Fantasy Football 2025: Early Sleepers and Breakout Candidates

By Jason Bolton June 20, 2025 07:00

As fantasy football enthusiasts gear up for the 2025 NFL season, identifying early sleepers and breakout candidates is crucial for gaining an edge in drafts. This year’s crop features a mix of talented rookies, second-year players poised for a leap, and overlooked veterans ready to exceed expectations. From running backs to wide receivers and quarterbacks, here’s a look at some of the top sleepers and breakout candidates to target.

Running Back Sleepers and Breakouts

One of the most buzzed-about running backs is RJ Harvey of the Denver Broncos. Drafted by Sean Payton, Harvey is expected to become the focal point of Denver’s rushing attack in 2025. After a productive college career with nine 100-yard games at UCF, Harvey is primed to lead the Broncos in rushing metrics despite the presence of J.K. Dobbins, who is projected as a third-down back. FantasyPros highlights Harvey as a “surefire breakout candidate” who will outperform his average draft position (ADP) significantly.

Another intriguing back is Ashton Jeanty, the Raiders’ first-round pick known for his three-down versatility and explosive college production. Under new offensive coordinator Chip Kelly, Jeanty is set to inherit the lead role and could emerge as a Week 1 fantasy difference-maker.

Veteran sleepers like Isaac Guerendo of the 49ers also offer value, especially given Christian McCaffrey’s injury history. Guerendo’s ADP in the 13th round belies his potential to see substantial touches, making him a late-round steal.

Wide Receiver Sleepers to Watch

Speed and opportunity define some of the top wide receiver sleepers. Xavier Worthy of the Kansas City Chiefs, who broke the NFL Combine record with a 4.21-second 40-yard dash, is a prime candidate. Worthy showed flashes as a rookie with 59 receptions and six touchdowns, and his role expanded late in the season. CBS Sports ranks him as a top-20 fantasy wideout heading into 2025.

Other deep sleepers include Marquise Brown, Cedric Tillman, and Wan’Dale Robinson, all of whom possess the talent and opportunity to break out if given increased targets. RotoBaller’s Matt Donnelly advises targeting these players after the 10th round in redraft leagues, calling them “fantasy football’s hidden gems.”

Quarterback Sleepers and Breakout Candidates

At quarterback, Jordan Love of the Green Bay Packers stands out. After finishing as QB5 in 2023 but dipping to QB17 in 2024, Love enters 2025 with upgraded weapons, including rookie WR Matthew Golden. With Josh Jacobs anchoring the backfield, defenses may be forced to respect the run, opening up passing lanes for Love. Fantasy Football Counselor calls him a “steal at QB15,” expecting him to return to top-tier form.

Tight End and Other Position Breakouts

Tight ends like rookie Colston Loveland of the Chicago Bears are also on the radar. Loveland is considered one of the undervalued sleepers with the best shot at a breakout season, thanks to his athleticism and the Bears’ need for a reliable target in the red zone.

Expert Insights

FantasyPros’ panel emphasizes that breakout players are the backbone of championship teams, noting, “Players like RJ Harvey and Colston Loveland have the talent, opportunity, and situation to dramatically outperform their ADP.” Meanwhile, CBS Sports’ NFL model, which accurately predicted James Cook’s breakout last year, highlights Worthy and Jeanty as players poised for significant fantasy production.

The 2025 fantasy football season offers ample opportunities to capitalize on sleepers and breakout candidates. Running backs RJ Harvey and Ashton Jeanty, wide receivers Xavier Worthy and Marquise Brown, and quarterback Jordan Love are among the top players to target for upside. Identifying these undervalued assets early can provide a decisive advantage in drafts and set the foundation for a championship run.