Jeudy emerged as Cleveland's top receiver. Despite inconsistent quarterback play, Jeudy's volume makes him a valuable WR3 or WR4 option for 2025.
DK Metcalf, Pittsburgh Steelers
DK Metcalf steps into the role of Pittsburgh's primary receiver following George Pickens' departure. Metcalf, known for his red-zone prowess, is expected to rebound from a career-low nine red-zone targets in 2024. With Aaron Rodgers at quarterback, Metcalf has the potential to deliver high-end WR2 production.
Rome Odunze, Chicago Bears
Rome Odunze is a breakout candidate in 2025. With Keenan Allen no longer on the roster, Odunze is poised to fill the void. His 13 red-zone targets as a rookie indicate his potential for increased touchdown production in his second season.
Jakobi Meyers, Las Vegas Raiders
Jakobi Meyers has consistently posted at least 800 receiving yards in each of the last four seasons. With Geno Smith at quarterback, Meyers is expected to see more accurate deep and red-zone targets, making him a strong WR3 option.
Running Backs
Omarion Hampton, Los Angeles Chargers
Omarion Hampton, a top prospect from the 2025 draft class, steps into a run-heavy offense with the Chargers. Projected for over 250 touches, Hampton has RB2 potential with RB1 upside in a much-improved Los Angeles offense.
RJ Harvey, Denver Broncos
RJ Harvey is set to lead the Broncos' backfield in touches. With Sean Payton's emphasis on running back involvement in the passing game, Harvey is a high-end flex with RB2 upside.
Kaleb Johnson and Jaylen Warren, Pittsburgh Steelers
With Najee Harris gone, Kaleb Johnson and Jaylen Warren are expected to share the workload in Pittsburgh's run game. Both have paths to fantasy relevance in Arthur Smith's scheme.
Javonte Williams, Dallas Cowboys
Javonte Williams inherits a significant role in the Cowboys' backfield following Rico Dowdle's departure. Williams has the potential to be a mid-to-late round flex with upside in Dallas' offense.
Conclusion
Identifying players who can capitalize on vacated touches is crucial for fantasy football success in 2025. Wide receivers like Jerry Jeudy and DK Metcalf, along with running backs such as Omarion Hampton and RJ Harvey, are poised for breakout seasons. Strategically targeting these players in your draft can give you a competitive edge.